The Salvatore P. Marra Fellowship has given me the training and opportunity to promote my career in the field of clinical neuropsychology. My tenure thus far has allowed me to work closely with patients afflicted with brain AVMs through clinical interventions and research endeavors. I am currently involved in a Dana Project entitled “The detection and early brain plasticity in patients treated for cerebral arteriovenous malformations,” in which we are investigating brain reorganization in patients who have AVMs. This research will help understand the brain functioning of patients with AVM, both before and after embolization, and will ultimately allow for better treatment planning. In addition, this research on brain reorganization will help clinicians and researchers in the field of vascular neurology who work with patients with many different cerebrovascular conditions. During my second year, I look forward to becoming involved in a research project on cognitive outcomes in the ARUBA study, a clinical trial that is investigating treatment modalities for unruptured AVMs. In addition, I have had the opportunity for close mentorship with Dr. Lazar while researching and writing a book chapter on AVM that will be published in his upcoming book, “Neurovascular Neuropsychology.”

During my fellowship, I have worked clinically with patients with a brain AVM and with their families. Not only have I been able to provide clinical interventions through neurocognitive evaluation but as the Marra Fellow I strive to provide additional comfort and support to the patients and families through a very difficult time. Drs. Lazar and Festa have provided invaluable clinical supervision and have helped improve my clinical acumen.

It is through this combination of clinical interventions and research that I plan to make an impact in the field of AVM and other cerebrovascular conditions. I hope to educate other professionals who are not familiar with the clinical nature of AVM and the potential treatment options. The Marra Fellowship has provided an invaluable professional opportunity for me in my training as a neuropsychologist, and I plan to expand my knowledge about AVM while a fellow at Columbia University Medical Center and to carry that knowledge with me throughout my career. I look forward to another great year and feel honored to be the first Salvatore P. Marra Fellow.