It is the unique environment of the Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo that attracted me to do my pediatric residency at UB. I was drawn to a hospital devoted exclusively to women and children, and I wanted to be part of a team of health care workers dedicated to their care.

I was also drawn to the fact that, as the only freestanding children’s hospital in the area, many patients would be transferred here to receive a higher level of care. “What better place to do your residency?” I thought to myself then—and still do today.

I love being part of a smaller program and getting to know my colleagues. I have come to realize that residency is not only about acquiring medical skills and knowledge. It’s also a process that builds character: perseverance, courage, sacrifice, devotion. As I face the challenges of residency, working in an environment that is supportive and encouraging makes me smile.

I am confident that the training I receive will prepare me to be successful in whichever path I pursue—which, for now, is general pediatrics. For all these reasons, I feel fortunate to be doing my residency here.