Dr. Leah Aakjar

Recipient of the EAST Oriens Award (2025 Fellow Award Winner)

Testimonial

As the 2025 EAST Oriens Fellow winner, I was given the opportunity to present my essay at the scientific assembly. It was a great honor to be able to share my story and why I ultimately chose to become a trauma surgeon. In addition to presenting, I was able to meet trauma surgeons from across the country. I have found mentors that have helped me navigate getting my first job and connected with some residents that I have been able to mentor myself. EAST is an organization that fosters community, mentorship and gives young surgeons the framework to continue to grow their career.

I look forward to becoming more involved in EAST and all the opportunities that will come by doing so!

Read Dr. Aakjar's Essay.

The EAST Oriens Award is funded through contributions to the EAST Development Fund. To learn more about this award, click here.

To hear from other recipients who have benefited from contributions to the EAST Development Fund, visit the Scholarship & Award Recipients page.

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