Basics
Hometown
Beirut, Lebanon
College/university
American University of Beirut
Medical School
American University of Beirut
Advanced Degrees
BA in Psychology from the American University of Beirut
What are your career goals?
After residency, I want to pursue a fellowship in infectious diseases. I want a career that combines clinical practice with research and advocacy.
Reflections on the Duke Program
What were you looking for in a residency program?
There were several factors that were very important to me. First, I wanted a program that could provide me with strong clinical training. Second, I wanted my residency program to be big enough to surround myself with great friends and colleagues, but not so big that I felt lost in the crowd. Lastly, I wanted a program that values its residents and supports them as they grow both inside and outside of clinical work.
What are the strengths of the Duke Program?
Personally, I think the most notable strength so far has been how supported we are as residents. Everybody is willing to help out and there is a strong culture of letting people ask for support. It strikes the right balance of autonomy vs. independence.
What are your observations about the relationships between faculty and house staff?
So far, everyone I have worked with has been respectful, friendly, and very willing to help. The faculty have always been approachable. I have always felt like part of the team.
Tell us about your co-residents. What has helped you connect, support each other, and form friendships?
Duke does a phenomenal job of selecting people who are great doctors but also just great humans too. There’s always somebody to meet up with after work, or spend time with on days off. Since work days are so busy, it’s always great to spend time together outside of the hospital.
About life in Durham
What is the best thing about living in Durham and the Triangle?
The Triangle area has something for everyone. That’s my favorite thing about it. No matter what your hobbies or interests are, there’s a place for you to enjoy where you can meet likeminded people.
Where did you choose to live and why?
I chose to live in an apartment that’s a short drive away from the hospital. It was important for me to be close enough to work that the daily commute wouldn’t take too long. But I also wanted to live far enough away that I felt like my personal life was separate from my work life. It was important to me that I be able to “geographically” leave work and go home at the end of the day.
What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Durham?
There’s a lot to see and explore! Make a friend who’s been here longer than you and ask them to show you around. The best way to find the real good spots is to ask for people’s recommendations.
What are your interests outside of medicine?
I like to read for fun. I have a lot of houseplants that started out as a COVID hobby but kind of stuck. I like to swim and spend time at the pool (or ideally beach).