Sarah Hirner

Undergraduate School and Major: University of Missouri, B.S. in Chemistry, University of Colorado Boulder, M.S. in Geology

Medical School: University of Colorado School of Medicine

Life/professions/adventures prior to attending medical school: I obtained a Master's degree in Mineral Physics and taught Geology at University of Northern Colorado for three years before deciding to switch careers. During my time teaching, I spent my summers living in a van in British Columbia and climbing full time.

Interests / Hobbies: Rock climbing! I like all types of climbing. Also, running long distances, cooking my way through cookbooks, and hanging with my awesome co-residents.

Favorite Food: Durban-style curry. I spent six months of my fourth year of medical school in South Africa and fell in love with South African Indian food.

What book do you recommend to others and why: The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Luis Zafón. One of my favorite books.

Favorite Hike or Ski trail: The four pass loop in Colorado. It's about 30 miles and goes over four 12,000 foot passes. It was one of my first ultras!

Favorite Beach (doesn’t have to be in Maine): Muizenberg in South Africa

Craziest / Best / Worst Job: I was a cave tour guide for Mark Twain Cave in Hannibal, Missouri when I was 18.

If I weren’t a doctor I would be: A geology professor!

Medical Interests: Palliative care, global health

Personal Goals: Continue growing as a mountain athlete. I want to climb 5.13, do a few long trail runs in the White Mountains, get out on my mountain bike, and become a winter surfer. Continue building community among this incredible group of people in Portland, and take some quiet time for coffee and reflection.

Why MMC: At MMC, you get incredible training (lots of autonomy, procedures, excellent teaching) with the most supportive team in the country. Everyone here wants you to succeed personally and professionally and welcomes you right into the family. I knew I would thrive here.