Olivia Keller
Education: University of St. Thomas
MD Mentor: Dr. Alan Bank
Staff Mentors: Fernando Santiago/ Kevin Burns
Project: Electrical Dyssynchrony Mapping for CRT Optimization
How did you hear about the MHIF internship and why did you want to participate?
I first discovered the MHIF internship online, and after speaking with several past interns on LinkedIn, it quickly became clear that this was an invaluable opportunity. I was especially inspired by Jayne, our lead intern this year, who I previously worked with during an internship at Twin Cities Orthopedics. Her enthusiasm and the way she spoke about how much she learned through MHIF made it easy for me to know this was something I wanted to be part of.
What sparked your interest in the field of research, medicine and cardiology?
After undergoing three surgeries following a snowboarding accident, I experienced medicine through a very personal lens as a patient. That perspective sparked a new curiosity and led me to shadow physicians, explore research opportunities, and ask bigger questions about health and healing. A medical mission trip to Honduras was a solidifying point. While assisting in the OR during a life-saving surgery, a patient I had helped care for broke down and thanked me. It was that moment that I knew I wanted to become a physician. My interest in cardiology has grown more recently, especially after taking a biochemistry course this year where I became fascinated by metabolic health and its critical role in preventing cardiovascular disease.
What is your desired career in medicine?
Right now, I’m particularly interested in sports medicine and orthopedic surgery, inspired by my own athletic background and experiences as a patient. However, I’m committed to keeping an open mind and exploring other specialties, especially through this internship. I’m excited to learn more about cardiology and how it intersects with broader health outcomes, and I see this as an important step in discovering where I can make the most meaningful impact as a future physician.
What are you most looking forward to this summer?
I’m most looking forward to building meaningful connections with fellow interns, my physician mentor, the research team, and everyone I’ll have the opportunity to learn from. Being surrounded by such a diverse and driven group of individuals is incredibly exciting, and I’m eager to grow both personally and professionally through these relationships and experiences.
What do you hope to gain from this experience?
I hope to gain a deeper understanding of cardiology, not only in terms of clinical knowledge, but also through hands-on research experience. I want to strengthen my ability to adapt, problem-solve, and remain persistent when navigating complex scientific questions. Most importantly, I hope to carry forward a mindset of lifelong learning, continually growing through curiosity, collaboration, and reflection.
What are your plans after the summer?
In the short term, I plan to finish my senior year at St. Thomas and obtain my degree in neuroscience, while applying for medical school and finishing out my last year competing in track & field at the University!
What is a fun fact about you?
I did Irish dance for 10 years; during this time I competed at the World Championships for Irish dance in Scotland, and was offered to go pro and tour internationally!
