Please tell us which program you chose for your Physician Assistant studies? Why did this program make the top of your list?
Charleston Southern University PA Program. I chose this program because it is a program based on Christian faith, which is extremely important to me. This program also had a small class size which increased the availability of faculty to students and was something I knew would be extremely helpful in my education. While completing the interview and tour, it was very clear to me that the professors were strong advocates for the students and wanted all of us to be successful in the program, which made for an inviting atmosphere.
Tell us more about how you came to choose the field of medicine. What about becoming a PA was attractive?
I have always felt a pull towards medicine, and I believe this came from a drive to help and support others in their time of need. I find medicine to be very interesting, especially how each person has a unique picture of health. Early on, becoming a PA became my dream when I realized how a PA fits into the overall flow of the health system.
How did you choose Emergency Medicine as your specialty?
While in college, I had the opportunity to volunteer as an EMT-B for the local rescue squad in my town. During this time, I fell in love with emergency medicine as a whole, both pre-hospital and in the hospital setting. I love that emergency medicine is a broad field of medicine that will require me to be a well-rounded provider. I also love that it has no set schedule, and that every day on the job will look differently.
What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day practice?
The variety of patient care and cases! I love that there is such a great variety and that as a provider I’m required to stay well-rounded to ensure that I am familiar with all types of medicine and all types of demographics of patients.
What led you to practice with MEMA?
MEMA stood out to me because of their extensive orientation for new-grad providers. This is extremely important to me because it shows that the group cares about their clinicians and wants to ensure that we are well-equipped. The staff and clinicians at MEMA were welcoming and acted like a family.
Has there been one patient, staff member, or caregiver story that has stuck with you?
During my Women’s Health rotation in PA school, I cared for a patient who was pregnant with her third child. This pregnancy was considered high risk due to her age and early complications, although her first two pregnancies with healthy boys had gone smoothly. She and her husband had chosen not to find out the baby’s gender, wanting to be surprised at birth.
I was fortunate to be present for the entire process, from her arrival on Labor and Delivery until well after the delivery, which gave me time to get to know both her and her husband. The birth was more difficult than expected, with an extended pushing phase. Just before the final push, the mother smiled and said, “I changed my mind, I think it is going to be a girl.” Moments later, she delivered a baby girl.
The room was filled with emotion as the parents welcomed their daughter. Witnessing their overwhelming love, along with the strength and determination the mother had shown throughout her pregnancy and labor, was incredibly moving. It was a beautiful moment, and I feel truly blessed to have been part of it.
What are some of the biggest challenges of your practice, for a clinician practicing in the emergency department?
I believe one of the greatest challenges of working in the ED is managing the emotional toll it takes on providers. Every day, patients are facing some of the most difficult moments of their lives, often serious enough to require an emergency visit. Providers must navigate not only the medical needs of each patient but also the emotional weight of those experiences, all while managing their own emotions.
Are you a member of any associations, societies, or organizations? Any leadership roles?
Within the field of medicine, no. However, I am a part of a local church (Vizion) and participate in a couple of Bible Study groups.
Have you received any awards or been recognized from your peers? If so, tell us about it!
No not yet, but I am excited to grow as a PA and establish myself in the field!
What about Charlotte excites you?
I am very outdoorsy, so I am excited about the proximity to the mountains in WNC as well as the many running and biking paths around the city. My husband and I are also big sports fans so we are excited to get to see different sporting events and teams play!
Do you have any hobbies, interests, or secret powers that are unique to you?
My biggest passion is hiking. In 2022, I thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail from Georgia to Maine, and I hope to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail at some point in my life. I also enjoy shorter backpacking and camping trips, as well as day hikes to explore new trails. Lately, I have been growing my love for road biking and running. Every couple of years, I participate in RAGBRAI, a seven-day bike ride across Iowa, and I am about to start training for another marathon this winter. My husband and I have a dog, and I love spending time outdoors with him, often bringing him along on hikes. I also enjoy knitting, baking sourdough bread, and reading.