In this month’s resident spotlight, we feature Ashley Blau, MD, a second-year Internal Medicine resident on the research track, from Milford, CT. We recently caught up with Dr. Blau to learn more about her clinical and research interests, her favorite Worcester activities, and more!  

 


What are your clinical and research interests?
I am currently focused on cardiology and interested in utilizing my research background to study genetic cardiomyopathies. Prior to medical school, I completed a master’s degree in biology with a focus on epigenetics at Clark University in Worcester. Following my interest in genetics, I became the research project manager of the Translational Genomics Core and Biobank at Mass General Brigham. There, I was deeply inspired by the physician-scientists I collaborated with and saw how the research we conducted positively impacted patients. I decided to go to medical school to become a physician-scientist. I am excited to continue my training here at UMass and look forward to expanding my research background as a member of the internal medicine residency research track.  

What makes UMass a great place for your residency? 
I am convinced we have one of the most supportive residency programs in the country. It is obvious that UMass invests in its future and its people. As part of the resident wellness committee and women in medicine group, I have realized how our input as residents is valued and used to guide new initiatives and programs. Our entire internal medicine residency program goes above and beyond to foster a positive and collaborative environment for growth. In addition to the many research opportunities available, we have a wide range of subspecialties that strengthen our IM training experience. UMass is able to combine these various important aspects of training in a warm and inclusive environment that make it an excellent place for residency.  

Favorite hobby?
One of my favorite hobbies is traveling and exploring new places. I plan vacations around areas to hike and enjoy nature. My husband and I take cooking classes in each country we visit and enjoy trying to re-create restaurant meals back at home. I am also attempting to create a small jungle inside my home with house plants. So far, I have been pretty successful. I can usually be found lounging with my cats in the sun. 

Favorite thing to do in Worcester/Worcester area?
With all the state parks and lakes in this area, it is hard to pick one, but I particularly like Purgatory Chasm. My husband and I tend to make weekly trips to Worcester Public Market—we often stop by Seed to Stem to add to our growing collection of house plants. Because we attended college here, we enjoy visiting our old favorite restaurants (Baba sushi) and exploring new ones.