Eli Pratte, MD
First Year Ophthalmology Resident
Where are you from?
Farmington, MO
Where did you attend Medical School?
University of Missouri – Columbia
Favorite memory of Medical School?
Getting to share Match Day with my family!
Favorite memory of your intern residency year?
Other than the birth of my first child, becoming such close friends with my ophthalmology co-residents!
Why did you choose Ophthalmology?
It is the best of everything! Fascinating anatomy and pathology. The capability for quick fixes in surgery/procedures in some patients, with long-term management necessary in others. Genuine, undeniable benefit and impact on the lives of your patients.
Why did you choose WashU?
I was drawn to WashU as an institution due to the assurance that it would supply one of the strongest residency training opportunities in the country. I also felt that the residents were incredibly well supported, both by each other and the department during my away rotation here. The combination of strength of training and collegial environment sold me on the program (and I haven’t regretted it!)
How did you survive during quarantine?
Spending time outdoors! My wife and I got really into hiking during quarantine and since then, we’ve traveled to Mt. Rainier (Washington), Great Smoky Mountains (Tennessee), Glen Canyon (Arizona), and the Grand Tetons (Wyoming) to hike!
What are you most looking forward to during your residency?
Developing into a competent ophthalmologist alongside four co-residents I’ve grown to care so much for!
What are you not looking forward to during your residency?
Learning how few people actually wear appropriate protective eyewear…
What specialty are you most interested in?
Glaucoma