![Sarah Johnson-Cotes](/sites/default/files/styles/square_crop_scale/public/2024-07/sarah_johnsoncotes_300x300.jpg?h=6c83441f&itok=C373Y0Z0)
Start Year: 2024
BASICS
Hometown
Bayside, Queens, NYC
Where did you attend college/university?
The City College of New York, Manhattan, New York
Where did you attend medical school?
CUNY School of Medicine
REFLECTIONS ON THE DUKE PROGRAM
What were you looking for in a residency program?
I was looking for a residency program that challenged me and exposed me to a variety of subspecialties within the field of pediatrics. I wanted a close-knit, family oriented culture at my program as well as support in whichever field I decide to pursue.
What do you want to get involved in at Duke that particularly interests you?
I want to get involved in research and pediatric advocacy projects. I also want to give back to the community through the community elective, as well as staying involved throughout my time in residency to improve the lives of children in Durham.
What are the strengths of the Duke program?
Duke has a balance between academia and clinical skill enhancement. Not only will I learn first hand from my co-residents and attendings on management, but I will continue to expand my knowledge through academic lectures, morning report, and presentations. Duke also provides so many tracks I could see myself pursuing from research to global health to advocacy. The opportunities at Duke are limitless which made it my number one choice for residency.
MORE ABOUT THE RESIDENT
What's best about living in Durham and the Triangle?
I have not yet visited Durham, however from word of mouth and online research I have heard amazing things. I learned that Durham is peaceful, beautiful, and calm with nice weather and friendly neighbors. I am looking forward to the slower pace in Durham compared to NYC.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I love to spend time with my husband, siblings, parents, and grandma. They are my support system and mean the world to me. We love getting together on NFL Sundays to watch the games and bond together. I also love binge watching dating TV series like Love is Blind, Love Island, and the Bachelor. I love going on walks and listening to music to clear my mind.
What is something interesting/surprising about you?
I am expecting my first born daughter close to the beginning of residency and I feel like I am achieving two of my biggest dreams at the same time, becoming a mother and a doctor. I am also multi-racial and come from a diverse family so I always love learning about other people's cultures and traditions and trying new recipes outside of my normal cuisine.