Cailin Merck PA-C: Postgraduate Fellow

Cailin Merck

Cailin grew up in Mokena, Illinois, and completed her undergraduate studies at Ball State University, where she was a full-time student-athlete majoring in Biology and competing as an NCAA Division I swimmer from 2017 to 2021. Her interest in emergency medicine began at an early age—inspired by her father, a fire lieutenant and paramedic, and relatives who served as first responders throughout the Chicagoland area. Their dedication to serving the community sparked her passion for emergency medicine and led her to pursue an EMT-B certification after undergrad. She later worked as a medical assistant at a local ENT clinic before beginning PA school.

 

She graduated from Indiana University–Indianapolis’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies program in 2025. During her didactic year, she acted as the program’s Health and Wellness Chair and volunteered at Gennesaret Free Clinics, providing care to underserved communities across Indianapolis. In her clinical year, she especially enjoyed her emergency medicine rotation at Methodist Hospital, a Level I trauma center, as well as her elective in the medical ICU at Riverview Hospital in Noblesville, Indiana. These experiences solidified her passion for emergency medicine and her decision to pursue an EM fellowship.

 

Cailin is thrilled to be back in the Chicagoland area as she begins the next chapter as a fellow. She looks forward to continuing to grow both her clinical and leadership skills while navigating complex cases as part of a team and supporting patients in critical moments. She is especially excited to gain more experience in pediatric emergency care and to continue giving back to local communities—just as her family has done for generations. In her free time, you can find her exploring new coffee shops with friends, practicing archery, spending time outdoors, or training for her next triathlon.