What year are you and where are you from?
I am a second-year medical student, and I am from the suburbs of Philadelphia.
What motivates you to become a doctor?
In my previous role as a research coordinator for a specialized leukodystrophy clinic at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, I noticed the need for a "quarterback" on our patients’ teams; someone who could advocate for children with complex medical needs. For many, that role was filled by their primary care pediatrician. Working with patients from six months to 27-year-olds, shaped my decision to pursue pediatrics, as I would have the opportunity to build longitudinal relationships with patients of my own and serve as a leader on their medical team. Since being at Pitt Med, the new Primary Care Accelerated Track (PCAT) has been instrumental in advancing my journey toward becoming a pediatrician in the Pittsburgh area. Through bi-weekly outpatient clinic experiences, I have gained invaluable insight into the multifaceted role of a primary care provider - one that extends far beyond clinical medicine. I have come to understand that truly effective care involves advocating for housing and food security, mental health support, addressing domestic violence, and, most importantly, listening with intention and empathy.
What do you like most about Pitt Med?
The community of Pitt Med; I think the revised curriculum transitioning to in-person learning has allowed me to connect with my classmates on a more personal level and actually inspired me to run for class vice president.
I love that we have flex weeks embedded in the curriculum, definitely a great opportunity to reset in between blocks.
Do you have any areas of interest? What are your career aspirations?
I am a member of the PCAT and I am pursuing the pediatrics track. My hope is to become a primary care pediatrician that also cares for children with complex medical needs.
What is something you enjoyed about the reunion tour?
I enjoyed getting to share my journey to medicine with physicians that were once in my shoes and listen to their reflections on their time at Pitt Med.
Fun facts:
I majored in French in college.
I am the oldest of three sisters.
I was a competitive swimmer through high school and joined the Pitt Club Swim Team in college.