Meet clinical fellow Jody Sharninghausen, MD, who was inspired to pursue medicine while teaching piano lessons to inner-city youth.
Q+A
Fellow Focus in Four: Jody Sharninghausen, Geriatrics
Why did you decide to pursue a career in medicine?
While studying at the New England Conservatory of Music, I was inspired to pursue medicine while teaching piano lessons to inner-city youth at a pediatrician-founded community-based organization.
Why did you choose the Yale Department of Internal Medicine for your fellowship?
I was drawn to Yale Internal Medicine residency for many reasons, including the excellent geriatrics program. There is a culture of mentorship and encouragement to pursue projects that you are passionate about. I got involved with several geriatrics and music-related projects during residency, and staying on as a fellow has allowed for continuity.
What was your path to Yale?
I was born and raised in Washington State, then moved to the East Coast to study at the New England Conservatory of Music. I continued to live and work in Boston while completing post-bac premedical studies, before returning home for medical school at the University of Washington. I was delighted to match at Yale for the Internal Medicine Traditional Residency Program and stayed an extra year as an ambulatory chief resident.
What's a fun fact about you?
Growing up, my dream job was to be a children's book illustrator.
Article outro
Geriatrics, one of 10 sections in the Yale Department of Internal Medicine, strives to improve the health of older adults by providing exceptional patient care, training future leaders and innovators in aging, and engaging in cutting-edge research. To learn more, visit Geriatrics.