Please tell us which program you chose for your Physician Assistant studies? Why did this program make the top of your list?
I chose Gardner-Webb’s PA program because it came highly recommended to me by my best friend who had a great experience there along with the smaller class size allowing for more interaction with my professors. It was also a perfect fit geographically—being close to the greater Charlotte area allowed me to stay near both my wife’s and my family during school, which was really important to us.
Tell us more about how you came to choose the field of medicine. What about becoming a PA was attractive?
I’ve always been drawn to medicine because I enjoy problem-solving and supporting people during their most vulnerable moments. The PA role appealed to me because of its flexibility, emphasis on patient-centered care, and collaborative team environment. I appreciate how PAs work closely with healthcare teams to make a meaningful, positive impact on patients’ lives.
How did you choose Emergency Medicine as your specialty?
Working as an EMT gave me firsthand experience in the fast-paced, high-stakes world of emergency medicine, and I immediately loved the challenge. After completing my emergency medicine rotation, I was certain that the ER is where I belong. I really value the critical thinking and dynamic environment that this specialty demands.
What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day practice?
Every day is different, and it pushes you to think quickly, stay calm under pressure, and help people in critical moments. That energy and unpredictability really drew me in. Along with the team aspect that all Emergency departments have.
What led you to practice with MEMA?
Before starting PA school, I shadowed Patrick Devane, a PA at MEMA, to gain additional clinical experience and strengthen my application. Throughout my studies, I never forgot how highly Patrick spoke about the supportive, team-focused culture at MEMA. My wife and I wanted to move back to Charlotte after graduation, and I knew MEMA would be a perfect fit for both my professional goals and our lifestyle.
Has there been one patient, staff member, or caregiver story that has stuck with you?
During my emergency medicine rotation, I cared for a young, otherwise healthy patient who presented with recurrent episodes of shortness of breath. She was largely asymptomatic, and we were preparing to discharge her. However, something didn’t sit right—her heart rate was slightly elevated, so we decided to order a CT scan. That’s when we discovered she had a saddle pulmonary embolism, a potentially life-threatening condition if left untreated. Further workup revealed that she had a protein C deficiency, which made her more prone to clotting and ultimately led to the embolism. She underwent a thrombectomy, tolerated the procedure well, and had a positive outcome.
What are some of the biggest challenges of your practice, for a clinician practicing in the emergency department?
As a new grad in the emergency department, one of the biggest challenges is adjusting to the pace and volume while building confidence in my clinical decision-making. You’re constantly seeing a wide range of cases, often with limited information, and you have to act quickly. It can be overwhelming at times, but it also pushes you to learn fast, rely on your team, and grow into a more capable and resilient provider.
Are you a member of any associations, societies, or organizations? Any leadership roles?
Yes, I served as the class president for the Gardner-Webb 2025 cohort. It was a rewarding leadership role where I had the chance to represent my classmates, help organize events, and foster a supportive community throughout our program.
What about Charlotte excites you?
What excites me most about Charlotte is being close to family—especially now that we have a newborn son. It means a lot to have that support system nearby. I also really enjoy the Charlotte region for its variety in seasons, access to both the mountains and the coast, and the energy that comes with a growing city. It feels like a great place to raise a family and build a future.
Do you have any hobbies, interests, or secret powers that are unique to you?
I love spending time with my family, especially getting outside for walks with our newborn. It’s a great way to recharge and connect amidst the busy pace of parenthood. Finding those small moments together has become really meaningful. Outside of family life, I also compete in Olympic weightlifting and have been training for nearly five years. It’s something I’m passionate about and helps me stay focused and disciplined, along with giving me a competitive outlet.