The most important lesson I learned early in my career is to keep the patient at the center of everything. My experience as a spine surgery PA-C gave me a deep understanding of patients’ needs and challenges. That perspective continues to guide my work as a researcher, ensuring that the ultimate goal of every project is to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

One of my favorite aspects of the NASS Annual Meeting has been the opportunity to present original research and engage with colleagues from across the field. The thoughtful questions, lively discussions, and exchange of ideas that follow each presentation make these experiences especially rewarding and memorable.

My colleagues may be surprised to learn that I lead a robust summer internship program for undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing careers in healthcare. It is a rewarding opportunity to give back, mentor aspiring professionals, and hopefully make a positive impact on the next generation of healthcare leaders.