Name: Amanda Borrelli

School: Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine

Age: 24

Hometown: Little Falls, NJ

Undergraduate school and degree(s): Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey: BA, Biological Sciences (School of Environmental and Biological Sciences); Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York: MPH

Why did you choose podiatry?

I chose podiatry because I believe it is a growing and diverse field of medicine. The geriatric need for great podiatric care will continue to rise as the baby boomer generation retires. Furthermore, there is a growing diabetes epidemic in this country that will need to be addressed head-on by medical professionals. In the forefront of this epidemic will be podiatrists addressing these patients’ needs with quality lower extremity care. I also look forward to practicing in a medical profession that provides such diversity of care, ranging from the normal office check-up to surgical procedures.

What is the biggest surprise/challenge about podiatry school so far?

The biggest challenge about podiatry school so far was reorganizing my priorities. I have a very close-knit family and group of friends who are all still located at home. Prior to beginning school at Temple, I would spend a large majority of my time with them. So, for me, it was, and will continue to be, a challenge to dedicate my time to studying while everyone is together for Sunday dinners and birthday parties back home. Needless to say, I have quickly learned to appreciate, more so, the moments of free time I am fortunate enough to spend with the people I love.

Where do you see yourself in 2040?

In 2040, as a practicing podiatrist, I hope to have an established practice with a diverse patient base. I also hope to raise awareness of the importance of podiatric medicine and research, contribute to the stability of the field, instill preventive care with ideas learned in my public health degree, and to not only be an advocate for fellow podiatrists but to our patients as well. Hopefully, as I progress through my career, I will identify potential opportunities to become entrepreneurial in the field of podiatry. Whether it be a proprietary process or product, I want to improve upon the foundation that others have laid before me to better serve my patients.

What is something surprising about you?

I started a food and fashion blog as a creative outlet while in my master’s program. Surprisingly, something that started as a hobby quickly gained followers and even had a couple of companies that wanted to sponsor it!