Tanapol Phewpun, MD

Tanapol Phewpun, MD ’24, was born in Bangkok, Thailand, where frequent hospital visits as a child sparked a lasting fascination with medicine and biology. His passion led him across three countries, earning a bachelor’s in biomedical sciences from the University of Surrey in the UK, a master’s in biotechnology in Boston, and working in forensic genetics in Thailand.

While the scientific work was rewarding, Dr. Phewpun felt called to patient care. He wanted to be the one who listens, supports, and heals. Committed to improving community health and serving underserved populations, he chose to pursue medicine at St. George’s University. “SGU provided me a strong academic foundation and prepared me not only to succeed on the USMLE but also to succeed as a future physician,” he said.

Dr. Phewpun recently matched into his top-choice emergency medicine residency program in the US—a proud milestone as a non-US citizen. Reflecting on his journey, he shares insights with future students considering a global path to medicine, encouraging them to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with it. Learn more about his journey to become a physician.

SGU: What did it feel like when you matched into residency?

Dr. Phewpun: Words can’t describe how shocked and happy I felt. As a non-US citizen, applying for a residency position in a more competitive field is very challenging, but I am very happy I matched into my top choice.

SGU: What was your experience during the Match process? How did SGU’s Office of Career Guidance help you during that time?

Dr. Phewpun: The Match process was intense, but SGU’s Office of Career Guidance provided invaluable support. They helped me refine my application, prepare for interviews, and stay focused throughout. Their guidance and encouragement made a huge difference and gave me the confidence to navigate the process successfully.

SGU: What drew you to your chosen field of specialty, and how do you envision making an impact in this area?

Dr. Phewpun: Emergency medicine drew me in with its fast pace, variety, and the opportunity to make a critical difference in people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments. During clinical rotations at various SGU-affiliated hospitals across New York and New Jersey, I was inspired by the resilience of emergency teams and the immediacy of care. I look forward to training in a high-acuity, urban setting that aligns with my passion for serving diverse and underserved populations. I envision using this training to advocate for equitable care, improve access in under-resourced communities, and continue responding with empathy, precision, and calm in the most urgent moments of need.

SGU: Where do you plan to ultimately practice as a doctor?

Dr. Phewpun: Coming from Thailand, I witnessed the challenges of limited healthcare access and emergency services in certain areas of the country, which fueled my passion for medicine. I eventually want to return home and apply my knowledge to help the people there.

SGU: How did SGU help you achieve your dream of becoming a doctor?

Dr. Phewpun: SGU helped turn my dream into reality. The supportive learning environment, strong academic foundation, and diverse clinical training prepared me to face the complexities of patient care with confidence and compassion. SGU’s global perspective and commitment to excellence empowered me to grow personally and professionally, shaping me into the physician I always hoped to become.

SGU: How did SGU contribute to your academic success and prepare you for the USMLE exams?

Dr. Phewpun: SGU provided me with a strong academic foundation through an integrated curriculum, dedicated faculty, and structured learning experiences. Its early introduction to clinical and case-based learning helped me connect theory with the real world, which was of utmost importance in the context of USMLE preparation. In their structured approach and direction, SGU prepared me not only to succeed on the USMLE but also to succeed as a future physician.

SGU’s support systems, like small group reviews, NBME practice exams, and targeted prep programs, kept me on track and ensured. I also took advantage of one-on-one counseling to help me streamline my study skills and time management.

SGU: Where did you mainly do your clinical rotations – what was your experience during clinical rotations? What were the key takeaways?

Dr. Phewpun: Most of my clinical rotations were spent in Brooklyn, New York, where I had opportunities to work within diverse, high-acuity settings. My exposure was stressful yet rewarding because I encountered diverse patients from different backgrounds, each with mixed needs. Rotations allowed me to polish my clinical skills, especially diagnostic and patient-communication skills. I learned the importance of teamwork, flexibility, and cultural sensitivity. I also learned how to handle stressful situations effortlessly and obtained key insights into patient-centered care.

SGU: What is your advice to students to maintain a healthy mental well-being?

Dr. Phewpun: Prioritize balance. Make time for rest, hobbies, and connection with others. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or lean on your support system. Stay present, be kind to yourself, and remember that progress, not perfection, matters most. Your mental health is just as important as your academic success.

SGU: What advice would you offer to aspiring medical students from Thailand?

Dr. Phewpun: Dream big and stay persistent. The journey may be challenging, especially studying abroad, but it is deeply rewarding. Don’t be discouraged by unfamiliar systems or setbacks; use them as opportunities to grow. Remember why you started this journey. Studying medicine internationally expands your knowledge and opens doors to global opportunities. You can make a meaningful impact wherever you choose to serve.

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