Retina Today (RT): When did you know that you wanted to become a retina specialist?
Like many residents before me, I was captivated by the excitement around retina at Cleveland Clinic’s Cole Eye Institute. Our retina faculty are not only exemplary physicians and surgeons but also dynamic and engaging people. Their enthusiasm for the profession is contagious. Although I entered residency open to a number of different subspecialties or a career in comprehensive ophthalmology, the intricacies of retinal diseases and the complex problem-solving inherent to vitreoretinal surgery ultimately drew me to this field.
RT: Who do you look to as mentors?
Luck has played a huge role in my career by bringing the right mentors into my life at the right times. So many inspiring people have shaped my path, but two in particular have been most influential in my residency and fellowship training. My program director, Sunil K. Srivastava, MD, has taught me not only about retina but also about creating a workplace culture of respect, excellence, and fun. I am fortunate to have trained with him, and I know I will hear his advice in my mind when I am operating as an attending next year. Katherine E. Talcott, MD, has been an important role model for me as a woman in retina. She is among the most skilled surgeons I have had the privilege to work with and is a clear rising star in our field, yet she is humble and generous with her time.
RT: What has been one of the most memorable experiences of your fellowship thus far?
A satisfying full-circle moment came the first time I taught a resident during a combined cataract surgery and vitrectomy under the guidance of Alex Yuan, MD, PhD. In fellowship, it can feel like you are treading water. During that case, I realized how far I had progressed in my skills and knowledge since residency and how much I have to offer to patients and trainees.
RT: What are you hoping to accomplish once you are in practice?
I am joining my mentors as a vitreoretinal surgeon at Cole Eye Institute. I hope to provide exceptional care to my patients in the clinic and OR and create a welcoming and engaging environment for my trainees and staff. Through research, clinical trials, and teaching, I aspire to play my part in shaping the future of our field.
RT: What advice can you offer to residents who are considering retina?
It is no secret that a career in retina requires significant commitment and effort. In training, it is easy to focus on the sacrifices you are making for this career, but don’t lose sight of all the rewards you receive in return. Our work provides tangible benefits for patients, allows us to work with our hands, and presents at least one new challenge each day. This combination is unique to a career in medicine.
Stay humble and open to learning from everyone around you—not only your attendings but also the nurses, technicians, and patients.
