Elizabeth Simmons, DO
Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery Fellow
University Hospitals Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital
Cleveland, OH
Member Since: 2020
How has the AAOS helped you throughout your career?
AAOS has supported me by providing access to valuable study tools including practice questions to help prepare for OITE and for written board examinations. In addition, by hosting meetings such as the AAOS Annual Meeting, the AAOS has also provided me with a network of orthopedic surgeons who have been mentors and role models for me as I shape my early orthopedic surgery career.
As a Fellowship Member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
I frequently use JAAOS for staying up to date on current literature. I also find myself frequently using AAOS's surgical technique videos as I find these videos are concise, clear, and exactly what I'm looking for when preparing for upcoming cases.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
This is such a hard question to answer because I've had so many great mentors who have shared so much wisdom over the years. One quote that resonates with me came from one of my residency mentors, who told me, "The days are long but the years are short – enjoy it!" I found out how true that statement was when residency flew by in what seemed like the blink of an eye. I'm in total disbelief that I have already completed over half of my fellowship.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
I break down large goals and tasks into smaller attainable feats, complete those small goals, and take time to reward myself once achieving what I set out to do. Also, I use traditional pen-and-paper color-coordinated check lists (as opposed to the "Notes" app on the phone). Nothing beats physically checking off boxes as you accomplish your tasks and goals!
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
I'm trying to make sure I take time for myself. In a world where we constantly provide care for others, it's sometimes hard to remember that we also need some self-care.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
I enjoy trying new restaurants and coffee shops, hiking, traveling (especially to dog friendly destinations!), and binge reading a good book from start to finish.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know?
I have an all-white husky named "Nanook" which in the Inuit language translates to "polar bear."