Alia Chisty, MD, MS, FACP
Program Director, Penn State Internal Medicine Residency Program
Vice Chair for Educational Affairs, Department of Medicine
Associate Professor of Medicine and Division of General Internal Medicine, Penn State College of Medicine - Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
How long have you been a member of AAIM?
a. Since 2016 – when I went to my first AAIM meeting, I felt that I had found my people!
What is your favorite part of your job?
a. What isn’t?! I have the best job in the world! As a Program Director, I most enjoy mentoring my residents as they progress through training and prepare for their future endeavors.
How has the AAIM membership been of value to you and your career?
a. AAIM membership has added significant value to my own growth and my career. I have met fantastic colleagues, found a network of professional mentors including peer mentors, had opportunities to learn from colleagues and share ideas, and discuss innovative approaches to improving medical education.
When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in the medical field?
a. I probably knew early on in high school that medicine was my likely career path. When I was 14 years old, I volunteered at a pediatric AIDS clinic in a safety-net hospital in Queens, New York. This was the summer of 1995 before HAART became the standard of care for HIV. Many children were born with HIV and would struggle with health complications. Many passed by the time they were 10-years-old. Seeing their innocence, enthusiasm for life, and resilience inspired me to pursue a career in medicine.
What or who inspires you and why?
a. I’m constantly inspired by my patients and my residents. My patients always push me to be a better physician who can meet people where they are and partner with them in achieving their healthcare goals. My residents inspire me because of their passion for learning, commitment to their patients, and their perseverance in improving their communities and themselves.
What advice would you give to those who wish to pursue a career in this industry?
a. Being a physician is a privilege. People entrust us with care of their loved ones, their greatest fears, and their deepest concerns. The vulnerability that others share with you is one that is unparalleled. This career of service, at times it can be challenging, but it is an extremely rewarding and fulfilling profession.
What is your favorite book or movie?
a. I’m a romantic at heart! My favorite book is Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. Whenever I need a pick-me-up, I reach for the book!