What is my education and experience background?
I obtained my bachelor's degree in biological engineering from Purdue University, and I recently completed my PhD in Cancer Biology at the University of Michigan. My research focused on understanding how neutrophils — a specific type of immune cell — respond and migrate to breast cancer cells. I have experience explaining my research to a wide variety of people and age groups—a skill I will bring to conversations with our patients.
What are my core values as a healthcare professional?
My primary core values as a healthcare professional are collaboration, openness, and caring. Collaboration with the patient is important in order to understand their concerns and questions, as well as working to determine how they learn best so that information can be relayed in a way that makes sense to them. I also prioritize an open environment with an emphasis on listening. Holding space for an open and honest conversation is crucial to understanding the needs of the patient. Lastly, it is imperative to care about the patient as a whole person, including physical, emotional, and mental aspects. It is also necessary to care about the work that we do, which leads to a desire to strive for excellence.
How do you aim to work with patients?
I am a strong advocate for patient knowledge and understanding. The terminology that comes along with the cancer journey is often confusing, only adding to the stress of the situation. I intend to work with patients by emphasizing listening so that patients’ concerns and questions are heard and validated. Understanding the patient’s perspective is key to providing insights and education. In addition to patient education, I also believe that showing compassion and empathy is a critical part of caring for patients during this stressful time.
Get to know me a little better
In my free time, I enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, including gardening, camping, kayaking, and cross-country skiing. When I’m not outside, you can often find me curled up in a chair with a cup of tea working on a knitting project.
