Dr. Michael Z.

Dr. Zhao’s path to medicine began early. As treasurer of his high school pre-med club and later valedictorian, he was drawn to primary care and the opportunity to serve underprivileged populations. At Rice University, his studies in bioengineering deepened his appreciation for the science and systems behind health care, and later served as an alumni interviewer. During medical school at UT Southwestern, he explored multiple disciplines before discovering his passion for primary care and preventive medicine—fields that allowed him to combine science, compassion, and public service.

Throughout his career, Dr. Zhao has practiced medicine in diverse environments, including correctional facilities, rural health clinics, and urgent care settings. As Medical Director of Travis State Jail, he specialized in broad-spectrum care for underserved populations. He later served as a rural primary care physician for Medina Hospital, further strengthening his commitment to accessible, community-centered medicine.

Known for his approachable and flexible demeanor, Dr. Zhao takes pride in mentoring future physicians. Long before becoming a medical director, he provided meticulous advice and words of encouragement, edited personal statements, and wrote recommendation letters for aspiring physicians. Students Dr. Zhao has coached have been accepted to every Texas medical school. His dedication to teaching and supporting others reflects his core belief that strong physicians are shaped by mentorship and empathy as much as by training.

Dr. Zhao hopes to become a regional director within a major health care organization. His long-term goal is to share his knowledge and experience with aspiring physicians, helping each student define their goals and reach their full potential.