Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
Residency: Lonesome Pine Hospital Family Medicine Residency in Big Stone Gap, Virginia
Current Practice: WVU Medicine- Weirton Medical Center. I practice in an outpatient clinic serving patients ages 14 and older in a suburban-rural community.
Why did you choose family medicine?
I chose family medicine because I wanted a specialty built on relationships, trust, and continuity. I am drawn to the ability to care for patients across the lifespan and to be a consistent presence in their healthcare journey. Family medicine allows me to combine preventive care, chronic disease management, and acute care while truly getting to know my patients as people. That long-term connection is what makes the work both challenging and deeply rewarding.
What is a typical day like in your life as a new physician-in-practice?
A typical day in my life is full and dynamic. My favorite days are those with a mix of wellness visits, acute concerns, routine chronic disease follow-ups, and in-office procedures such as pap smears, skin tag removals, or joint injections. Much of my work also happens outside the exam room, including reviewing results, managing inbox messages, and completing documentation. As a new physician, finding balance has been an ongoing learning process. I’ve been intentional about developing efficient workflows, including using AI tools to assist with charting, which has helped me more consistently finish notes before leaving the office. I genuinely look forward to going to work each day, and I believe that loving what you do is essential to sustaining a fulfilling career in medicine. While the days can be busy, I’m continually learning, growing more confident in my role, and appreciating the variety and meaningful patient connections that make each day rewarding.
Are you currently involved in national ACOFP on a committee or volunteer role?
Yes, I'm a member of the New Physicians Committee. My involvement began after attending the ACOFP Future Leaders Conference, which helped me cultivate my unique leadership abilities and deepened my connection to the organization. Through this role, I have enjoyed collaborating with colleagues from across the country, contributing to discussions relevant to early-career family physicians, and learning from experienced leaders within ACOFP. This experience has reinforced my desire to continue growing in leadership and service within the organization.
Previously, I held leadership roles including Chief Resident during my family medicine residency and vice president of the Women in Medicine Club during medical school. I have also participated in peer mentorship initiatives as a WVSOM alum. These experiences helped shape my leadership style, which is rooted in empathy, collaboration, and supporting others through growth and transition.
How has volunteering impacted you?
While I am still early in my career, I have volunteered through teaching and mentorship roles as a clinical preceptor, as well as through involvement with ACOFP. These experiences have been impactful in helping me grow as an educator and advocate, while also shaping my interest in future leadership and service opportunities within organized medicine.
What is your one word of advice to residents?
Boundaries! Protect your time, energy, and values early. Thoughtful boundaries--whether around your schedule, scope of practice, or life outside of medicine--are essential to building a career you can sustain and enjoy.
What would you title an autobiography or memoir?
Practicing Medicine, Living Human. This title reflects how I approach both my career and my life. I believe that being a good physician means showing up as a whole person--caring deeply and humbly for patients while also making space for the people, passions, and moments that exist outside of the office. For me, that means spending time with family and friends, cuddling my cats after a long day, baking sourdough, reading for leisure, or going for a run. These small joys help refill my cup and allow me to show up more fully for my patients.
