Drew Hendrix, MD
I was born and raised in South Carolina, where I completed both my undergraduate and medical education at the University of South Carolina in Columbia. Early in medical school, I realized that surgery was the right path for me. I was drawn to the unique challenge of mastering both the medical knowledge and the technical skill required to care for surgical patients. By my third year, the operating room felt like the most exciting place in the hospital—I found myself experiencing a bit of FOMO whenever I was on other rotations.
When it came time to choose a residency, my wife (an ophthalmology resident) and I were looking for a program that would allow us both to thrive. We prioritized institutions with strong academic and research opportunities, a supportive and collegial atmosphere, and a track record of fellowship success. UVA stood out on every level. During the interview process, I could immediately sense how deeply Dr. Friel and the rest of the department cared about the residency program and the individualized success of each resident. I felt at home right away.
After Match Day, my wife and I found ourselves visiting Charlottesville frequently, drawn in by the natural beauty and welcoming community. As outdoor enthusiasts, we love running, biking, hiking, and playing disc golf—and Charlottesville felt like the perfect place to call home.
My current career goal is to pursue a fellowship in trauma surgery and work in an academic setting where I can remain involved in research and medical education. My wife is pursuing a career in retina surgery with similar academic interests. We’re incredibly excited to begin this next chapter together at UVA.
