I am interested in geriatrics. I have truly enjoyed working with my elders at American Legion events and at long term care facilities. I never turn down the chance to learn from their lifetime of experiences and wisdom.
Who or what has inspired you while at VCOM?
I’ve been inspired by my classmates to keep a positive attitude and make the most out of every day during the Covid-19 pandemic. Having to adapt to online learning and socially distancing ourselves from the great bonds we’ve created has been challenging to say the least. But we are accepting each new challenge with grace, and finding ways to continue to build up one another and to help each other succeed in classes. It would have been easy to shut down a bit during social distancing, but my classmates stayed active making masks for local health care providers, volunteering time at a food pantry, donating blood during shortages, arranging informational Zoom meetings to keep us informed about the effects of Covid-19, etc. I have no doubt we are creating some incredibly strong and dedicated future health care leaders.
How has the VCOM mission inspired you as a medical student?
The VCOM mission has inspired me to stay informed on global issues and learn from those with different backgrounds. Having lived in one small town for most of my life, I haven’t always had the opportunities to learn from people with more diverse backgrounds. I’m grateful VCOM has created a diverse culture for me to learn from and become a well-rounded physician. I will take these experiences with me to influence the rural and medically underserved community I hope to serve one day.
Who or what inspired you to study medicine?
My family was greatly helped by the Children’s Miracle Network during my brother’s cancer treatments. Through sharing my brother’s story and serving other Miracle Families at CMN events, I found my love for serving others and giving back to my community. Later, after watching my dad’s ongoing battle with the effects of compartment syndrome, I decided I wanted to serve others by always giving my future patients the attentive and compassionate care that everyone’s loved ones deserve.
Why did you choose VCOM?
I chose VCOM because of its dedication toward producing community-focused physicians to serve in rural and medically underserved areas. Where I’m from, everyone knows and helps out everyone else in the community. The closest hospital is 30 minutes away, and most larger procedures require you to travel over an hour and a half to a hospital with more resources. I was told by past SDSU students (now VCOM students) how much VCOM is like another family. The kindness I’ve received from staff and teachers has made the move to Virginia so much easier.
What do you enjoy most about living in the area around your campus?
I love the mountains! My husband and I enjoy leaving the city when we can and exploring new hiking trails. We are also big football fans, so attending Virginia Tech home games has been a blast!
What do you like to do in your free time?
In my free time, I enjoy exploring my new home—checking out local businesses and taking walks places like the Horticulture Garden at Virginia Tech, the Duck Pond, and the Huckleberry Trail. I also enjoy baking, doodling, and catching up with friends and family.
Are you interested in a particular practice or specialty once you graduate? What has inspired your interest in this specialty?
I am interested in geriatrics. I have truly enjoyed working with my elders at American Legion events and at long term care facilities. I never turn down the chance to learn from their lifetime of experiences and wisdom. I particularly have enjoyed my time working in memory care and hope to incorporate my experiences with dementia patients in my career.