Meet Grace Mockaitis, Quinnipiac Medical Student and SHARE Learner

This autumn, we were delighted to host medical student Grace Mockaitis, from the Netter School of Medicine at Quinnipiac. Studying and training to be a neurologist, Grace appreciated the close-up view of psychiatry and psychology at Silver Hill and our perspective of the patient as a whole person. 

I decided to go to medical school towards the end of my junior year of college. I was initially interested in psychology but quickly realized that what I was really fascinated by was the brain. I worked in neuroscience labs in college, but it wasn’t until I shadowed a neurologist that I realized I wanted to pursue a career in medicine.

I’m actually applying to be a neurologist! However, there’s a huge overlap between the specialties, and I wanted to gain more experience in psychology before residency. I think it’s a specialty every physician can benefit from.

I’ve spent two weeks at Scavetta (Substance Use Residential Program) and two weeks at The Lodge (Neuropsychiatric Residential Program). Everyone here has been incredible to work with and extremely knowledgeable. They do an excellent job really seeing patients as the complex person they are instead of just a diagnosis. 

I love the view of the stone bridges and river as you’re walking toward Jurgenson Building (on East Campus). I was lucky enough to do my rotation in the fall and got to appreciate the beautiful fall foliage.

I’m going to an endocrinology rotation next and will continue to interview for residency throughout the winter!

Originally from Oregon, I always love outdoor activities. Hiking, paddleboarding in the summer and snowshoeing in the winter are among my favorites! My frequent (failed) attempt to keep an indoor garden alive is also always a goal.