Corbin Foster, M.D.

What this award means: This honor reflects the values I strive to bring to medicine – genuine connection with patients, understanding their stories, and serving their communities. I see this recognition not only as an acknowledgment of past efforts but also as a commitment to carry forward a lifelong dedication to compassion, empathy, and advocacy.

Mentor comments: Corbin exemplifies the very best of internal medicine. He builds genuine, trusting relationships with patients through superb communication and humanism, and he serves as a role model and mentor to junior learners. Beyond the wards, Corbin demonstrates advocacy-driven leadership and a deep commitment to service by advancing health equity, engaging in disaster relief and public health outreach, and fostering mentorship and community through student leadership. – Stephanie Brinker, M.D., Associate Professor of Internal Medicine, and Kehinde Odedosu, M.D., Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Assistant Dean for Student Affairs

Background and family: I grew up in Newton, Texas – a small, one-light town bordering Texas and Louisiana. I am a middle child with four siblings. Being surrounded by hardworking parents, siblings, and extended family instilled the value of hard work from an early age. Whether it was academics, sports, or seemingly small tasks, I was always pushed to do my best. That mentality was reinforced through successes – 10 national gold medals in gymnastics by the age of 10, a state football championship ring, and high school class valedictorian.

College: I graduated from the University of Houston in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science in psychology.

What led to your career path: Sports were a huge part of my life and I tore both ACLs (anterior cruciate ligaments) in high school. Navigating that process was tough, to say the least, but those visits with my orthopedic surgeon were what got me interested in medicine. Once in medical school, I completed the Archer Fellowship Program, which allowed me to explore public health, policy, and legal institutions. That experience transformed an interest in policy into a change in my practice of medicine. I hope to incorporate what I learned there into my practice and maybe even influence policymaking one day.

UTSW activities: I served as a Cary College Senator and Admissions student liaison, volunteered with the United to Serve health fair, and also was active with the Student National Medical Association (SNMA). Other activities included serving as a teaching assistant and mentor for several groups.

What words describe your UTSW experience: Community, discovery, passion, and excellence.

One tip for medical school success: Explore as much as you can. There are endless opportunities for you to find your niche.

Favorite way to relieve stress: Going to the gym or for a walk is great. If I have a free day, then I like to go to a museum, art gallery, new restaurant, or somewhere else to discover something outside of medicine.

Surprising fact: People are surprised that I was a decorated gymnast in my youth, competing in trampoline and tumbling. Those 10 national gold medals make for a good fun fact, but it’s not something that comes up all the time.

Future plans: I matched into an internal medicine residency at UT Southwestern! I look forward to completing this training and hope to pursue a fellowship in cardiology afterward. I am very interested in advocacy, policy, and public health, so I hope to incorporate that into my career. I am unsure if that means administration, consulting, or maybe even elected office. The possibilities are endless.

About the award: The Dr. Richard Mays Smith Award is given annually to one or more graduating medical students who excel academically during clinical rotations and exhibit an interest in and compassion for patients.