After years of training at some of the country’s top medical institutions, Dr. Ulker and her family recently returned home to New Jersey and planted roots in Little Silver. As a reproductive endocrinologist at Reproductive Science Center of New Jersey, she helps individuals and couples navigate one of life’s most meaningful journeys: building a family.
She’s also a mom of two young children, balancing the demands of medicine with motherhood alongside her husband, an orthopedic surgeon. In this week’s Meet a Mom, Dr. Ulker shares what brought her back to Monmouth County, why becoming a mom has made her even more passionate about caring for her patients, her favorite local family spots, and the values she hopes to pass on to her children.
Get to know Dr. Ulker in this week’s Meet a Mom!
Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
I’m originally from Chatham, NJ, but I spent many years living out of state while pursuing my education and medical training. I attended Georgetown University for college, completed a post-baccalaureate program at the University of Pennsylvania, and then returned to New Jersey for medical school at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson. My husband and I then attended the University of Miami for residency training (he completed orthopedic surgery and I completed Ob/Gyn), followed by three years at the University of Oklahoma, where I completed my fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Last fall, we finally made our way back home to New Jersey and settled in Little Silver. My husband grew up in Rumson, so returning to Monmouth County felt like the perfect place to put down roots. We’re so grateful to be back close to family, old friends, and now raising our own family here.
Children and Ages?
I have two kids—my daughter Sophia, who is almost 3, and my son, Nico, who is 6 months old.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
I’m a first-generation American and fluent in Spanish! My mom is from Spain and my dad is from Turkey, so I grew up in a multicultural household that really shaped who I am. Being bilingual has also been incredibly meaningful in my career, allowing me to care for Spanish-
speaking patients in their native language.
Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
First and foremost, my husband, Paul. As a two-physician household, we’re constantly juggling call schedules, childcare, and everything else life throws at us. We joke that we’re often surviving, not thriving, but I couldn’t ask for a better teammate. He’s an amazing dad, and we both make it a priority to protect our family time whenever we can. I also have to thank my mom. She’s truly my hero and the most incredible mimi to our kids. Even though she lives an hour away, she visits at least once a week to spend time with Sophia and Nico—and somehow always arrives with homemade meals that keep us fed for days. She has a way of making everyone around her feel cared for, and I’m constantly learning from her example. Both of our families have been extremely helpful and present, and we are extremely grateful to finally be close to them again.
Favorite things to do with your kids?
As life gets busier, I’ve learned to appreciate the simple moments the most. Weekend mornings together are my favorite—we’ll make breakfast, play at home, head to a local playground, or just enjoy being together without rushing from one thing to the next. Right now, my kids are at such a fun stage. Sophia absolutely adores making her little brother laugh, and Nico thinks everything she does is hilarious. Watching their relationship grow has easily become my favorite part of motherhood.
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
I’m a reproductive endocrinologist (fertility specialist) at Reproductive Science Center of New Jersey, where I joined the practice last fall. I genuinely love what I do and feel incredibly fortunate to help individuals and couples build their families. It’s a privilege to be part of such an
important chapter in people’s lives.
One of the things I enjoy most is getting to know my patients and creating treatment plans that are personalized to their goals and circumstances. Fertility is deeply personal, and there is rarely a one-size-fits-all approach. I’m also passionate about education. There is so much misinformation surrounding reproductive health and fertility, and many people realize they were never taught the basics until they’re trying
to conceive. I love helping patients better understand their bodies so they feel informed, empowered, and confident in the decisions they make.
Now that I’m a mom myself, I have an even deeper appreciation for how emotional and meaningful the journey to parenthood can be, which has made caring for my patients even more rewarding.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
As a newer mom in Monmouth County, this community has become one of my favorite resources. Whether I’m looking for a family-friendly activity, a restaurant recommendation, or a local business, I know I can find an answer here. It’s made settling into a new community feel
much easier, and it’s been a wonderful way to feel connected.
What is your favorite restaurant in Monmouth County?
There are still so many places on our list to try, but our favorite date-night spot is River Pointe Inn. The atmosphere, food, drinks, and service are always wonderful. For family outings, we love the Fair Haven Diner—especially because Sophia is convinced they make the best pancakes around! And for a casual lunch or catering, Brennan’s Delicatessen is always a favorite.
What is your favorite activity to do with your children in Monmouth County?
During the warmer months we love spending as much time outdoors as possible. Whether it’s taking a walk around the neighborhood, heading to the park or pool or just sitting on the porch, those are some of our favorite family moments. I’m especially looking forward to spending more
time at the beach as the kids get a little older. For now, our perfect summer day usually ends with an ice cream stop on the way home!
What are your Mom Goals?
More than anything I hope to raise kind and happy children who know they are loved. I want our home to be a welcoming place where they always feel safe and supported. If they grow up knowing how to love others, feel confident enough to chase whatever makes them happy, and
understand the value of hard work I’ll consider that the greatest success.
