As the UQ-Ochsner MD program is about to celebrate the graduation of its 1,000th doctor, we’re taking a look back at some of the pioneering graduates who helped shape the program’s legacy.
In this series, we connect with members of the inaugural class cohorts to hear about their journeys—both during and after their time in the program. From their motivations for choosing UQ-Ochsner, to where their careers have taken them today, these stories offer insights and inspiration for current and future doctors.
In this Q&A, we speak with Dr Emily Sineway Boyd of the Class of 2012 who shares her experiences, career path, and reflections on how the program has shaped her life and medical practice.
Please tell us a bit about yourself (Where you are originally from, where you did your undergrad, etc.)
I am originally from Peachtree Corners, GA. My undergrad was completed at The Ohio State University (GO BUCKS!!!) where I competed on the gymnastics team. I am now married (to my husband Chris, whom I met in Brisbane while in school) and we have 3 children.
Why did you decide to pursue your medical career at UQ-Ochsner?
My path to UQ-Ochsner was driven out of a passion from a young age to pursue a career in medicine as well as a strong desire to travel to Australia. This program seemed to offer a phenomenal opportunity to accomplish these two dreams, as well as set on a trailblazing adventure.
Where do you practice medicine now and in what speciality?
I specialize in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and am currently a partner within a private practice (Atlanta PM&R) that services the metro Atlanta area. My primary role is as the medical director of Piedmont Eastside's inpatient rehabilitation unit in Snellville, GA.
What were some of the highlights about the UQ-Ochsner MD program?
Well, the obvious highlight was meeting my husband ;-), but some of the others were making great friends, getting to explore such an amazing country and gain exposure to a healthcare system that is different in a lot of ways to the US.
Where did you match and why did you choose your speciality?
I matched at the University of Louisville (for a prelim year in internal medicine) and then at Emory University (residency in PM&R). I chose my specialty because it was an area of medicine that seemed to focus on the patient as a whole and combined many of the areas of medicine I was most interested in (e.g. orthopedics, neuro, geriatrics).
How do you think the UQ-Ochsner program shaped the doctor you are today?
I believe this program helped to influence the doctor I am today by providing me the opportunity to not just gain a medical education but also have such an amazing life experience that led to individual growth and self-discovery. The unique nature of this program and clinical variety it offers is so impactful and helps to highlight the uniqueness of each patient encounter and to approach every individual with an open mind.
