Get to know Dr. Blair Wiygul, PGY-2 categorical internal medicine resident, extrovert, and dog lover. Here, Dr. Wiygul shares about her decision to stay at UMMC for residency, some of what she’s learned thus far, and a bit about what makes her tick.
Tell us about you.
I was born and raised in Jackson, MS. Growing up I always knew that I wanted to be a doctor. I went to the University of Alabama for undergrad. I came back to Jackson and went to UMMC for medical school, and decided to stay for Internal Medicine residency. I am married and have 2 adorable dogs – Charlie and Shirley!
Why did you choose UMMC for residency?
Not only do I love the state of Mississippi for so many reasons – my family, friends, the food and hospitality – but I also fell in love with the people in the Internal Medicine program. They are compassionate and intelligent and truly want the best for their patients. My mentors and role models at UMMC are some of the smartest and kindest people that I have ever met, and I trust them to train me to be a great doctor. As cheesy as it sounds, I have always thought that the UMMC Internal Medicine department felt like home. Not to mention, we have what I think are the greatest patients in the world.
Tell us about a memorable experience from training.
Wow there are too many to count! I learn something new every single day and feel challenged in the best way possible. I’m really big on wellness. As the social chair and a member of the wellness committee, I would have to say that spending time with my co-residents at work and also outside of work has been the most memorable part of training so far. I genuinely enjoy coming to work and love the people that I get to work with.
What is one thing you would tell the incoming interns about what is to come?
Work hard, have a good attitude, and never be afraid to say you don’t know something. We are all learning together. Be humble and be yourself. Residency is HARD, but we are training to become the kind of doctors we have always admired.
What could you give a presentation with absolutely no preparation?
Why you should own a golden retriever!
What are some small things that make your day better?
Grabbing an iced latte from cups and seeing my friends in the lounge/at noon conference.
Where could we find you when you are not at the hospital?
Hanging out with my dogs and husband, reading a book on the lake, or cooking a new recipe!
What profession would you have chosen if you weren’t a physician?
I would have either gone to culinary school or been an esthetician. I love cooking and would have loved to have been a chef at a cool farm-to-table restaurant. Also, big fan of taking care of your skin – wear your sunscreen!
Progress Notes 