In between rigorous classes and continuous studying, second-year ULSOM student Lilly Deljoo reigns on the Royal Court® as a 2025 Kentucky Derby Princess. Lilly comes to ULSOM from UCLA, where she received a Bachelor’s degree in psychobiology. With a resume full of volunteer work, including global surgical programs in Peru and China, Lilly exemplifies what it means to use personal strengths to serve the community.

ULSOM: What inspired you to pursue a career in medicine, and where do you see yourself in the future?

Deljoo: My passion for medicine comes from a desire to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives. I have always been passionate about women's health, which has led me to pursue a career in Obstetrics and Gynecology to provide comprehensive care to women at all stages of life.

ULSOM: What factors influenced your decision to choose the University of Louisville School of Medicine for your medical education?

Deljoo: As a Louisville native, I wanted to stay close to home to have the support system I needed for success. I chose the University of Louisville School of Medicine for its strong emphasis on compassionate care and inclusivity, which are essential values in becoming a well-rounded physician.

ULSOM: How has your experience at ULSOM contributed to your role as a 2025 Kentucky Derby Princess?

Deljoo: ULSOM has strengthened my foundation in compassionate care and deepened my understanding of social determinants of health, inspiring me to become more involved in my community. As a Kentucky Derby Princess, I have the opportunity to support community in a new way, preparing me for the leadership and community engagement I aspire to have as a future physician.

ULSOM: In what ways do community events, such as those surrounding the Kentucky Derby, align with your goals to positively impact community health?

Deljoo: As a young girl, my family always took me to Kentucky Derby Festival events, making them a very nostalgic part of my upbringing. Now, as a Kentucky Derby Princess, I have the opportunity to take on a leadership role in those same events that shaped my childhood. This experience has given me a new perspective, allowing me to appreciate the festival's impact on the community in a deeper way and see aspects of it that I didn’t get to experience as a child.

The Kentucky Derby Festival hosts over 70 events, many of which focus on community service and health, such as Justice Fest, Tour de Lou, and the Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon. These events promote overall well-being and highlight the importance of education, innovation, and health—key values in building a healthier community. I believe that supporting these events helps to improve wellness and inclusivity in our community, positively impacting the health of our Commonwealth.

ULSOM: What do you hope to achieve or contribute to as a representative of both ULSOM and the Kentucky Derby community? How do you balance these roles?

Deljoo: I hope to be a positive role model for our youth and proudly represent both the University of Louisville and the Kentucky Derby Festival. My goal is to attend as many events as possible, always bringing a smile and a positive attitude because that’s how my community deserves to be represented. I believe all five of us on the Royal Court have done a great job prioritizing this, and I’m honored to be part of such a meaningful tradition.

Balancing both roles comes down to effective time management, staying committed to my goals, and persevering through challenges. These skills not only help me juggle these responsibilities but also prepare me for the dedication and resilience required of a physician.

ULSOM: How do you see your experiences as a Kentucky Derby Princess influencing your approach to patient care and community engagement in your future practice?

Deljoo: I took on the role of Kentucky Derby Princess with the goal of strengthening my communication and public speaking skills so I can better advocate for my future patients and support community health beyond clinical settings. This experience has greatly improved those skills, preparing me to be a more effective physician advocate and community leader.

ULSOM: Looking ahead, what are your goals or aspirations as you continue your medical education and beyond?

Deljoo: Looking ahead, I aspire to continue my involvement in the community, serve as a mentor to the next generation, and advocate for my patients’ needs. My goal is to provide the best healthcare possible to both my patients and the community as a whole.

ULSOM is proud to support students like Lilly who participate in a range of extracurricular activities. Skills required to be a compassionate, well-rounded physician are learned both inside and outside of the classroom. Congratulations, Lilly, on your appointment as a Kentucky Derby Princess!