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Tell us about yourself.
I am originally from the Boston area and went to the University of Rochester, NY, for my undergraduate degree. I am now in the process of applying to internal medicine residency programs, and I have an interest in hematology/oncology.
Tell us about an experience that impacted your perspective.
During the early COVID-19 pandemic, my classmates and I had the opportunity to work with a local Cleveland organization serving residents in a subsidized housing community. I met weekly with these community members to discuss their concerns about the COVID-19 vaccine and misinformation in the media. This experience taught me that you can’t expect to change someone’s mind in one visit; it showed me the value in building a trusting relationship through open conversation and mutual respect.
What was your mentorship experience like?
CCLCM has supported me in figuring out my research and clinical interests and connected me with mentors along the way. I worked with the same mentor for the longitudinal clinic experience during my first and second year of medical school as well as during my outpatient clerkship block during third year. Being able to work with the same person helped not only to grow my communication and physical exam skills but also to develop longitudinal relationships with my patients.
What drew you to CCLCM?
I was drawn to CCLCM for the research opportunities, especially the ability to conduct a research year at the NIH, which I ended up doing last year. My favorite part of CCLCM is the small class size and noncompetitive nature of our program that allows us to support one another and share in one another's success.
Tell us about a memorable patient experience.
During my recent ICU rotation, I was part of the care team for a patient with takotsubo cardiomyopathy (broken heart syndrome). I remembered learning about this condition during my first- and second-year preclinical seminars. It was a rewarding experience to be able to apply this foundational pathophysiology knowledge in connection with the cardiac ultrasound, lab and physical exam findings to best treat the condition and care for the patient.
Describe your research project.
My thesis year research project explored post-CAR T-cell cytopenias in both phase I clinical trial and commercial products. We developed a model to predict which B-ALL patients were at high risk for severe prolonged neutropenia after CAR T-cell therapy before receiving treatment. We then validated this model in two external cohorts. This work was recently accepted for publication, and I hope that our findings will be able to benefit patients in the clinical setting as well as inspire further research in this area.
How has your medical education prepared you for the future?
CCLCM has encouraged my curiosity and built my confidence in finding reliable information. Whether I’m posing a question to my classmates during our problem-based learning groups or preparing to give a talk to my clinical team, I’m more confident when seeking knowledge. This type of training has prepared me for future success by giving me the tools to be a lifelong learner.
What excites you most about your future?
I am so excited to take the next steps to be my patients’ doctor, to have the responsibility and privilege of learning about their lives and their concerns, and to be their advocate. I am also excited for a career in which I can contribute to the next generation of treatments and offer patients novel therapies.
What advice do you wish you had received prior to starting the program?
There will be so many opportunities to get involved with research or clinical experiences, and it is OK to take time to adjust to medical school and figure out your learning style without the added pressure of feeling like you have to take advantage of every opportunity right away. These opportunities will continue to exist, and it is important to enjoy the journey and take things one step at a time!
What advice would you give to someone thinking about applying to the program?
CCLCM supports you not only to achieve your clinical and research goals but also to prioritize your wellbeing throughout medical school. Medical school can be a very busy time with a lot of new information to learn, and not having the additional pressure of exams helped me learn in my own way and focus on understanding concepts instead of memorizing facts and stressing out over exams. The small class structure also allows you to really get to know your peers and enjoy the learning process.
Who is your favorite musical artist?
Taylor Swift and Post Malone.
How do you spend your free time?
I love anything outdoors: running, hiking, bird watching and exploring the Metroparks. I also enjoy spending time in the photography darkroom, which is a nice way to unplug from all electronics!
Fun fact?
I have always enjoyed short runs at a slow pace, never running more than two to three miles. So when one of my classmates suggested that we get a group together to run a half marathon, I nervously agreed. This was during my clerkship year (year three), and committing to the marathon forced me (in a good way) to continue to have a work-life balance and prioritize getting outside, running and slowly increasing my distance. With support from my friends during training and on the day of the race, I ran my first half marathon!
