Name
Shany A. Freund Maravankin, MD
Residency Program
Family Medicine
Program Year
PGY-3 Chief Resident
Medical School
St. George’s University School of Medicine
Home
San Salvador, El Salvador
About
Why did you choose career in Family Medicine?
I have always believed healthcare should be comprehensive and I’ve always been inclined to explore the intricate web of factors that contribute to a person’s well-being. Family Medicine provides the perfect platform to embrace this complexity. What drew me most to this field is the opportunity to work with patients of all ages, addressing a myriad of health concerns, and building relationships that span generations. This is a field that keeps me intellectually engaged, given the broad knowledge base that it demands. The ability to deliver personalized care, emphasize preventive medicine, and serve as a consistent source of support for families makes Family Medicine the perfect avenue for me to positively contribute to the well-being of my patients.
What are you some of your fondest memories of medical school?
I owe my most unforgettable memories from my time in medical school to the unique experiences that shaped my time on The Rock (otherwise known as the island of Grenada). Some of my extracurricular activities included playing volleyball and basketball, which not only served as a welcomed respite from the academic rigor but also fostered friendships with fellow students who shared a love for sports. Additionally, having the beautiful Caribbean Ocean as a backyard was nothing short of a privilege. After hours of dedicated study, the opportunity to unwind by the ocean and bask in the breathtaking sunsets became a rejuvenating activity I looked forward to every day.
What drew you to pursue the Family Medicine Residency program at NGMC? For those not from Georgia, what drew you to Georgia?
Opting to pursue the Family Medicine Residency program with NGMC was a decision fueled by a blend of professional alignment and personal ties to the area. Beyond NGMC’s astounding reputation, the program’s dedication to comprehensive patient-centered care for a diverse patient population aligned with my values. I grew up in a Spanish-speaking country and did part of my medical training in south Florida. Consequently, continuing to serve a community with a significant Spanish-speaking population is particularly meaningful to me. The appeal of training in northeast Georgia, especially given that I am not from this area, lies in the personal connection I have to this region. I grew up attending and working at a summer camp in Clayton, about an hour from Gainesville. Training at NGMC has allowed me to return to an area that holds nostalgic value, making this an impactful place to pursue professional growth and a chance to give back to a community that I cherish.
What were your favorite clubs/activities in high school?
In high school, like many other premed students, I participated in a range of clubs and activities which followed a somewhat predictable path with involvement in honor societies and leadership committees. Amongst those commitments, I embarked on a couple of passion projects that still hold a special place in my heart. I spent some of my free time volunteering at a home for people with disabilities who had been abandoned by their families, which was a beautiful lesson in humility and in caring for individuals with complex needs. When I wasn’t studying or volunteering, I spent my time playing varsity sports. I played on the school’s basketball team for years until I found my love for volleyball; and had the privilege of competing internationally throughout Central America. Lastly but importantly, growing up on a lake fueled my love for water sports. Some of my fondest memories from my teenage years are of the days I spent waterskiing and wakeboarding.
What are your hobbies?
Outside of my professional pursuits, I find joy and relaxation in a variety of creative outlets, one of which is drawing line art. Typically, this method involves not picking up the drawing tool, which creates a 2D single line drawing of the object using varying line widths. These drawings are usually minimalist and black and white, though I have recently been experimenting with watercolors to add dimension. I also enjoy cooking and love experimenting with different flavors, techniques and cuisines. I hope to one day own a food truck and be able to share this with others!