ntroducing Harsh Shah, MD, a PGY-3 (R2) Diagnostic Radiology resident at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai West/Morningside. Originally from Alabama, he earned his MD at the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine in Rochester, Minnesota, before completing his intern year in San Francisco. He is currently the Vice President of the Resident and Fellow Section (RFS) for the NYSRS. While in residency, he is completing the Nuclear Medicine track with the hope of matching into an MSK fellowship afterwards.
1. Why you decided to go into radiology
I chose radiology because it is the “detective work” of medicine. I’ve always been drawn to the challenge of synthesizing complex visual data with clinical context to provide the definitive answers that guide patient care. The field’s unique position at the center of hospital workflow—collaborating with nearly every specialty—allows for a high-impact role in the diagnostic process that I find incredibly rewarding. Beyond the films, I was struck by how friendly and collaborative the community is; there is a genuine culture of mutual support where everyone from senior attendings to co-residents is deeply invested in your growth. This environment of mentorship and collective expertise makes coming into the reading room every day an inspiring experience.
2. Favorite moment/experience as part of the NYSRS
My favorite experience with the NYSRS has been the opportunity to engage with the vibrant community of radiologists across New York City and the wider state. A particular highlight is the annual summer resident happy hour, which provides a fantastic, low-pressure environment to meet residents from different programs and build friendships outside of our respective reading rooms. Beyond the social camaraderie, the society serves as a bridge between academic institutions and private practices, fostering a collaborative environment in one of the world’s most dynamic medical hubs. Furthermore, the NYSRS offers a pathway to national leadership growth through resources like the Radiology Leadership Institute (RLI), which has been invaluable for developing the administrative and advocacy skills necessary to lead the future of our field.
3. Advice for medical students interested in radiology
My biggest advice is to step out of the classroom and into the reading room—don’t be afraid to pull up a chair! Radiology can sometimes feel like a “behind-the-scenes” specialty, but once you’re there, you realize we are a part of almost every clinical decision. Reach out to residents and attendings early; we genuinely love to teach and show off what makes this field so exciting. Beyond the clinical side, join organizations like the NYSRS as soon as you can. It’s the best way to see the leadership and advocacy side of medicine. Finally, start building your community of mentors who are truly invested in your success by reaching out to us at NYSRS or from your home program for an initial chat.
4. Fun fact about you!
Before I traded my racket for a workstation, I was a tennis player who had the incredible honor of representing the United States through international tournaments and all four Grand Slams.
