Peter Han graduated in 2012 with a B.A. in biology and a B.S. in film and television production. After PUC, he graduated from medical school in 2016, went on to residency in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery in 2021, head and neck surgical oncology fellowship in 2022, and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery fellowship in June. Peter has since joined the faculty of the Department of Head and Neck Surgery at UCLA as a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. 

What inspired you to be a surgeon? 

I read Ben Carson’s autobiography, Gifted Hands, in first grade and was fairly set from then on that I wanted to be a surgeon. I was so enamored by Dr. Carson and his inspirational story that I think I wrote a book report on him every year for the rest of elementary school. Over time, I continued to read about surgery, shadowed doctors, and participated in medical missions, all of which solidified my decision. 

How did you decide on your specialty? 

I first became interested in head and neck surgery during medical school when I saw a large tongue cancer resection and reconstruction with arm tissue. I became even more interested after being involved in a thyroid cancer resection during which a neck lift was performed. It was a really neat feeling when we passed that patient a mirror the following morning and saw his face light up, thankful to not only be cancer-free but also receive a new neckline as well. 

Head, neck, and facial pathology is unique in that it intimately distorts our ability to be human. When our faces become disfigured — when we are no longer able to speak, swallow, hear, or move our face due to cancer, trauma, or other reasons — it is difficult to integrate into society and feel ourselves. I found these issues compelling which led me to further train in head and neck oncology and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. 

How did PUC impact your future and current profession? 

The excellent sciences curriculum at PUC prepared me academically for my medical studies- and the immersive film and honors programs helped develop my interest in the arts and humanities, which have since opened many doors. 

What made you decide to attend PUC? 

Up to that point, I had attended only public schools, and — while I was familiar with PUC — I never gave it much thought when researching colleges. My mother (who wanted me to finally get a formal Christian education) secretly corresponded with the PUC admissions department without me knowing. I still remember her laughing and dancing when she got the call that I was offered a full scholarship. Although I wasn’t completely sure, I canceled my other college applications on faith; since then, I have been so thankful to have had that opportunity to attend PUC. 

Tell us about your time at PUC. What did you enjoy the most? 

My four years at PUC were some of the best years of my life. While so many memories stand out to me- some of my favorite moments were spent on the lawn outside the campus center, skateboards strewn about, a slackline between trees, snacking on good food with good company. The people made PUC, and I am forever thankful for the friendships I made and the education I garnered from its amazing professors and staff. 

What advice can you give to students looking to get into medical school? 

Take the time to read and shadow to make sure it is something you want. Once you’re committed- formulate an academic plan and work hard to reach your goals. And don’t forget to keep praying- through Him, regardless of the outcome, it will always work out the right way.