Student Spotlight: Soo Kang

What year are you and where are you from?

I am an MS1. I’m originally from Cliffside Park, New Jersey, but I consider Boston my home away from home. I graduated from Boston College in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. After graduation, I worked as a nurse at Massachusetts General Hospital. My experiences in Boston ultimately inspired me to return to school to pursue a career as a physician.

What motivates you to become a doctor?

Since nursing school, I have known I have a strong passion for women’s health. Even before beginning my nursing career, I worked as a nurse’s aide in labor and delivery. I later became a nurse in the postpartum ward and the special care nursery, caring for mothers and premature infants.

While I loved my role, I realized I wanted to further my education and expand my ability to care for women. I considered various career paths, including becoming a women’s health nurse practitioner or a certified nurse midwife. However, I was drawn back to my experiences in the operating room during my time in labor and delivery. I was inspired by the opportunity to support women through all aspects of care, including preventive, medical and surgical.

Ultimately, I chose to pursue a career as a physician because I did not want to limit my ability to help women in need. I hope to become a physician who can both advocate for and provide comprehensive care to women.

What do you like most about Pitt Medicine?

What I appreciate most about Pitt Medicine is the people I have met here. Medical school is undoubtedly challenging, but my peers have made this journey more manageable and meaningful. They continually motivate me to grow into a better physician and a more proactive learner.

Do you have any areas of interest? What are your career aspirations?

I am deeply interested in women’s health. Currently, I am considering a career in obstetrics and gynecology or breast reconstructive surgery. Regardless of the specialty I ultimately choose, I hope to become an advocate for women and support them through all aspects of their health care.

Tell me some fun facts!

I love to sing and arrange music. I’m a member of the University of Pittsburgh's graduate health sciences a cappella group, PalPITTations. We perform a concert every semester, and I highly encourage everyone to come check us out!