In this month's Fellow Spotlight, we feature Taruna Arora, MD, a Hematology and Oncology fellow from Nagpur, India. We recently caught up with Dr. Arora to learn more about her interest in sickle cell disease and Hemophilia, why she chose UMass for her fellowship, and more!  

 

Hometown and background? 
I grew up in Nagpur, a city in Central India, and then moved to Mumbai for medical school at one of the oldest medical institutions in South Asia, Grant Govt. Medical College and Sir J.J. Group of Hospitals. 

What are your clinical and research interests?
I have a keen interest in benign hematology, including sickle cell disease and Hemophilia. I have previously worked on identifying a key inflammatory mechanism in platelets and investigated it in the context of sickle cell disease as a part of my basic science research. I am currently working on gaining expertise in all clinical aspects of these complex disorders. My goal is to organize a transitional care clinic for young sickle cell patients in close collaboration with pediatric counterparts and establish a personalized pain plan for efficient and better clinical outcomes. 

Why did you choose UMass for your fellowship?
UMass serves as a rewarding opportunity to serve the community of central Massachusetts, and I always wanted to continue doing that after my internal medicine residency. The Hematology-Oncology program here specifically caught my interest for its emphasis on well-being and creating a collegial and supportive atmosphere. Being the largest medical center in this region serving large neighboring communities of people, one gets to see a diverse patient population with complicated, yet interesting, pathologies preparing us to further hone our diagnostic and clinical skills during this critical phase of training. Everyone here is very respectful and kind, making it a fun place to work! 

Where is your favorite place to travel for vacation and why?
I love traveling and exploring new places. Hence, I rarely end up traveling to the same place twice as there is so much out there to discover and experience. I recently traveled to Jamaica this summer and found it to be a very beautiful country with a rich culture and warm people. I drove all along the coast of this Caribbean island to discover the breathtaking landscapes, indulge in water adventures, and discover the local cuisine.  

What would you sing at Karaoke night?
While growing up, karaoke was a fun activity encouraged by my parents as family time and bonding on Saturday nights. You will find me starting off with the lovely “Wonderwall” by Oasis, leading up to all the songs by the Backstreet Boys, and ending it with “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen.