Peter with his girlfriend Tammy.
I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai’i, where I developed a love for the outdoors, including surfing and skating. I moved to L.A. to attend college at the University of Southern California, and then came east for medical school at Wake Forest University.
On days off, I like to hike with friends in nearby Shenandoah National Park, visit local breweries and wineries, eat out, go to concerts, and participate in community sports leagues.
We’ve also done road-trips to the beach, or to the mountains to ski and snowboard. I remain a die-hard USC football fan and try to make it to a game annually.
Why internal medicine? Why UVA?
I pursued internal medicine because I enjoy continuity of care, medically complex patients, and helping underserved populations. Also, I enjoy working with patients with infectious diseases and plan to do a fellowship in that IM subspecialty.
When I was on the residency interview trail, I searched for a program with a balance of strong clinical training and diverse research opportunities. UVA not only fit that mold but also offered an unrivaled sense of camaraderie among residents.
Snowboarding at Big Bear ski resort in California.
Words of advice for new residents?
Residency is a busy time and an intellectual challenge — but have fun along the way. Don’t forget about your hobbies, and take care of yourself so you can take care of others.
Proudest achievement outside the professional realm?
Finishing 3 ½ (nearly 4) Global Thermal Nuclear Hot Wings at Cluck U.
What are you usually doing in your spare time?
Watching sports, or surfing or skating.
What’s one thing you always have in your fridge?
Eggs.
Where did you go on your last vacation?
Home to Hawai’i.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
Magic tricks.
Words to live by?
Adversity is a given, but misery is an option.
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