Mustafa Basree, DO, MS
Resident
University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics
Madison, Wisconsin
I often heard from mentors that radiation oncology was the best-kept secret in medicine. Initially, this felt like an exaggeration — until I began my radiation oncology residency. It is a field that can include pediatric and adult cancer care, procedures and/or palliative care, in both academic and private settings. While time is at a premium in residency, the specialty’s mostly outpatient structure compares favorably with other fields given there are no 24-hour or in-hospital calls.
I started medical school with the goal of becoming an oncologist, inspired by Bhuvaneswari Ramaswamy, MD, a breast medical oncologist I worked with while studying for my master’s degree. Her mentorship and our breast cancer research allowed my interest in oncology to take shape.
In 2017, I enrolled in an osteopathic medical school in rural Appalachia. This unique setting exposed me to the challenges and rewards of rural health care. During my third-year rotations at Adena Regional Medical Center, I attended my first tumor board, where I had my first exposure to radiation oncology. Seeing the radiation oncologists lead discussions with both expertise and multidisciplinary knowledge piqued my interest. I connected with one of the local radiation oncologists at Adena, Gregory Thompson, MD, who kindly mentored me. Observing him in clinic and learning about linear accelerators — accelerating electrons near the speed of light to target and kill cancer cells — solidified my fascination.
As I considered my options for a specialty, I will admit that some online discussions around the future of the field and associated job prospects coupled with my status as a DO student from a small school initially discouraged me. But given my passion for cancer care and a desire to use cutting-edge technology to kill cancer cells made radiation oncology the clear choice for me. It helped that I attended a Radiation Oncology Education Collaborative Study Group (ROECSG) meeting, where I connected with new mentors who helped me strengthen my application and personal statement. In my fourth year, I completed several rotations in radiation oncology, both virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic and in person. Interviewing was both nerve-racking and fun, and receiving the email that I matched was thrilling.
Starting residency only confirmed my decision. In addition to direct patient care, I have had the privilege of participating in several clinical projects, including both retrospective and prospective studies, and presenting our work at national meetings. I’m also engaged in public policy and advocacy as ASTRO’s 2024-2025 Government Relations Fellow, which has added a meaningful dimension to my training.
Looking back at my Match experience, I wouldn’t change a thing about my journey. Radiation oncology’s future is bright, with exciting technology and plentiful job opportunities. Give it a look, and feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions!
