Hometown: Avon, IN
Bio: Hello! My name is Cindy. I am a native Hoosier, raised on the west side of Indianapolis. As a child, I had an amazing pediatrician who inspired me to pursue medicine. This budding interest was coupled with a love of science and a desire to serve others. After graduating from Avon High School, I attended Indiana University to study Human Biology. As an undergraduate, I had the opportunity to spend a semester in Botswana studying Community Public Health. During this time I completely fell in love with global health, and knew I wanted long-term international medicine to be part of my career. I attended medical school at Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, where I was able to spend several months in Uganda, El Salvador, and Costa Rica, engaged in global health endeavors. For many years I have been interested in Women’s Health, particularly within the context of the more vulnerable populations around the world. As a third year medical student, I realized that while I still loved Obstetrics and Gynecology, I also loved Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Psychiatry, and well, everything about medicine! I fell in love with the continuity of care that Family Medicine affords, and the possibility of developing decades-long meaningful relationships and partnerships with patients and their entire families.
When I’m not working or studying, you’ll find me outside as much as possible! I love exploring nature – whether I’m running, hiking, kayaking, biking, or taking long walks with friends. If the weather is unfavorable, I am content curled up with a great book (I welcome all genres!).
Why Memorial: Before I fell in love with Memorial Hospital, I fell in love with the people there. Throughout the residency application season, I was in awe of the meaningful, intentional approach taken by the faculty and residents. The kindness, friendliness, sincerity, and generosity of the program was so apparent – I knew I wanted to be part of this family. I was also drawn to the opportunities to complete international rotations, and the generous support the hospital provides for them. I was amazed by the program’s dedication to underserved populations, demonstrated in the Underserved Track, the Refugee Clinic, and the newly-developing Street Medicine program. I was impressed by how knowledgeable the residents and faculty are, and the high level of training the residents receive within the context of a positive, supportive, and encouraging environment. I could go on and on about why I chose Memorial Hospital (and I often do!), but in short, Memorial Family Medicine Residency is far more than a residency program – it is a family, and that is why I knew I wanted to match here!
Clinical interests: Global Health, Women’s Health
Hobbies: Running, Reading, Playing Piano, Biking, Baking
Favorite quotes: “I am only one, but still I am one. I cannot do everything, but still I can do something; and because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do something that I can do.” – Helen Keller
Favorite books: “Homegoing” by Yaa Gyasi; “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid; “The Beauty in Breaking” by Michele Harper; “The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek” by Kim Michele Richardson; “Daisy Jones & The Six” by Taylor Jenkins Reid; “Becoming” by Michelle Obama; “A Good Neighborhood” by Therese Anne Fowler; “Anne of Green Gables” by L. M. Montgomery; “The Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead (and so many more!)
Favorite podcasts: Radiolab
Advice: “Comparison is the thief of joy”
Favorite thing to do/place to go in South Bend/Mishawaka: Running along the Saint Joseph River, visiting the public library, trying new restaurants
