This month’s Resident Council Spotlight features, Kristie Bernas, DO a Region 3 representative of the Resident Council. Learn more about why she chose family medicine, her residency program and what her life as resident is like.
Education and Residency
College of Osteopathic Medicine
Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Lynchburg, VA
Other Education
Master's of Science in Biotechnology from Johns Hopkins University
Residency Program
UPMC Williamsport in Williamsport, PA
Why did you choose this residency program?
I chose this residency program to get experience in all aspects of family medicine, including inpatient and outpatient medicine, pediatrics, and OB. I loved the unopposed nature of this program and the opportunities that it allows me to have. I had amazing connections with the faculty and residents at conferences and on the interview trail. It was also near both my parents and my in-laws!
Why did you choose family medicine?
Our specialty is such a unique way to care for all people, and I enjoyed all aspects of medicine, including pediatrics and OB. It was a perfect fit for my personality and my goal to serve others.
What is a typical day like in your life as a resident?
On an inpatient rotation, I arrive at the hospital at 6:30 a.m. to receive sign out from the night team. I chart check my patients, get some coffee and breakfast, and then go to morning report at 7:30 a.m. Depending on which service I am on, I see patients and plan for rounds with my intern, senior resident, and attending physician. After rounds, we complete tasks related to patient care and do any admissions that are called in from the emergency department or office. Our residency does noonday conference lectures at 12:30. The afternoon is filled with learning opportunities, admissions, deliveries, and office hours. We sign out to our night team at 5:00 and head home for the day!
What do you like to do in your time outside of residency?
I have a sweet little boy who is eight months old that currently takes up most of my free time outside of residency. My husband is a stay-at-home dad so we get to spend time together as a family. We love to go on hikes, go out to restaurants, and visit our family and friends.
Why did you volunteer to join the Resident Council?
This is great way to get involved in my third year of residency, and I want to contribute to the conversations surrounding our specialty, specifically in my region!
What is your advice to students?
Get involved in your local, state, and national specialty organizations and attend conferences to be connected with other like-minded individuals!
When was the first time you realized you wanted to be a physician?
On a medical mission trip to the Dominican Republic, seeing my dad, who is a physician, treating patients at the medical clinic there.
If you could choose anyone, who would you pick as your mentor?
What would you title an autobiography or memoir?
A Norwegian American's Journey to Becoming a Physician!
