Meet Dr. Margaret Beigel, an Ohio State University Neurology Resident
Tell us a bit about yourself.
Hey everyone, I am Margaret – a current PGY3 neurology resident at The Ohio State University. I am a Ohio native and grew up in a big family with 7 brothers and sisters. My childhood was filled with rambling in the woods and playing soccer year round. I completed my undergraduate degree in Biology in Steubenville, OH and went to medical school at Ohio University. Somehow, I got lucky enough to end up in Columbus to study neurology.
Why did you go into medicine and specifically neurology?
Medicine is a beautiful profession. We as doctors are privileged to work with patients through the ups and downs of their lives. You see people on their worst days and help guild them through the storm. I love seeing patients back in clinic after we have started treatment and watching the slow changes and improvements happen. I chose neurology specifically because it was the one speciality that made me excited everyday. Each day is full of surprises and fascinating cases; often times patients teach me just as much or more then I teach them. I love every minute of it, even the long days and nights working as a resident.
What made you decide to focus on women with epilepsy? 
I think women/girls with epilepsy face unique challenges associated with not only the disease but every aspect of their lives. There is more to think about when discussing treatments, as not only the patient but her possible future children will also be affected by some treatment options. Whenever I meet a new patient with epilepsy (whether newly diagnosed or long term) I always put myself in their shoes. What things would want to know? Would I want to be on that medication? It really puts things into perspective. I have seen patients slip through the cracks before, and that is something I want to strive to prevent in my future practice.
What are your plans after residency?
After residency I plan on completing a fellowship in either epilepsy or neurophysiology.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Hopefully I will be an attending neurologist providing the best possible care for my patients. Other then that, I am really open to possibilities.
What would be one piece of advice you would give to women and girls living with epilepsy?
You are not alone! Don’t be afraid to reach out and let everyone know what you need. We are all rooting for you and want to help in what ever way we can.
What do you like to do when you are not working?
I have a few different hobbies. Most recently I have been attempting to make furniture in my spare time, and just finished my first of hopefully many projects. I love reading good books and binge watching the occasional show as well. Sometimes I also dabble in baking with varying degrees of success.
Tell us one thing that most people don’t know about you.
I am dizzyingly afraid of heights but love roller coasters!
