Hometown: Gilman, IL
Bio: My name is Erin Fund and I am originally from Gilman, Illinois, a rural community about 2 hours south of Chicago. Growing up, my dad worked as a pharmacist in our hometown, and I would often hear stories from family friends about the life-changing medication advice my dad would give. This sparked my initial interest in medicine! After graduating high school, I attended Olivet Nazarene University where I majored in Biology and participated in a longitudinal honors program which explored the theme “what does it mean to be human”. Learning about humanity through both this biological and humanistic framework continued to fuel my passion for becoming a doctor and caring for people holistically. Following undergrad, I spent one year completing cell culture research on intestinal gut integrity before starting medical school at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria campus.
During medical school, I had the opportunity to participate in several experiences that solidified my desire to become a family medicine physician. Through work with the Loaves and Fish Food Pantry Clinic in Peoria, I saw the importance of providing access to preventative care, outpatient follow-up, and addressing social determinants of health for the most vulnerable members of my community. Additionally, through a longitudinal rural clerkship experience, I witnessed firsthand the benefits of building rapport and long-term relationships with my patients.
Why Memorial: After attending both my interview and second look at Memorial, I was drawn to this program by the people! Every faculty member and resident I interacted with was intentional about getting to know me as a person, and spoke highly of the program’s culture and support. Additionally, I sought a program that provided strong full-spectrum training with opportunities to pursue volunteerism!
Clinical interests: Preventative care, lifestyle medicine, POCUS, Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment (OMT)
Hobbies: Baking, hiking, singing, playing board games
Favorite quotes: “Success is determined by what you build. Significance is determined by what you build on” -Stephen Furtick
Favorite books: “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Favorite podcast: The Office Ladies, Radiolab
Best advice: Remember to give yourself grace as you continue on this path as a lifelong learner!
Favorite thing to do in South Bend/Mishawaka: My husband and I love trying out new restaurants and exploring local shops!
