Why did you choose Campbell Clinic for residency?

As a UT medical student, I was able to spend a lot of time around the program and residents. I saw how confident and comfortable the senior residents were in the operating room. I also really had a great time hanging out with the residents and could appreciate how well they got along, both inside and outside of work. Many people talk about “blue collar” versus “white collar” residency programs. I could see then that this program captured both with its heavy, early operative experience combined with the Campbell Clinic name and esteemed faculty who are well respected within the academic community.

How has your training been so far?

This has been a great 4+ years. Each PGY year you are pushed in terms of independent decision-making and operative skill. The structure of this program builds you to feel ready for a fellowship and starting a practice. The people here have made a big impact on the training experience. Some of the tougher rotations come with the benefit of having a big team of residents that keeps things fun. My co-residents have turned out to be some of my best friends. You will definitely put in your work here, but the end result is worth it.

What do you like about living in Memphis?

For having bigger-city perks like a pro sports team, lively downtown and great selection of restaurants, Memphis is very accessible. There is a huge push to continue the already-successful revival of downtown. This city is full of culture. The Greenline bike trail that tracks through the city and Shelby Farms Park are fun options to get outdoors.

Why did you choose Campbell Clinic for residency?

I chose Campbell Clinic for residency for a multitude of reasons, the first reason being the program itself. The experience granted by this residency program is the perfect combination of a level one trauma center, private clinical experience, and academia and research.  Our time at Regional One Health is busy and at times quite intense, but we are exposed to some of the most complicated trauma cases, as well as bread-and-butter trauma thus preparing us for a career as an on-call physician almost anywhere. Our private clinical experience is enhanced by the mentorship model used for many of our sub-specialty rotations in which we are paired with a Campbell Clinic attending and thus experience a more realistic clinic and operative schedule one would experience in a community. Finally, we are also provided with plentiful opportunities to start our own or participate in ongoing research projects in any area we are interested in.

Another reason I chose Campbell Clinic was simply because of the people I met during my time in Memphis at my interview. I made connections with the other residents and had wonderful conversations both about residency and life outside of work. I could see the ease at which the other residents interacted with one another and felt very welcomed by everyone I met.

How has your training been so far?

Thus far, my training has been better than I could have ever expected. Intern year at Campbell Clinic is well-designed to transition you from a fourth-year medical student into an entry-level resident with a very manageable workload and level of responsibility.  I never felt overwhelmed or unprepared. My upper levels during each rotation were extremely helpful and willing to teach me the basics of residency and orthopaedics. Now as a brand new second year, increased responsibility has meant an increase in orthopaedic knowledge and comfort with handling basic orthopaedic cases.

What do you like about living in Memphis?

I’m from the South, so Memphis was a natural fit! There’s plenty to do around town from live music, festivals, and amazing food, to outdoor running and biking trails, dog parks, and nearby hiking. Not to mention the Grizzlies, Redbirds, and University of Memphis sports teams – there’s always something fun to do around town. Some of my favorite activities are taking my dog to Shelby Farms, running the Wolf River trail, and enjoying brunch on the weekend with friends.

What inspired you to pursue orthopaedic surgery?

As an athlete, orthopaedics was always around me, as were injuries! The pathology, rehabilitation and recovery process fascinated me and piqued my interest in orthopaedics very early. When I was 15 years old, my mom decided to go to medical school, and she further inspired my interest in medical specialization.

What appealed to you most about the Campbell Clinic program?

First and foremost, the emphasis on operative experience is second to none—it’s what distinguishes this program. Second, the Campbell Clinic has garnered worldwide respect for superior training, clinical and industry leadership and the opportunities available after residency. Third, the camaraderie is obvious. Residency is challenging, and it’s comforting and reassuring to have a strong support system.

What inspired you to pursue orthopaedic surgery?

I find gratification in taking care of others, and there are endless opportunities to do so in Orthopedic Surgery. Our specialty is unique in that, as a surgical provider, you can recognize a problem and fix it with tangible results in the operating room. Whether it is an acute fracture or chronic degenerative joint disease, Orthopaedic Surgeons relieve patients from pain, provide an increase in functionality, and improve patients’ livelihoods.

What appealed to you most about the Campbell Clinic program?

The Campbell Clinic initially appealed to me because of the rich history, strong reputation, and top-tier surgical training. As a medical student at UTHSC, I worked with Campbell staff and residents, which allowed me to get a realistic feel for the strong relationships and teamwork. I am fortunate to be a member of the Campbell Clinic family.

Why did you choose Campbell Clinic for residency?

When applying for residency, I was looking for two things: a program with a high operative volume and good people. I believe I found both of these things at Campbell Clinic. Our operative experience is unparalleled, providing an ideal balance between a busy trauma service and a private practice setting. I know when I graduate from residency, I will be well equipped and comfortable operating on my own.

How has your training been so far?

Although I’m only a few months into my intern year, my training experience at Campbell Clinic has been incredible. I have had the opportunity to scrub into a variety of spine cases on our neurosurgery rotation and with our spine faculty.

What do you like about living in Memphis?

Hands down, my favorite thing about living in Memphis is the food. On weekends, I enjoy trying new restaurants and am excited to experience the extensive list of places that I have yet to try!