Melissa Ulbrick is a general surgery resident currently completing a two-year research fellowship in colorectal surgery at Cleveland Clinic Florida under the mentorship of Dr. Boutros. Her research focuses on patient-reported outcomes and quality of life after surgery, driven by the recognition that a technically successful operation can still leave patients struggling with symptoms that affect daily life. Her LARS work includes randomized trials of transanal irrigation, development of a new LARS assessment tool, and upcoming trials evaluating an AI-based self-management tool and novel medical therapies for bowel dysfunction after rectal cancer surgery. She plans to pursue an academic career in colorectal surgery focused on clinical outcomes research, patient-centered education, and mentorship.