Medicine is a second career for Monica, who graduated with an undergraduate degree in advertising from Northern Arizona University. In the mid 90s, she moved north for an “Alaska adventure” and has called Anchorage home ever since. Working for years with her clients at Providence Alaska Medical Center sparked a long-term desire to become a family physician. She returned to school at UAA to complete her pre-med requirements and graduated from the University of Washington School of Medicine WWAMI program. She has a special interest in caring for vulnerable and underserved populations. Prior to medical school, she spent several years volunteering as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for Alaska’s abused and neglected children. During medical school, she focused her volunteer efforts helping the homeless in both Alaska and Seattle. Monica’s husband of 15 years and her two sons share in her enthusiasm for the opportunity to complete her training right here at home. She enjoys hiking, biking, yoga, cooking and spending time with her boys.