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Who or what inspired you to become a physician?

I have wanted to be a physician since I was a teenager. In school, I always gravitated towards the sciences. In high school, I loved biology and was particularly interested in genetics. In my junior year of high school, I spent time with a pediatric genetics counselor who really encouraged me to pursue a medical degree, given my grades and my aspirations. After that, I changed my career trajectory and studied biology (and music to keep my sanity) in college.

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Briefly describe a "peak experience" from your career: interaction with a mentor, memorable patient, etc.

Earlier this year, I took care of a patient who had been to 10 physicians before me, and nobody could figure out what was wrong with her. She had traveled to Panama the previous fall on a cruise and was bit in the arm by a fly, and ended up having a botfly embedded in her arm. I was quickly able to diagnose the issue, and I was able to remove it for her right in the office. I joke that this was pretty much the pivotal peak of my career, and I can officially retire. Removing a botfly from a human is probably one of the coolest experiences I have ever had.

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What led you to become involved in El Paso County Medical Society leadership?

Well, I think it's super important, especially when moving into a new community, to get involved in the physician professional community as well. I think it's great to establish relationships with other physicians and really be able to take a more encompassing, holistic approach to a patient's care.

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What advice would you give to physicians-in-training who are just starting their careers?

Do it because you love it. Pick something that will make you happy every day when you wake up in the morning.  Try to pick a specialty that will fulfill you but also give you the ability to spend time with your family and loved ones. Choose a partner supporting your profession and dedication to your career and your patients.

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What do you enjoy doing outside of medicine?

I love to travel the world far and wide. I love to learn about new cultures and visit new places. I often plan trips around food and wine and try to find a wine region to explore. My favorite wine region I have been to so far is South Africa.  I enjoy wine so much that I passed the first step to becoming a wine sommelier. I also love to hike and love to explore.  In addition to that, I am a classically trained soprano and fell in love with opera during my studies in college.  I love all kinds of music, and you will most likely find me at concerts and local music festivals.

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