Erin Rudolph grew up in Owatonna. She believes in hard work and a positive attitude. Best part of her work: “Developing friendships while also getting to know people on a personal level as I care for them, building a trusting relationship.”
First job? I grew up in Owatonna, in a farming family. Starting when I was about 12, I would pick rock in the fields for local farmers. It was fun.
My first job in medicine was as a family medicine Physician Assistant with Mayo Clinic in Owatonna. It was nice working in my hometown, where I’d see patients I knew from growing up. Our relationship as a provider carries a lot of trust; it strengthens that relationship if you know someone personally before providing care for them.
Free time? I have two young kiddos, ages 3 and 1, so I enjoy a lot of time with them. I also like reading and running. I competed in high school and college as a distance runner. My husband and friends and I run Grandma’s half-marathon every year.
I spent some time after graduating college getting my MBA. I wasn’t planning on it, but I got the opportunity to work as a graduate assistant at my alma mater and participate in a graduate program of my choosing. I chose the MBA program because I felt it would help strength my leadership qualities for future leadership opportunities I might feel called to pursue.
Best part of your work? I love the patients. Different ages bring unique interactions. With older kids, you can have bigger conversations. For younger kids, everything is new and fun, and they have so many questions. And I love talking with new parents about their babies. Growing those relationships is unique to this job.
Best advice you ever got? My parents were always big on working hard to get where you want to go. And a positive attitude goes a long way. I try my best to hold onto that.
Why healthcare? It’s all about relationships, and problem-solving. It’s such a unique position where you’re developing friendships and also getting to know people on a personal level as you care for them, building a trusting relationship.
If not healthcare, what would you be doing? Teaching. I don’t know what age; that always changes. It’s a relationship built on helping people be their best selves, like healthcare. I want you to be your best self, see the positives in yourself, and be proud of yourself.
Appointments: 507-646-1494