Kayla Reynolds, MD

Where are you from? Ninety Six, South Carolina.

Why did you choose the College of Medicine – Tucson Pediatrics Residency Program? I chose the College of Medicine – Tucson for many reasons. The warm weather here (with the guarantee that I would not have to shovel snow off my car in the winter) and the gorgeous mountain views; the Spanish Language Distinction Track; the academic half-days; and the bonus of having the parking garage being connected to the hospital.

What are your current professional interests and career goals? I came in knowing I wanted to be inpatient. Thank God for people who want to do outpatient so I don’t have to. But I wasn’t sure what specialty I was going to do. After completing a year, I’m really passionate about neonatology and am looking forward to more experiences.

What are your personal interests and hobbies? Love love love card games (my wedding was even card-themed), and I enjoy board games as well. Some of my fellow residents like to get together to have board game nights. Also, I really enjoy watching anime and K-dramas. I thought I liked hiking before I moved here, and now I love it. Other than that, my love for reading was rekindled because of a book club some of the residents started.

What is your favorite thing about Tucson? The views are my favorite thing about Tucson. I mean, those mountains! Such a boost of serotonin to get to see them every day. Another favorite view is looking down at the city at night from the top of Tumamoc Hill — absolutely gorgeous.

What are your nonmedical goals during residency? Some nonmedical goals of mine during residency are to create more personal baking recipes, visit the Grand Canyon and stay connected with family and friends from back home.