I.M. a Resident/Fellow: Malik Alqawasmi, MD

Malik Alqawasmi, MD
Internal Medicine Resident, PGY-3
The University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, NM

Which residency or fellowship program are you currently in?

PGY-3 Internal Medicine Residency at The University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, NM.

Why did you choose internal medicine? If you’re in fellowship, why did you choose that subspecialty?

Internal medicine allows me to remain intellectually curious every day, which is a polite way of saying I couldn’t commit to just one organ system, at least not yet. I’m also drawn to the complexity and depth of adult medicine. I enjoy the critical thinking it demands, the opportunity to manage a wide spectrum of diseases, and the chance to form meaningful, long-term relationships with patients.

What lesson(s) did you learn in residency or fellowship that will help you for the rest of your career?

Residency has taught me the importance of humility, teamwork, and showing up even when it’s hard. Clinical knowledge is essential, but it’s empathy, consistency, and communication that often have the greatest impact. I’ve also learned that no one works harder than a resident with a day off tomorrow.

What are your plans for after residency or fellowship? What factors or advice from mentors contributed to your decision?

I plan to pursue a fellowship in cardiology, with a long-term goal of practicing in underserved communities. As a medical student at The University of New Mexico School of Medicine, I did a rural rotation for 4 weeks in Clovis, NM, and I loved it! And I hope to set up my practice there one day.

My decision has been shaped by inspiring mentors, love for physics (the heart is a pump at the end of the day), and a desire to make high-quality cardiac care accessible in rural areas like those I’ve trained in. My mentors have consistently reminded me that fulfillment in medicine comes from purpose, not prestige.

How has being a member of ACP helped you in your professional life? What resources have been most helpful to you?

Being an ACP member has helped me grow both clinically and professionally. From providing access to high-quality learning resources like MKSAP and networking opportunities at regional and national meetings to participating in Doctor’s Dilemma® (with funding from ACP … thank you!), ACP has provided structure and support throughout my training. It’s also helped me stay grounded in the core values of internal medicine: curiosity, compassion, and commitment to lifelong learning.