First, tell us about you.
I am a first year Rheumatology fellow. I went to William Carey for medical school prior to joining the UMMC family for Internal Medicine residency. Before medical school, I worked as a Medical Technologist in north Mississippi. I have been married to my lovely wife, Casey for 10 years. We have two daughters, Anna (6) and Claire (4).
When did you know you wanted to pursue Rheumatology?
I decided on Rheumatology towards the end of my second year in residency. I was drawn to Rheumatology because it allows specialization while keeping up with multiple organ systems. I like the long-term relationships that can develop between patients and Rheumatologists. Additionally, it offers the potential for a nice work-life balance and it is the happiest specialty!
What do you like most about UMMC?
UMMC is ideal for medical education. It is large enough to provide a wide variety of multi-disciplinary resources, yet small enough that it never feels overwhelming. No matter where I go on campus, I am always able to find a familiar face. It also helps that patients offer plenty of opportunities to learn pathology.
Share a memory of your time here.
There are so many memories! I will never forget the nervousness I had before my first day (it turned out alright), long calls on house medicine, Dr. Lelli’s memes plastered on the door of every resident workroom, playing laser tag at the resident retreat, and all the laughs we had in the resident lounge.
What advice would you give to the interns?
You have come so far! Yet, after undergrad, medical school, and board exams you are about to spend the next few years learning even more about yourself and actually how to be a doctor. There will be stressful times, long hours, and difficult decisions. You will feel like an imposter. DON’T. Trust yourself, your training, and count on your peers.
What could you give a 40 minute presentation on without preparation?
The heartbreak of a sports fan: Atlanta Braves, New Orleans Saints, and anything Ole Miss. (Except this year, we’re winning it all!)
What is something you wish you knew more about?
Raising daughters through middle school and high school. I imagine the next decade or so will be more challenging than medical education.
What are some small things that make your day better?
Automatic coffee machines, podcasts, small talk with coworkers, and the sound of my daughters laughing.
Dr. Cirino and his family 
Dr. Cirino and his family
Progress Notes 