Why did you join AAOS?
I joined the AAOS as a Resident to be involved. I have an interest in medical and orthopaedic education. By joining AAOS I was able to participate in the Resident Assembly, and specifically the Education Committee, it allowed me to work on projects with other residents across the country who had similar interests.
How do you define success?
For me, success is leaving a lasting result. Whether taking care of a patient’s hand problem or assisting on an Academy project — the goal is the same — leave a lasting positive result.
Do you currently volunteer with a committee? If yes, which one(s)?
Former Resident Assembly Education Committee Chair, Member of Social Media Ambassadors.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My grandfather was one of ten children and the first in his family to go to college. He ended up earning a PhD and incredibly valued the role of education. He made sure his 4 children (including my mother) also valued education, and they all earned Masters degrees or higher. His ability to create such a positive environment and leave such a lasting positive impact on his family continually inspires me.
What do you love most about AAOS?
Within AAOS, I love having the opportunity to engage with the amazing membership. I am constantly learning from the other members and I find it exciting to have the opportunity to work with them on projects to better the greater orthopaedic community.
What advice would you give to new members of the AAOS?
One of the best ways to have a larger impact on orthopaedics through the Academy is to simply get involved with committees. The work the committees do can be incredibly rewarding on multiple levels. Then, once you get started, new opportunities will present themselves that will allow you to have an even greater impact.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know.
I love to travel and explore new cultures and geography. With COVID limiting travel, I have shifted my “exploration” to culinary adventures in my own kitchen. When my honeymoon to Morocco was cancelled, I went on a Moroccan cooking binge!