Vatsala Mundra, M.D.

What this award means: The mentorship, teaching, and the relationships I’ve been able to foster within the Department of Urology were the reasons I decided to pursue the field. To be recognized by the very same faculty and residents is a very special privilege and one that reaffirms my decision. I am humbled and honored.

Mentor comment: Vatsala is an exceptional medical student who has shown great promise for a future career in urology. She has excelled in her clinical rotations and has been particularly productive in her research activities over the past year. The Department has the utmost confidence in Vatsala and is thrilled to honor her with the McConnell Award. – Gary Lemack, M.D., Professor of Urology and Neurology

Background and family: I moved to the United States from India when I was 3 years old and grew up for the most part in Houston, Texas. I come from a long line of engineers and teachers and am the first doctor in my family! In many ways, I stand on the shoulders of giants. My dad always told us growing up to “enjoy and learn,” meaning pursue your passion with intention, and I am so excited to do just that. And, a special shoutout to my husband, who is my inspiration every day.

College: I attended Rice University, where I studied history and biochemistry. I conducted research analyzing immigrant cultures in the American South and the impact of heart disease on circadian metabolites.

What led to your career path: My path to urology wasn’t straightforward but emerged through lots of exploration during my clerkship years. What drew me in was the specialty’s remarkable breadth, culture of innovation, and the long-term patient relationships. However, it was interactions with my UTSW mentors that truly cemented my commitment.

UTSW activities: I served as editor-in-chief of the UT Southwestern medical humanities journal, Scope. I was also a committee member for the Preregistration Education and Orientation Program (PRE+OP) and served on the Science Fair Committee as a Chair for United to Serve, UTSW’s free community health fair.

What words describe your UTSW experience: Collaboration, growth, mentorship, community, purpose, and innovation.

One tip for medical school success: Creating and maintaining relationships is essential throughout medical school. Often the coursework and responsibilities can feel overwhelming, but knowing you’re not going through it alone makes the tasks less daunting.

Favorite way to relieve stress: I love exploring coffee shops, reading, doing puzzles, hiking, and spending time with friends and family.

Surprising fact: I’ve trained in kathak, a type of Indian classical dance, for more than 17 years.

Future plans: I’m grateful to be starting my urology training right here in Dallas at UT Southwestern. I’m excited to join the team and look forward to the next five years.

About the award: The award honors Dr. McConnell, a former UTSW faculty member who led Urology from a Division into a Department.