Let's start by learning a bit about your background. Where are you from? Where did you receive your training?
I am a lifelong Michigander from the west side of the state. I attended the University of Michigan for my undergrad and later completed medical school at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. Post-medical school, I returned to U-M for residency and fellowship. My time here at U-M has come full circle, especially since my husband and I, whom I met in medical school, were so excited to match back at U-M for our careers.
You have a keen interest in neonatal-perinatal medicine. What drew you to this subspecialty, and why did you choose Michigan for your fellowship?
Throughout my residency training, I explored several areas but was immediately drawn towards the inpatient setting. The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) captivated me right away. I value the continuum of care this specialty offers, from prenatal consultations to taking care of our babies to building relationships with their families. I enjoy the blend of critical thinking with hands-on care through procedures. Math is also crucial in this line of work, and I’ve naturally always been a fan of math, so it was a perfect fit!
Choosing U-M for my fellowship was a natural decision. It promised an ideal blend of complex case management and state-of-the-art clinical practice, including training in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and management of surgical anomalies. Staying here also meant working alongside our exceptional faculty, nurses, and staff who I have come to admire and trust. Neonatology is a rewarding field of medicine!
For those interested in a fellowship at Michigan, what advice would you share?
For anyone considering a fellowship in Pediatrics at Michigan, my advice is very straightforward: pursue your passion! Fellowships are demanding but infinitely enriching for those devoted to specialized training. I encourage prospective fellows to engage with program directors and current fellows as they offer immense insights into the day-to-day life within the specialty.
Reflecting on your fellowship, what would you say is your proudest accomplishment?
Definitely the relationships I’ve fostered! There is mutual trust and camaraderie with our nurses, nurse practitioners, and hospital staff. I work hard to empathize with others at all levels, and I listen to everyone involved in a case. Everyone’s opinion matters.
In what ways have your mentors supported you through your training?
I’ve had many amazing mentors throughout my training. My primary mentors have been fantastic, including Lindsay Ellsworth, who has been a mentor to me in clinical practice and in my research. The mentors I’ve worked with have always been willing to teach and support me on a personal and professional level. I am so grateful for the fellowship directors and other faculty members who have led me on my path to success!
Could you tell us about the focus of your research?
Absolutely! My research is primarily focused on factors that affect infant growth. We’re looking at different hormones and metabolite levels to see what, if any, correlation and association exists between their growth and development. With this research, we hope to find intervention techniques to prevent things like future obesity for our littlest patients!
As you transition from fellow to faculty member, what opportunities excite you the most?
I am eager to continue my education journey, both as a learner and as a mentor. There’s still so much to learn, but I am equally passionate about teaching and shaping the next generation through their residency and fellowships.
How have the U-M Pediatrics fellowship or residency programs helped you find your passion in medicine?
Pediatric residents at the University of Michigan see a wide variety of patients and diagnoses across many different subspecialties. Seeing so many complex cases has given me a large breadth of knowledge. I am so grateful that the residency program offers such a wide variety because it allowed me to hone in on my skills and what I enjoy doing. Not only did I receive an opportunity to work with various inpatient and outpatient clinicians, but I also received opportunities to cross-collaborate with other areas like emergency medicine and genetics. The exposure I have received here as a resident and fellow has prepared me for a long and fulfilling career.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at U-M?
Without a doubt, the lifelong friendships formed during my residency years. The people I met during my residency will be lifelong friends. Whether vacationing together across the U.S. or collaborating on a professional level, they are simply irreplaceable!
What do you enjoy doing when not working?
I love spending time with my husband, our 8-month-old daughter, and our dog! We love to travel and visit family all around the state. I also love spending time with friends and playing board games in my spare time!
