Please tell us which program you chose for your Physician Assistant studies. Why did this program make the top of your list?
I studied at D’Youville College, which is now a university located in Buffalo, NY. At the time, there were only 2 programs in the area, and D’Youville offered direct admission to the program after acceptance. The other program required 2 years of prerequisites before applying. While it was a small school, it offered a family-like feel, and I enjoyed my time there.
Tell us more about how you came to choose the field of medicine.
I had previously worked in Emergency Medicine as an AEMT-I and a volunteer firefighter. My mother became ill with cancer, and I was her caregiver during her illness before her death. After she passed, I reassessed my life, felt I needed to do something more, and knew patient care was my calling.
What about becoming a PA was attractive?
I actually began my medical education in nursing school at a community college. My biology professor encouraged me to apply to PA or medical school during my first semester. Given my late start at the age of 27, I felt PA school would be a better fit.
How did you choose Emergency Medicine as your specialty?
I like the diversity of patient care and the patient population in the ED.
What do you enjoy most about your day-to-day practice?
I enjoy the opportunity to help patients and their families. Providing care that helps to make a patient feel better and puts smiles on their faces through the care we can provide.
What led you to practice with MEMA?
MEMA is a small, private group with a family-like environment, and that really drew me to the organization. Also, I think we can all agree Beth McInnis, FNP-BC is an amazing person to work with!
Has there been one patient, staff member, or caregiver story that has stuck with you?
Throughout my career, I have been fortunate enough to work with great attendings and PAs who have helped expand my knowledge base and practice of medicine and patient care abilities. Too many to count, and thankfully this continues in my current position.
Have you received any awards or been recognized by your peers? If so, please tell us about it!
In college, I worked hard to earn membership into Phi Theta Kappa, an Honor Society. I also received the J. Warren Perry Health and Human Services Leadership Award and the Outstanding Clinical Education Project Award.
What about Charlotte excites you?
Coming from Buffalo, NY, I will always be a transplant and continue to root for my Buffalo Bills and Sabres, but the weather tends to be a little milder, and the taxes are much cheaper. Both places have great people…so that’s a tie!
Do you have any Hobbies, interests, or secret powers that are unique to you?
I like the outdoors, hunting, shooting, and working on cars.