Averie

Dickinson

Where is your hometown?
I have lived in 8 different states at this point, so I never really know how to answer this question. However, I might go with outside of Philadelphia – since that is where I went to high school and met my husband!

Where did you attend:
• Undergrad College/University: James Madison University
• Medical School: Central Michigan College of Medicine
• Residency: Duke

List your Medical and Non-Medical Honors and Awards:
• Gold Humanism Honor Society
• Faculty Resident Research Grant

Tell us briefly about your background before embarking on your medical training?
I studied psychology and really loved neurodevelopment, so I did a research year before medical school at the NIH. I also spent that year traveling and bartending in downtown DC, it was one of the best years of my life!

Outline your career plans in gastroenterology (If you know it at this point in your training)?
I am still deciding what field of GI I will ultimately pursue, but I love mentorship and teaching, so I can see myself staying in Academics for a while.

What were you looking for in a fellowship program?
I am a very ‘based on vibes’ kind of person. I knew I wanted to be in an academic program where I could receive excellent training, but the people and culture at Duke were really what sold me. I love my mentors here, the nurses and overall staff at Duke have been phenomenal!

What advice might you offer residents looking at fellowship programs?
I think you can get great training at many different places, but finding a place where you can see yourself connecting with the fellows and mentors who can support you is what I found the most valuable.

From your experience in fellowship, what have you learned about training at Duke?
We definitely work hard and take care of very sick patients, but I have yet to have a day in fellowship (or residency here) that I haven’t cracked up laughing with my co-fellows and attendings. No one takes themselves too seriously and it truly feels like a family.

How is your life in the Triangle area outside of work?
Having lived in many different places (Atlanta, Miami, Philly, DC, etc), Durham is honestly my favorite! I love the close proximity to great restaurants, fun events, the airport, and no traffic!

What is your favorite restaurant in Durham?
I can’t possibly choose one, but I probably go most often to Thaiangle, M Kokko and Juju!

List your hobbies and interests outside of work?
Playing nonstop with my adorable toddler! I used to have cool hobbies, but now it’s all about the Elmo songs and ABC's!