Ashish Vankara, BS
Medical Student
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Baltimore, Maryland
Why did you join AAOS?
I joined AAOS to meet like-minded individuals passionate about innovating orthopaedic care and building a rich community of mutual support and mentorship.
What are you looking forward to most about AAOS?
The AAOS Annual Meeting this year is the week before match day. I could not be more thrilled to (fingers-crossed) embark on my journey as an orthopaedic surgeon. This year I had a blast connecting with fellow students (and future colleagues) during the medical student program. I hope to return next year to build on those relationships and make some more!
What interested you about orthopaedics?
Early on my favorite subjects in school were mechanics and biology. As I continued my education, I developed a fascination with technology. I stumbled into orthopaedic surgery in college when I realized it was the intersection of my favorite subjects in action to rapidly improve the quality of lives of patients! Additionally, the mentors I’ve had in orthopaedics have been nothing short of amazing! I would not be where I am without them.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
A close friend once told me “comparison is the thief of joy,” a quote I later came to know to be from Theodore Roosevelt. This message has resonated with me over the years as I’ve strived to build an intrinsic source of motivation and happiness. This perspective has been instrumental in limiting feelings like imposter syndrome.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
I automate and track just about everything. From IOT products (smart lights and shades) to smart scales and water bottles, I rely heavily on technology to automate and remind me to stay on top of my routines! Yes, I’m a huge nerd 🤓!
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
Journaling! I have yet to find the perfect app or tool to keep up with it. I always keep up with it for a few months at a time before getting busy and forgetting. If anyone has any strategies, please reach out!
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
I love to be active. In medical school, I’ve run 2 marathons, 5 half marathons, and across the state of Michigan with my friends 3 times. In my free time, you’ll find me deep in tech/politics podcasts at the gym, binging the next sci-fi book, or jamming to some EDM.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
I’m allergic to the sun but love to be active outside. It’s rough out here