Start Year: 2024

Basics

• Hometown: Knoxville, TN
• University/College: Cornell University
• Medical School: University of Chicago
• Residency: University of Chicago 

Fellow Perspective

Tell us briefly about your background before cardiology fellowship.

I grew up in Knoxville, TN and moved to upstate New York to study biology at Cornell University. After college, I worked for a year as a patient care coordinator at a dermatology practice in the Boston area. I relocated to Chicago to attend medical school where I first became interested in cardiology through a summer research program. My research interest in coronary microvascular dysfunction allowed me to explore multiple areas of cardiology through projects focusing on HFpEF, atrial fibrillation, and chronic angina. As a resident, I found my clinical passions aligned well with a career in cardiology. 

What are your career plans in cardiology?

I plan to specialize in interventional cardiology and pursue a career in an academic setting. 

Why did you choose Duke for your cardiology fellowship training?

I was initially encouraged to consider Duke for cardiology fellowship by several mentors from medical school and residency. In addition to the incredible clinical and research opportunities at Duke, they all mentioned personal interactions they’d had with Duke cardiology faculty through national meetings or research collaborations. The common theme in each of these interactions was that the Duke cardiologists were intelligent, kind, and collaborative. This was the exact impression I got from my interview day from the faculty, fellows, and program staff. I ultimately chose Duke for the opportunity to receive world class cardiology training alongside faculty and fellows who care deeply about their patients, colleagues, and community. 

What advice might you offer residents looking at fellowship programs?

Be honest with yourself about what drives you and choose a program that has a track record of helping fellows achieve similar goals. Make sure you can see yourself being able to ask the fellows and faculty at a given program for support or a second opinion. Seeing my co fellows is the best part of each day, and they are always happy to lend a hand, offer advice, or just grab a coffee. 

What do you enjoy doing in the Triangle area outside of work?

I love running and walking our dog and have been exploring the various trails and running paths in the area. My husband and I are taking advantage of the Duke sports scene as well as the very affordable Durham Bulls games.  The Durham food and brewery game is surprisingly strong, and we’re still working our way through exploring the many options. Most importantly, I’m enjoying the incredible weather in the Triangle particularly during the winter and spring months.