Tiger Heritage Spotlight: Daniel A. Mendelson BS '88

Why did you choose to attend RIT?

I was intrigued with Biomedical Computing program – I did not see that offered anywhere else at that time. It helped that a close cousin, who lived locally, and graduated from RIT, stated that he had a very positive. Not to mention – I received a generous scholarship!

What about college were you least prepared for?

The weather! Even though I lived in Connecticut, I had never experienced anything like 40 straight days of snow or the wind cutting across the quarter mile. Academically, I was well prepared. Socially, I had met one of my dearest friends on the plane, on my way to orientation. Later, he and I became roommates and are life-long friends to this day!

Who influenced you most during your time at RIT?

My academic advisor, Bob Gilman. Gilman actually taught me how to understand organic chemistry - not just to memorize it. He also taught me to appreciate the scientific method. Dr. Gilman’s humor, humility, and common sense were also laudable. He was incredibly encouraging. I met my wife in John Neenan’s lab, and he was a fabulous research advisor; big influence on me.

My wife, Linda, also a chemistry major, helped me to be a more well rounded person. I tended to be very one-dimensional. Doug Merrill was very important in guiding me professionally and with graduate school.

Why did you choose to become a physician?

It was always my plan. When I was eleven, my grandmother had hospice in our home and died from cancer. She was misdiagnosed and mismanaged for a few years and would not likely have died when she did, had she been properly managed. I thought I would grow up to do better.

What were your favorite classes and why?

Organic chemistry and physical chemistry. Organic because it taught me to understand molecular science and helped me to appreciate the complex of human physiology. Physical because it challenged me and gave me perspective on uncertainty.

What advice do you have for current students who want to make the most out of their experience at RIT?

Be open-minded. Be curious. I came to RIT laser-focused on being a physician, which of course I did, but my job does not look anything like I thought it would. By being curious and open-minded, opportunities for growth and development became apparent, and I was prepared to take advantage. Open-mindedness and curiosity have been very important in forming social relationships as well.

What advice would you have for your 18-24 year old self?

Do not work so hard! I finished RIT in 3 years (in part to catch-up with Linda who was older). I wish I had spent more time developing as a person; exploring the world around me, and learning more broadly. I think it would have made learning to be a good husband, father, and physician faster and easier if I had made the initial investment in myself.

What is something about your heritage that you would like others to know?

The Jewish concept of tikkun olam, “repairing the world,” has resonated with me since I was a young adult. Belief, though I do, is not necessary to be a pious Jew; action is. Most of what drives me in my professional and community work is a need to leave the world a bit better than I found it; to make a difference for others; and to know that given the blessings, talents, and advantages that I have been given, that I have done something meaningful with them. This is tikkun olam to me.

Fun fact about yourself?

I am a scuba diver. I love the physics and the physiology (PV=nRT comes in very handy!). I love the peace and the solitude. No calls. No text messages. No pages or emails at 80′ below the surface. It is tasked-loaded so you must be fully in the moment. It is a combination of high attention with great serenity and peace. Neutral buoyancy is the only time I ever feel graceful. It is a wonderful way to recharge.