Hometown: Vienna, WV
Undergraduate Degree: BS, Biology and Chemistry, West Virginia Wesleyan College

1. What made you decide to get your MD/MPH degree at WVU?

I originally just wanted to get the M.D. degree here. It is also a family tradition to attend WVU.

2. What is appealing about the MD/MPH program?

I wanted to see the big picture. We spend a lot of time studying what the books say and I felt I was missing a piece of the pie. I wanted to see the community, population, and global aspect of medicine as well.

3. What is your favorite part about the MD/MPH program?

I had a wonderful time during my MPH year mostly because I got to meet the wonderful people in the department of community medicine. In addition to taking classes in the department I took several online and one at IVIN technology. I also am certified in health care administration by the department of public administration.

4. Do you think that having the combined MD/MPH degree gives you a greater understanding of health care?

Absolutely, that is why I did it.

5. How do you balance school, home, and social life?

The administration stresses that we try and keep a balance in our lives and I have been able to balance my emotional well being with my spiritual and physical well being. I also like to run and my classmates and I support each other.

6. Do you think being involved in AMA, the regional liaison for the AMA, the global health advisory committee, and AOA has enhanced your experience at WVU?

Absolutely! Part of our education is learning about the 47 million who are uninsured. That will affect my practice when I am finished with medical school and residency. Also, being involved helps people find what areas of medicine they are interested in.

7. What are you goals after graduating?

I would like to do a residency in internal medicine, but I am not sure if I will specialize in anything yet. I would like to stay in West Virginia, but participate in global health mission trips. During my fourth year I will be participating in the South Texas educational environment research program; on the border of Texas and Mexico. This rotation will be a perfect mix of medicine and my public health degree because I will get to see water treatment plants and home conditions just to name a few.

8. What role do you think your MPH will have in your life after you graduate?

I do not want to be the Surgeon General, but it will give me a knowledge base for my career in medicine.

9. What is your favorite thing to do outside of school?

I like to run. Last year during my MPH year I was able to run a half a marathon which was so much fun. I also like to hang out with my family and friends, and of course, cheer on the Mountaineers.

10. Do you have any advice for anyone who wants to go to medical school and focus on public health?

Experience all you can in medical school, it is your chance to decide how you want to impact the profession of medicine. Dive in head first.

Interviewed in Spring 2008
During the MS3 Curriculum