In this month’s Fellow Spotlight, we highlight Allyson Hughes, MD, a Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine fellow. Here, Dr. Hughes describes her clinical and research interests, why she chose UMass for her fellowship, and her passion for figure skating. 

Hometown?
Owensboro, KY 

What are your clinical and research interests?
I am interested in medical education and sleep medicine. I plan to pursue further training in sleep medicine after I complete my time at UMass Chan. 

Why did you choose UMass for your fellowship?
The Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine fellowship at UMass is top-notch for clinical education and procedural training. I wanted a hands-on fellowship where I would complete my training and be certain that I possessed the knowledge and skills necessary to step into an attending role with confidence.  

Where is your favorite place to travel for vacation and why?
I love to travel to new places and immerse myself in unique cultures, geography, and food. I have been lucky to explore most states in the US and a few countries, but there is a lot more on my bucket list! 

What is your favorite game or sport to watch and play?
My favorite sport is figure skating. I grew up skating and then coached for many years; skating holds the most special place in my heart. It is the type of sport you can do forever, no matter your age, talent, or how busy life gets, and I still feel at home on the ice, even if it’s at a rink I’ve never been in before. The sport continues to evolve, and athletes push it to new limits, which makes it fun to watch over and over!