AAOS Committee(s) or Council(s) you currently volunteer with:
Board of Specialty Societies (BOS)
Why did you choose orthopaedics as your specialty?
My interest in orthopaedic surgery began with a passion for sports medicine. Following my sophomore year of college, I shadowed an orthopaedic sports medicine surgeon, a primary care sports medicine physician, and a physical therapist. Based on that experience, I knew with certainty that I wanted to go to medical school and even more specifically, that I wanted to be an orthopaedic surgeon. When I started medical school, I immediately sought out additional exposure to orthopaedic surgery by shadowing in the clinic and operating room. I really enjoyed these experiences! My favorite class in medical school was anatomy, especially musculoskeletal anatomy! It was this love for MSK medicine, the types of patients that are seen by orthopaedic surgeons, the outgoing and friendly nature of orthopaedic surgeons, and the common procedures performed that affirmed my desire to pursue a career in orthopaedic surgery.
Why do you volunteer with AAOS?
I volunteer with AAOS to give back to the orthopaedic community, to contribute to the growth and development of our specialty, to network with my peers, to develop leadership skills, and to mentor the next generation of orthopaedic surgeons!
What advice would you give an AAOS member who is considering applying for an open volunteer position?
I would strongly encourage an AAOS member who is considering applying for an open volunteer position to explore the Committee Appointment Program, as there are numerous opportunities available. AAOS members will absolutely find something of interest regardless of stage of career, subspecialty, type of practice, and level of involvement with academics and research. This is a unique and gratifying way to give back to the field of orthopaedic surgery and contribute to the development of our specialty.