Hometown
Spring City, Pennsylvania
What inspired you to pursue this degree?
I was looking for a career that was involved in patient care, but behind the scenes. I always had a strong interest in biology, particularly anatomy, so I was looking for something that would align with those passions. When I discovered the career of a Pathologists' Assistant, it was like a light bulb went off — I knew this was what I wanted to pursue.
Why did you choose Duke?
I chose Duke because it was the first university to implement a Pathologists' Assistant program, which really stood out to me as it showed just how dedicated the school was and continues to be to this program. Additionally, after my interview, I was struck with how welcoming and kind everyone was, and I knew I wanted to be a part of a program with such a supportive environment.
Do you have a favorite memory from your program?
My favorite memory from the program is the friendships I have made. With only eight people in our cohort, we formed strong bonds really quickly. I feel so lucky to be surrounded by such amazing people — they have made my time at Duke ten times more enjoyable.
How do you hope to make an impact with your career?
I hope to bring more awareness to this career. If I had know about this career sooner, I wouldn't have felt so professionally lost for so long, and I believe others might feel the same. I hope I inspire others to pursue this meaningful and rewarding career.
What was the most important thing you learned at Duke?
I have learned how to be efficient, professional, and detail-oriented — all while having fun! I appreciate how my preceptors have encouraged me to enjoy my time on rotations. This approach has not only led me to have fun while grossing, but also has strengthened my skills and confidence at the bench.