I believe VCOM helped prepare me well by giving me hands-on training that I needed to stand out both along the interview trail and intern year.
Current Practice
Sylacauga Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sylacauga, AL
The accomplishment I am most proud of thus far in my career is
The accomplishment I am most proud of thus far in my career is receiving baby photos in the mail thanking me for being a good doctor and delivering my patients children! It makes it worth all of the blood, sweat, and tears!
When I look back on my time at VCOM I think fondly about
When I look back on my time at VCOM I think fondly about all of the people that I met along the way, and friendships with medical school classmates that I will cherish forever. Being the first class at VCOM-SC was very special in so many ways.
For me, the most unforgettable moment in medical school was
For me, the most unforgettable moment in medical school was working in the clinics of Punta Cana for a month. Truly an eye-opening experience that taught me not only medicine, but how to be resourceful and grateful for what we have.
When I am not working I enjoy
When I am not working I enjoy arts and crafts, I love Pinterest-ing and fun festive holiday decorating! I also love to cook - but I hate following recipes so I just play around and try new things!
A career in medicine is worthwhile because
A career in medicine is worthwhile because you are able to help people in ways in which nobody else can. They cling to you in times of need, and even when the prognosis is not favorable they look to you for support and guidance as they face difficult decisions. The trust that your patients have in you and your abilities is so rewarding, and something that I will never take for granted.
What my practice looks like today
I am in my second year as a private practice OBGYN in Alabama. I have a wonderful business partner/mentor who has been supportive in helping me pave the way to building my practice. I am loving delivering babies and forming relationships with women of all ages from puberty to menopause. The saying is true - if you love what you do you will never work a day in your life!
What is the best advice you can give a medical student to help them in their path towards being a physician?
Make sure you follow your gut. You are about to make BIG decisions that will affect your life in big ways! Do what you love and don't settle for anything less. Your happiness is the most important thing, always. Be confident. Use your best judgment. Make lifelong friends/colleagues. Most importantly - be good people and good physicians.