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Why do you think engaging in the AAMC Virtual Community is important?

I see the AAMC Virtual Community as an opportunity to learn from others and share new initiatives. Working at a newly opened medical school has unique challenges and this community has been overwhelmingly supportive as we’ve encountered new and interesting challenges. Additionally, as someone new to medicine, I have loved the professional development opportunities and the chance to network.

Do you have a professional skill or area of expertise that might be of particular interest to your peers in this community? Are you the “go-to” person at your institution for advice or expertise in a particular subject?

On the side, I love Qualtrics as a survey platform tool and I consult at my institution on survey design and deployment. Within my role, however, my area of expertise is student development, wellness, and coaching. I thoroughly enjoy finding opportunities and shaping medical experiences that enable and promote student personal and professional development.

What should people in the virtual community contact you about?

I am open to connecting on any subject, but I particularly love conversations and brainstorming sessions about coaching, learning communities, and student wellness initiatives.

What was the best book you most recently read (or TV show/movie) that you watched?

From a professional standpoint, I recently read "On Becoming a Healer", by Saul J. Weiner, which has significantly informed our professional identify formation curriculum. On a personal note, I devoured the first two books in the Empyrean series by Rebecca Yarros. So addictive!

Book Link can be found here! On Becoming a Healer: The Journey from Patient Care to Caring about Your Patients

How do you prefer to start your day?

With a great cup of coffee and catching up with colleagues.

How do you prefer to end your day?

I prefer to end my workday by writing a to-do list for the following day when it's all fresh. This allows me to leave work at work and jump start my morning because I know exactly what I need to do.

What’s the biggest misconception people have about your position?

I think people automatically assume that as a wellness = yoga, exercise, and meditation. However, wellness and well-being are so much more!

What’s the weirdest food you’ve ever eaten?

Crickets in Vietnam

Do you have pets? Please be unashamed in showing us a photo of your adorable pet(s).

Say “hello” to Katie here in the community! Feel free to post any questions you have for him in this blog post, or direct messages via the community are also a great way to connect. 

If you’d like to be featured in a future Member Spotlight post, reach fill out this form. Curious about what a community champion is? Read more here.

And, if you’re viewing this Member Spotlight as a non-member of the community, won’t you consider joining us? Register Today  #MemberSpotlight