Senior Send-Off: Brian Bingham
Name: Brian Bingham
Hometown: Lakeland, FL
Intended Specialty: Radiation Oncology
What made you decide to become a doctor?
For years, I had been planning on becoming a science teacher. When I discovered medicine, I realized that physicians have the privilege to teach their patients in a very unique and intimate setting. Being able to provide meaningful treatments for patients in need while also satisfying my desire for teaching is the best combination that I can imagine.
How did you decide on your specialty?
I fell in love with Radiation Oncology after my first morning in Radiation Oncology clinic. Radiation Oncologists have the privilege to work with patients during a very significant and meaningful time in their lives. They also get to apply cutting edge science and technology to the care of their patients.
What is the best piece of advice you have gotten from an attending or mentor?
One of my mentors told me “If there is ever a time when your grades are excellent but your family isn’t doing well, that is a time when you need to get worse grades.”
What is your best piece of advice for an incoming first year medical student at Vandy?
As long as it is appropriate for the situation, never be afraid to ask a question! Vanderbilt gives you access to incredible teachers, but they won’t always teach you what they think you already know.
Are there any people you want to especially thank for their support and/or guidance during medical school?
I would like to thank God, my family, friends, and the amazing faculty (Dr. Chakravarthy, Dr. Gigante, Dr. Jordanov, Dr. Pilla) here at Vanderbilt!