Start Year: 2020

Basics

Hometown
The Woodlands, TX

Where did you attend university/college?
University of Virginia

Where did you attend medical school?
Texas A&M College of Medicine

If applicable, what other degrees do you hold and from what institutions?
Master's degree in Graduate Medical Sciences from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center

What are your career goals?
My career goals are to work as an academic hospitalist and be involved in graduate medical education.

"The relationships between faculty and house staff are really personable. Everyone I have met is very open and friendly, which makes the work day enjoyable."

-Kelly Flynn 

Reflections on the Duke Program

What were you looking for in a residency program?
I was looking for a residency program that combined excellent clinical training, a supportive learning environment, opportunities to be involved in medical education, and a beautiful location I could enjoy in my free time.

What are the strengths of the Duke Program?
Duke trains physician leaders and fosters an environment where everyone wants you to succeed. The support system at Duke is the heart of the program, and I feel so fortunate to work with such passionate, smart, and kind individuals that care about you both as a growing physician and as a person. It is really inspiring to be surrounded by people who are always reaching for excellence and want to learn more.

What are your observations about the relationships between faculty and house staff?
The relationships between faculty and house staff are really personable. Everyone I have met is very open and friendly, which makes the work day enjoyable. I feel comfortable knowing that I can always ask my upper levels or attendings for help. Duke residency is a perfect level of graduated independence that helps push you as a trainee, while also making you feel supported.

Tell us about your co-residents. What has helped you connect, support each other, and form friendships?
We all had a unique experience of starting intern year during the COVID-19 pandemic, which has made socializing challenging to say the least! We've made the most of virtual hangouts, socially-distanced meals, and supporting each other during clinics and rotations.

About Duke University and Durham

What has surprised you most about Duke?
I'm continually amazed by how humble everyone is at Duke. My co-residents are some of the most amazing human beings with stellar accomplishments, but are incredibly down-to-earth and will drop everything to help someone out. The values expressed during my interview day are demonstrated daily, and I was so happy to see that the #Dukefam is the real deal!

What is the best thing about living in Durham and the Triangle?
There is so much to do around Durham and North Carolina! You can enjoy hiking, biking, camping, and berry picking just a few minutes off campus. The restaurant scene is great, and you are only a few hours away from the beach or the mountains! The cost of living is very affordable and the traffic is minimal, which is great for residency.

How does the Triangle appeal to people of diverse backgrounds?
People come to Durham and Duke from all over the country and world for clinical training, research, and education. It is really interesting to meet so many different individuals from a variety of backgrounds.

Where did you choose to live and why?
I chose to live within walking distance of the hospital. It's really nice getting in a little exercise before starting the workday and you can't beat the commute!

What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Durham?
There are so many options for housing that reflect a wide array of budgets. Whether you are looking for an apartment or a house, there is something for everyone here. Traffic is minimal in Durham, so lots of people live 10-15 minutes off campus and enjoy the beautiful drive to work!

What are your interests outside of medicine?
I love cooking, baking, and creating new recipes. Since moving to Durham, I've also started hiking around Eno River State Park. I love spending time with my family and pups!