Growing up, Dr. Meena Tadros learned from his grandparents about his Egyptian culture and to speak two languages. Years later, as a newly graduated internal medicine physician, those cherished memories instilled in him a desire to connect with patients who are underserved or new to this country, helping them navigate the health care system.

Meena Tadros, M.D.

What this award means: After learning about Dr. Salomon’s battle with an uncurable cancer and his persistence in pursuing a meaningful career in medicine, I am truly humbled to be awarded this scholarship. It will serve as a reminder that providing effective and compassionate care will always be met with some form of adversity, but I hope to use his legacy as inspiration to push forward.

Mentor comment: Meena has dedicated his extracurricular activities and research seeking to understand health care disparities and promote access to medical care for all. Furthermore, he consistently prioritizes the needs of his patients. – Kehinde Odedosu, M.D., Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Assistant Dean for Student Affairs in the Office of Student Empowerment & Engagement

Background and family: I was born outside of Denver and moved to Plano, Texas, when I was 7 years old. I was fortunate to grow up around all four of my grandparents, who taught me Arabic and Coptic, and fostered my love for Egyptian culture, Coptic hymnology, and using languages to connect with people. While at UT for undergrad, I was even more fortunate to meet my now fiancée, Katherine, whom I’ll be marrying this May!

What led to your career path: In college, I worked in a basic science lab, which fulfilled my academic interests. I also volunteered for a hospice program, simply talking to patients. These experiences, combined with my interests in refugee work and the history behind Egypt’s hepatitis C epidemic, led me to medicine. I was drawn to internal medicine because it afforded me more time to get to know patients beyond their illnesses.

College: I studied biochemistry at UT Austin. I was heavily involved in the Refugee Student Mentor Program, Coptic Students of Texas (now Orthodox Christian Campus Ministries), hospice volunteering, and the Zhang Lab.

UTSW activities: I was part of United to Serve’s colorectal cancer screening booth and spent time working on disparities-related research in hepatology as well as on liver transplantation survivorship research. With each of these experiences, I met extremely passionate and inspiring mentors. I also helped lead the Gastroenterology and Geriatrics Interest Groups and served as a peer mentor. Additionally, I was a co-Chair for committees of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and Gold Humanism Honor Society.

Surprising fact: Nearly 15 years ago, I joined my middle school’s cross-country team because I was embarrassed by my mile time. Since then, running has become one of my favorite stress-relieving activities and a way for me to practice consistency and goal setting.

Future plans: I will start my internal medicine residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania this summer. Afterward, I would like to pursue an academic career in either gastroenterology/hepatology or as an internist. Regardless of the path, I will always advocate for my patients and hope to continue studying health care disparities.

About the award: The award recognizes a medical student who demonstrates excellence in internal medicine. It is named after Dr. Salomon, who graduated from UTSW in 1967 and died shortly thereafter.