We are so excited to showcase some of our brilliant UME educators in the department of medicine and across our AHEC sites. For many of us there are certain teachers in our past who left a mark on our lives and are highly valued. For some they may be the reason you went into medicine or the specialty you are in. The DOM along with the AHEC sites have many highly regarded educators who are closely involved in teaching and mentoring our students. Thus, we want to feature some of our educators so that we can all get to know them better. We want you to meet Dr. Duncan Vincent, site director for clerkship at Greensboro.
Drs. Koyal Jain and Ashley Henderson
Tell us a little about how you got interested in education and your background?
I hail from a family of educators, deeply influenced by my trailblazing grandmother who dedicated her life to being a PE teacher during an era when many women withdrew from the workforce after marriage. Outside of school, she taught swim lessons to children in the community and even authored a small book called, “Teaching Tots to Swim”. My grandfather was also actively involved in the community, mentoring countless children as a Boy Scout leader. My sister and mother followed their footsteps and became teachers as well. It’s no surprise, that from an early age, I gravitated to teaching and mentoring, recognizing their importance in whatever career path I chose.
It was during my year as a chief resident that my passion for medical education solidified. Working with medical students and residents, whether in the wards or in clinic, was just so fun! I love the incredible and bidirectional learning that takes place. Witnessing a trainee grasp a concept and apply it to the patient at the bedside in real time is an unparalleled joy.
What is your role in undergraduate medical education?
Shortly after joining as faculty, I started my position in the SOM as Head Career Goal Advisor for Internal Medicine. Despite the significant learning curve amid the evolving landscape of ERAS and signaling, working with medical students during this pivotal period of their careers has been truly fulfilling.
Navigating medical training, from medical school to residency and even early faculty years, is challenging. I truly believe in normalizing this reality for learners (what we do is hard!). Whether in my role as an attending or an advisor, I strive to create a safe environment, bringing vulnerability, and genuine concern to my interactions with learners. These moments of connection bring a profound sense of fulfillment and joy to my work at UNC.