What do you enjoy most about neurosurgery training and why?
The most enjoyable thing about my training has been meeting and caring for our patients. As I have become more senior, this includes gaining more independence in complicated surgical cases, but also becoming more involved in the process of caring for patients and their families from our initial conversations, the surgical procedures themselves, and the recovery period.
What attracted you to WashU?
WashU offered everything I was looking for in a residency program. The volume and complexity of the operative experience is fantastic, and I knew I would be an excellent technical surgeon by the time I graduated. The research community is extensive and highly collaborative. We have so many successful surgeon scientists in our department, and they truly enjoy serving as mentors and guides as you plan your research time and your career following residency. Finally, I was really attracted to the culture here. The residents and faculty were friendly, supportive, and genuinely excited about picking their new colleagues during the interview process.
What do you like to do in your free time?
One thing I have really enjoyed about living in St. Louis is the restaurant scene, and the amazing selection of microbreweries. My co-residents and I have really taken advantage of the variety of beer offerings and festivals in the city during our years here. That, in combination with plenty of dog-friendly patios, makes for a great weekend!
Any advice for resident-applicants as they consider their options?
As an applicant going through the interview process, WashU is on a short list of strong residency programs that will all offer excellent clinical experience and research opportunities. It becomes exceedingly important that you consider the people (attendings and residents) that you will be working with every day. Seven years is a long time, and you will be much more productive and successful (not to mention happier!) if you are surrounded by people who inspire and support you. A workroom full of laughter can really get you through the long days of junior residency.