Pam O’Dea

I first developed an interest in brain function when I was a high school student exploring the basics of neuroanatomy and neurochemistry. I took that with me to undergrad where I studied neuroscience and participated in research focused on learning and memory. My enthusiasm for neurology grew throughout my clinical years as I worked firsthand with patients and faculty.

Family in the area and the plethora of available seafood initially drew my husband and me to Baltimore. I ultimately chose University of Maryland for my residency training because of two key aspects of the program: excellent foundation of learning opportunities and the residents and faculty themselves. The program at University of Maryland has sub-specialized experts in almost every area of neurology, a well-regarded Neurocritical Care unit, and a diverse patient population. I am as of yet undecided what area of neurology I intend to go into, and I knew this wide range of clinical encounters would give me outstanding experience and training, regardless of how I decide to practice in the future. The residents and faculty struck me as a group of people with whom I would fit in, enjoy working, and learn plenty of neurology.

Outside of the hospital, I spend most of my time with my husband and our pets, a cat and a rabbit. We enjoy hiking, days at the beach, reading, and I personally am a big fan of knitting. As transplants to the area, we also enjoy exploring the Baltimore and the mid-Atlantic region.