Pediatric Anesthesiologist at Dayton Children’s Hospital

As an anesthesiologist, I'm responsible for the perioperative care of neonates, children, and young adults as they undergo surgeries or procedures. Additionally, I am a member of our acute pain and sedation service. The purpose of the service is to provide peripheral nerve blocks to decrease post-operative pain in our patients and to manage their pain for several days after surgery.

My educational journey started at Miami University as a zoology major. During my freshman year, I was accepted to University of Cincinnati College of Medicine thru an early admission/dual partnership that Miami had at the time. After matriculating at UC College of Medicine, I decided to pursue anesthesiology as my specialty. I moved to Philadelphia to complete my residency at the Hospital of University Pennsylvania, which included clinical rotations at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. It was during these rotations that I realized pediatrics was my calling. I decided to return back to Ohio for my fellowship, which I completed at Cincinnati Children's. Upon finishing, I joined Dayton Children's Hospital.

What is a typical day like for you in medicine?

My typical day starts around 7 am when I see my first patients for the day. I meet with the patient and their parents prior to surgery to learn about their health history and what surgery or procedure they are having. Typically, I have about five to ten minutes with each family to gain their trust. I formulate an anesthetic plan that will keep them safe and comfortable for the surgery. Typically, I am overseeing several operating rooms at once, each with their own dedicated nurse anesthetist. My supervision includes being present for every child going to sleep and waking up, as well as being available for any emergencies. We work as a team with our anesthetist, who are certified providers of anesthesia. Depending on the day, I may provide anesthesia to many patients depending on the acuity of the cases.

What have you found to be the most rewarding part of medicine?

The most rewarding part of my job is interacting with the children throughout the day. I get to help them through a scary experience by playing with them. You will find me playing games, showing movies, playing songs, making up stories, and creating disco parties on a daily basis.

What at Miami University helped you on your path to medical school?

Miami University afforded me a solid foundation in the basic sciences that are fundamental to medicine. Medical school is a grueling four years with a lot to learn, which I felt prepared by my undergraduate studies. Additionally, Miami taught me to be a critical thinker and to be able to analyze problems.

What would you recommend pre-medical students (or even pre-dentistry or PA or OT) do in their undergraduate career to make themselves stand out to programs?

I would recommend to pre-professional school students to be yourself and do what makes you happy. You are in for a long road ahead and a few good hobbies will keep you going. I find hobbies to make you who you are and are always makes for interesting conversation during interviews. Obviously, grades and test scores are important but those aren't typically the questions you get asked during interviews. Also, choose extracurricular activities that you are interested in and passionate about. I do not recommend picking something because it will "look good" on your application; interviewers can see right through that. 

What is your fondest Miami memory?

My fondest memory of Miami is honestly walking through campus during the fall and enjoying the views.