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Himmelfarb Headlines: Faculty Profile - Patrick Corr, Assistant Professor of Clinical Research and Leadership

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Faculty Profile - Interview with Patrick Corr, Assistant Professor of Clinical Research and Leadership

Faculty Profile

Himmelfarb Library continues this feature in our newsletter that lets us become better acquainted with our friends and colleagues at the George Washington University. We learn more about Patrick Corr, Assistant Professor of Clinical Research and Leadership in this issue.

Tell us a little bit about yourself, and about the work you are currently engaged in?
My name is Patrick and I am an Assistant Professor of Clinical Research and Leadership, the Vice Program Director for Integrative Medicine, and a co-PI of the Frame-Corr Laboratory. I have worked in academic medicine since graduating with my BA in 2012 and have “grown up” with GW since joining the university back in 2016! My work focuses on integrative medicine, public health nutrition, and enhancing resilience and well-being within healthcare settings. GW has presented me with a number of opportunities to grow my scholarly identity, particularly in the realm of integrative medicine and whole person health. I have a strong background in educational leadership and have actively participated in shaping health sciences education through various roles. More than anything, I think of myself as a teacher and a mentor and have been incredibly lucky to find a community that embraces me and my work!

What brought you to GW?
Coming to GW was actually a happy accident! My partner and I met in Boston and had budding careers in Massachusetts. I was working in academic administration for a small medical school and he was working at the Massachusetts State House. In 2016, my partner was offered a job on the Hill and we decided to make the move to DC! I was incredibly fortunate to find GW during this period of transition - the people I met here have become some of the closest friends and collaborators over the last eight years.

What inspired you to work in your field?
While my career has always been in academic medicine, it wasn't until a personal health experience that I found my way to integrative medicine. In 2017, shortly after moving to DC, I was diagnosed with early-stage cancer. I was incredibly fortunate to receive excellent care, and after four months of treatment, I responded fully. This experience, however, gave me a profound perspective on the importance of whole-person care and highlighted the inequities that exist within our healthcare system. As a patient navigating the system, I came to understand firsthand the complex interplay between social and structural determinants of health and patient outcomes. This personal journey deepened my awareness of how integrative care can significantly impact individuals' lives and brought to light the disparities in access to health resources. Witnessing these dynamics has fueled my passion for this field. My ongoing motivation comes from both the positive effects of integrative care and the desire to address the inequities present in our healthcare system.

What is your favorite aspect of your work?
Without question, the best part of my job is getting to work with students. I have a unique role in SMHS that has me teaching undergraduate students, graduate learners, and doctoral candidates. The opportunity to support all manners of students as they grow into compassionate, skilled healthcare professionals is an incredible honor. I take great pride in advising students, helping them navigate their research and career paths, and learning from them. I became a full-time faculty member in 2022 - in this time I’ve been able to publish with students, support multiple doctoral students through their dissertations, and and guide them in their professional journeys. However, what truly stands out is how much I have learned from them. Their curiosity, fresh perspectives, and dedication to making a difference constantly inspire and challenge me to grow as both an educator and a researcher. It's a reciprocal relationship where their questions and insights push me to think more deeply about my work.

What library resources or services have you found to be the most useful?
Oh, I am sure Tom Harrod, one of the Himmelfarb Research Librarians, knows the answer to this question! I reach out to our incredible librarians for support and guidance all the time. Our library staff are one of the most supportive resources in terms of research consultations, guidance with accessing academic resources, and training on using tools like Covidence for reviews - their expertise and kind training has greatly enhanced my work. I encourage everyone to reach out to them whenever you have questions - they are truly the best.

How do you spend your free time? (or What do you do to relax?)
Exploring the world with my family and our pup, Vince! I try to do a lot of travel, a lot of hiking, and spending time seeing new places and meeting new people. When I’m looking to unwind after a busy day, I also love to curl up on the couch and crochet. If you’re also a crafty person, share some of your projects with me! 

What advice would you give to a new faculty member just starting at GW?
My advice is to build a strong network of mentors and colleagues who can provide guidance and support - the academic career path can be really complicated and isolating! Don’t be afraid to seek help or guidance. Prioritize your well-being and be mindful of the importance of balance. Engage with the diverse opportunities GW offers, and remember that your growth and success will come from collaboration and a willingness to learn from others.