Please tell us which program you chose for your Physician Assistant studies. Why did this program make the top of your list?
The program I chose was the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Its location in my hometown made the stressors of PA school more manageable.
Tell us more about how you came to choose the field of medicine. What about becoming a PA was attractive?
I’ve been interested in becoming a PA since high school. In one of my classes, we explored future careers and took assessments to match our interests, which led me to discover the profession. What stood out to me was the flexibility to transition between specialties and the opportunity to begin practicing medicine quickly.
How did you choose Emergency Medicine as your specialty?
When interviewing for jobs, I emphasized four key criteria: an inpatient setting, a diverse range of patient cases, opportunities to perform procedures, and the ability to wear scrubs. With these priorities in mind, the ER was the perfect fit!
What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day practice?
What I’ll enjoy most is the variety of the role. I thrive in dynamic environments and prefer work that isn’t repetitive, which makes the ER a perfect fit for me. You never know what kinds of cases will come through the door, keeping the work challenging and engaging.
What led you to practice with MEMA?
When searching for jobs, I knew I wanted a post-graduate training position, and MEMA provided the perfect opportunity. I came across their new graduate program just two days before the application deadline. After interviewing and meeting the team, I knew it was the right fit.
Has there been one patient, staff member, or caregiver story that has stuck with you?
When I started working as an inpatient phlebotomist to gain patient care experience for PA school, I went through a brief period of doubt about whether healthcare was the right path for me. One morning during rounds, I encountered a distressed patient and immediately called for a rapid response. I watched as the healthcare team worked seamlessly to intervene, their teamwork on full display in a critical moment. Though the patient ultimately passed away, that experience reaffirmed my passion for healthcare and strengthened my desire to be part of a team that makes a meaningful difference.
What are some of the biggest challenges of your practice for a clinician practicing in the emergency department?
The biggest challenge I noticed during my emergency medicine rotation in PA school was patient access to primary care. In my hometown, which is designated as a medically underserved/health-professional shortage area, patients often came to the ER for medication refills or to address preventable issues—needs that could have been met with proper primary care access.
Are you a member of any associations, societies, or organizations? Any leadership roles?
American Academy of Physician Associates
Have you received any awards or been recognized by your peers? If so, please tell us about it!
Not yet, but I am eager to contribute and grow within the team at MEMA
What about Charlotte excites you?
I love that Charlotte always has something new, from trendy restaurant openings to unique places to explore. I’m excited to spend my free time discovering all the city offers. After many great visits, I’m thrilled to officially call it home.
Do you have any Hobbies, interests, or secret powers unique to you?
In my free time, I love playing pickleball, browsing aesthetically pleasing grocery stores, and searching for the best espresso martini. So far, Nuvole holds the top spot, but I’m always open to recommendations!