Start Year: 2019
Basics
Hometown
Richmond, VA
Where did you attend college/university?
College of William and Mary
Where did you attend medical school?
University of Virginia School of Medicine
What are your career goals?
I want to work in primary care.
What did you do the summer before intern year?
I visited family and went to the beach. My big adventure before intern year was a global health elective in Tanzania. I spent a month working on the pediatrics wards and was also able to go on a safari (which was incredible!) and hike Mt. Kilimanjaro (very hard but also incredible). I definitely recommend taking a trip before intern year!
"The faculty here really care about helping house staff with career goals, research, and wellness."
-Sarah Dillon
Reflections on the Duke Program
What were you looking for in a residency program?
I was looking for a program with strong categorical training in both Internal Medicine and Pediatrics with a supportive community. I'm interested in primary care so I also wanted a program with a good continuity clinic experience. I loved my interview day at Duke and was very impressed with how well organized and cohesive the program was. Location was also a big factor - I wanted to live in a small to medium sized city that is easy to get around and with access to hiking trails.
What are the strengths of the Duke Program?
I appreciate that we also have the privilege of working at a VA Hospital and taking care of veterans.
What are your observations about the relationships between faculty and house staff?
The faculty here really care about helping house staff with career goals, research, and wellness.
Tell us about your co-residents. What has helped you connect, support each other, and form friendships?
My co-residents are great! We get to know each other well during orientation and there is always something fun to do in Durham on your day off. The program also organizes social events, like dinners and tickets to the Durham Bulls baseball games.
What has surprised you most about Duke?
Everyone I've worked with has been very down to earth, approachable, and nice.
About Duke University and Durham
What is the best thing about living in Durham and the Triangle?
Durham is so easy to get around - everything is 10-15 minutes away. I personally love Duke Gardens and the Eno State Park trails. There are also so many good and affordable restaurants to try with your co-residents.
How does the Triangle appeal to people of diverse backgrounds?
There is something here for everyone. Duke attracts people from very diverse backgrounds and seems very inclusive and welcoming.
Where did you choose to live and why?
South Durham - more affordable rent, gives me a little distance/space from the hospital, and easy access to my favorite grocery store (Trader Joes).
What advice would you give to someone looking to move to Durham?
Durham is a very nice and easy place to live. I started looking for an apartment in early April and was able to find a place in my budget pretty easily.
What are your interests outside of medicine?
Yoga, hiking, traveling, cooking, reading, podcasts.