Rachel David

Medical School:  Weill Cornell

Residency:  Yale

Why Did You Choose Your Field

This is a very exciting time to be a medical oncologist.  We are truly getting to practice in an era of “cutting edge” therapy, and it’s exciting and rewarding to be able to bring new treatments to the bedside.  Along those lines, it’s a very exciting time to be an oncology researcher (laboratory or clinical), as there really are infinite opportunities to advance the field. 

In terms of patient care, practicing medical oncology is humbling and fulfilling.  Cancer is a very difficult diagnosis, and it is so rewarding to be able to usher a patient through her diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care. 

Program Uniqueness

The program at Rochester is unique because we have the luxury of easy access to leading oncology experts within the confines of a smaller (read less intimidating) academic center.  The fellows are able to directly interact with every faculty member, and it is very easy for us to integrate into the clinical and research environments. 

Program Recommendation

Rochester is an excellent place to train – one big advantage is that the program produces fellows that are ready for academic careers, as well as fellows that are prepared to become community/private practitioners. 

Learned Skills

You can learn a lot in three years!  I’m amazed by how I’ve truly learned to think and practice like an oncologist, which are skills that we obviously don’t get taught in residency training. 

Living In Rochester

Rochester is a very easy place to live!  Traffic is lite, the cost of living is amazing, the public school systems are some of the best in New York State, and there is plenty to do – many nearby lakes, wineries, hiking, skiing, and innumerable festivals during the summer. 

Research Interests

I’m interested in predictors of non-response to immunotherapy in advanced colorectal cancer.

Career Goals

I plan to practice general hematology and oncology in a community hospital setting.

How Has This Program Prepared You For Your Future

I’ve been able to spend a significant amount of time in nearly every type of oncology clinic that we have here at Strong, and I feel confident in my ability to practice general hematology and oncology.