Background:

I am an anesthesiologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Anesthesia and Perioperative Medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston. My wife, Abby, and I have been married for 11 years. We have two Tortoiseshell cats and a Goldendoodle. We enjoy living along the coast and try to take advantage of the Charleston culinary scene as well as spending time at the beach and out on the water. When I’m not working, we enjoy traveling and exploring new destinations.

How did my time at HHCA influence my career path?

I knew exactly what I wanted to do with my life by the time I completed the 10th grade. Not only had I felt called to be a physician, but I had the opportunity to get early exposure to anesthesia and told myself that I wanted to be an anesthesiologist. Fortunately, HHCA provided me with an excellent learning environment that left me well-prepared for college and beyond, both academically and spiritually. It helped ingrain in me a solid work ethic that carries forward to this day.

What was my most memorable HHCA experience?

One that stands out is the Spain trip that Mrs. Savarese organized in 2006. We had a great time exploring the southern half of Spain, but we ended up missing our departing flight back to the US. The travel company helped us out with several bonus nights in Paris and Manchester, England. It was my first extended trip and first time going to Europe, perhaps sparking the travel bug that I currently have. I think everyone should have the opportunity to travel as often as possible, especially to other countries, to experience and learn from other people and cultures.

HHCA provided me with an excellent learning environment that left me well-prepared for college and beyond, both academically and spiritually. It helped ingrain in me a solid work ethic that carries forward to this day.

- William Barrett (Class of 2006)