Start Year: 2018

College/University: Cornell University

Medical School: SUNY Upstate Medical University

Clinical and Research Interests

• Head and neck cancer
• Skull base surgery
• Public health and health policy

I am interested in ways to optimize patients during the Perioperative period for their cancer surgeries. This includes the relationships between nutrition and surgical outcomes, social support, etc. 

What were you looking for in a residency program?

My main expiation for a residency program was that it would be a new academic "home" for me and would support me in the discovery and pursuit of my career ambitions. Duke has a been a great home for me, almost entirely because of the people (faculty, staff, co-residents).

I wanted to train at a program that would equip me with the resources and skills to be the very best surgeon possible. Beyond that, I knew I wanted to find a place where the residents, faculty, and support staff could be my family. I am a firm believer in the idea that one will become more like the people they spend the most time with. In residency you will spend a tremendous amount of time with your co-residents and faculty so find people you would aspire to be like!

What are the strengths of the Duke program?

We are in the midst of expanding on our already solid foundation. We have word-class leadership and vision in our Chair, Dr. Francis. We have expanded our residency cohort. We are increasing our faculty ranks. There is a lot of momentum at Duke and we offer trainees a world-class training opportunity in development as surgeons and leaders.

What advice do you have for incoming interns?

Ask for help, it is a sign of strength and humility. You will need it! You are not alone--we all remember our first year of training as a time of immense growth but it is also scary and stressful. That is a given. So take this time to grow and stretch yourself.

What do you like best about living in Durham and the Triangle?

I love the comfortable climate year-round, I like that I am able to exercise outside all year long. Durham is also an affordable place to live well and has so many fun things to do. Some of my favorites:

• Biking to the farmers market on Saturday mornings
• Going to shows at DPAC (Hamilton!)
• Watching the Durham Bulls play and staying for the fireworks at the end of the games
• Going out for dinner and drinks in downtown Durham with my friends
• Hiking and running in Durham, American Tobacco Trail, and Eno River

What do you like to do outside of Duke?

• Triathlon
• Photography
• Craft Beer