Hometown: Houston, TX

Name of Undergraduate Institution: Rollins College

Major(s)/Minor(s) in College: Biology Major

Name of Medical School: University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston – McGovern Medical School

Favorite Quote: “It’s not a sin to get knocked down; it’s a sin to stay down.”

Contact Info: sbpierson@outlook.com

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Where are you currently at in your career path and why did you decide to pursue this career path?

I am currently an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine, specifically I am a Pediatric Hospitalist. I initially started my career as a General Pediatrician, but got bored and decided to enter the (new) field of Pediatric Hospital Medicine for more of a challenge. One of the best decisions I have ever made. Haven’t looked back since.

If you could go back and have a chat with your 1st year postgraduate self, what would you tell him?

Keep doing everything you are doing now, but when you have the chance to become a Pediatric Hospitalist, do it as soon as possible. Don’t wait.

What advice would you give to a medical student looking to pursue a similar path as yours?

Find something (field of medicine) you really, really like. You know what they always say – if a person really loves their job, they never work a day in their life.

What is a major challenge you have had to overcome and how did you do so?

Self doubt/imposter syndrome. Still have to deal with it everyday. But it helps me stay motivated too.

What advice would you give to someone getting ready to start their application process to residency?

Talk to as many residents as you can. Ask the questions that no one is asking.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

The other doctors I work with, they are phenomenal; but very nice.

What do you feel makes your specialty stand out from other specialties?

Pediatric Hospital Medicine is the newest pediatric subspecialty. It is in its infancy so, so the leaders really have a chance to have a lasting impression on this subspecialty.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

From my wife – “You may have some doubts about your skills, but they don’t; they did hire you.”

Who are some of your favorite musicians? Favorite books? Shows? Movies?

Maxwell (the late 90’s version) is my spirit animal. His first album was my life’s theme music. Book – The Luck Factor by Richard Wiseman – always thought I was lucky, now I know why.

Thank you so much for taking the time to share all of this useful knowledge and wisdom with us Dr. Pierson! You are very much appreciated!

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Posted on July 7th, 2021