Rajni Agarawal, MD

Why did you pursue a career in medicine?

Growing up in India in the 1970s, the major goal for women was to get married and raise a family. My parents were no exception. I did fit that norm and asked my parents to let me sit for the MCAT equivalent exams. I told them that I will make it in one go so no time will be wasted.

My reason for pursuing a career in medicine was my love for biology.

What is a challenge you experience in pursuing a career in medicine?

I had to overcome a lot of social and gender inequities since my start of career in India. It was like climbing a fence that was way too tall. Coming to the US on my own with no money and working in a lab, using my meager savings to pay for the USMLE exams and to redo all my training after India was hard. Later after my marriage- keeping the household running and raising a child while being the only Stem Cell Transplant physician for many years was challenging to say the least.

What is the most fulfilling part of your work? 

My love for medicine is everything to me and seeing the children who have life-threatening illnesses survive and bring back their diplomas or invitation to their weddings are the ultimate gifts.

What strategies do you use to maintain your own well-being?

It is hard to take care of yourself when you have a demanding job with no control over your time and raising a family. I did not have time to do anything for many years. Now the child has grown up and with time I have become a serious Yoga learner has helped me a lot. My love for cooking gives me the sense of joy and relaxation.

What advice would you give someone starting in the field? 

Practicing medicine is great.

Enjoy and savor every minute of it.

Set your limits to make sure you have time for yourself and your family. I would do it all over again.