First year resident in Ophthalmology Robert J. Porter was originally drawn to the field while working as an ophthalmic scribe and technician prior to medical school. As a special tester, he was fascinated by the variety of technologies used in clinical decision-making. As a medical student, he became even more interested in the field because of its complex pathologies, microsurgical techniques, and opportunities for community advocacy.
In medical school, Dr. Porter co-founded a student-run free eye clinic that drew inspiration from Guerrilla Eye Service, which is how he was originally introduced to Pitt Ophthalmology. One of his mentors at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Dr. Veeral Shah, completed both medical school and residency training at Pitt and inspired him to apply.
“The interview day and second-look events solidified my desire to come to Pittsburgh, as I knew I would receive comprehensive training from outstanding mentors at a world-class institution,” Dr. Porter said.
He aspires to be an ophthalmologist who incorporates advocacy and teaching into a career dedicated to providing exceptional clinical care.
Dr. Porter has a BS in Biology from Kent State University.