Start Year: 2021

Basics

Hometown
Le Mars, Iowa

Where did you attend college/university?
University of Notre Dame

Where did you attend medical school?
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

What are your career goals?
Not sure yet, but I'm interested in multiple subspecialties!

"I was very surprised by how friendly everyone has been! I had heard that Duke has a supportive environment, but it's really exceeded my expectations."

-Carolyn Ahlers

Reflections on the Duke Program

What were you looking for in a residency program?
I was looking for a program with top notch medical training in a supportive, collaborative, fun environment.

What are the strengths of the Duke Program?
 I have been so impressed by how friendly everyone has been! The chiefs stop by all the time to check in and see if they can help with anything. That support means a lot, especially at the start of intern year. Another strength of the program is the medical training - there's a big emphasis on teaching and learning.

What are your observations about the relationships between faculty and house staff?
The faculty have been great - very accessible, knowledgable, and friendly.

Tell us about your co-residents. What has helped you connect, support each other, and form friendships?
My co-residentsare awesome! Super fun, nice, supportive people. I'm surrounded by some wonderful people.

What has surprised you most about Duke?
How friendly everyone has been! I had heard that Duke has a supportive environment, but it's really exceeded my expectations.

About Duke University and Durham

What is the best thing about living in Durham and the Triangle?
The weather and outdoors! There are some great hiking trails within 10 minutes of the hospital.

How does the Triangle appeal to people of diverse backgrounds?
Lots of different foods, activities, cultures. I'm still exploring the area, but I have been impressed by how much there is to do.

Where did you choose to live and why?
I live in Durham about 5 minutes from the hospital. I live around the 9th street area which has a lot of fun restaurants to explore.

What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Durham?
Check out all the hiking trails in the area. North Carolina is beautiful with great weather, so I'd definitely recommend exploring outside.

What are your interests outside of medicine?
Playing sports! I love to play basketball, tennis, and volleyball. I also really like hiking and spending time with family.