Amanda on a bike trip with her mother in Tuscany, Italy.
I grew up in suburban Connecticut in a family of five, with two amazing parents and two younger brothers. I attended Cornell University, where I majored in genetics and spent many days bike-riding in the hills around Cayuga Lake. I went on to medical school at Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City, and came to Charlottesville two years ago for my residency in internal medicine. I’m planning to pursue a fellowship in rheumatology when I complete residency. The sunny culture of UVA and Charlottesville have been very welcoming so far!
Amanda and her brothers, skiing at Mt. Hood in Oregon.
Why medicine? Internal medicine?
I grew up in a household where inquisitiveness was valued. There was also a strong science bent, with Scientific American always on the breakfast table, and that sparked an interest in biology. As an undergrad, my favorite courses were in immunology. During those years I also found that I really enjoyed teaching, whether tutoring elementary school students, leading a journal club, or helping out peers. When I was exploring careers, medicine seemed like a great way to combine these values and interests, while making a direct impact on peoples’ lives. I realized quickly that internal medicine was the perfect choice, since I love the diagnostic puzzle-solving aspect of the specialty.
Why UVA?
I chose UVA because of how friendly the faculty and residents were on my interview day. I felt it was a perfect place to learn medicine as a true member of a team, where my voice would be heard and appreciated. There are so many experts here to learn from, and I value how engaged they are in resident education. The natural beauty of Charlottesville and central Virginia was also a huge selling point.
What do you miss about living in NYC?
There are so many amazing restaurants there. I miss a few specific ones — a Lebanese restaurant on Fifth Avenue called Ilili, and a Greek restaurant on Columbus called Kefi — but I mostly miss having endless options!
What are you usually doing in your spare time?
You can find me running trails through the woods or bike riding on a gorgeous country road.
What’s one thing you always have in your fridge?
Frozen mango — thank you Trader Joe’s!
Where did you go on your last vacation?
This past February I went skiing at Mt. Hood in Oregon with my mom and brothers. The mountain was incredible and it was fun to catch up with my brothers while racing down the slopes.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
Probably sailing. Being out on the ocean sounds like one of the most peaceful things imaginable.
Words you live by?
When I was younger my mother often said, “There but for fortune” — which I later realized was a song lyric by Joan Baez. It makes me appreciate the things I have and helps me stay grounded when taking care of sick people.
What about you would surprise us?
I’ve been to twenty-four national parks, with my favorites being Bryce Canyon and Joshua Tree.
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