Why OHSU
Why OHSU: “When I came here, the faculty and staff treated me with a level of kindness and respect I could have never imagined. Everyone here always looks out for others and it is such a positive work environment. Also, being here pushed me to become an outdoors person.”
Favorite Portland Activity: “Kayaking on the Willamette and trying all the amazing local restaurants!”
Why OHSU? I was initially drawn to OHSU’s focus on multidisciplinary care for children with disabilities and their families. OHSU also provided the perfect blend of my interests in Autism Spectrum Disorder and neuropsychology, which made it a natural choice for me for fellowship. When I arrived, I was struck by the supportive, laid-back, and collaborative atmosphere in the department. I immediately felt welcomed and at home. The most important factor was how the faculty got to know each fellow as an individual and as “real people,” strengthening relationships and providing greater opportunities for growth within a supportive environment.
Favorite Portland Activity: It’s so hard to choose just one! The best thing about Portland is the location, situated close to the coast, Mt. Hood and the Gorge. It provides ample opportunity for hiking, chasing waterfalls, skiing, and checking out local wineries, breweries, and food carts.
Why OHSU: “When I interviewed here, I was really impressed by how the faculty seemed so committed to training students. I also loved that everyone emphasized work-life balance and asked me about what I do for fun outside of work!”
Favorite Portland activity: “I love running in the parks within the city limits, like Forest Park and the Marquam trails (which border OHSU!). And the opportunities for outdoor recreation in Oregon are absolutely amazing. There are mountains, coast, lush forest, and high desert all within a few hours of a vibrant city with a fantastic food scene!”
Why OHSU? I completed my internship at OHSU (and had such a positive experience!) so felt extremely lucky to be able to stay on for fellowship. I found the mentorship at OHSU to be unparalleled - the faculty are brilliant but also extremely kind, generous, and down-to-earth people. Time and time again, I was amazed by the concern given for my professional growth and overall well-being. My co-fellows were also a highlight during my time at OHSU! Our fellow group felt like family and we always had each other’s backs.
Favorite Portland Activity: Frequenting local farmer’s markets, berry-picking on Sauvie Island with my husband and two young kids (3 and 1 years), and relaxing on the beautiful Oregon coast.
Why OHSU? I chose to come to OHSU for internship because this site allowed me to continue to develop expertise working with individuals with autism and their families.” OHSU stood out to me most during internship applications in the way the faculty approached training and their interactions with each other. They are skilled clinicians, thoughtful supervisors, and all around fun people who also understand having a work/life balance. I loved it so much that I stayed on for a postdoctoral fellowship specializing in ASD assessment and pediatric neuropsychology, a combination of training that is hard to find elsewhere.
Favorite Portland Activity: Hiking in forest park with my dog.
Why OHSU? I chose OHSU for my intern year because of the opportunities for excellent training in pediatric psychology and neuropsychology. I stayed for fellowship because of the amazing supervisors, faculty, and colleagues I get to work with and learn from in the Division of Psychology as well as across the hospital. I have truly learned and progressed more in my two years at OHSU than I did in all my past education and training experiences combined. In addition, living in Oregon has allowed me to explore some of the most beautiful places on Earth.
Favorite Portland Activity: There are too many amazing adventures to list, but I love hiking, backpacking, skiing, and trail-running the varied landscapes of the beautiful Northwest including the Columbia Gorge, Mt. Hood, and the coast.
Why OHSU? It was important for me and my family to find a program that would fit with our values and lifestyle. The community in Portland is constantly working towards inclusivity, equity, and justice. After having previously trained at OHSU and having lived in Portland, it was an easy decision to come back to a place that felt like home. I knew I would receive the best possible training, as the mentors I’ve had at OHSU have been some of the most dedicated and supportive. And the cherry on top is that I’m able to live in a place that allows for my favorite leisure activities, regardless of the season (hiking, camping, going to the beach, skiing, biking….).
Favorite Portland Activity: Weekend farmer’s markets & soaking tubs (I can’t choose just one!)
Why OHSU? I was initially drawn to OHSU for the rigor of the internship program, but once I met the people I would be working with, I knew I wanted to make this my professional home. I continue to be amazed by the humility and curiosity that my supervisors approach their work with. As an intern, I feel like a respected colleague and my expertise is highly valued. I truly believe that OHSU values the person. Even as interns, we are encouraged to practice self-care and establish an appropriate balance between work and personal life. OHSU is a lifelong learner’s dream!
Favorite Portland Activity: The food scene in Portland is phenomenal! From food trucks to breweries to family-owned restaurants, you cannot go wrong. We love going to various Thai, Indian, and Japanese restaurants. Our favorite weekend activities include heading to the coast for the day, exploring in the mountains, or relaxing in the parks in Portland.