Hi,

I took a year of extra science courses at Juniata, and then moved to Philadelphia. In Philly, I participated in the Biomedical Masters Program offered by the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM). After that program, I entered the medical program. I graduated PCOM in 2007. I love medicine; for me there was no choice, in particular regarding family medicine.

I definitely want to be the type of doctor that is prepared for anything, I love being able to treat the entire patient. I had a hard time deciding between Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, and it all came down to happiness and stress levels for me.

Altoona’s program is great: the staff, attendings, and residents make me feel like a colleague, not just an intern. That alone really does make a huge difference. Also, being the only residents in the hospital, gives us great access directly to attendings in many different fields.

For me: I have a great girl in my life for the last two years, she works here with me. I love anything outdoors, which makes this area great (every window in the hospital has a great view). In my time off, you’ll find me rock climbing, mt. biking, boating, camping, and (if you can keep up) skiing. There is a great lake 30 minutes in one direction, and the best ski mountain in PA 30 minutes in the other direction. This really is an amazing place.

I am looking forward to the remainder of my Intern year, and the rest of my residency.