Meet Megan McNamara, Quinnipiac Medical Student and SHARE Learner

This past month, we’ve been delighted to host Medical Student, Megan McNamara, from the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac. A native of Southern California, Megan crossed the country to study medicine and to experience first-hand seasons and temperatures previously unknown.  Great news for the east coast — she likes it!   Meet Megan McNamara. 

I decided to go to medical school in undergrad when I joined a hospital volunteer program. At that time, I was still considering ecology as I was a general bio major. When I began volunteering, I realized that I wanted to continue working with people while continuing to learn about biology.

I’m actually not studying to be a psychiatrist! I want to go into primary care or be a hospitalist. I am applying to Internal Medicine right now. I wanted to do this rotation to continue to learn about all aspects of medicine. Additionally, psychiatry touches all aspects of medicine. Primary will also see psychiatric patients in some capacity.

I spent two weeks at The Lodge and then two weeks with adolescents between Main 3 and K-House. I learned so much about how to interact with patients and how to provide reassurance vs. redirection when needed. The team here is incredible and I’ve had a great time.

My favorite spot is the chairs by the river across from JB (Jurgenson Building) near Steward House. It’s a calming place to sit and watch the water while eating lunch. I normally bring my own lunch, but the quesadilla certainly hits the spot if I forget!

After Silver Hill, I will start a rotation in nephrology. The kidney will be a far cry from psychiatry.

I’m a very active person so I enjoy running, hiking, and going to the gym. I also camp/backpack when I have more free time. I also like learning new skills such as crochet and brewing beer. I’m also an avid reader. Hobbies are often weather dependent.