I am currently a PGY-4 Orthopaedic Surgery resident at LAG+USC Medical Center in Los Angeles, where I train in a high-volume safety-net hospital caring for a diverse and underserved patient population. I received my medical degree from the Keck School of Medicine of USC and completed my undergraduate education at Duke University, where I majored in chemistry. My clinical and research interests center on adult reconstruction and total joint arthroplasty, with a broader focus on improving access to mobility-restoring care.
I applied for the Operation Walk scholarship because I strongly believe that the ability to walk without pain is life-changing and should not be limited by socioeconomic status or geographic location. During residency, I have seen how advanced joint disease can affect not only physical function, but also independence, family roles, and overall quality of life. Participating in the Operation Walk mission to the Philippines is especially meaningful to me, as I previously volunteered there as a teacher with the Helping Hand Program through Junior Chamber International, providing math and English instruction to local students. That experience left a lasting impression on me and helped shape my commitment to global service.
Volunteering with non-profit organizations is important to me because it reflects the core values that drew me to medicine in the first place—service, humility, and advocacy. Beyond the immediate surgical impact, these experiences promote collaboration, cultural exchange, and sustainable improvements in care delivery. I am especially grateful for the opportunity to work alongside local healthcare providers and contribute to meaningful, patient-centered care.
Looking ahead, I plan to pursue fellowship training in adult reconstructive surgery following residency. My long-term goal is to practice in an academic center where I can teach the next generation of surgeons, lead a research team dedicated to improving the outcomes and accessibility of joint replacements, and deliver exceptional care to my future patients. I hope to continue integrating clinical care, research, education, and global outreach throughout my career, with ongoing involvement in international service efforts like Operation Walk.
Brian Chung, M.D.
Dr. Lawrence Dorr Scholarship Recipient 2026