Chandler S. Mitchell, MD

Hometown: Greenwood, IN

Undergraduate Degree (and Institution): Chemistry at Butler University

Medical School: Indiana School of Medicine

When did you know you wanted to be a doctor?: I grew up wanting to be a doctor just like my dad, but really began considering if it was the career for me early in college. When I started shadowing different specialties, it reaffirmed my desire to become a doctor.

Why did you choose to specialize in ophthalmology?: When I found ophthalmology, I was fascinated by how focused and intricate the specialty could be. As I explored further, I was drawn by the powerful impact an ophthalmologist can make on the quality of life of their patients.

How did you feel when you matched with IU School of Medicine for your residency? What about this program appealed to you?: When I matched with the IUSM Ophthalmology program I felt proud to be a part of an excellent program that genuinely values its residents. During medical school at IU School of Medicine I was able to spend a lot of time around the residents, and I was impressed by how well they got along with each other. When I matched with IU School of Medicine, I knew that I was going to be surrounded by people who care for and support each other.

What has been your most memorable experience in residency so far?: My most memorable experience so far has been playing in a beach volleyball league with my fellow interns. Since we are all on separate rotations, it was nice getting to see my friends once a week, having fun together, and getting to catch up and hear how everyone is doing.

Who is a faculty member you enjoy working with? Why?: It’s difficult to pick one specific faculty member. I feel like I enjoyed each faculty member for different reasons. Some took time to ask how I was getting along with my first ophthalmology rotation, some took time to teach even when they were busy, some pushed me to continue to improve, some made a point to say they appreciated the work I was doing. I really enjoyed working with each faculty member for making me feel like they cared about me.

What do you admire most about your co-residents?: I admire that my co-residents get along so well. That was one of the most important things for me when considering a residency program. I feel like everyone really appreciates each other and that helps make each day so much better.

What gets you through a long, stressful shift?: Having help from my co-residents is what gets me through. There are times when I’m struggling and each time I can count on my residents to help me out.

What are some of your hobbies and interests? How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?: I really enjoy spending time with my friends and family, sports, exercise, and reading. I think to maintain a healthy work-life balance its important to make time for these things. When you get home from a long day it can be easy to do as little as possible with your night. I find when I carve out time to go see friends or family, or to do the activities that I enjoy, I am much happier and I go to work the next day feeling more recharged.