Why did you join AAOS?
To take advantage of all the excellent educational materials and to network with surgeons at various stages of their careers.
How do you define success?
The achievement of a significant goal through dedication and hard work.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My mother, despite not being in medicine. Ever since I was young, she told me, "invest in your education: it's the only thing no one can ever take away from you." Anytime I doubted the magnitude of my ambitions, I would think back to that advice and to her work ethic and I kept pushing.
What do you love most about AAOS?
I appreciate the AAOS for its ability to support orthopaedic surgeons at all stages, including during training. Also, while on the Basic Science Content Committee I really gained an appreciation for its dedication to resident education and its willingness to be dynamic and forward thinking in its approach to teaching. I leaned very heavily on AAOS resources during my boards studying and while searching for my first job - both of which are stressful experiences that would have been more overwhelming without the AAOS!
What advice would you give to new members of the AAOS?
I would encourage new members to familiarize themselves with the various aspects of AAOS and to get involved early if possible. It's an excellent way to learn about the profession and to meet colleagues, as well as to contribute to the field.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know.
I am actually a very good artist! My preferred medium is oil paint. While I usually gravitate to portraits and still lives, I have been doing medical illustrations most recently to align my love for art and orthopaedics!