Start Year: 2020
Basics
Hometown
Raleigh, NC
Where did you attend university/college?
Davidson College
Where did you attend medical school?
UNC- Chapel Hill
What other degrees do you hold and from what institutions?
MBA - UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School
What are your career goals?
I hope to pursue a career in academic cardiology. Coming from a background in consulting prior to medical school, I have a specific interest in the intersection between healthcare and business, especially in developing new models for care delivery. I am currently in Duke’s Management and Leadership Pathway for Residents (MLPR) program, a combined 4 year residency that allows me to alternate clinical and administrative training, through professional rotations across our health system.
"The attendings are exceedingly knowledgeable and always approachable, while allowing space for growth and autonomy."
-Hubert Haywood
Reflections on the Duke Program
What were you looking for in a residency program?
In looking for my ideal program, I wanted an academic setting with research opportunities in line with my interests, but also one that would further my clinical education above all else. Most importantly, I wanted a program where the residents supported one another, putting their colleagues behind only patient care.
What are the strengths of the Duke Program?
I have been blown away by the collegiality of my internal medicine co-residents. Although we often work hard, doing the best we can for patients, we are always there to support each other. The teaching and variety of clinical experiences from the VA to Duke University Hospital to the outpatient clinics is also a major strength.
Additionally, I appreciate that Duke has programs like MLPR, that allow residents to pursue their unique interests. The opportunity to combine rigorous clinical and administrative training with the MLPR program, has been especially valuable to me. Through MLPR, the mentorship and experience working on innovative projects with hospital leadership in finance, quality and safety, government relations, and strategic planning have been particularly formative in my professional development.
What are your observations about the relationships between faculty and house staff?
Starting from day one, I had the opportunity to work one-on-one with faculty. With my initial rotation on an inpatient oncology service, I was mentored by faculty directly. The attendings are exceedingly knowledgeable and always approachable, while allowing space for growth and autonomy.
Tell us about your co-residents. What has helped you connect, support each other, and form friendships?
The COVID-19 pandemic made starting residency a bit different. Despite the challenges, the program was able to facilitate activities that helped us get to know one another. I am so impressed by the diverse backgrounds of my colleagues and have enjoyed working side-by-side with them on inpatient rotations over the past few years.
About Duke University and Durham
What has surprised you most about Duke?
Despite its reputation for academic rigor, I was surprised by the warmth of faculty, staff, and colleagues at Duke. It really is a program that values learners and the contributions that they have to offer.
What is the best thing about living in Durham and the Triangle?
Even though I have left several times in my life, I always seem to return home to the Triangle. I love Durham, especially its variety of people and experiences. Whether downtown or a short drive away at the beach or the mountains, there is nothing better than a fall afternoon in North Carolina!
How does the Triangle appeal to people of diverse backgrounds?
Welcoming to all, Durham is a young and vibrant city, with diverse neighborhoods and opportunities. As one of the largest cities in North Carolina, Durham has often been at the forefront of positive change in our state.
Where did you choose to live and why?
I bought a house in one of Durham's older neighborhoods, not far from Duke's campus. I love being able to jog in the evenings and often walk to coffeeshops, bars, or restaurants.
What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Durham?
Having moved away from North Carolina for several years, living in New York after college, I gained a new appreciation for everything that the Triangle has to offer. I love being in a neighborhood in a house with a yard but not far from the amenities of a larger city. By starting the housing search early, you can find exactly what you want, whether it be an apartment downtown or a house in one of Durham's historic neighborhoods.
What are your interests outside of medicine?
Outside of medicine, I enjoy running, gardening, and hiking. I also enjoy traveling, especially to visit national parks or to ski. One of my favorite things to do on a weekend off is to visit the beach go paddleboarding.