Ryan grew up dreaming of a career in politics.
“I went to college in Washington, DC, and interned on Capitol Hill for several years. I am still active on the political scene in North Carolina, but realized I wanted a career that helped people in a more direct way,” she said. “I did some self-reflection and realized my Type A personality, love of learning, and desire to directly help people best aligned with a nursing career. Becoming a nurse practitioner was the second best decision I ever made, only second to marrying my husband!”
Ryan chose to specialize in internal medicine for three reasons.
First, nurse practitioners are specially trained to provide comprehensive care for the whole patient considering physical, social and emotional health at every encounter, which is essential in internal medicine.
Second, the long-term relationships with the patients. Internal medicine is unique in the longevity of the patient-provider relationship. “While we work on patients’ goals of health and wellness, we learn about each other’s lives, share funny stories and celebrate life’s joys!” Ryan said.
Third, internal medicine presents continuous challenges. Healthcare providers need to know a lot about varied conditions.
Originally from Charlotte, Ryan loves to travel and has been to 28 countries and 36 states! She loves everything the Raleigh area has to offer, particularly the food, art scene, and the people.
“I am inspired by people. People who do the right thing when the alternative is easier. People who protect and champion others. People who manage to find joy when things are difficult. People who live life in the service of others and for the greater good. These people inspire me to try each day to work a little harder, be a bit more compassionate, and to always choose to do the right thing,” she said.
Ryan also enjoys strength training, running and playing tennis badly.
“Women start losing 3-5% of their muscle mass every decade starting at 30. It is imperative to our long-term health that we pull, push, lift, jump and plank!” Ryan said.
She and her husband live in downtown Raleigh with two daughters and several pets: Gus, a shepherd mix, a bunny named Pickett, and a frog named Pickle.
