Professor Yuko Kono, MD, PhD, FAIUM, FAASLD,
Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Department of Radiology
UC San Diego School of Medicine
May 27, 2025, Professor Yuko Kono spoke as a lecturer at the CMEI Study Abroad and Career Seminar.
Prof. Kono completed her residency at Kyoto University Hospital and Katsura Hospital and earned her doctorate from the Graduate School of Medicine at Kyoto University. After studying abroad at the Department of Radiology at UCSD, she obtained her medical license in California and is currently working as a clinical physician and researcher in hepatology and radiology. Reflecting on her career, Dr. Kono shared stories about what inspired her to study abroad, how she learned English, and offered personal anecdotes. She provided specific examples of the differences between medical practice in Japan and the United States, discussing the advantages and disadvantages of each. She also gave practical advice for students interested in working abroad, outlining various paths such as ECFMG certification, research positions, and US residency programs. Dr. Kono addressed gender disparities in medicine, citing a report from the Center for Women in Academic Medicine and Science (CWAMS), which highlights the still low ratio of female doctors and professors in the US. Based on her own experience, she emphasized the importance of understanding and support from partners and colleagues, especially for those balancing a medical career with raising children. While gender equality may not yet be fully realized in the United States, she noted that it is more common – and socially accepted – for both parents to be actively involved in child-rearing. The medical students and interns who attended her talk listened attentively as Dr. Kono, despite her demanding schedule, described every day as a “happy hour”. At her request, the attendees introduced themselves in a warm, welcoming atmosphere, and she thoughtfully answered each of their questions.
Lecture topic: The choice to work globally as a medical doctor
Date: Tuesday, May 27, 2025
Location: Seminar Room 114, 1st floor, Faculty of Medicine Building A
Participants: 12 people
Co-organized by the Center for Medical Education and Internationalization, KUSNoKI Project
