Family Medicine First-Year Residents

Why you chose University of Missouri?
I chose the University of Missouri because of its reputation for rural medicine and the family medicine community. I knew I wanted to be at an academic center, but wanted a program that would still be able to give rural exposure, and Mizzou does just that. I knew the program was the perfect for me to become a competent rural physician after residency because of the fantastic curriculum, outpatient clinics, and a diverse patient population. Plus I really enjoyed the people and town of Columbia during my interview day.
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I’m from Williamsfield, IL, which is a small town in rural Illinois about 4 hours from Columbia. I’m a middle child with 4 other siblings and have a chocolate lab back home named Briar. I enjoy running, kayaking, fishing, and, most importantly, love food.
Do you have any specialty interests?
I plan to practice in rural Illinois after residency. I love the broad spectrum of care that is provided in a rural setting and the unique challenges physicians and patients face in a rural setting. I’m particularly interested in having a practice that includes pediatrics and prenatal care.

Why you chose Family Medicine?
I chose family medicine because of the breadth of medicine it involves and the wide range of patients. I’ve enjoyed talking to the oldest people in the room since I was a kid, so I knew I needed some kind of geriatrics in my future practice. On the other hand, seeing my nieces grow up has helped me come to love pediatrics. Not many other specialties where you get a little bit of everything and everyone.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
I chose the University of Missouri because when I interviewed here, I got that same homey, Midwestern vibe I got when I went there for my undergrad. The faculty I talked to at the family medicine conference and at my interview were all sincere and kind people, and my group of co-interviewers and I had a blast touring the facilities with the residents. Most importantly, the program as a whole promoted a solid teaching environment while also prioritizing resident wellness.
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
My hometown, Waterloo, is a small town of about 11,000 people in southern Illinois that’s about 35 minutes from St. Louis. It has one of the best small town downtowns you’ll find. My parents live on our family farm a little ways outside of town. I have an older sister and brother-in-law with 2 nieces along with an older brother and sister-in-law with 1 niece that all live fairly close to my hometown. Things I most love to do include activities of any sorts (card games, board games, golf, darts, pool, etc), going to the gym, hunting, and reading.
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
My go to karaoke song is Brandy by Looking Glass.
Do you have any specialty interests?
When I finish residency, the current plan is to return to my hometown and practice as an outpatient family medicine physician.

Why you chose Family Medicine?
When choosing a specialty, I wanted to practice mostly outpatient but have the option to work in an inpatient or Urgent care/ED setting. Family Medicine definitely offers that option and I love that I can tailor my practice later on to what fits my lifestyle. I also love the variety that comes with Family Medicine. Being able to take care of everyone in the family also helps with continuity of care helps build the physician-patient relationship.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
I attended undergrad and medical school at the University of Missouri. I am very familiar with Columbia and have loved it here ever since 2016.
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I was born in NYC and grew up in Caruthersville, MO all the way in the bootheel of MO. My family all lives in NYC and while I love visiting, I am definitely more of a rural town guy. I played Trombone since HS and have kept up with this hobby since then. I also love political geography, reading, hanging with friends/family, and eating food.
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
I have a twin brother who is also going into residency at Mizzou!

Why you chose Family Medicine?
I chose Family Medicine because I wanted the opportunity to develop relationships with patients throughout their lifespan. I wanted a career that allowed me to focus on preventative care, as well as give me the knowledge base to manage both chronic and acute conditions and perform minor procedures.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
I chose the University of Missouri because of the people and the reputation. Those who I had the chance to speak with during my interview were kind and welcoming. The program is one of the best Family Medicine programs in the Midwest and I knew that having the opportunity to be trained here would make me a well-rounded and highly competent physician.
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I grew up in Topeka, Kansas but have been living in Blue Springs, MO since 2016. My husband is an engineer, and we have one daughter, two dogs, and two cats. In my spare time, I enjoy reading.
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
I lived in Fairbanks, Alaska for 8 years.
Do you have any specialty interests?
I am interested in women’s health, sports medicine, addiction medicine

Why you chose University of Missouri?
Mizzou was an easy choice for me after getting to complete an away rotation here during my third year of medical school. I knew right away that I would be thrilled to train here because of all of the wonderful residents and attendings I interacted with. It was also important to me to stay close to my family and the town that has supported me my entire life. I am here because of their support
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I am from a small town called Loose Creek, Missouri, which is not far from Jefferson City. I have two wonderful parents who worked as teachers when I was little. I have a younger sister who also teaches and a brother starting high school. I have two boxers at home named Archie and Penelope. In my free time, I enjoy walking the dogs on our family farm, working my way through the Dessert Person cookbook by Claire Saffitz, and going to local wineries with friends.
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
I love to ride the Peloton. My favorite instructor is Charlotte, even though most of her rides are in German and I don’t know any German! (But I am learning!) A bucket list item for me is to do a live ride with Charlotte at Peloton studios in London.
Do you have any specialty interests?
I am interested in everything! I particularly love hospital medicine and outpatient full-scope primary care clinic.

Why you chose Family Medicine?
I fell in love with Family Medicine for the diversity and variability that’s available in the specialty. I love that I can serve all ages, genders, and types of patients and be there for them with anything they may need. Family Medicine also gives you the ability to advocate your patients and learn what matters most to them as people. I also really enjoy the continuity and getting to know my patients personally.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
I chose the University of Missouri because I knew I would get a strong education in family medicine surrounded by people who cared about my success. As I am interested in providing LGBTQIA+ care and women’s healthcare, I could tell I would be able to learn more about how I could help these patients and advocate for them being here.
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I am from Freeburg, Illinois, a small town about 30 minutes east of St. Louis. I grew up there with my parents and three younger siblings, always keeping things busy and interesting. I love to be outside and be active in my free time, and was able to complete a marathon and two half marathons during medical school. I also love to bake, read, listen to true crime podcasts, and go thrifting!
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
Later in life, I plan to open up my own book shop and bakery.
Do you have any specialty interests?
I am interested in providing LGBTQIA+ healthcare, as well as doing obstetrics in my practice (hopefully in an academic setting).

Why you chose Family Medicine?
I chose family medicine because growing up I always loved going to see my family doctor and that’s the type of medicine that I was always interested in. I love the variety of practice that comes with family medicine. I find it engaging to be able to work with patients of all ages and see them for a variety of different reasons. I also love having the time to get to know my patients and build lasting relationships with them and their families.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
I chose the University of Missouri because it had everything I was looking for in a program. I knew I wanted to be at an academic institution with a large cohort. I also wanted to have the opportunity to teach students and be involved with sports medicine as a resident. I met some of the residents as a medical student and they were all incredibly kind and welcoming. Columbia is close to home too, so it’s great to be near friends and family.
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I grew up in Cape Girardeau, MO where I lived with my mom, dad, and sister. I played many sports growing up including basketball, track, and cross country. I attended college at the University of Arkansas and majored in Kinesiology. Outside of medicine, I have several hobbies such as running, skiing, and golf. I’m a huge sports fan and enjoy watching the NFL and college basketball. Go Chiefs! I also listen to a variety of music and love playing the guitar too.
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
I have two dogs at home, Luna and Murphy
I was an OMM fellow during medical school
I’m an Eagle Scout
Do you have any specialty interests?
I’m very interested in pursuing a sports medicine fellowship. Other interests within family medicine include osteopathic manipulative medicine and academic medicine. In the future, I would love to work in an academic program teaching and working with students and residents.

Why you chose Family Medicine?
When I first started medical school I thought that I was destined for the operating room. Then, during the summers between my first and second year of medical school, I participated in a rural clinical immersion program at a Federally Qualified Healthcare Clinic in Sedalia, MO. My work at Katy Trail opened my eyes to the full spectrum of clinical practice afforded to family medicine physicians. I had always heard that primary care was the practice of “cradle to grave” care but my time at Katy Trail brought action to these words. I would see a patient for their two week newborn visit and then dash off to the room next door where we were counseling an elderly patient and his family on transitioning to hospice care for his end-stage lung cancer. I was amazed at the depth and breadth of the relationships my physicians had with patients and their families. Over the course of my time there I realized that I not only admired these incredible physicians but that I wanted to be them.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
I am no stranger to Mizzou’s tell tale black and gold after completing both my undergraduate and post-graduate education here in Columbia.
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
After attending Mizzou for both my undergraduate and post-graduate medical education I developed deep roots within the Columbia community. However, I believe that my matriculation into Mizzou’s family med program was inevitable even if this was not the case. Mizzou has consistently and repeatedly distinguished itself from other programs that I considered for my residency training. The dedication I have witnessed from resident and attending physicians to patient care has been above and beyond what I have witnessed anywhere else. Mizzou’s focus on underserved communities through the local FQHC and Medzou clinic as well as an their emphasis on rural medicine through our Fulton and Fayette clinics perfectly aligned with the communities I would like to one day serve in. I was also immensely impressed by the substantial amount of resident initiative taking place in the program. Whether it was the resident driven push to get Suboxone certified, to the resident driven initiatives for forming an advocacy track, seeing firsthand how seriously the administration takes the input of its residents made me know I could continue to be outspoken and advocate for my patients. I believe it is through these opportunities, as well as the top-rated educational program offered at Mizzou, that I am becoming a more educated, open-minded, and active future physician.
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
I have had three near death experiences. My family jokes that I am a cat with 9 lives but I’ve already blown through 3 of them.
I come from a large Irish Catholic family and am the second oldest girl of 24 grandchildren on just one side of my family.
I am currently trying to run a half marathon or marathon in all 50 states. So far I’ve completed 12!
Do you have any specialty interests?
I am really interested in doing an obstetrics fellowship after finishing residency. But I also love working in addiction medicine and geri/palli care

Why you chose Family Medicine?
Being knowledgeable about a diverse array of diseases and honing my procedural skills was a big draw for me. Family Medicine training will allow me to better serve the rural communities that I know and love.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
Columbia has a great Family Medicine program and is unique in that I can practice in a rural setting during residency. University of Missouri has everything I’m looking for to train me into the physician I want to be. Columbia is also close to home and family!
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I’m from Webbers Falls, Oklahoma. I grew up on a ranch and learned how to raise animals such as horses and cattle. My favorite activities involve anything to do with nature and animals. I’m ready at a moments notice to go check out a zoo, go camping, or fishing!
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
I’ve taught high school biology, physical science, and chemistry! I’ve also worked as a mechanic and have some classic cars, such as a 1970 Mercury Cougar.

Why you chose Family Medicine?
I chose Family Medicine due to my unwavering commitment to providing comprehensive care and support to individuals, especially those in underserved communities. To me, a career in family medicine embodies the steadfastness of the moon, a constant presence in patients' lives. Whether shining brightly or less conspicuously, what matters most is the consistent availability and dedication to patients' well-being. Family Medicine offers the chance to be that vital and enduring presence for underserved populations, which resonates deeply with my aspirations as a physician. I am passionate about being a beacon of care and support in the lives of those who need it most, and Family Medicine provides the perfect avenue for me to fulfill that mission.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
What initially drew me in during the application process was the emphasis on joy as a core value, particularly under the banner of "be our best selves." In a field where residency experiences often carry a weight of negativity, seeing an institution actively prioritize joy and humor was refreshing and indicative of a supportive environment. During the interview process, I was struck by the kindness and openness of everyone I encountered. This positive impression was reinforced when I visited the campus and had the opportunity to speak with a current resident. Throughout our candid and honest conversation I was able to witness firsthand the welcoming atmosphere and integrity that the program fosters
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I'm from the amazing island of Antigua, where I grew up surrounded by its natural beauty, including 365 beaches! Living there felt like being in paradise every day. Being part of the Caribbean community, where family and close-knit ties are everything, has really shaped who I am.
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
Poetry and dancing are my passions! There's something magical about expressing emotions through words and movements. One of my dreams is to compile all the poems I've written over the years into a book.Do you have any specialty interests?
Academic Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine, Community and Underserved Medicine and Integrative Medicine

Why you chose Family Medicine?
I chose family medicine because of the trust and close long-term relationships I get to build with my patients, and how impactful this bond is on a patient’s health. Patients are truly an integral member of their care team, and the autonomy given to patients in family medicine is one of the main factors that drove my decision to go into this specialty.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
I attended both undergrad and medical school here at the University. During my time here, Mizzou has truly become my home and I will forever be a Missouri Tiger! The fact that this program is one of the best Family Medicine programs in the country further solidified my decision to stick around Columbia for my residency.
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I’m from Wardsville Missouri, which is a small town outside of Jefferson City. I’m incredibly close to my family, so I’ve made the drive from Columbia to Wardsville to visit them and my two golden doodles at home plenty of times! With my brother also living in Columbia and my partner being only a short drive to Jefferson City, I’ve become pretty spoiled having my entire support system so close by. In my free time, I like to go shopping with my mom, try new recipes and restaurants with my partner, and watch Blues Hockey! I also love spending weekends at the lake during the summer with my friends from home.
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
I am arguably one of the most boring people alive and have zero fun facts about myself, sorry :/.
Do you have any specialty interests?
I plan on practicing in a rural area upon completion of my residency, so the broad-spectrum of care provided in these areas has always been an interest of mine. I am also interested in sports medicine and obesity medicine.

Why you chose Family Medicine?
Like many Family physicians, I chose Family Medicine for the variety and the patient relationships. I enjoy work the most when I can really get to know people and their story. I love the variety of procedures and pathologies we can manage, and the diverse settings in which family doctors can practice.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
Mizzou is both very close to my hometown, and offers a fantastic mixture of rural and academic medicine. I am seeking a broad scope of training in residency and I know the University of Missouri can provide that.
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I grew up in Ashland, Missouri, and lived there until joining the Army at age 21. I was stationed in Savannah, Georgia, in 1st Ranger Battalion and continued college and medical school in Georgia after finishing my enlistment. I feel that I have more hobbies than I could ever have time for, but my favorite are backpacking, rock climbing, riding motorcycles, and woodworking.
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
My best friend and I spent almost four years building a completely custom motorcycle from the ground up!
Do you have any specialty interests?
I have a particular interest in Direct Primary Care. I believe as a healthcare model it offers exceptional value to patients and ensures there is ample time during appointments to address all patient concerns.

Why you chose Family Medicine?
I love building relationships with patients and learning about them and their healthcare over time! Family medicine allows me to build long term, meaningful relationships with all the members of the family, from newborns to geriatrics. I believe that this long term, holistic care for the whole family leads to better patient outcomes. I really enjoy preventative health and chronic disease management.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
I attended the University of Missouri for medical school and loved the family medicine department. From the very beginning of our medical school training, the family medicine faculty was always engaged in our education, helping us to learn about the basics of medicine. Once I realized that family medicine was my passion, I knew that there was no better place for me than to continue at the University of Missouri. I witnessed the compassionate, thorough, and patient centered care that was provided by the faculty and knew that they were who I wanted to continue my training with. Furthermore, living close to my family in St. Louis and Springfield was another key consideration for me.
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I grew up in the suburbs of St. Louis, MO. I have two older sisters and a younger brother, all of which I am extremely close to. My younger brother has Down syndrome and autism. My sister recently welcomed my first niece to the family, which has been such a fun addition! In my free time, I love hiking and going for walks. I also enjoy puzzles, board games, reading, and crafts!
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
I learned to knit in 2020 and have really enjoyed doing it in my spare time! I have knitted a few sweaters, baby blankets, hats, etc!
Do you have any specialty interests?
I am interested in women’s health, global health, and geriatrics. I also have an interest in intellectual and developmental disorders.

Why you chose Family Medicine?
I chose family medicine because I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. When I first made the decision to pursue medicine, it was with the image of becoming a rural family physician. Though I came to have a wide variety of interests throughout medical school, family medicine proved to be what I was meant to do as it allows me to pursue all of those interest in one specialty. Being able to treat patients at all stages of life – whether that’s bringing a new life into the world, walking alongside someone during challenging illness, or providing end-of-life care – is extremtely rewarding. I love the variety of conditions a family physician is able to treat while cultivating relationships with patients and taking care of entire families.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
Attending medical school at Mizzou allowed me to get to know the Family Medicine department well and it wasn’t long before it felt like home. The faculty and residents I had the privilege to work with as a student were outstanding teachers and physicians. It was the compassionate care I observed from those I worked with at Mizzou that cemented my decision to pursue family medicine. I could see in my mentors the kind of physician I knew I wanted to become. I am excited for the opportunity to train at a large academic center while also being able to work in a rural outpatient clinic.
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I grew up in the small town in western Illinois not far from Hannibal, Missouri. I came to Mizzou to obtain my undergraduate degree and attended medical school here as well. I have come to call Columbia home but ultimately plan to practice in a rural area near my hometown. When I am not working I enjoy spending time outdoors with my dogs on the many trails in Columbia, reading, playing piano, gardening, and spending time with family.
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
I summited Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Do you have any specialty interests?
Rural medicine, women’s health

Why you chose Family Medicine?
I chose Family Medicine because I love its broad scope of practice. The vast array of pathologies we treat in this field makes every clinical encounter unique and invigorating. I also have a sincere passion to provide high-quality, patient-centered care to our rural and underserved communities. Lastly, I fell in love with this specialty because of its prevalent intergenerational care. Being able to see a grandparent, parent, and child from the same family and having a close-knit, meaningful relationship with each of them is truly invaluable.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
It’s not a secret that the University of Missouri has an incredible, highly-regarded Family Medicine program. I might be biased because I went to medical school here as well. I will always say the people is what makes this program wonderful, because it really is, but there are many other unique aspects to Mizzou. The program has a great mix of academic and rural medicine which made it easily stand out to me. They also have a dedicated FMOB service with wonderful faculty that strive to educate their residents on the intricacies of women’s health and obstetric care. Given these topics are strong passions of mine, it was an easy choice to attend Mizzou for residency. I easily know that the University of Missouri Family Medicine program will provide me with the tools and knowledge to be confident in providing excellent healthcare in whichever community I practice in.
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I call Lake of the Ozarks home because I’ve spent a large part of my life there. However, growing up, our family moved at least a dozen times due to work. When I’m not busy, I enjoy spending time weightlifting, playing video games, learning new card games, and expanding my cooking abilities! I live in Columbia with my soon-to-be wife (May 2024!) and our two rescue cats, Tinker and Fletch. Together, we love to hike, play board games, binge true-crime shows, and simply just vibe together outdoors.
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
I used to competitively powerlift in High School. Believe it or not, I was able to squat and deadlift just about 600lbs of weight. Today? Absolutely no chance of being able to lift that heavy again.
Do you have any specialty interests?
Rural medicine, Obstetrics/Women’s Health, LGBTQ+ care

Why you chose Family Medicine?
I love a little bit of everything about medicine, and Family Medicine allows me to practice full scope medicine and caring for patients of all ages and backgrounds! It is my passion to serve the underserved population, and I cherish the longitudinal relationship I get to build with my patients and provide patient-centered care.
Why you chose University of Missouri?
It is truly the people from the department that draws me in! As an intergraded resident, I got the chance to work closely with the staff, faculty, and residents during my fourth-year of medical school. Their constant support and guidance made me feel like this is where I belong. After completing my undergraduate degree and medical school here at MU, I am very excited to further my medical training at a Tiger!
Tell us about your hometown, family, pets, hobbies, etc.?
I came to the U.S. from China when I was seventeen. I take my converted van on the road as much as possible in my free time, and I really enjoy camping, hiking, and exploring new places! Besides traveling and spending time outdoors, I also like to paint and play guitar and guzheng.
What random fact(s) would you like to share about yourself?
I can wiggle my ears, if that counts haha
Do you have any specialty interests?
Sports Medicine