-Undergraduate: Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
-Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine, Bridgetown, Barbados
-Residency: Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY
-Second Language: Spanish, Hebrew
Q & A with Dr. James Brief
How did you get into pediatrics?
As a child, I was taken care of by a wonderful pediatrician. Now as a doctor myself, I have dedicated my career to the health of children.
Where did you grow up?
West Nyack, New York.
What do you enjoy most about working in your neighborhood office?
I did my pediatric residency in Brooklyn and it’s exciting to return to the borough to build relationships with the members of the community.
What keeps you motivated?
As a Mets, Jets, and Knicks fan, I’ve learned that while success doesn’t always come easily every day presents an opportunity to learn something new. We can always do something a little bit better, improve our techniques and learn from those with experience.
What do you do for fun?
For exercise, I like to run alongside the East River. Weather permitting, I also enjoy playing on my softball team. On clear evenings, I love to take out my telescope and look at Jupiter, Saturn, the Moon, and other objects above.
Karen Moalem, MD
-Undergraduate: Brandeis University, Waltham, MA
-Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA
-Residency: The University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT
-Second Language: Hebrew, Spanish
Q & A with Dr. Karen Moalem
How did you get into pediatrics?
From a young age, I always knew I wanted to work with children. From frequent babysitting to summer jobs as camp counselor and swim instructor, most jobs consistently revolved around children. The interest in medicine arose secondarily from working as a Mother’s Helper to a family with a disabled daughter, and solidified by working as a volunteer EMT at my university.
Where did you grow up?
Jerusalem, Israel.
Where do you live?
Bay Ridge!
What do you enjoy most about working in Bay Ridge?
Living and working in my own community is a blessing and a joy. I truly feel that I am among friends and neighbors in this diverse and grounded neighborhood. I also have the best commute imaginable!
What keeps you motivated?
The smiles on children’s faces, and the opportunity to make a small difference in the lives of the families we serve.
What do you do for fun?
I cherish time with friends and family, and in my spare time enjoy traveling, dancing, and swimming.