PD Member of the Month

Nathan Droz, MD

Assistant Professor of Surgery

University of Utah

What is your personal background in vascular surgery education (how long have you worked in the vascular field, why did you choose vascular surgery, etc.)?

I finished residency in 2018 and fellowship in 2020. Mentorship has defined my career thus far and was why I chose to pursue vascular fellowship. Mentors that make you feel part of a team and involved in every case goes a long way.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? as a vascular surgery Program Director? What is the most challenging part of your job?

The most rewarding part of my job are the lightbulb moments for the trainees. Seeing something click in or out of the OR has been very fulfilling. Most challenging part of the job is definitely the time away from family.

What are your personal goals within the vascular field?

Personal goal is to build a reputation of training safe and innovative surgeons who are successful in and outside of academia. I also plan to add an integrated program to our institution in the next year or two.

If you had a blank check to change medical education in America, what would you do first?

Make it free.

From your perspective, what qualities make a successful vascular surgery applicant?

In my eyes, a successful application is one that tells a story of dedication and commitment to something while integrating vascular surgery into that story.

What is a "fun fact" about yourself that you would like others to know?

I love to ski!