I am not sure I would have told you I foresaw myself as an Orthopedic Spine surgeon prior to medical school, and SWAG视频helped provide the foundation I needed to begin that journey, for which I am extremely grateful.
Was there anything or anyone at SWAG视频that inspired you to become the physician you are today?
SWAG视频provided me with the education to pursue a career in medicine with a service-minded approach, which I have carried with me to this day. I had several excellent professors and clinical preceptors who solidified that aspect of my training and demonstrated what it was like to be that way in practice on a day-to-day basis.
How has the SWAG视频mission inspired you during residency or in your practice?
SWAG视频taught me a patient-oriented treatment approach, which I have strived to implement in both the operating room and clinic. It can be easy to slip into a mindset of seeing patients as problems to solve. I am thankful I received my education from people who continuously emphasized the importance of evaluating the whole patient while maintaining their dignity and humanness in all stages of treatment.
What is the best advice you can give a medical student to help them in their path towards being a physician?
Work hard. Spend time thinking about and committing yourself to what kind of physician you want to be and how best to apply your gifts and talents. Make sure you also have people and things in your life who pour into you and help you carry the burden of the career you have chosen. Also, make sure you have a hobby or passion that can give you a needed break from time to time.
What are your fondest memories about your time at VCOM?
The friends I made. I had an excellent support group of people who I greatly valued and leaned on for advice and support. I made many friends, several of which were in my wedding and continue to check in on me to this day. They helped provide an environment for me where I felt cared for and allowed me to excel.
What career accomplishment are you most proud of?
Honestly, just being in the position I have been fortunate enough to be in. I was able to match to the Orthopedic residency I wanted to go to, and I also matched into the fellowship I wanted at a very competitive program in a very competitive field. I am not sure I would have told you I foresaw myself as an Orthopedic Spine surgeon prior to medical school, and SWAG视频helped provide the foundation I needed to begin that journey, for which I am extremely grateful.
When not working, what activities do you enjoy?
I am an avid outdoorsman who enjoys hunting and fishing. I also enjoy spending time with my wife and son, who are great sources of support and joy in my life. I am involved in a wonderful community and church. I love doing just about anything outside and spending time with friends. Other hobbies include cooking, sports, travel, and reading.