Doctor Balances Residency with Olympic Swimming

ROCHESTER, Minn. — Dr. Andi Murez, a three-time Olympian, is embarking on a new chapter in her life as she begins her residency in psychiatry at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Just days after competing in the Paris Games with the Israeli swim team, Murez emphasizes the importance of hard work and goal-setting, stating, "If you work hard and set your goals, then anything is possible." Murez's journey has been marked by a unique blend of athletics and academics. A former swimmer at Stanford University, she earned a degree in human biology before moving to Israel to represent the Israeli swim team. Throughout her medical education at Tel Aviv University, she balanced her studies with competitive swimming, participating in the Rio and Tokyo Olympics. Murez credits her athletic background with teaching her valuable skills in time management and stress relief. At the recent Paris Games, Murez competed in the 4x100 meter mixed medley relay. Although her team did not medal, she found immense pride in carrying the Israeli flag during the opening ceremonies, especially amid the ongoing conflict in her home country. "It's just such an honor... to bring joy to people who are going through a difficult time means so much," she reflected. Murez's commitment to mental health is personal; she aims to use her experiences to help others. The Mayo Clinic accommodated her Olympic schedule, allowing her to start her residency late, as she transitions from athlete to psychiatrist.