DR. WHO( IN TRAINING) Dr. Andrew Ray, PGY-2
by Kathryn Vance
What is your hometown?
Louisville, KY
Where did you attend medical school?
University of Louisville School of Medicine
What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine?
My inspiration for medicine began with a childhood trip to EPCOT, where I first saw how learning, science and innovation could change the world. Thanks to my parents, I grew up captivated by scientific discovery: double helixes, black holes and explosive reactions fascinated me. Before medicine, I worked in a lab developing experimental antibodies, but I realized I wanted to be closer to the action and directly help those in need. That desire to make a real difference for patients, whether in the OR, ICU or ED, is what ultimately drew me to a career in medicine.
What made you want to stay in Louisville for residency?
I chose to stay in Louisville for residency because this city is truly home for me. My family is here, and their support has been a constant source of strength throughout my journey. Being close to loved ones allows me to give back to the community that helped raise me, and there’ s nowhere else I’ d rather continue growing as both a physician and a person.
What made you choose anesthesia?
I chose anesthesia because it brings together everything I love about medicine. As an anesthesiologist, I work alongside some of the most talented professionals in the hospital: surgeons, intensivists, emergency specialists and extraordinary nurses. Every day, I stand on the shoulders of giants in science and innovation, contributing my own verse( see my favorite movie below) to make a direct and meaningful impact on patient care. What more could I ask for?
What has surprised you the most / what has been the most unexpected challenge during training?
The biggest and most unexpected challenge has been getting comfortable with uncertainty – acting decisively even when I don’ t have all the answers. In anesthesia, you must make tough decisions with limited information, and as someone who tends to ruminate, I often find myself asking,“ Did I make the right call? Could I have done more?” Coming into residency, I assumed upper-levels and attendings always had the answers, but I’ ve learned that even the most experienced physicians face uncertainty and tough cases. The real strength lies in knowing your limits and asking for help when needed: that’ s a lesson that’ s humbling, ongoing and essential at every stage, from student to attending.
What parts of your day-to-day do you enjoy the most?
The most rewarding part of my day is tackling complex cases that demand true teamwork, especially when multiple spe-
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