AANHPI Heritage Month

Indu Agarwal, MD is an Assistant Professor of Pathology at the Feinberg School of Medicine and a practicing breast pathologist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. 

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in New Delhi which is in the northern part of India, and also the capital of the nation. It is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that blends rich history with modernity.

What is your favorite thing to do in your native country?

There are so many things that I like to do when I visit India. I enjoy meeting my family, attending festivals and family gatherings, but my most favorite is savoring the diverse cuisines of India.  My love for Indian food transcends mere enjoyment and reflects deep appreciation for the cultural heritage and culinary artistry behind each dish.

What is your favorite food from your native country?

My most favorite food is “Chhole Bhatura”, which is a popular North Indian dish and always reminds me of my family, as my dad would love to treat me when I visited him.

Can you describe any challenges you have experienced in your path to medicine?

My journey to being an academic physician has been flecked by a few challenges, including adapting to a new healthcare system, obtaining necessary certifications and licenses and overcoming cultural differences etc. Obtaining recognition of the qualifications and experiences that I acquired in my home country was especially difficult. Additionally, I was confronted with minor difficulties related to language proficiency, adjusting to different medical practices and navigating new technology. Fortunately, hurdles like these could not undermine my confidence or shake my sense of belonging in the professional environment.

In what capacity do you serve in pathology organizations?

1. House of Delegates, College of American Pathologists (CAP)– Illinois Delegation.
2. Executive committee member, AIPNA (Association of Indian Pathologists in North America)
3. Co-Chair, NM Laboratory Quality Committee (QC), Northwestern Memorial Hospital

Is there anything you would like our department and followers on social media to know about any challenges or positive aspects of being of South Asian descent in academic medicine?

I see several positive aspects, being part of a diverse cultural background can provide unique perspective and insight that can be valuable in both personal and professional settings. I have always enjoyed various attributes of our rich cultural heritage. Growing up in a South Asian family, education and achievement was heavily emphasized to me, which spontaneously lead to opportunities for my personal and professional growth. I feel that being connected to your roots is valuable to evolve and progress in life.