How long have you been a member of AAIM?
I’ve been a member of AAIM for around 5 years.
What is your favorite part of your job?
This is a tough one. Not to sound corny, but I love everything about my career. If I had to pick a favorite, I’d have to say interview season. Even though we are virtual now, I love getting to meet the applicants and the feeling of accomplishment when it’s all over.
How has the AAIM membership been of value to you and your career?
Being an active member of AAIM has helped to make me feel like I’m a bigger part of Internal Medicine education. Through AAIM I have been able to network with other coordinators in IM and have been kept updated on changes in IM education. As a newly elected member of the APDIM Program Administrators Advisory Council, I’m excited to be even more active in the Alliance and helping to do great things for program administrators.
When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in the medical field?
14 years ago, I was looking for a career change due to life events. I stumbled across an Education Assistant position at UTSW in PM&R. My boss at the time was a GME coordinator and along with my duties as a medical student coordinator, I assisted her with the residency program. I immediately fell in love with GME.
What or who inspires you and why?
I would have to say my former boss in PM&R, Terri Isbell and my Department’s Manager of Education and Alumni Affairs, Marc Valerin, PhD. Terri gave me my foundation of knowledge in GME and Marc has supported and encouraged all of my recent adventures in the world of Graduate Medical Education. With everything I do, in the back of my head I’m thinking, “I hope I’m making them proud”.
What advice would you give to those who wish to pursue a career in this industry?
Don’t give up. There’s A LOT to learn when it comes to GME but once you get through the waves, there is so much satisfaction and fulfillment knowing you’re part of something big! You’re an integral part of molding future doctors.
What is your favorite book or movie?
Due to my lack of attention span, I’m not a big reader. As for movies, it depends on my mood. Sometimes I just want a good comedy that allows my brain to just shut off, sometimes I want a good suspense thriller and sometimes I want an upbeat lively musical. I’m really more of a music person and that varies dramatically.