Where are you from?

Chicago, United States

Tell us about your work—your job title, where you work, years of experience, areas of focus or research, and what inspired you to pursue your career.

I am an associate professor at The University of Illinois in Chicago, IL, USA. I work as as a urogynecologist in a primarily academic center seeing patients, operating, teaching students and residents, and conducting public health based research. I most enjoy seeing patients in clinic and being in the operating room. I also love teaching at every level. I work on research to improve care for my patients and to answer clinical questions.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received during your career?

My father, who is a cardiologist, told me that if I listen to patients they will tell me the diagnosis. I try every day to be a better listener and to hear everything my patients are telling me. This advice has helped me at the hospital and everywhere else!

I've been an IUGA member since

2014

What motivated you to join IUGA, and what does being a member mean to you?

IUGA is a very fun and inclusive community. My mentor Peter Sand was a past president and encouraged me as a fellow to get involved and meet people outside of the US. The first meeting I went to was in Cape Town, South Africa. It was amazing meeting people from around the world.

What has been your most rewarding or memorable IUGA experience?

Connecting with others from around the world, both in committee work as well as in the annual meetings.

What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work? How do you unwind or de-stress after a long day?

I love reading, hiking, and anything on the water. I always wanted to be an artist and have been working on textile art for the past many years.

What’s a "fun or surprising fact" about you that most people don’t know?

I love telling jokes! The cornier the better.

Do you have a favorite book, movie, or music genre that you’d recommend?

I love light reading and funny movies!