Where is your hometown?

Raleigh, NC

Where did you attend:

• College/University: Duke University
• Medical School: University of North Carolina School of Medicine
• Residency: Emory University

List your Medical and Non-Medical Honors and Awards:

• Outstanding Poster Presenter Recognition, American College of Gastroenterology 2022
• Emory School of Medicine Doctors’ Day Faculty Recognition, Emory University School of Medicine, 2022
• Rheumatology Research Foundation Preceptorship Award, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, 2015
• Office of Scholastic Enrichment & Equity Merit Scholarship, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, 2014

Tell us briefly about your background before embarking on your medical training?

I was born and grew up in Raleigh, NC. I was set on becoming a physician early in high school and majored in Neuroscience (with double minors in Psychology and Biology) at Duke University. I went on to complete medical school at UNC while being involved in the Student National Medical Association before starting my residency training in internal medicine at Emory.

Outline your career plans in gastroenterology (IF you know it at this point in your training)?

I am currently interested in hepatology versus general GI. I am also considering subspecializing in bariatric/obesity medicine/endoscopy. I plan to keep an open mind as I start to explore the many subspecialties within GI during fellowship.

What were you looking for in a fellowship program?

I wanted to train at a program that provides ample clinical training as my priority is to be a well-versed clinician/endoscopist. I also wanted to train at a program that would prepare me to train in any type of setting (academic vs private vs community/hybrid). Additionally, a program that valued high quality mentorship and overall support was crucial for me.

What advice might you offer residents looking at fellowship programs?

Look for programs that fit your budding career needs and interests. I would also advise inquiring about the pathology you will see in patient populations at different programs. Although scope numbers are important, exposure to a diverse range of gastroenterological conditions is just as important. Finally, don’t be afraid to reach out to current fellows/faculty and ask questions.

From your experience in fellowship, what have you learned about training at Duke?

I am just over one week in, but I can already attest to how amazingly enthusiastic the faculty are about teaching trainees! The learning environment is extremely supportive and lends to developing your clinical and procedural skills in a fun and engaging manner.

How is your life in the Triangle area outside of work?

I spent all of my pre-residency life in the Triangle area so I fortunately have family and friends close by. Living in the triangle is great because you have easy access to Durham, Chapel Hill and Raleigh which all have their own flavor. I am excited to spend time with family and friends as well as explore downtown Durham.

What is your favorite restaurant in Durham?

It’s too early for me to decide, but there are tons of great restaurants and I can’t wait to start exploring the food scene!

List your hobbies and interests outside of work?

Spending quality time with family and friends, video gaming, traveling, Duke basketball (I can become unbearable during basketball season), and learning keyboard/piano.

List any professional social media sites you would like to share:

My twitter profile: @CollinsMbonuMD