AAOS Committee(s) or Council(s) you currently volunteer with:
Shoulder and Elbow Program Committee
How long have you volunteered with AAOS?
1 year
Why did you choose orthopaedics as your specialty?
I was an athlete who sustained several injuries that required orthopaedic care. The amazement of how he could fix my knee and allow me to return to sport drove me to want to become a doctor. In medical school, learning the pathophysiology of the musculoskeletal system was more intriguing than any other subject. Once I found out that I can marry this with my passion for building things I knew I had found the right career for me.
Why do you volunteer with AAOS?
I believe in the mission of AAOS. I believe in education and innovation through collaborative efforts, and this is what AAOS represents. I volunteer because I want to be part of the process that pushes the boundaries of the understanding of our field, which optimally translates to safer, better outcomes for our patients.
What advice would you give an AAOS member who is considering applying for an open volunteer position?
Get involved. There are opportunities in different committees that can match your skill set and time available to get involved. I would critically examine the amount of free time you would have to dedicate to the committee and pick a position accordingly.