3 Questions for the 2024 Barrow Clinical Neuropsychology Graduates

September will usher in a new academic year for the Clinical Neuropsychology Residency Program at Barrow Neurological Institute. To celebrate our 2024 graduates, we asked them to reflect on their most memorable moments at Barrow, the advice they would give to their younger selves on their first day of training, and which individuals influenced them the most during their time here. We’ve compiled their responses below.

“Your fortitude and perseverance will serve you well as you embark on your future careers. It has been an honor to work with all of you during this final time in your training. I wish you all the best as you begin this next chapter of life.” – Krista Hanson, PhD, ABPP-CN, Director, Clinical Neuropsychology Residency Program

Caleb Barcenas, PhD

New role: Clinical Neuropsychologist, Center for Transitional Neuro-Rehabilitation at Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona

1. My most memorable moment at Barrow was the day I learned about how our PTO works.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be: Figure out when monthly omelet day is. This will significantly improve your quality of life.
3. The people who have influenced me the most at Barrow have been my fellow residents, who made my training experience enjoyable and memorable.

Bianca Kdeiss, PsyD

New role: Neuropsychologist, Cone Health LeBauer Neurology, Greensboro, North Carolina

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were trying to safely cross the intersection to the main hospital (if you know, you know).
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow is that sushi is better on Thursdays before noon.
3. The most influential people during my time here have been my co-fellows and technicians. They are a constant reminder of the importance of having an enjoyable work environment and a team that can be trusted. Their mutual trust in me has further pushed me both personally and professionally to be the best version of myself.

Julia Thomas, PhD

New role: Clinical Neuropsychologist, Endeavor Health Medical Group, Arlington Heights, Illinois

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow include Wada procedures, learning to do outpatient assessments in Spanish, and celebrating birthdays in the clinical neuropsychology department.
2. The advice I would give to myself on the first day would be: Don’t be afraid to ask questions and to learn as much as you can from the experts around you.
3. The people who have influenced me the most at Barrow would include my current and former supervisors, especially Drs. Jessica Potvin, Alex Tröster, and Elsa Baena, and my co-fellows.

Please note: Responses have been edited for style and clarity.