Chloe Pontier Farnham, BS
Medical College of Georgia
Augusta, GA
Why did you join AAOS?
I joined AAOS for the opportunities to learn more about orthopaedics and to meet those who have successfully established careers in the field. I was super excited when the opportunity to become a medical student member was announced. The access to educational materials allows me to learn more about becoming a competitive residency applicant and provides opportunities to learn more about orthopaedic concepts. When preparing to spend a day learning in the OR, the Orthopaedic Video Theater is great for getting an idea of the cases I will see so that I can be prepared for questions and engaged throughout the procedure.
What are you looking forward to most about AAOS?
I’m going to the AAOS conference this year and I’m excited to attend the sessions about different subspecialties within orthopaedics and those directed for medical students. I am also excited to have the opportunity to meet other students I’ve met over Zoom calls through the Medical Student Orthopaedic Society mentorship committee and the Ruth Jackson Orthopedic Society Southeast school chapter presidents.
What interested you about orthopaedics?
Growing up, a big piece of my identity was my involvement in athletics. Each time I was injured and forced to take time off, I felt like I had lost a big part of my identity. As an orthopaedic surgeon, I’ll be able to help other people do the activities that they enjoy. I also love that the surgeries focus on the mechanical and structural aspects of the body that allow patients to return to movement and improve their quality of life.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
The best advice I have been given for orthopaedics was to “always introduce yourself to everyone” from an attending at MCG, who shared a lot of wisdom with me. As a medical student, I feel like it sometimes can be easier to blend into the background in order to stay out of the way. However, I’ve found that by introducing myself right off the bat, I am able to feel more comfortable as part of the team and it also helps to start conversations!
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
If I’m struggling to be productive, I’ll make a to-do list then go for a quick run. While running, I’m able to clear my head and make a plan for the tasks I need to complete. I’m usually ready to sit down and check off the items after a couple of miles!
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
One thing I’m currently trying to make a habit of is to keep in touch with friends more consistently. My medical school has many different rotation sites for our clerkship year. While we are all experiencing similar challenges, it can feel very isolated as we are across the state of Georgia. Sharing our experiences can help us to overcome challenges more effectively and enjoy each other’s success.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
Outside of being a medical student, I do triathlons! I completed my first 70.3 distance Ironman this past year and look forward to getting faster at the Sprint distance races. I also appreciate having some personal goals outside of medical school to help me stay balanced and active when I’m not studying! When I have the time, I also enjoy skiing with friends and family.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
I recently found out that I have the same birthday as the first woman (Ruth Jackson) who was admitted as a member of AAOS!