Niha Saini

Education: University of Georgia 
MD Mentor: Dr. Jay Traverse
Staff Mentor: Opeyemi Akindumila
Project: Using AI to determine the presence of Intramyocardial hemorrhage on EKG following STEMI

How did you hear about the MHIF internship and why did you want to participate?

I learned about the MHIF Internship while researching clinical research internships for the summer - it stood out to me because of its integration of research and experiences in different areas of cardiology and medicine. I think the opportunities this internship provides to both conduct research and learn more about this field of medicine through activities like case studies and shadowing is very exciting. I am eager to learn more about medicine and cardiology this summer!

What sparked your interest in the field of research, medicine and cardiology?

I am drawn to cardiology as a field particularly because cardiac disease is a common medical problem in my family. I have always been interested in researching cardiac disease disparity amongst different populations, especially in the South Asian community. I have always been interested in research, as I believe the intersection between scientific advancement and communication of such research to patients is an integral part of medicine. I hope that through these passions, I can learn more about cardiology research and use my experience to make a tangible impact as an aspiring physician.

What is your desired career in medicine?

While I am still exploring my options, I am most interested in working in Surgery or in Emergency/Space Medicine.

What are you most looking forward to this summer?

I am most looking forward to meeting the rest of the intern cohort, building relationships with the physicians, mentors, and peers that I will work with, and becoming a better researcher and learner overall.

What do you hope to gain from this experience?

I hope to gain further insight into medicine and what it really means to be a physician, both through improving my research and critical thinking skills, as well as learning more about cardiology and clinical research through opportunities such as visiting medical device centers and lectures with different physicians.

What are your plans after the summer?

I plan to return to UGA to finish my degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, as well as work on my medical school application!

What is a fun fact about you?

I am a huge space and sci-fi nerd - it's not uncommon to find me reading science fiction novels and listening to Neil deGrasse Tyson podcasts in my free time.