What's next for Chief Resident Dr. Ahmed El Shaer?
Ahmed El Shaer, MBBS
What’s next for you, personally and professionally? Why did you decide on that route?
I am heading to the University of Michigan to begin my cardiology fellowship this summer. My love for cardiology grew from a research year at Mayo Clinic, where I really enjoyed learning and applying evidence-based medicine (EBM), began presenting at national conferences, and knew this was the path for me.
That passion grew further throughout the clinical and research projects in residency. Because of my interest in EBM, I also started reviewing manuscripts which led to receiving the Top Peer Reviewer Award for JACC: Advances.
Cardiology sits at the intersection of rigorous science and relentless innovation, from novel heart failure therapies to AI-driven diagnostics and advancing technology in electrophysiology. Yet [cardiovascular disease] remains the leading cause of death worldwide. There is no greater opportunity to make a meaningful impact for patients.
What are the main takeaways from your time as chief resident (i.e., what did you learn, what was memorable, etc.)?
Chief residency taught me that leadership is ultimately about people. In medicine, being available, affable, and able goes a long way, whether supporting a resident through a tough stretch, navigating a difficult situation, or simply being present when someone needed guidance.
As curriculum chief, developing the peer mentorship program, helping launch a research track, and integrating AI and technology into our curriculum were among the most rewarding things I have done. Seeing residents engage with and benefit from those initiatives makes it all worth it.
Perhaps the biggest lesson was that change is possible when you are willing to put in the work and bring others along with you.
What advice/words of encouragement do you have for 1) the incoming chiefs, 2) the incoming interns (PG-1s), and 3) residents who are considering applying for chief residencies next year?
- Incoming chiefs: Remember that you are surrounded by incredible leaders, so lean on them and do not be afraid to ask for help. Use the flexibility of the year intentionally to invest in your skills, explore your interests, and enjoy every part of it!
- Incoming interns: Everyone is here to support your growth! Be patient with yourself, ask questions without hesitation, and lean on your team because nobody expects you to have all the answers on day one. Approach residency with a growth mindset, and trust that every challenge you face is going to help you grow.
- Prospective chiefs: If you are thinking about it, you should definitely apply. Chief year is a unique opportunity to learn from the leaders around you, grow professionally, advocate for meaningful change, and leave an impact on the program.
Is there anything else you’d like to share, whether it’s shout-outs or memories?
I want to give a shout-out to my co-chiefs Adam, Jeanette, Jess, and Tonela! This year would not have been the same without them. There is something special about going through the chief year alongside people who genuinely care about each other and the program, and I could not have asked for a better group to do it with. I will miss them greatly!
A big thank you to Andy for being such an incredible leader of our program. His commitment to our residents, and the program as a whole is something I truly admire, and I feel so fortunate to have had the chance to work with him this year and hope to work with him again.
To every resident who allowed me to be part of their journey, it has truly been an honor.
Last but certainly not least, none of this would have been possible without the support of my wife, Zahraa. And to my newborn son, welcome to the world. You have already made everything more meaningful.