Princeton University Athletics
Roy Rubin ‘90 MD / Men’s Squash
City, State / Workplace / Title
Sacramento, CA / Private Practice
Medical Specialty / Other Degrees (MBA/MPH, etc.)
Orthopedic Surgeon
What made you choose a career in healthcare?
My dad was a physician (anesthesiologist, he is retired now), and he was a big influence on me early on. He had a passion for his work. We ended up getting to work together on many cases where I was the surgeon and he was the anesthesiologist. I was raised in a small farming town in California where the biggest industries were farming and medicine. I majored in mechanical and aerospace engineering at Princeton, mainly because I liked math and airplanes. But I was drawn to the human connection in medicine, and the physical aspect of surgery and the sports aspect of orthopedics.
What is the focus of your work today?
I have a general orthopedic practice. I see patients of all ages with problems all over the musculoskeletal system. I'm in solo private practice which I enjoy very much as I can spend as much time as I like with patients both in consultation and after surgery.
How has your work changed in the face of COVID-19?
Being an athlete who has experienced many injuries and overuse syndromes has helped me understand the afflictions of many of my patients.Roy Rubin
When COVID hit, I started taking more ER calls, and started doing more emergency surgeries.
How did being a Princeton student-athlete prepare you for the challenges you’ve faced?
The mental toughness of being an athlete helped prepare me for going through internship and residency. Being an athlete who has experienced many injuries and overuse syndromes has helped me understand the afflictions of many of my patients.
What keeps you inspired as you look ahead?
My 4 amazing children.
Medical School / Other Affiliations
Duke University, Surgery Internship and Orthopedic Surgery Residency; Temple University Medical School
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