My Journey into Medical Writing

My Initial Curiosity in Science

From a young age, I was drawn to the sciences, largely because of my father, who always emphasized their importance. His background as a psychiatrist sparked my early interest in neuroscience. I have a quiet, analytical nature, which made the field a natural fit for me. While I didn’t have the most traditional or supportive relationship with him, his influence on my intellectual curiosity was undeniable.

I went on to study Neuroscience and Behavior at Wesleyan University, where I earned my BA, and initially considered pursuing psychiatry. However, I soon realized that the laboratory was a better fit for me, leading me to continue my studies at Albany Medical College, where I earned my PhD in Neuropharmacology and Neuroscience.

Discovering Science Communication

During my time in graduate school and my postdoctoral fellowships, I discovered that my true passion was writing about science, not conducting experiments. I found fulfillment in the process of distilling complex concepts into clear, engaging materials. I took pride in focusing on what mattered most to the audience, rather than getting lost in the minutiae that often preoccupy many scientists. This realization led me to make the transition into medical writing.

Transitioning to Medical Writing

My first step was in promotional medical education, specifically in psychiatry. But soon, I felt a desire to broaden my horizons and explore other therapeutic areas. I was fortunate enough to land an opportunity at a CME company where I could learn oncology, a field that intrigued me for its complexity and potential impact. I appreciated the balance between the educational standards and the focus on adult learning in this environment.

A Personal Connection to Oncology

This experience also brought me closer to my father in unexpected ways. When he was diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and was considering immunotherapy, I found myself at his side, discussing the very immunotherapies I had written about for a CME activity.

It was difficult for him to speak, so I sat with him and the oncologist, helping bridge the gap of understanding at a time when communication had become a struggle for him. This was one of the most profound moments of my life, being able to provide clarity to him when he needed it most, even as I reconciled my complicated feelings about him.

Prioritizing Freedom and Work/Life Balance

After my father’s passing, I made the decision to fully commit to freelance medical writing. While I had always used freelance work as a way to gain new experiences and explore opportunities, I found myself at a point in my life where I desired more freedom and control. The path had brought me to this point to aloe myself to chart a course that aligned with my values and goals.

Now, as a freelance medical writer, I am dedicated to continuing on this path, one shaped by a mix of influences, my own hard-earned experiences, and my personal commitment to providing clear, accessible, and scientifically rigorous content.