Start Year: 2020

Basics

Hometown
Seattle, WA

Where did you attend university/college?
University of Washington

Where did you attend medical school?
Jefferson Medical College

What are your career goals?
I hope to work with populations at the intersection of medicine and psychiatry, such as those struggling with addiction. These people are often abandoned by their families and sometimes even face bias from the healthcare field. I hope to stand side-by-side with my patients as they navigate the difficulties and triumphs of their lives. At the same time, I hope to be heavily involved in medical education, whether by designing new educational technology or creating new curriculum for medical students.

"The senior residents are always available and willing to teach, and you never feel like you are alone. If you feel comfortable enough, they will also give you the autonomy that is necessary to develop into an independently practicing doctor."

-Jeffrey Lee

Reflections on the Duke Program

What were you looking for in a residency program?
I was looking for a residency program that would allow me to grow into a well-rounded doctor, both in intellectual and philosophical ways. Thus, I was looking for supportive co-residents and leadership who held values that I wanted to see in myself as a doctor.

What are the strengths of the Duke Program?
My co-residents have been absolutely phenomenal, and the first part of intern year has truly been both fun and full of learning. The senior residents are always available and willing to teach, and you never feel like you are alone. If you feel comfortable enough, they will also give you the autonomy that is necessary to develop into an independently practicing doctor.

What are your observations about the relationships between faculty and house staff?
I have not felt any sense of hierarchy between faculty and house staff. Rounds are collaborative and are a team-effort, and there are no tasks that are "only for interns." All of the faculty I have worked with so far are extremely friendly and approachable.

Tell us about your co-residents. What has helped you connect, support each other, and form friendships?
Despite COVID, I have been able to meet my co-interns through smaller, socially-sanctioned meet-ups such as hikes. On-the-job bonding, WhatsApp/Slack groups, and mini events hosted by our chiefs are other ways in which I have met connected with my co-residents.

About Duke University and Durham

What has surprised you most about Duke?
How truly warm and kind everyone has been.

What is the best thing about living in Durham and the Triangle?
I feel like I am living in a forest, and every morning I can hear the squirrels and birds waking me up. It is truly beautiful and a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of a busy city.

 How does the Triangle appeal to people of diverse backgrounds?
Your patient population will reflect the local population, especially if you have outpatient clinic at the DOC. There are vast patient differences in terms of race, socioeconomic class, and educational level. For me, it is incredibly fulfilling to not only treat a patient's medical condition but to understand how it is informed and affected by their unique background.

Where did you choose to live and why?
University Apartments - it is very close to the Duke campus/hospital and surrounded by beautiful forestry.

 What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Durham?
Be ready to enjoy the outdoors! There are lots of beautiful parks within minutes of Duke.

What are your interests outside of medicine?
Photography, writing, piano, language learning.