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Christopher Collura, M.D.
Program: Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, PGY-2, Mayo Clinic in Rochester
Hometown: Omaha, Neb.
Medical School: Saint Louis University School of Medicine (St. Louis, Mo.)
What attracted you to medicine and pediatrics?
"I believe pediatrics to be at the crux of modern medicine. In peds, we aim to help the most vulnerable patient, while balancing ethics and innovation. To me, there is no other field in medicine that more precisely drives the synthesis of evidence-based medicine, research, and education, while keeping all of the needs of the patient central. My experience in pediatrics in medical school demonstrated a physician's decision making that required a vitality and dedication to their patients. This field truly embodied why I wanted to become a physician."
What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training?
"Mayo Clinic immediately separated itself from other training programs in terms of its focus on education, professionalism and patient care. It was obvious to me the Mayo pediatric residents demonstrated integrity and a genuine dedication to their work and, more importantly, their patients. With a tremendous reputation, world-renowned research credentials, and state-of-the-art facilities, some may be concerned that patient care could suffer. It is precisely the opposite. The devotion to patient care is what attracted me to Mayo. Consultants, fellows, and residents showed an integral knowledge in understanding each patient and paid close attention to medical as well as social, economic and emotional concerns."
What makes the Mayo Clinic Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine Residency unique?
"Education is a priority within the residency program. Patient care is not just supplemented by teaching, but, instead, education is at the heart of our day-to-day work. Didactics, bedside teaching, educational projects, and everyday conversation are directed to build a strong knowledge base in caring for our patients. In addition, I firmly believe that there is not a residency program in the country that offers more opportunities in basic science and clinical research. The resources, projects and mentors that are available to all levels of residents are second to none."
Anything surprise you about Mayo's program?
"Without a doubt, the biggest surprise has been the personal relationships I have been able to build with the consultants. I have daily discussions and debates with the staff. In addition, I have worked hand in hand on department lectures and attended national meetings with the consultants. When my wife gave birth to our son last spring, many of the consultants were the first to offer congratulations. At Mayo, the residents are treated as colleagues within the department."
What is living in Rochester like for you?
"Rochester is a great place to live during residency. My wife and I moved from a major metropolitan city so it was a new experience for us. As a city of 100,000 people, Rochester offers very affordable living, short commutes, and great outdoor activities. In addition, the Twin Cities are only an hour away for more variety in restaurants, shopping, and sporting events."
What does your future look like right now?
"In the next year, I will finalize my plans for fellowship. I want to pursue a specialty in Neonatology, Hematology/Oncology, or Cardiology, with a special interest in pediatric palliative care. I know that whatever course I choose, Mayo will prepare me well. The evidence is all around me. The senior residents who graduated last year had dynamic career choices in fellowships and practice, and were incredibly inspiring both as teachers and physicians. I know that the time I will spend at Mayo during my pediatric residency will be three of the most important years of my life."
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