Shawn Terry, MD

Why I chose to pursue a career in healthcare:

I have always been a very inquisitive person, as well as one who delights in taking things apart and putting them back together. I cannot help but wonder if these aspects of my personality do not somehow relate to my interest in medicine. I know for certain that I am highly attracted to the intellectual component of the profession and the fact that constant learning is such an integral part of being an effective trauma surgeon. I also happen to find great pleasure in the company of other people, and I like the one-on-one facet of the physician's work and helping others.

What I want my patients to know about me:

My family is very warm and loving, and I think they have nurtured in me these same qualities. Each has taken very independent and ambitious paths. My feeling about the future is that if, for any reason, I did not become a doctor, I would be wasting something-namely, my compassion, commitment, energy, and potential to contribute.

What I do when I'm not seeing patients:

My life would be empty without my family, my close friends, and the sports in which I involve myself with great regularity. These are vital elements of my existence and help me to maintain the balance I need.