Start Year: 2021

College/University: University of Pennsylvania

Medical School: University of South Florida

Clinical and Research Interests

Clinical

• Microsurgery
• Hand surgery
• Post-oncologic reconstructive surgery
• Extremity reconstruction

Research

• Implementing Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence to Optimize Treatment Planning
• Peripheral Nerve and Tendon Transfers
• Social Disparities in Management of Hand Infections

What were you looking for in a residency program?

First, I wanted to find a program that I could call home for the next six years of my training- a place that treated me like family and would help support my personal and professional development. What impresses me the most is that there is a strong, collegial culture around education in all aspects of medical training, ranging from operative skills to emotional intelligence. Duke Plastic Surgery has a long history of developing world-class leaders and surgeons, and I feel that it stays true to its word.

What are the strengths of the Duke program?

The operative volume/autonomy with diversity of cases (facial reanimation, peripheral nerve surgery, head and neck reconstruction), research support, focus on leadership development. Additional educational perks include the annual Duke Flap course, CMF trauma course, soft skills curriculum, lectureship series featuring renowned surgeons from across the world

What advice do you have for incoming interns?

There is always something to learn from every patient interaction. How you do anything is how you do everything, so build good habits early. Believe in yourself and your abilities. Always pay it forward.

What do you like best about living in Durham and the Triangle?

• As someone who loves food, there is a wide array of authentic cuisines in Durham and in the Triangle
• Plenty of outdoor events and activities (The Outer Banks and Asheville are just a drive away!)
• Very affordable and reasonable cost of living

What do you like to do outside of Duke?

• Pickup Basketball
• Crafting Asian fusion recipes, grilling
• Being out on the water kayaking, boating
• Salsa dancing
• Exploring the local brewery and comedy scene with friends

Honors and Awards

• Robert Good Honor Society - Steven Specter Award (2021)
• Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society Chapter Scholarship (2021)
• Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society (2020)
• Robert Good Honor Society (2020)
• John and Elizabeth Ackermann Endowed Scholarship (2020)
• Class of 2007 Greg and Carolyn Nicolosi Scholarship (2020)
• Class of 1989 Roy Behnke Scholarship (2019)
• Alpha Omega Alpha - 2018 Helen H. Glaser Student Essay Award Outstanding Greek Leader Award (2016)
• Interfraternity Council Philanthropy Award (2014) Janssen Pharmaceuticals - Encore Award for Achievement (2014)