Princeton University Athletics
Mary Matthews Hunt '94 MD / Women's Soccer
City, State / Workplace / Title
Springfield, NJ/Lifeline Medical Associates/Partner physician
Medical Specialty / Other Degrees (MBA/MPH, etc.)
Obstetrics and Gynecology
What made you choose a career in healthcare?
I found medicine to be one of the most interesting and rewarding jobs one could pursue. To me, no other job affords someone the intellectual stimulation while being able to help others on a daily basis.
What is the focus of your work today?
My job involves caring for pregnant women and maintaining their gynecological health.
How has your work changed in the face of COVID-19?
On a personal note, the ongoing fear of COVID and the potential of bringing this virus home to my family on a daily basis added an entirely new level of stress to my job.Mary Matthews
There are inherent risks of taking care of the pregnant patient that is COVID positive both to the patient and provider. The level of heightened anxiety for patients delivering a child in a pandemic has been palpable. In addition, with social distancing and a lack of partners at prenatal visits, the entire delivery process became a lot more impersonal. On a personal note, the ongoing fear of COVID and the potential of bringing this virus home to my family on a daily basis added an entirely new level of stress to my job.
How did being a Princeton student-athlete prepare you for the challenges you’ve faced?
Being a student athlete while taking a vigorous pre-med academic schedule taught me the power of focus, discipline and determination. This past year has been the most tiring of my career as the risks were high and there were many unknown variables. By staying focused and continually trying to gain as much knowledge as possible about the virus, I was able to maintain a high level of care for my patients and bring many healthy new babies into this world.
What keeps you inspired as you look ahead?
The incredible ongoing research and development that allowed for the rapid production of such a safe and effective vaccine has inspired me to realize there is a light at the end of this tunnel.
Medical School / Other Affiliations
New York University School of Medicine/Yale New Haven Hospital Department of Ob/Gyn
Tiger Heroes
In partnership with RWJBarnabas Health, the official health care system of Princeton Athletics, “Tiger Heroes” honors front line workers and health care leaders from our alumni community. This digital and social series highlights alumni from all 37 varsity sports programs who have risen to the challenge since the onset of COVID-19. We also recognize special Princeton friends and family. Nominations may be sent to Jess Deutsch, Princeton's Associate Director, Student-Athlete Services: jdeutsch@princeton.edu