"During my UAB Urology residency, I’ve learned that performing research can be a sometimes frustrating, but also incredibly rewarding experience. I remember being dejected when my first project was not accepted for publication. I felt as if all I had to show for my hard work was criticism from reviewers. But I revised the article, incorporated the critiques, submitted to additional journals and ultimately the project was accepted. I have since presented 6 poster presentations at meetings and had 4 manuscripts accepted – including being published as first author on a paper in the Journal of Urology. This was a goal of mine since medical school, and accomplishing this goal was exciting and rewarding.

I wanted to participate in research because although the clinical practice of urology is quite fulfilling, I view research as a way to make contributions to the growth of the overall field. UAB Urology has made participating in research during my residency extremely easy. The department faculty are very supportive; input and collaboration between urology as well as radiology and pathology faculty has provided a tremendous wealth of knowledge and resources.

Throughout my residency, I will have gained numerous clinical and research skills, but one aspect from my experiences at UAB that will carry me forward are the relationships I’ve formed with my co-residents, faculty and patients. Jumping from the protection of medical school out into the real world of medicine for residency can be quite a jarring experience. In school, I could often get away with only relying on myself, a quality that I quickly learned was quite folly when residency started. Forming relationships with my co-residents and faculty members has been a fulfilling experience. It taught me that relying on others is a sign of strength rather than weakness. I expect this trust in others will serve me well in the future no matter what path I decide to walk.” 

- Win Shun Lai, M.D.; PGY-4