Princeton University Athletics
Ameer Elbuluk '13 MD / Men's Basketball
City, State / Workplace / Title
New York City, NY, Hospital for Special Surgery
Medical Specialty / Other Degrees (MBA/MPH, etc.)
Orthopedic Surgery
What made you choose a career in healthcare?
I have played sports my entire life, and being physically active is still very important to me. A career in orthopedic surgery provided the perfect opportunity for me to work with my hands, and to help people stay active and healthy. It is extremely rewarding to be able to directly improve a patient's quality of life through orthopedic surgery.
What is the focus of your work today?
At HSS, I help treat people with a variety of orthopedic conditions. My week is split between being in the OR for surgery, and seeing patients in clinic. I also help lead a number of research studies focusing on improving clinical outcomes in hip and knee surgery.
How has your work changed in the face of COVID-19?
As a student-athlete I gained discipline and a strong work ethic, which improved my moral character, resolve, and teamwork abilities.Ameer Elbuluk
As a provider, our role is to continue to provide excellent care to our patients, who unfortunately are the ones most affected by COVID-19. If patients screen positive for COVID-19, we typically will delay surgery until it is safe. We also have to be more careful to keep ourselves healthy so we can be there for our patients.
How did being a Princeton student-athlete prepare you for the challenges you’ve faced?
Through hard work and countless hours of practice, the experience truly imbued several qualities in me. As a student-athlete I gained discipline and a strong work ethic, which improved my moral character, resolve, and teamwork abilities. As a senior, I learned to lead by example; a quality I value, and try to portray in my actions. Basketball taught me to welcome challenges, to not be discouraged by failures, and to work hard until I succeed.
Many people may have thought that I did not have the ability to compete at a varsity level. But I never gave up on the sport, and I've always loved and been so passionate about basketball so I stuck with it, and to be able to play on the Men's Varsity Basketball team remains one of the greatest gifts and honors in my life. My teammates and I share a special bond that will go on forever, and we always laugh and enjoy reminiscing on our time together at weddings, reunions, and other events.
What keeps you inspired as you look ahead?
The field of orthopedic surgery is constantly evolving. Innovation in technology has really changed how we perform surgery and this will only continue to improve. The opportunity to mentor and teach, as well as lead research initiatives, and most importantly take care of patients, is what inspires me about a career as an orthopedic surgeon.
Medicine is a long journey, not a destination. Being a trainee will encompass close to 15 years of training, so don't forget to live and enjoy your life!
Medical School / Other Affiliations
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Tiger Heroes
In partnership with RWJBarnabas Health, the official health care system of Princeton Athletics, “Tiger Heroes” honors front line workers and health care leaders from our alumni community. This digital and social series highlights alumni from all 37 varsity sports programs who have risen to the challenge since the onset of COVID-19. We also recognize special Princeton friends and family. Nominations may be sent to Jess Deutsch, Princeton's Associate Director, Student-Athlete Services: jdeutsch@princeton.edu