Meet Laura Shin, DPM, PhD

Dr. Shin is a podiatrist, foot and ankle reconstructive surgeon and wound care specialist at Keck Medicine of USC.

Here’s what you won’t find on her resume.

She dedicates her free time to her family and embarking on new adventures.

“I enjoy spending time with my family or cooking. We love hiking outdoors with our two sons, playing tennis, trying new foods and learning about new cultures. During the week, we challenge ourselves to try one “brave” thing, such as participating in a new activity, learning a new word or making a new friend.”

Her parents taught her important life lessons.

“As Korean immigrants, my parents sacrificed so much to ensure that I was well cared for. They also provided us with the best opportunities for education. As small business owners, they worked 12-hour days, seven days a week, which taught me so much about the value of hard work and the importance of family. Through them, I learned to appreciate every experience I was afforded.”

Humility and humanity are two guiding principles she embraces.

“The best advice I’ve received is ‘Never forget where you came from, always remain humble and be a human first.’ I also believe it’s important to treat everyone the way you would want yourself or your family treated.”

Her patients’ needs are her primary focus.

“Interacting and spending time with my patients is deeply rewarding. As health care providers, we are with our patients during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. We are also by their side when they are undergoing a transition to get to a better state. Being able to get a patient back to their families and their lives is the best part of my job.”

Telemedicine has had a great impact on her career.

“Telemedicine has really allowed us to reach and stay in touch with our patients, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hopefully, this technology will continue to make it easier for patients to get access to quality medical care.”

Communication and understanding are her keys to success.

“My bedside manner is open, empathetic and honest. I like to give my patients all of their options and provide education on all avenues of care.”

She chose Keck Medicine because of its dedication to research.

“I am a stem cell biologist, with a PhD in regenerative medicine. It was incredibly important for me to maintain my research and continue working in the lab to explore and discover new treatment options for our patients. Working at an academic medical center, like Keck Medicine, gives me the opportunity to improve patient care and outcomes.

A strong team approach is the best part about working at Keck Medicine.

“I strongly believe that all patients benefit from having a strong medical team, and because our team here at Keck Medicine is world class, my patients are getting the best treatment possible.”

View Dr. Shin’s full biography and schedule an appointment.

Topics