Christiana (Noelle) N. Driver

Why did you choose research as a career?

I want to be able to effectively use and contribute to the evidence base that drives patient care, and to use data to discern the best ways to care for the patient in front of me.

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences?

Like Mayo Clinic as a whole, the graduate school is committed to excellence, and the community is very kind. I am always amazed at how well-resourced we are in every possible way to foster success and inspiration, and at the commitment to putting the patient first.

Why did you choose the clinical and translational science track?

I want to focus my research on methods that can directly impact patient care and quality of life.

What do you like about Rochester, Minnesota?

There is always so much going on in Rochester, both at Mayo Clinic and in the surrounding community. I love being able to pop by the Rochester Art Center for a new exhibit, hit the trails for a bike ride or ski, or attend lectures by world-renowned experts. It may seem too small to some, but I've found everything I need here to stay busy and have fun.

What are your plans for the future?

After graduating from medical school, my plan is to pursue a residency program. I don't know yet what specialty I will choose, but I am excited to have the skills from this master's degree program to address gaps in the clinical knowledge base.