Alison Kosmacki, MD

Education

Undergraduate School: University of Virginia
Medical School: University of Virginia
PubMed name(s): Alison Kosmacki, Kosmacki, A

Residency

Why did you choose WashU for your residency?
Regardless of your future career goals, WU will prepare you to become a competent and independent OBGYN. Barnes Jewish Hospital draws from a huge geographic area and provides care to a range of pathology. What I love about WU is because of the volume, residents here become experts in managing bread-and-butter obstetric and gyn cases but also become adept at caring for very sick patients with diseases that are rarely seen at smaller institutions.  I was looking for a place that would allow me to learn by doing and challenge me to take on a level of autonomy that pushed my comfort zone. WU is definitely that place.

What do you like best about being a resident at WashU?
My co-residents make even the longest days at work 100x better. We support each other – whether it’s by helping finish up labor progress notes when the other person is busy with deliveries, or bringing in snacks to share, or sending someone a quick text to check-in after a rough day. The chiefs look out for the junior residents and there’s a strong culture of paying it forward to your co-residents.  I truly couldn’t pick better people to work with! The Friday morning brunches when you’re on nights are also a highlight of the program.

What are your career goals/interests?
I’m interested in education, so am hoping to become involved in medical student education and contributing to the clerkship curriculum, as well as peer-led teaching sessions for the residents.

Fellowship plans:
Still evolving! I came into residency leaning towards pursuing a gyn-centric fellowship but have loved labor so TBD!

Personal

Hometown: Alexandria, Virginia

What do you do outside of work?
I’m enjoying exploring St. Louis’s food and beer scene whenever possible. The best meal I’ve had so far was at Pastaria in Clayton.  Favorite brewery is Side Project but I have many more still to check-out.  There’s also great live music in St. Louis. And, of course, I’ve become a band wagon fan of the Cardinals and the Blues. Play Gloria!

Fun fact:
Still haven’t tried Provel cheese. Not entirely sure what it is but I think it’s too late to ask.