Alumna Dr. Rosputni Spoke at 2023 Physiology Graduation Ceremony

Earlier this year, Christie Rosputni, MD, graduated from the College of Medicine – Tucson and began her residency at Banner – University Medical Center, the college’s clinical partner. As an alumna of the physiology program, she was invited to deliver the keynote address at the 2023 physiology graduation ceremony in May, where she shared how her physiology degree helped her on her path, opened up about stress and burnout, and shared advice with the new graduates.

After trying a few different careers, such as a chef, software engineer and a product manager, Dr. Rosputni began training to be a medical assistant in her late 20s. It was through this training that she realized that medicine was the right field for her. She loved the training so much, that she decided to enroll into the physiology program. Dr. Rosputni remembers an immediate benefit she found as a student.

“The physiology courses were taught by professors who also taught at the College of Medicine – Tucson, and I liked that the physiology major would give me a taste of what was to come in medical school,” Dr. Rosputni told the audience.

Dr. Rosputni also found camaraderie in the Physiology Honors Academy, where she met a group of students who shared her goals, ambition and dedication. Dr. Rosputni also mentioned receiving outstanding mentorship from faculty members, including John Konhilas, PhD, professor of physiological sciences, Melanie Hingle, PhD, MPH, RDN, associate professor of nutritional sciences, and Lucinda Rankin, PhD, associate professor of physiology.

“I can’t say enough wonderful things about Dr. Rankin,” Dr. Rosputni shared. “I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for her support, encouragement, and our many meetings over coffee at Starbucks and Raging Sage.”

After reminiscing about her time as a physiology student, Dr. Rosputni opened up to the audience about her experiences with burnout as a medical student. During her first year in medical school, her husband was away for a month helping his father recover from surgery, and she had to balance the roles of a single mom and a student. Then, in her second year, she lost a close family member, leading to another stressful time.

Dr. Rosputni told the audience that in these times, it’s important to have a strong support system.

“My husband and children showed me love and support no matter how neurotic I got about studying for exams,” Dr. Rosputni recalled. “My husband did literally everything around the house so I could focus on school. My friends provided camaraderie and gave me an outlet to vent. And, of course, the mentors and professors who supported me and believed in me.”

Dr. Rosputni encouraged the graduates in the audience to reflect on how far they’ve come since they started school. She asked them to look back, not just on what they learned in class, but what they learned about themselves.

Dr. Rosputni ended the speech by giving a final piece of advice to the new graduates.

“For those of you going into graduate and professional programs, continue to support your family, friends and mentors as they have supported you,” Dr. Rosputni said. “For those of you who don’t know what the future holds, take every opportunity that comes your way. You never know what you may learn about yourself and your interests. Regardless of what the future holds for you, always prioritize your self-care and continue to believe in yourself. You are capable of so much more than you realize.”