Dr. Lyree Mikhail, associate professor and discipline chair of obstetrics and gynecology, has been working in the Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine since January 2016. Dr. Mikhail grew up in West Lafayette, Indiana, graduating from high school at 16 years old and beginning medical school just after turning 20.
Dr. Mikhail explained that she and her husband always shared a career goal of working at a Catholic institution, and she has thoroughly enjoyed the faith aspect of being a faculty member on campus. She also has enjoyed exploring osteopathic medicine and is even taking a class with the first year students to learn more.
Q&A with Dr. Mikhail
Q: If you could choose another profession to pursue, what would it be and why?
A: I would be an NFL referee because I am incredibly passionate about NFL football. I think the refereeing job is tough, and it needs a woman’s touch.
Q: What do you enjoy most about working at Marian University?
A: This is the first time that I have ever exclusively taught. Every other job, you were combining roles. You were both a physician and a teacher at the same time. That’s not a bad thing, but often challenging. This is the first time ever in my life when I’ve gotten to exclusively do nothing but teach people. The student body here is charming. They are the nicest group of people. They are very respectful of your boundaries and very appreciative of the efforts you make. I’ve been amazed.
Q: What is your favorite part of working in the medical field as physician?
A: My favorite part is what I would call the human connection. I am not about the procedure, the process, the visit, the tests. I’m about the connection to the human standing across from you.
Q: What is your favorite part of working in the medical field as a teacher?
A: I would say it’s the “aha moment.” That moment of clarity that you look for in your students when they get it.
Q: What advice do you have for MU-COM’s first graduating class as they start their residencies?
A: It’s the same four pieces of advice I give to every student I see. First, know the why. It’s not enough to know what to do or how to do it. You have to know why you are doing it. Second, keep the patient at the center of your vision, always. When you are with them, their needs will always be the first thing on your mind. Third, find the magic. There’s humdrum in everything you do. On any given day, when it seems like it's pure drudgery, the goal is to find the magic. Fourth, you must love what you do. Your life and every day is a gift, and it would be sad to waste it on something you don’t like.
