Joshua

Waldeck

MD

Hometown: Seattle

Undergraduate: United States Military Academy at West Point

Medical School: University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine

Why did you choose VUMC Emergency Medicine? After my interview, I knew Vanderbilt was where I wanted to train. I was struck by the professionalism and genuine camaraderie - both during the interview and second look. The residency leadership is committed to building exceptional teams and training future leaders in EM. Everyone here is focused on being the best clinicians they can be, and people truly care about one another. I wanted to be a part of the "Vandy Fam," and it's the best professional decision I've made. 

Interests in emergency medicine: I chose EM in part for the variety it offers. My interests include medical education, social EM, healthcare policy, and hospital administration. I'm also interested in wilderness medicine, ultrasound, and long-range medical transport.

Five-year plan: Complete a fellowship and practice EM in the Nashville area.

If not EM, what? I would be an attorney.

Hobbies: My wife and I have two children, and we love exploring local parks, libraries, and the Nashville zoo. I also enjoy working out, running, and nerding out over coffee.

Random fact about me: I was a Blackhawk helicopter pilot and flew in the largest targeted U.S. assault on al-Qaeda in Afghanistan (2015-16).