Start Year: 2021
Basics
Hometown
Portage, PA
Where did you attend college/university?
Juniata College
Where did you attend medical school?
Harvard Medical School
What other degrees do you hold?
MBA - Harvard Business School
What are your career goals?
Physician-leadership - through some combination of clinical practice and administration or entrepreneurship. Broadly interested in health care innovation in global health, digital health, cardiology, and rheumatology.
Reflections on the Duke Program
What were you looking for in a residency program?
I was looking for a program with excellent clinical training in a supportive environment that recognizes and invests in resident well-being. Duke has exceeded all of my expectations along all of these fronts!
What are the strengths of the Duke Program?
The "Duke Fam" is incredible - from program leadership, chief residents, to co-residents, everyone has your back and will support you in whatever way you need! The 4+2 schedule is also amazing and gives you the chance to relax and recharge after busy inpatient rotations. Last, but certainly not least, the clinical training is excellent and takes place in a variety of settings across the health system - from "Big Duke" to the VA to Duke Regional, which has more of a community hospital feel to it.
What are your observations about the relationships between faculty and house staff?
Faculty have great relationships with house staff! They encourage us to be autonomous while also providing support to us whenever we feel like we need it. They're all excellent teachers who also are extremely accomplished individuals in their fields of interest.
Tell us about your co-residents. What has helped you connect, support each other, and form friendships?
My co-residents are amazing! I could use lots of words to describe them - some that immediately come to mind are brilliant, humble, kind, down-to-earth, and fun. Everyone loves medicine, but also values and enjoys their time outside of the hospital. We have had a variety of group dinners and outings in Durham that have allowed us to start getting to know each other. I can't wait to continue getting to know them all!
What has surprised you most about Duke?
On the interview day, the "Duke Fam" was something that was strongly emphasized by so many people, but I definitely underestimated what joining the "Duke Fam" would mean. Everyone here has been so kind, welcoming, and supportive throughout the transition to residency. I'm so grateful to be here!
About Duke University and Durham
What is the best thing about living in Durham and the Triangle?
Pace of living - good food, little traffic, convenient access to anything you need, and affordable cost of living!
What are your interests outside of medicine?
I enjoy reading almost anything, exercising, playing basketball, and spending time with my wife and our dog, Buster!