- Residency Programs
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Internal Medicine Residency Program
- Application Requirements
- Air Force Match Application Requirements
- Program Basics
- Regular Categorical Track
- Primary Care Track
- International Scholars Track
- Medicine-Geriatrics Integrated Training Program
- Physician-Scientist Training Program
- Why OSU
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
- Residents and Community
- Resident Wellness Program
- Past Residents
- Combined Internal Medicine and Pediatrics Residency Program
- Emergency Medicine/Internal Medicine (EM/IM) Combined Residency Program

After completing my Bachelor of Science in physiology with a specialization in bioethics, I was accepted into Michigan State University's DO/PhD Physician Scientist Training Program. Through my research conducted in Dr. Andrea Amalfitano’s laboratory, I discovered my passion for immunology and the role it plays in cancer pathogenesis and treatment. My dissertation research focused on the use of recombinant adenovirus (rAd)-based vectors as vaccine platforms and the ways in which we could boost vector-expressed transgene immunity. Specifically, I focused on the use of a tumor antigen (carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA))-expressing rAd in conjunction with a novel TLR agonist to enhance the adaptive immune response against colorectal tumor cells.
For extracurricular activities, I served in several medical and graduate student leadership roles, including becoming vice president of external affairs for our university’s Council of Graduate Students during which I advocated for benefits and representation of graduate and professional students at the university, state and federal level. Additionally, I volunteered to be a site staff advisor for alternative spring break trips during which I led groups of undergraduate students on volunteer projects involving HIV/AIDS prevention and patient activism.
In applying for residency, I knew that I wanted to find a program that would support my future goals to be both a tumor immunotherapy researcher and an oncologist. The James Comprehensive Cancer Center at OSU houses the newest cancer technologies and experienced clinicians. The James and the surrounding medical campus also employ many accomplished researchers who are transitioning novel therapies from the laboratory to clinical trials.
Education
DO, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, May 2016
PhD, Cell and Molecular Biology - Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, October 2014
BS, Physiology, specialization in bioethics, humanities and society - Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, May 2007
Dissertation: Enhancement of recombinant adenovirus vector vaccine efficacy by innate immune modulation
Advisor: Andrea Amalfitano, DO, PhD
- American Society of Clinical Oncology/Conquer Cancer Foundation Rotation Award, 2015 - 2016
One of seven students nationally to receive fellowship funding for a two-month clinical research rotation - work will specifically involve patients receiving therapeutic cancer vaccines (including the vector utilized in PhD dissertation) at Duke University - National Institutes of Health NIGMS Ancillary Training Program Travel Scholarship, 2015
One of two students nationally to receive this scholarship to present their translational research at “The Modes of Action of Vaccine Adjuvant” Keystone Symposia in Seattle, WA - American Medical Association Seed Grant Recipient, 2013 - 2014
Competitive scholarship in which 28 total medical students, interns and residents were selected to receive funds for initiation of novel research projects in the areas of cardiovascular/pulmonary disease, HIV/AIDS or pancreatic cancer - Michigan State University Rasmussen Doctoral Recruitment Fellowship, 2007
Incentive fellowship received upon enrolling in the Michigan State University Physician Scientist DO/PhD program for medical and graduate school training
Professional Activities
- American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) member, 2015 - present
- American Medical Association (AMA) member, 2009 - present
- American Osteopathic Association (AOA) member, 2007 - 2016
- American Physician Scientist Association (APSA) member, 2007 - present
- APSA Public Relations Committee member/Newsletter Editor, 2008 - 2009
- American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)/Science Program for Excellence in Science Member, 2008 - 2009
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Publications
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National Conference Presentations