What drove you to want to become a Fellow of the ACVIM? Is there a story or experience that stands out in your mind that reaffirmed your decision to follow this path?
Prior to my residency, I found cardiology to be a very daunting subject. Equine cardiology, in particular, was a topic that was sparsely addressed throughout veterinary school, and I was confused and scared by most equine cardiology cases I saw in my internship. During my residency, I was lucky enough to have a mentor that was passionate about equine cardiology (Cris Navas), and I finally found the subject something I not only better understood but also something that excited me.
The large animal cardiology cases I had throughout my residency fascinated and challenged me. These cases were so important to me because they are what fueled my excitement for equine cardiology and my desire to pursue something more. One case in particular will always be remembered as one that changed the trajectory of my career.
Even with a relatively large amount of exposure to equine cardiology during my residency, I still felt there was A LOT more I needed to practice and learn to feel comfortable and confident in addressing equine cardiology cases. My mentor, Noah Cohen, recognized this and proposed I apply for an ACVIM Fellowship in equine cardiology.
What do you see as the advantage(s) of ACVIM-approved Fellowship Programs/fellowship-level training as a whole?
In a large animal internal medicine residency program, residents must learn about the medicine of many systems: respiratory, gastrointestinal, neurological, cardiovascular, endocrine, etc. It is possible, if not likely, that there is more to learn and practice within each subject even beyond the residency training. I think the ACVIM Fellowship Program offers an opportunity for residency-trained individuals to gain further experience and training in a subdiscipline they find interesting. A fellow can then dedicate more time and attention to a specific subject as compared to the large animal internal medicine residency when time is shared between many subjects.
The fellowship training can augment a resumé, act as a steppingstone to further specialty training, or just simply make an internist feel good and confident about the medicine they’re practicing. For me, a fellowship also provided more resources and connections that I still use to this day.
Were there any specific challenges you faced along the way? How did you overcome them?
My fellowship program involved two different institutions. It was challenging to shift between different hospital operations, people, and responsibilities. Thankfully, I was surrounded by very supportive, patient people that made the process easier. And I did find that spending time at two different institutions made for a more valuable fellowship experience.
What advice do you have for those aspiring to become ACVIM Fellows?
I highly recommend an ACVIM Fellowship. Even if a fellowship program doesn’t currently exist, those interested should be aware that a fellowship program can be designed to fit one’s goals and interests. The fellowship I completed was not one that had been done before, so my mentors and I were able to design a program that fit my interests and challenged me. It was an exceptional opportunity, and I am forever grateful to all those involved in my program and to the ACVIM.
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