Are you in a special track or focus during your residency?
I am not currently in a special track or focus, but I am interested in women’s health, outpatient procedures, addiction medicine, and underserved populations.
Why did you choose UPMC Shadyside Family Medicine Residency Program? Why Pittsburgh?
UPMC Shadyside Family Medicine Residency Program impressed me during my interview. It has many resources available as part of a large academic institution, but still retained the close-knit feel of a smaller program, which I saw during the interview process. I had a lot of fun during the interview speaking to faculty, staff, and residents. Additionally, there was the ability to work with underserved communities at multiple sites across Pittsburgh, especially with their underserved and HIV tracks. The faculty seemed very willing to work with residents to help them pursue their interests even outside of these tracks. I knew I wanted to train in a different city outside of the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area for a change of pace. Pittsburgh appealed to me since it was a smaller city with plenty of green spaces, but still has many distinct neighborhoods, is highly walkable, and has a strong foodie scene.
What are your goals while here in the residency program? How will this prepare you to be an excellent physician?
My goal is to become a knowledgeable, well-rounded, and compassionate physician. I want to work with underserved communities in the future and provide the best care possible for my patients to flourish. I also want to gain more confidence in my abilities, so that my patients feel they are being cared for and I can better advocate for them.
Do you have any special interests outside of the residency?
I frequently take my two dogs on long walks and hikes. Additionally, all the bike routes in Pittsburgh have reignited my interest in biking. I also love a lot of food-related hobbies, such as baking, The Great British Bake Off, herb and vegetable gardening, and trying new restaurants. I dabble in playing the guitar and sewing as well.