Electronic Winter 2025 | Issue 65

A Journey of Growth, Adaptability, and Compassion

By: Tomas Stavskis, Chair of the IPS Medical Student Committee

Dr. Ghassan Aldurra, MD is a double board-certified psychiatrist and neurologist who currently works at Endeavor Elmhurst Hospital as the chairman of the psychiatry department along with serving the inpatient population there. He also has an outpatient practice located in Hinsdale, Illinois.

TS: Dr. Aldurra, working alongside you for my psychiatry rotation was an immense honor. Your clinical skills, ability to connect with people, and holistic view of patients are incredible and inspiring. Could you please share your journey into the psychiatrist you are today?

GH: When I was in the first grade, our teacher asked each of us what we wanted to be when we grew up. Without hesitation, I said, “A doctor.” At the time, I didn’t fully understand the weight of that dream—especially coming from a family with no medical background. But even then, something within me was drawn to the world of healing.

In sixth grade, during a summer break, I came across a book on Freud's revolutionary theories. Although it was complex and far beyond what most kids my age were reading, it opened my young mind to the fascinating concept of the subconscious and human behavior. That experience planted a seed that would eventually grow into a deep interest in psychiatry.

When I entered Damascus University Medical Center in Syria, I was determined to become a psychiatrist. However, my first rotation in a psychiatric hospital was disheartening. The reality of the system at that time felt far from the idealistic vision I had held. Around the same time, I began working at the Italian Hospital as a surgical assistant. What started as a part-time job turned into a formative experience. I found myself deeply drawn to surgery, where I could see tangible outcomes and continuously refine my skills.

After graduating, I was assigned to work in a rural community where healthcare resources were scarce. That period was both the most challenging and rewarding of my early career. I served not only as the general practitioner but also the pediatrician, obstetrician, and surgeon. I witnessed preventable childhood illnesses due to lack of vaccination, and I realized that medical treatment alone wasn’t enough—patients needed education, trust, and compassionate support to fully engage in their care.

Coming to America wasn’t part of my original plan. It was an idea sparked by my best friend, who invited me to join him here. I took the leap and embraced the opportunity. I dreamed of continuing my career as a surgeon, but as a foreign medical graduate, I understood the challenges. In time, I felt guided by Lord that led me to psychiatry once again—this time at Loyola University, where I completed my residency in psychiatry and neurology, becoming board-certified in both specialties.

TS: Has your previous career in surgery impacted the psychiatrist you’ve become?

GH: Absolutely. My background in surgery and general medicine has given me a broader and more holistic view of patient care. Working in emergency rooms and critical care units doesn’t intimidate me. Instead, I bring a deep understanding of the medical aspects that often interplay with psychiatric conditions. This medical insight helps me stay connected to my patients and recognize the complex links between body and mind.

TS: Thank you, Dr. Aldurra for sharing your unique journey, it clearly has had an impact on the wonderful psychiatrist you are today. What is your favorite part of being a psychiatrist?

GH: My favorite part is the meaningful relationships I’ve built with my patients—especially in the outpatient setting. I consider many of them like family. We share a strong bond of trust and mutual respect. These relationships are the foundation of healing and progress, and I feel privileged to be part of their journeys.

TS: What advice would you give to early career psychiatrists, including medical students, residents, and fellows?

GH: When I ask medical students why they want to become doctors, they often say, “Because I care.” While caring is essential, it is not enough. To become a truly effective physician, you must also build emotional resilience, develop strong listening skills, and cultivate leadership and confidence. These traits don’t just help you survive the profession—they allow you to make a real difference in your patients' lives

TS: During the 4-weeks I worked with you I can definitely say you embody those pillars of an excellent physician, and I can vouch for the tremendous impact you have on your patients. Thank you for taking the time to be interviewed!

This interview of Dr. Ghassan Aldurra, MD was conducted by IPS Medical Student Co-Chair Tomas Stavskis, OMS-III