Anita is from Albuquerque, NM and has always enjoyed science and math. In college she found a love of neuroscience.
Q&A With Anita
What has your path been like to where you are now?
LONG. Clinically 6 years, followed by 5 1/2 years as post doc. I loved basic science in college, but in med school when you have to spend a year long research, that confirmed that I wanted to be a physician scientist who ran a lab.
What do you love most about what you are doing now?
Cool new data/understanding of brain-micros infractions. Colleagues, including grad students post doc.
What are some of your outside interests?
Surviving, sleeping and eating. Used to be reading fiction and playing soccer.
Did you have a mentor that contributed to your growth? Who was that mentor and what lessons did you learn from them? How did you find that person?
Lots of mentors. Donna Ferrico taught me that you can be just an MD and run a lab. John Boothroyd for integrity, how to write grants, and how to address ethical/professional conflicts.
What advice would you give to students?
As long as you enjoy the journey, don't worrky about other people's journey (the percieved success of others vs you). Know what you value.