“Mentoring is a way for young people to benefit from the knowledge and wisdom that comes with age,” says Steven Anderson, MD ’80, Res. ’83, Chief Res. ’84.
And he would know — Anderson has been a dedicated mentor and volunteer with the UW School of Medicine Alumni Association for over 15 years.
Anderson’s career has been defined not only by his expertise in pediatric sports medicine but also by his commitment to mentorship and volunteerism through the University of Washington School of Medicine Alumni Leadership Council and in his community.
Thanks to his involvement and drive to give back, his impact extends far beyond his clinical achievements.
Bridging gaps in adolescent healthcare
“My interest in medicine came from wanting to learn more about how the body worked and how that knowledge could improve sports performance and in turn, improve health,” says Anderson.
Anderson chose to work in adolescent health care because he saw that early intervention in a young person’s life has the potential to create good habits, which could prevent health problems and injuries later in life. Specializing in pediatric sports medicine, Anderson became one of the first pediatricians at the UW School of Medicine to complete a sports medicine fellowship.
His training has equipped him with the knowledge to manage and prevent sports-related injuries in young athletes by integrating preventive care with a deep understanding of adolescent development.
Anderson focuses on sports injuries in young athletes, but a key component of his practice is building trust and being open with patients. This approach can lead to important conversations that can help adolescents navigate the challenges they face.
Motivated by helping young people realize their strengths, Anderson volunteers extensively, providing medical care at youth sporting events and mentoring students through programs like Health Care Huskies, a mentoring program for student-athletes interested in healthcare careers.
“In mentorship, you get to share some of the wisdom that you’ve gathered and help people find the right career,” Anderson says.
A commitment to mentorship and volunteerism
As a long-time member of the UW School of Medicine Alumni Leadership Council, Anderson engages with current and future medical students by offering insights and support through programs such as Inside Admissions and hosting informational dinners for prospective students.
His mentoring efforts span the arc of a career in medicine — from guiding aspiring medical students through the application process, to navigating medical school and residency, to choosing a specialty and practice — fostering relationships that can last for years.
When he has the opportunity to speak to students, he is the first to offer support and an open door to those looking for guidance and mentorship.
One of those students is Iana Meitlis, MD ’24. After seeing Anderson speak at an Inside Admissions event for prospective UW School of Medicine students, Meitlis took him up on his offer. This began a years-long mentorship that continues to this day.
Anderson and Meitlis met numerous times throughout her application process, working on personal statements and simulated interviews. Once she was admitted, Anderson was able to present her with a stethoscope on her first day of medical school classes. As Meitlis, now a graduate, recently headed off to her emergency medicine residency in San Francisco, Anderson, Meitlis and their families met one more time to say goodbye for now.
Anderson says, “Mentorship is about helping people realize their dreams. For so many potential students who are interested and capable but just need either that nudge or a little direction, it’s very satisfying.”
He urges fellow alumni and healthcare professionals to volunteer as mentors, emphasizing the personal fulfillment and professional rejuvenation it offers. His legacy is not just in treating patients but in nurturing a new generation of empathetic and skilled healthcare leaders.
“Volunteering with the Alumni Leadership Council and other UW programs has been a significant part of my career. I’ve seen firsthand how UW’s dedication to its alumni goes outside the classroom and training programs. It’s evident that the UW values its alumni and strives to maintain a strong, supportive network.”
Through volunteering, Anderson demonstrates the impact one person can make by listening to and supporting young individuals’ dreams.
Anderson says, “I’d encourage my fellow alumni to stay involved — it’s a wonderful way to give back and help students.”
Written by Patsy Cadwell
