Kaitlyn Ruffing, MD

Kaitlyn Ruffing, M.D. comes from Murrysville PA, a town outside of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania (go Steelers!). She went to Lehigh for undergraduate where she finished a dual degree in both Biology and Music Performance on flute. She then pursued her MD at Penn State College of Medicine’s University Park program, where she was apart of the inaugural class of students and helped shape an innovative curriculum. A highlight of her research experience in medical school was co authoring a book chapter in “The Exercising Female: Science and Its Application” about how exercise affects the menstrual cycle. She greatly enjoyed serving as a volunteer coach for Centre County’s Special Olympics swimming team, and she hopes to continue volunteering with Special Olympics in the future.


Nickname: Ruff (pronounced “Roof”), Ruffing, Ruff Dog

Hometown: Murrysville, PA 

Why Med-Peds?: I want to take care of patients of all ages, and I never want to have to tell a patient that they have “aged-out” of my care. There are also an incredible amount of career opportunities that I can’t wait to explore!

Why Stony Brook?: I was originally drawn to Stony Brook because of the people I met on my interview. There was a clear emphasis on maintaining and strengthening family and friend relationships during residency. I started on Peds wards, and I was met with nothing but kindness and was never afraid to ask for help.

What do you plan on doing when finished residency (if known)? Not sure, but I am interested in Hospitalist Medicine or Primary Care

Outside interests: Swimming, flute, exercise classes, dining out with friends