Where are you from?

Southern Michigan

What are your personal interests/hobbies?

I have many personal interests and hobbies! I am a competitive ultimate frisbee player and play on the traveling club teams here in Tucson! I also enjoy playing in the many ultimate frisbee community leagues. Outside of that, I enjoy being outside (camping, backpacking, hiking, kayaking), getting food with friends (Tucson is an EXCELLENT place for food), and playing the piano at my church.

What are your professional interests?

I plan on pushing a career in the field of pediatric global health following completion of my chief year. I have a lot of interest in international and rural work, and plan to make that a part of my future career. I plan to also stay in academics as well, as I enjoy resident and medical student education.

Why did you choose UA Peds?

I chose the University of Arizona because I knew that I would get great training and be able to go wherever I desired following completion of my residency. This program prepares its residents well in careers both in subspecialty, outpatient pediatrics, and beyond, and I feel having just graduated from the program that I have been well set up to practice anywhere! I also chose this program because of my interest in global health. Being at a program close to the Mexican border gives you a unique experience in the challenges faced serving communities along the border, and also from Central and South America. We are also surrounded by over 20 Native American tribes and Tucson is a designated refugee city for many coming from certain African countries. With global health so naturally engrained into everyday practice, it was easy for me to know that in coming here I would have a unique experience and gain skills I may not gain elsewhere.
I also came because of the opportunity to earn a certificate in pediatric integrative medicine in partnership with our unique integrative medicine curriculum that has been adopted by other programs.
Thirdly of course, it's a beautiful area with lots of opportunities for wellness and outdoor activities (and has a big frisbee scene!).

What is your favorite thing about Tucson?

I think my favorite thing about Tucson is the small town feel in a big city. I love my residency family and enjoy getting to do various fun things around Tucson, whether it is eating at a new restaurant, going to a concert, hitting the thrift shops, etc. It is a place where you can find community.

What are your non-medical goals during residency?

My non-medical goals include being able to continue to play ultimate as well as continue playing music! I am both a piano and cello player and have enjoyed the time being able to pour into my other activities. I also want to visit all of the small quirky towns in the State!

If you could have a superpower- what would it be?

This is so tough. I think I would choose transformation, because it's like having all of the super powers rolled into one! Want to be invisible? Turn into a tree. Want to fly? Turn into a bird! It would be neat to see things from another point of view as well!