Meet Dr. Anna Symmes an assistant professor of medicine in the Division of Hospital Medicine.
My interest in medical education started in residency where I had some amazing attendings who acted as both teachers and mentors and have since become friends. Two things that they did that really stuck with me: they gave excellent feedback, and they taught in the moment. These two things really helped me to grow as a physician, as a learner, and as a teacher and has fueled my own passion for feedback and teaching on the fly. I have had the privilege of giving talks on these subjects to residents, small groups, and faculty at UNC, the Wilmington campus, and elsewhere.
A few years ago, I got a chance to be the clerkship director at East Carolina University and discovered that 4th year medical students are some of my favorite learners to work with. Some of my most meaningful moments as an educator have come while walking students through decisions about specialty, where to apply to residency, who to ask for letters of recommendation and what to do about their rank list. I love watching students succeed in their specialty of choice (not always IM, but I’m thrilled when they chose our awesome specialty!) and have stayed in touch with many of my former students.
I have kept that interest in educating 4th year students here at UNC, helping to start the direct care hospitalist teaching service AI out at Hillsborough this year, I am also a CGA for several students. Outside of medicine, I enjoy cheering on NC State Football where my husband is a coach and watching our toddler daughter explore the world.