Please tell us which program you chose for your Physician Assistant studies? Why did this program make the top of your list?
I completed my PA studies at The George Washington University in Washington, DC, and chose this program for a few reasons. First, it has an esteemed faculty who are very involved with the PA profession on a national level with both the NCCPA and AAPA. Also, the program has the reputation for being one of the top PA programs in the nation and allowed me to complete a second degree concurrently (Master of Public Health). Lastly, I knew I wanted to go to school in a city with good public transportation and lots to do, which Washington, DC definitely provided. It was an easy decision to make.
Tell us more about how you came to choose the field of medicine?
My intrigue with the body and medicine started after seeing the Rugrats episode where Chuckie swallows a watermelon seed or the Magic School Bus episode when the class takes a field trip inside Arnold. As I got older that interest never seemed to wane, and, thus, going into medicine seemed like a natural choice.
What about becoming a PA was attractive?
The flexibility to practice where I want and have the ability to change specialties if so desired, was definitely attractive. I also enjoy that I am part of a larger team, including the other providers and staff.
How did you choose Emergency Medicine as your specialty?
I worked as an EMT before PA school so emergency medicine was familiar to me and I wanted a specialty that would help maintain a generalized understanding of many different areas. Additionally, emergency medicine was a specialty that was hands-on as well as procedural which was attractive.
What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day practice?
I enjoy that no two days are the same and I get to see a variety of cases on any given day. I also like that my work does not come home with me.
What led you to practice with MEMA?
Knowing I wanted to move to Charlotte, I was looking for a group that had a great reputation in the community and would support me in my practice. I immediately felt that MEMA cares about their patients, their work, and one another.
Has there been one patient, staff member, or caregiver story that has stuck with you?
In general, the stories that stick the most with me are the encounters where I feel like I really made a difference to the patient. Whether that is performing a procedure, making a diagnosis, or merely spending the extra minutes getting to know a patient beyond what can be ascertained by reading their chart, it all varies. It is the connections that are made and the gratitude I receive that are humbling and remind me why I do what I do.
Are you a member of any associations, societies, or organizations? Any leadership roles?
I am a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA).
What about Charlotte excites you?
I love the opportunities that Charlotte provides. There is something for everyone, within Charlotte and the surrounding area. I am always hearing about new things to “check out,” new restaurants opening, and “must-do” things. My list keeps growing!
Do you have any hobbies, interests, or secret powers that are unique to you?
I really enjoy being active and exploring. I love traveling, seeing new places, and getting outside. Most of my free time is spent either thinking about my next trip, planning the trip, or being on the trip.