Get to Know Donnie
I'm a perfusion student at Emory University and just started my clinical rotations this summer! I'm originally from central Pennsylvania and got my undergraduate degree at the University of Pittsburgh in biology. I love exercising, the outdoors, movies, and trying different foods!
FUN FACT: I created a podcast for anyone interested in the amazing field of cardiovascular perfusion called "The Perfusion Perspective"! I also love animals and have a dog named Duke!
Why did you choose to pursue a career in perfusion?
I chose to pursue a career in perfusion because of the uniqueness and importance of the role. It mixes everything I want in a career together extremely well; there's a great level of autonomy, you have a super specific skill that no one else in the hospital has, and you play a very important and integral part in patients' health and well-being. Knowing that my work will directly contribute to a patient's health, recovery, and overall well-being makes perfusion an incredibly rewarding profession and one that I am proud to pursue.
What is a perfusion-related topic that you think is indispensable to know for your perfusion career and why?
One topic that I believe is indispensable for my career is the importance of research and maintaining a mindset of curiosity. Perfusion is constantly evolving with new technologies, strategies, and evidence emerging all the time. Because we act as a patient's lifeline, I think it's extremely important to stay up to date with the latest research and constantly question the things we do and what we could do better. I think the best perfusionists and the ones I've learned the most from all have this drive to learn more for the sake of our patients.
In reference to the question above, what is a question you have about that topic you’d like others input on?
Given the amount of new research coming out all the time, I've wondered how experienced perfusionists determine when there is enough evidence to change their practice. I'd be interested to hear how others evaluate new research and what it takes for them to adopt it into their clinical practice and decide that it truly is beneficial for the patient.
Share your experience/favorite thing about being a Student Member of AmSECT. How has it impacted your journey in perfusion?
I think my favorite thing about being a student member of AmSECT is the opportunities for meeting other students and perfusionists. I've met so many students and perfusionists through AmSECT and have made a lot of friends and future colleagues. I'm also a huge fan of the resources provided through AmSECT, it can be difficult finding new perfusion research, but resources like the Tiny Perfusion Letter have helped me a lot in developing my practice and learning all of the up and coming information in perfusion.
What does your dream perfusion job look like?
My dream perfusion job would definitely be at a larger center where I can get a lot of experience doing a lot of interesting and unique cases. I'd love to be a part of a large team with a great team dynamic and great chemistry. I think a great team and support system is something that is undervalued and super important to not only do your job well, but enjoy your job! |