Our Residents

Hometown: Bozeman, MT
Medical School: UMN
Pathway and/or Specialization: Internal Medicine, aspiring Infectious Disease
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? I knew I wanted to go somewhere I would have a strong support network, somewhere that emphasized resident well being, and somewhere where I would see a diverse patient population. UMN was the perfect fit. 
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? Before going back to school for medicine I was a Medical Laboratory Scientist for 5 years. If I wasn't a doctor I would go back to being a travel lab scientist and work part time and just enjoy the rest of my life. 
What are your future career plans (so far)? I'm hoping to complete a fellowship in Infectious Disease. I like both inpatient and outpatient care settings and am particularly interested in HIV positive care. 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I like to lift weights, ride my bike, go kayaking and go to events around the city like farmers markets, vintage pop-ups, and RnB shows. 
What do you like most about being a resident? I'm learning a lot so quickly, just by coming to work! It's also nice to have financial security again. 

Hometown: Rochester, Minnesota
Medical School: University of Minnesota
Pathway and/or specialization: Undecided
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? There is so much to love about living in MN but my favorite part is having all four seasons. You get to do different activities throughout the year. Plus each season makes you appreciate the others. I love the spring when everything starts turning green after a long winter!
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? First would be the people. Everyone I interacted with in the program was so kind, supportive, and wanted to help me become a great doctor. Second, the program has a great balance between autonomy and support. I definitely feel challenged every day but never feel like I am alone or without someone I could reach out to for help. Third, I like having multiple different sites. Each has its own unique culture, patient complexities, and structure that prepare us very well for whatever and wherever we decide to practice. There are so many other things that I love about our program but these are some of the key points!
If you weren’t a doctor, what would your career be? I always wanted to be a baker or a meteorologist.
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Outside of work I spend most of my time with my family—my spouse, two kids, and dog. During my free time I enjoy doing crossword puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, watching movies (especially LOTR), skiing, and gardening.
What do you like most about being a resident? Learning something new every day & building camaraderie with my co-residents.

Hometown: Duluth, MN
Medical School: Saint Louis University
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? I chose the U of M because I wanted to experience a diversity of training environments and train with experts on the frontier of medicine. With our three inpatient training locations and all the benefits of being at a large academic medical center, I am so very happy with my training so far!
What are your future career plans (so far)? I am split between hospital medicine, cardiology, and palliative care. Currently though, I am just trying to stay open to everything and keep up with the demands of intern year.
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I love to run! I recently did Grandma's Marathon in Duluth, MN and attend the Mill City Running Run Club weekly. Outside of that, I love meeting up with friends to explore restaurants and breweries around the Twin Cities.
What surprised you about life in Minnesota after you moved here? Just how active everyone is here! I feel like everyday I see so many people taking advantage of the endless miles of walking and bike paths around the city, not to mention all those kayaking and paddle boarding on the nearby lakes.

Hometown: Rochester, Michigan 
Medical School: University of Minnesota 
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? The restaurants! I was really surprised with all the good food in the twin cities area. And the patios are also a huge plus in the summer. 
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? I really enjoyed my time in medical school here and found that everyone was really nice and teaching oriented. 
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? Definitely a marine biologist. I know way too many random facts about sharks than I know what to so with. 
What are your future career plans (so far)? I know I want to be involved in medical education although I'm not 100% set on a specialty choice yet. 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Weightlifting, cooking, and shopping because retail therapy is definitely a thing.

Hometown: Chicago, IL
Medical School: Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science
Pathway and/or Specialization: Hospitalist Pathway
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? The beautiful nature and kindhearted people.
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? I was a lawyer in a previous life.
What are your future career plans (so far)? Pulmonary and critical care or nephrology.
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I like taking walks in the many Minneapolis parks with my wife and son.
What very "Minnesota" activity have you tried since starting residency? I tried a Juicy Lucy and I haven't eaten a regular hamburger since.
What do you like most about being a resident? My wonderful colleagues.

Hometown: Kalispell, MT
Medical School: University of Michigan Medical School 
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I love that Minnesota has so many lakes! Minnesota is very beautiful and offers great opportunities for outdoor recreation.
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? Probably an engineer since I have always loved math. 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I like working out and spending time outdoors. My favorite hobbies are hiking, skiing (both cross-country and downhill), biking, and baking. 
What advice do you have for someone considering applying to the IM Residency at the U of Minnesota? U of Minnesota has a 4+4 schedule that allows you to have a great balance between your work schedule and personal life. Minneapolis is a great city to live in. My co-residents are so nice, hard-working, and smart. 
What very "Minnesota" activity have you tried since starting residency? I'll be going to the Minnesota State Fair and a Vikings game this year!

Hometown: Ham Lake, MN
Medical School: University of Iowa
Pathway and/or Specialization: Interested in Gastroenterology 
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? Minnesota really has everything to offer. Many outdoor areas to explore, tons of activities and events going on in the cities, and great people. It’s impossible to get bored here.
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? Location, 4+4 schedule, diversity of patients and clinical exposure, numerous research opportunities, and the programs commitment toward developing well-rounded, compassionate, physicians.
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I enjoy spending time with my wife and 2 cats, spending time outdoors biking, hiking, running, going to movies, and listening to and playing music.
What very "Minnesota" activity have you tried since starting residency? Visiting some of many “water features” in Minnesota. The Twin Cities has many lakes, rivers, waterfalls within the city limits that provide a uniquely large amount of green space to enjoy.
What do you like most about being a resident? Being able to be more involved in patient care. Learning to be a doctor is a challenging process but also a fun one.

Hometown: White Bear Lake, MN
Medical School: Medical College of Wisconsin
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? It's a blessing to be able to live and work so close to my family and friends. I also really like that we get to experience all four seasons here and I love to be able to cheer for my favorite sports teams in person.   
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? As a highly regarded academic program with three distinct training sites and too many incredible teachers and colleagues to count, what's not to love? 
What are your future career plans (so far)? I'm interested in Gastroenterology, but I like the variety of general Internal Medicine so we'll see where my training takes me. 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I love to spend time with my family,  to play golf whenever my schedule and the weather allows, and to work out.
What do you like most about being a resident? It's a privilege to care for patients and it feels good to know that my ultimate goal every day is to help people in need. 

Hometown: Lenexa, KS
Medical School: University of Kansas

Hometown: India, New Delhi
Medical School: Kasturba Medical College, Manipal
Pathway and/or Specialization: Internal medicine. Interested in Cardiology/GI
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? It is a top tier internal medicine program and the people in Minnesota are very friendly. I had done a rotation here previously and I absolutely loved the learning environment. 
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? I would have been a pianist. I have 2 passions in my life, both start with M . Medicine and Music.
What are your future career plans (so far)? Currently I have entered residency with a very open mind and my aim is to become an efficient internal medicine resident. Later, I might choose between Cardiology and GI.
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I am a pianist and playing piano really helps me bust stress. There is a piano in all three hospitals here and you can sometimes find it in the streets as well. I play it very regularly and it helps me calm down my nerves as well as people around me.
What do you like most about being a resident? Our assessment and plans are actually considered and given importance. We are given a lot of autonomy and I actually feel like a doctor for the first time in my life.  There is always a senior or an attending who has your back and eager to teach you and get out the best in you.

Hometown: Eden Prairie, MN
Medical School: Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University

Hometown: Saint Paul, Minnesota
Medical School: University of Minnesota
Pathway and/or Specialization: Internal Medicine
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I love the community, diversity, and friendly-faces — it truly feels like home. Minnesota has big-city excitement balanced with homey vibes — there’s something for everyone, young and old, singles and families, etc. 
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? I would probably work for a local nonprofit or ministry. I enjoy building relationships with people, serving local communities, and working together for the common good. 
What are your future career plans (so far)? I love hematology/oncology and palliative care! I’m super passionate about walking with patients/families through seasons of suffering — it’s in a spot of deep suffering and vulnerability that a caring provider can make an especially meaningful impact on the patient & family. 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Reading biographies from people who lived in different countries/centuries, visiting coffee-shops with friends, being involved in church community, and spontaneous roads trips.
What do you like most about being a resident? As a resident we still know very little about medicine — but it’s reassuringly not our book knowledge that impacts patients/families. It’s our compassion, honesty, relationship-building, and care. It’s taking a few extra moments to answer their questions. It’s helping them brainstorm how to take control of their health. And when treatments fail, it’s giving patients dignity amid their suffering. We can impact people in big ways as we humanize medicine. 

Hometown: Cairo, Egypt
Medical School: Al-Azhar University Faculty of Medicine
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? UMN has an outstanding reputation in clinical training and research, offering the opportunity to train at the largest healthcare system in Minnesota. But what truly sets it apart is the incredible people! The support and sense of community I've experienced here have made all the difference—and that's the real reason I'm thrilled to be part of this program.
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? If I weren't a doctor, I would probably be an artificial intelligence researcher, focusing on clinical reasoning and decision making. The idea of understanding how doctors make decisions and creating smart systems that help them make even better decisions is so fascinating to me.
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I keep playing chess and soccer every chance I get!
What surprised you about life in Minnesota after you moved here? It's the incredible diversity. Each day, I meet people from all corners of the globe with unique backgrounds. It's a blast to discover new things, and there's always something new and exciting to learn from them.
What very "Minnesota" activity have you tried since starting residency? MN State Fair!

Hometown: Duluth, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota
Pathway and/or Specialization: hospital medicine
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? Being near friends and family. Access to the chain of lakes trail system. Big metro area amenities with a slightly smaller city feel
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? My family is rooted here in Minnesota especially after the birth of our kid and I feel at home in all of the University of Minnesota clinical sites. 
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? Likely a nurse or paramedic
What are your future career plans (so far)? I am leaning towards being a hospitalist, but I am open to something else catching my interest along the way
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I enjoy running and biking along the river/creek/lakes. Cooking as well. I love to get creative with whatever we have in the fridge/pantry.

Hometown: Wasilla, Alaska
Medical School: Oakland University William Beaumont SOM
Pathway and/or Specialization: Internal Medicine
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? A lot of things! I have a family and there are ample family friendly activities around the twin cities. There are so many things to do both when it’s hot and when its cold outside. We love biking around the city on all the trails, and when there aren’t trails there's bike lanes. There are so many awesome places for food and drinks as well! It is much harder to figure out what we don't like about the cities.
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? We have family throughout the country, so I was looking for a place that would provide good training and PTO to use to visit our family, while giving us good access to flights everywhere in the country. UMN gives me all of that and more. I didn't know I would be as supported by my coresidents, faculty, chief residents, and ancillary staff as I was during my intern year and I'm very grateful to have matched here.
If you weren’t a doctor, what would your career be? I would be a traveling food critic.
What are your future career plans (so far)? Cardiology!
What advice do you have for someone considering applying to the IM Residency at the U of Minnesota? Highly consider it! Our PTO is awesome that you can take just one to a few days to a week off at a time. So if you have a hard block coming up you can plan for a 3 day weekend. So many other programs make you decide so far in advance and make you take a full week or two off; this is a huge advantage we have. Also, we have opportunities is whatever specialty you're interested in. I very much feel supported by all our faculty and coresidents here and intern year went much smoother than expected.

Hometown: Minneapolis, MN
Medical School: Georgetown University School of Medicine
Pathway and/or Specialization: Internal Medicine
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I'm originally from Minnesota and was one of its biggest acolytes in my life outside of Minnesota -- waxing philosophical to anyone that would listen about all the ways that this state punches above its weight. The lakes, the food, the cityscape, the people, the education, the healthcare, and more! Don't get me started :)
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? My parents and one of my siblings and his family live in MN, as well as a number of my closest friends. I had lived away for a long time and never really worked and lived in MN on my own. I thought residency would be a wonderful time to have that experience and wanted to be close to those people during such an intense period of training.
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? So, I am truly a career changer. If I hadn't decided to make the shift to medicine, I would likely be working in banking, tech, international affairs, or some combination of the three, based on my previous career path.
What very "Minnesota" activity have you tried since starting residency? Trying to make it a point of walking outdoors and enjoying the sights and sounds of Minneapolis while the weather is still cooperative!
What do you like most about being a resident? The camaraderie with my fellow residents has been beyond my expectations. In coming home, I had a nostalgic ideal for the kindness and supportiveness of Minnesota life. And so far, residency has really fulfilled those vibes at every level. Very grateful to be having this experience here.

Hometown: Denver, Colorado
Medical School: Creighton University 
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I love the parks here and the people are generally friendlier than other places I've lived in
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? The amazing people and excellent training in a collaborative, friendly atmosphere
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? I'd love to run a cafe! 
What are your future career plans (so far)? GI or Hospitalist 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Tennis, golf, taking walks, trying out new restaurants :) 

Hometown: Agawam, MA
Medical School: University of Colorado
Pathway and/or Specialization: Internal Medicine
What are your future career plans (so far)? Practice as an academic hospitalist - I love the complexity and variety of hospital medicine and look forward to combining this with my passion for service and teaching others!
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Running, cycling, soccer, walking my dog (Petey!), cooking, and game nights!
What surprised you about life in Minnesota after you moved here? How bikeable the city is - there are so many bike paths and protected bike lanes that it makes traveling by bike much easier and safer!
What very "Minnesota" activity have you tried since starting residency? Went to Matt's Bar for a Jucy Lucy!
What do you like most about being a resident? The increased responsibility in patient care allows you to learn and improve every day!

Hometown: Spirit Lake, ID
Medical School: University of Washington
Pathway and/or Specialization: Categorical
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? Everyone is super friendly here and all of the green space is amazing!
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? I'd probably be an engineer. I really enjoy science and problem solving. We just get to do those with people in medicine.
What are your future career plans (so far)? So far I'm undecided, but am most interested in general medicine, pulm/crit, and heme/onc.
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I enjoy most anything outdoors: running, climbing, backpacking, hiking, biking etc.
What do you like most about being a resident? The best part of being a resident is creating strong partnerships with patients to pursue their health goals.

Hometown: Norridge, IL
Medical School: Carver College of Medicine
Pathway and/or Specialization: Unsure but super excited to find out
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? My husband jokes that I'd be a great foreman because I always have a list of handyman work that needs to be done around the house.
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? My favorite hobbies include exploring all the attractions in Minnesota on my days off or when on short call. There's a trail next to my place that I love to bike on, and there are so many trails here to explore with your dogs if you have any. I've also been checking out different breweries and lakes, which has been a lot of fun. 
What surprised you about life in Minnesota after you moved here? I grew up in the Chicago suburbs, and Minnesota reminds me a lot of my hometown but safer. One of the most heartwarming experiences was when my neighbors brought me brownies when I moved in—it was such a kind and welcoming gesture. The people here are incredibly nice, which makes it feel like home.
What advice do you have for someone considering applying to the IM Residency at the U of Minnesota? DO IT! YOU WON'T REGRET!
What do you like most about being a resident? The opportunity to make a real difference in patients' lives while learning and growing as a physician.

Hometown: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Medical School: King Edward Medical University, Pakistan
Pathway and/or Specialization: Cardiology/ Rheumatology
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I truly believe that Minnesota has many things to offer. From the beautiful fall colors to a collection of fun festivals during the spring. I also have a lot of family here which makes the harsh winter not so harsh. 
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? I chose University of Minnesota for it’s amazing program and all of the supportive, educational community it provides. I really like the 4+4 schedule as well!
What are your future career plans (so far)? I am deciding between cardiology or rheumatology, and I am sure that once I experience more in this residency, I will be able to decide what resonates with me more. 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Outside of work, I truly enjoy traveling to new places, trying new cooking recipes, and enjoying local events with friends or family. 
What surprised you about life in Minnesota after you moved here? Minnesota Nice. I had heard about it but it truly is a very Minnesota thing. 
What very "Minnesota" activity have you tried since starting residency? Food truck festival and hopefully the infamous Minnesota state fair! 

Hometown: Sioux Falls
Medical School: University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine
Pathway and/or Specialization: Physician-Scientist
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? The nature around the metro area, especially the parks and lakes, are a wonderful place to visit experience and explore. 
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? I heard wonderful things about the program from people I knew, the diverse training opportunities, the fellowship opportunities, and the program schedule.
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? I think I’d either be a pilot or an aerospace engineer.
What is the most unexpected thing you've learned during your residency (medicine or life)? Just how much of an impact we can have on people’s lives, not just with the medicine we provide, but with our presence and kindness.
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Spending time with friends, trying new restaurants/breweries, listens to music, and walking my dog.

Hometown: Woodbury, MN
Medical School: University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? The thing I like best about living in Minnesota is enjoying the perks of living in a big city while also having so much access to green spaces, both inside the cities and just a short drive away. 
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? I chose the University of Minnesota for my residency because of the curriculum design, availability of excellent research opportunities, and consistently strong fellowship matches. 
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? I would want to be a chef if I weren't a doctor. I love cooking and the way that food brings people together. 
What are your future career plans (so far)? I am interested in pursuing a career in Cardiology and working at an academic center in the future. 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? My favorite hobbies include running, cheering on my favorite Minnesota sports teams, cross-country skiing, cooking, and checking out new restaurants around town. 
What do you like most about being a resident? What I like most about being a resident is establishing closer relationships with my patients and truly feeling like a valued member of the healthcare team. 

Hometown: Indianola, Iowa
Medical School: University of Illinois at Chicago
Pathway and/or Specialization: Internal Medicine

Hometown: Minneapolis, MN
Medical School: University of Colorado
Pathway and/or Specialization: Internal Medicine, aiming to become Hospitalist 
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I love the sense of community in Minnesota, and I’ve always been a big fan of all the outdoors possibilities here. It’s something I really missed being away - yes, Colorado is beautiful with the mountains and sometimes I miss that, but my partner and I have family up on the North Shore and there is something so special about Lake Superior and the BWCA that is hard to come by elsewhere. The sense of community in Minneapolis is also second to none, and I’m thrilled to be back home and a part of it again.
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? I felt so at ease during my interview. I’m a Golden Gopher at heart, but did explore the other options in the Twin Cities for residency. However, I remember turning to my partner after my interview and simply saying “I hope that’s where I end up” because the program, the co-residents, and the culture just felt so right. Everyone is so supportive and open-minded here. Additionally, there’s a great sense of community involvement while still be an academic program — I don’t think those have to be separate ideas necessarily, despite being a common separating factor  residency pros and cons time — so that was a positive for me. I also love that the U of M employs medical historians in the medical school and has the Wangensteen library as part of their medical school; that kind of interdisciplinary employment and focus is not common amongst higher institutions, so it made me feel like my interests would be pursuable and respected here. 
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? I thought about pursuing a PhD in History for a long time as well; I studied medicine and history of medicine as one of my degrees in undergrad at the U (the other was biology). I really do love history of medicine and the HMED department at UMN is wonderful! I still would like to teach history of medicine in the future, and have played with the idea of pursuing a PhD later.
What are your future career plans (so far)? I truly love Hospital medicine, so I would like to become a Hospitalist. I tend to love all the specialties when I rotate through them and because of that have a hard time choosing one to pursue for the rest of my career. I also loved the OR, just not the lifestyle and some of the culture, and becoming a Hospitalist allows me to practice procedural medicine still. 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I love to run and bike! I’m training for the Ely half marathon for fall 2024, and recently got a new bike that I’ve been riding around town. I treated myself to a Peloton for graduation from medical school and that’s been a lifesaver in terms of stress relief/bad weather days. Outside of that, I love hiking and camping with my family (Colorado and Minnesota, plus Utah most springs). I also love to bake (my sourdough starter’s name is Frodough Baggins), cook for my family and friends, read, play with my two dogs, and draw.

I tend to be fairly active and find that having multiple options for decompression works best for me. Taking care of myself through exercise, food, and exploring subjects outside of medicine through reading and art help to keep me settled and happy.

Hometown: Rochester, MN
Medical School: UMN
Pathway and/or Specialization: Global Health Pathway
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I love our parks and easy access to beautiful trails. People care about their community and MN has pretty great education and healthcare, not to mention an underrated food scene!
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? I loved the sense of community here in med school and the genuine investment in education and wellness at all levels of the program from residents to faculty. The schedule, research opportunities, and location was hard to beat.
If you weren’t a doctor, what would your career be? I studied Arabic and Theology in undergrad, so probably some combination of those in academia. Otherwise I love baking and reading and dream about opening a cozy bookstore cafe with my sisters!
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I love being outside and enjoying all the amazing city and state parks in MN in all four seasons! I also love checking out new foods, bookstores, musicals, baking, and taking way too many photos of my cats.
What very “Minnesota” activity have you tried since starting residency? Curling!

Hometown: Chicago, IL
Medical School: University of Minnesota 
Pathway and/or Specialization: IM

Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria
Medical School: Lagos State University College Of Medicine
Pathway and/or Specialization: Primary Care, Global Medicine
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? The amazing attendings ,residents I get to work with and learn from, the supportive program leadership and the flexible schedule that allows time for personal wellness are some of the great things I love about this program.   
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? A Teacher
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Enjoying activities with my family.
What surprised you about life in Minnesota after you moved here? The Weather!!The combination of cold, snow and wind chills.
What do you like most about being a resident? The supportive environment that challenges you to grow and the interactions with diverse patient population, residents, staff and faculty! 

Hometown: Minneapolis and Lomé
Medical School: UAB
Pathway and/or Specialization: Primary care and global health
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? Global health opportunities and diversity of patients
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? A chemist or a virologist 
What is the most unexpected thing you've learned during your residency (medicine or life)? It is ok to lean on your team. Constantly looking for blind spots and learn from them.
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Lake walks and hike, hanging out with coresidents, crafting and candles, reality TV
What advice do you have for someone considering applying to the IM Residency at the U of Minnesota? Check out PTO, global health opportunities, and patient diversity. It is unmatched elsewhere.
What do you like most about being a resident? The few moments I truly made a difference in a patient’s life which reconnected me with my goal in pursing the career of a physician 

Hometown: Istanbul, Turkiye
Medical School: Kocaeli University
Medical interest or career plans: Aspiring gastroenterologist! 
Favorite thing about our residency program: All the awesome, friendly, supportive people
Favorite Minnesota activity: Again it is the people. Minnesota can be cold at times, but people are always warm and welcoming!
Pathway and/or specialization: Pulmonary and Critical Care
What do you like about living in Minnesota? Minnesota summers are just the best!
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? The schedule is fantastic- generally 4+4 with a lot of choice in electives. Our PTO policy is also great and gives a lot of freedom to travel and attend family events, which is so important in residency. And of course, the staff and our co-residents are the most collaborative and supportive people around!

Hometown: Bangkok, Thailand
Medical School: Chulalongkorn University
Pathway and/or Specialization: Clinician educator 
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I love the outdoor activities Minnesota has to offer! Lots of lakes, waterfalls, hiking grounds, and biking/running trails as well as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating in the winter.
What is the most unexpected thing you've learned during your residency (medicine or life)? Don't forget to take care of yourself! Life will get busy but you have to make time to do it. 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I like to find time to hang out with friends over dinner, exercise (preferably outdoors when the weather allows), binge watch netflix, and do some watercolor art.
What surprised you about life in Minnesota after you moved here? How lovely spring feels and how beautiful fall is here!
What very "Minnesota" activity have you tried since starting residency? Having Tater Tot Hotdish at the hospital cafeteria

Hometown: Mt. Horeb, WI
Medical School: Medical College of Wisconsin - Green Bay
Pathway and/or specialization: Hospitalist/Clinician Educator/Advocacy
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? For the best training in the best environment- there is a lot to be said for the group of people you will be surrounded by while going through so much growth and I’d definitely choose the same program again.
What are your future career plans (so far)? Addiction medicine fellowship and then work as a hospitalist
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Playing soccer, spending time with my family and pets, anything with people or new things to learn!
What surprised you about life in Minnesota after you moved here? All the winter activities! I’ve skating, ice castles, life doesn’t stop just because of the cold!
What very “Minnesota” activity have you tried since starting residency? All the festivals! And pierogies at every one!

Hometown: Minneapolis, MN
Medical School:  Midwestern University CCOM
Medical interest or career plans:  Undecided
Favorite thing about our residency program:  I love the diversity offered by working at three hospitals; the 4+4 schedule, and most importantly, the welcoming community amongst staff and co-residents at the U of M!
Favorite Minnesota activity:  Minnesota summers are unmatched! There are so many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, whether that is biking or boating on one of the many lakes or enjoying a meal on a great patio!

Hometown: Seoul, South Korea
Medical School: University of Minnesota, Twin-Cities 
Pathway and/or Specialization: Global Medicine Pathway
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I love the variety of nature and urban/rural communities you can experience without much travel or effort. It's easy to take a quick drive to go for a hike in a forest or spend a day in a walkable urban neighborhood all in a weekend. 
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? I wanted to have variety in my training and was attracted to the different clinical sites, in town and abroad that we have access to at the University of Minnesota residency. I get to understand how it's like to see a patient at the VA while also following up on outpatient studies at a tertiary referral center like the UMN. 
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? I really wanted to be a lawyer or be involved in aerospace engineering before deciding to go to Medical School. Right now, if I wasn't in residency, I'd probably be trying to open a coffee shop or spend my time rock-climbing outdoors.
What is the most unexpected thing you've learned during your residency (medicine or life)? Instant Korean ramen during a night shift saves lives and should be stocked in every call room. 
What are your future career plans (so far)? I hope to pursue a fellowship in Hematology/Oncology and treat solid tumors.  
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Bouldering, running, and spending wayyy to much time at Costco. 
What surprised you about life in Minnesota after you moved here? I moved here when I was 7 from Korea. We moved to Austin, MN. I thought I was moving to Austin, TX. I was surprised when I stepped of the plane in December and saw snow instead of cacti. 
What advice do you have for someone considering applying to the IM Residency at the U of Minnesota? It's the QOL initiatives that matter the most when comparing most residencies. Are there good call rooms? How flexible are vacations? Will I be able to have time to travel to see family? Those are the questions and answers that will determine how well residency will go for you. During my time here, I've been fortunate to have great clinical learning, but also had time to work on my own life, such as getting married, traveling abroad, and getting involved in research. 
What very "Minnesota" activity have you tried since starting residency? Cross-country skiing. My legs still hurt. 
What do you like most about being a resident? Having the graduated responsibility and seeing yourself improve. You get to see the tangible impacts you have on your patient's lives which is very rewarding. 

Hometown: Dawson, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota Medical School
Pathway and/or Specialization: Hematology/Oncology
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? The people are friendly and there are so many fun things to do outdoors.
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? Excellent training and opportunities for research
What are your future career plans (so far)? Hematology/Oncology fellowship 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Golf, lifting weights, going on walks with my fiancé and our dog
What do you like most about being a resident? The opportunity to help patients in their most vulnerable moments and learning something new every day

Hometown: Stillwater, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota
Pathway and/or Specialization: Rheumatology

Hometown: Weyerhaeuser, WI
Medical School: University of Minnesota Medical School (started on Duluth campus)
Pathway and/or Specialization: General Internal Medicine, Hospitalist Pathway
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I am a born Wisconsinite turned Minnesotan (about 10 years ago now) and I truly love living in MN so much. I love having 4 seasons (including the snow! Nothing better than a white Christmas). I love our beautiful outdoors & northern Minnesota forests. I adore Lake Superior and truly think the North Shore is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Truly the best place to be if you love doing any outdoor activity, but at a good midwestern pace.
If you weren’t a doctor, what would your career be? If I weren't a doctor, I would 100% be a park ranger in a national park somewhere. Nothing I love better than being in the mountains and I think it would be a dream to spend my time serving these beautiful places.
What are your future career plans (so far)? I have accepted a hospitalist position at the Essentia in Duluth and I am so excited to go back. I will have the opportunity to work in the ICU (which was something I really wanted in a hospitalist position), work with residents/medical students, and hopefully do more work in medical education. Also, excited to be able to have the potential to work at rural sites providing healthcare to those areas.
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? My favorite hobbies to decompress after work currently are reading, running, and of course hiking. If I am on PTO, I am likely not in Minnesota and am on a mountain summit somewhere. But of course, I adore Minnesota outdoors and all the biking, hiking, walking, running, lakes....you can partake in activities with on a daily basis while living here.
What advice do you have for someone considering applying to the IM Residency at the U of Minnesota? Do it! We have a fantastic program with supportive administration and chiefs. Also, the 4+4 schedule for inpatient/outpatient is truly a game changer in terms of being able to take PTO and to attempting to living a semi normal life in residency! Still a lot of work, but I appreciate our program so much!

Hometown: Duluth, MN
Medical School: Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine
Pathway and/or Specialization: Hospitalist
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I love how there are tons of things to do here, especially if you love the outdoors! Being able to walk around a lake in the summer, or drive up the North Shore and hiking the coast of Lake Superior is amazing. There are also lots of great restaurants and breweries here - a great place to hang out with friends! But my favorite thing is the fact that we have seasons, which is something I really missed when I lived in Texas (we have all the fun fall-related things - apple picking, pumpkin patches, etc) :)
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? This program was my number one choice for several reasons. On my interview day, I could tell that the residency program was incredibly supportive of residents in their career endeavors while also prioritizing health & wellness. I also liked how we get the opportunity to rotate at 3 different hospitals with very different learning environments (academic vs community vs VA system); I felt like this would prepare me for a career at any hospital following graduation from residency due to the broad spectrum of conditions we see on a daily basis. Lastly, I chose this program for some of the logistics! We typically alternate inpatient months with outpatient/consult months, so you have "golden weekends" and opportunities to take PTO every other month. We also don't have continuity clinic during inpatient months but instead have one full day per week while outpatient. The way our schedule is set up truly does prioritize our learning but also gives us a chance to rejuvenate and focus on our wellness throughout the year. To this day, I am still so, so happy that I matched here and would choose this program again!
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? Growing up, I always wanted to be a detective! I really enjoy puzzles and lately, I love listening to true crime podcasts on my way home from work or while I'm out for a walk around Lake Harriet. 
What are your future career plans (so far)? My goal is to return to my hometown in Duluth to work as a hospitalist!
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? I love spending time with my co-residents, whether it be meeting up for dinner or at a brewery, or going on our coffee walks around Lake Harriet! I also enjoy spending time outdoors so I try to spend as much time as I can up in my hometown of Duluth as I can!

Hometown: Plymouth, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Pathway and/or Specialization: planning to specialize in pulmonary critical care   
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? Travel Blogger
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Gardening
What very "Minnesota" activity have you tried since starting residency? I love paddle boarding on the lakes during the summer!
What do you like most about being a resident? I love my residency family, my co-residents are amazing! 
 

Hometown: Iowa City, IA
Medical School: University of Iowa 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Go to the numerous festivals hosted in the twin cities all year round, go on a hike, paddle board on one of the 10,000 lakes. 
What surprised you about life in Minnesota after you moved here? So much culture, diversity, and food choices.
What do you like most about being a resident? The friendships I developed in residency through shared experiences. 

Hometown: Eagan, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Medical interest or career plans: Interested in fellowship possibly critical care
Favorite thing about our residency program: The staff are amazing! They really care about teaching and are very encouraging. Our program also prioritizes resident wellness and makes sure everyone is supported. 
Favorite Minnesota activity: Great food options and outdoor activities

Hometown: Bangkok, Thailand
Medical School: Siriraj hospital
Pathway and/or Specialization: 
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? The medium-sized city that has very diverse food options and a lot of green space
What is the most unexpected thing you've learned during your residency (medicine or life)? Good communication is sometimes the most important thing in patient care.
What are your future career plans (so far)? Oncology
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Running, skiing, watching movies and series
What surprised you about life in Minnesota after you moved here? It did not snow much last year!
What very "Minnesota" activity have you tried since starting residency? Going up north to the lake superior

Hometown: Rose Hill, Kansas
Medical School: University of Kansas School of Medicine
Medical interest or career plans: Infectious Disease Fellowship
Favorite thing about our residency program: I love the supportive faculty & the opportunity to work across 3 hospital systems. Also the schedule and PTO process is amazing at this program!
Favorite Minnesota activity: love all of the parks and green spaces. There are also several opportunities to play in rec & competitive leagues for soccer, basketball, volleyball, etc which I have really appreciated!

Hometown: Houston 
Medical School: UT Houston 
Pathway and/or Specialization: Rheumatology

Medical School: University of Minnesota

Hometown: Rochester, MN
Medical School: University of MN
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I love biking around the lakes and Minneapolis has so many to explore!
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? I am from Minnesota and wanted to stay close to home and I love that we get to rotate at multiple hospitals. We have an abundance of resources here and experts in many fields, which offers a lot of opportunities for research and career exploration.
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? I would love to be a yoga instructor and/or own a bakery. More realistically I would probably do something in the Public Health/Environmental field.
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? It depends on the season, but I enjoy riding my bike, walking my dog, cross country skiing and doing crafts like knitting, crocheting, and sewing.
What do you like most about being a resident? People are excited to teach and at this program, you can find someone who is very knowledgeable in basically any area of interest. 

Medical School: Chicago Medical School

Hometown: Portland, Oregon
Medical School: Oregon Health & Science University
Pathway and/or specialization: Hospital Medicine
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? I love the impressive park system in the Twin Cities and the variety of festivals and cultural events here. Also, there are lots of good food options.
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? UMN drew me to their program for their emphasis on the social determinants of health and improving the healthcare of local communities as well as their strong global health program.
What very “Minnesota” activity have you tried since starting residency? The Minnesota State Fair, a must do. I have gone every single year thus far, sometimes more than once per season.
What do you like most about being a resident? What I like the most about being a resident is seeing my growth as a medical provider over time and feeling more confident and competent with caring and advocating for my patients.

Where is your hometown? Rugby, ND 
Medical School: University of North Dakota 
Pathway and/or specialization: Hospital Medicine or Cardiology
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? I would have tried to pursue a career in the State Department ideally utilizing Russian language. 
What is the most unexpected thing you've learned during your residency (medicine or life)? Rotating at the University of Minnesota is like going through the most uncommon conditions listed in First Aid and treating them in real life! 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Going to ballet classes, running, and playing the piano! 
What do you like most about being a resident? I love my job! We get to see interesting cases, take care of complex medical issues, meet a diverse patient population, and work with fun, caring, and passionate co-residents and faculty. The hours are long at times and can leave little time outside of work, but being a U of MN resident is a fun and fulfilling job. 

Where is your hometown? Bloomington, MN
Medical School: UMN Twin Cities 
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? The proximity of nature and city life. You get the best of both here!
What are your future career plans (so far)? Deciding between pursuing a fellowship in Heme/Onc or working as a hospitalist 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Eating at the twin cities' many incredible restaurants, spending time outside in nature, running
What advice do you have for someone considering applying to the IM Residency at the U of Minnesota? Absolutely apply! Our program has all of the benefits of a rigorous University program, plus a flexible PTO policy that helps to foster work/life balance. 
What do you like most about being a resident? Residency is tough, but amazing faculty and co-residents make it better. My favorite part of residency is seeing even very sick patients improve and leave the hospital

Where is your hometown? Victoria, MN + St. Petersburg, Russia
Medical School: Medical College of Wisconsin
Pathway and/or specialization: Pulmonary and Critical Care
What do you like about living in Minnesota? Minnesota summers are just the best!
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? The schedule is fantastic- generally 4+4 with a lot of choice in electives. Our PTO policy is also great and gives a lot of freedom to travel and attend family events, which is so important in residency. And of course, the staff and our co-residents are the most collaborative and supportive people around!

Where is your hometown? Anantapur
Medical School: Tirupati, India
Pathway and/or specialization: Global medicine pathway and Hematology/Oncology
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? Restaurateur
What is the most unexpected thing you've learned during your residency (medicine or life)? To get comfortable with being uncomfortable.
What are your future career plans (so far)? I intend to specialize in hematology and oncology, with a particular emphasis on global oncology and community oncology as my primary career interests.
What surprised you about life in Minnesota after you moved here? After relocating to Minnesota, I was pleasantly surprised by the deep sense of community and the sincere friendliness of the residents. Whether in neighborhoods, workplaces, or casual encounters, Minnesotans were remarkably welcoming and supportive. The enthusiasm for outdoor activities and the willingness to embrace all seasons, even the traditionally harsh winters, were unexpected delights. Interestingly, last winter was unusually mild, prompting me to humorously remark that it felt like we were in a climate sanctuary rather than experiencing the usual Minnesota chill.
What very "Minnesota" activity have you tried since starting residency? "Attending the Minnesota State Fair has quickly become my quintessential Minnesotan experience. The bustling atmosphere, reminiscent of the lively festivities back home in India, immediately captured my heart.

One of the highlights of the fair was indulging in the raspberry cheese curd tacos, a delightful culinary fusion that was simply heavenly. The fairgrounds were perfect for people watching, allowing me to soak in the vibrant energy and diverse crowds, much like the gatherings I cherish from back home. It's not just about the food or the attractions; it's about the sense of community and celebration that resonates deeply with me, making it a place I eagerly anticipate returning to year after year."

Where is your hometown? Minneapolis, Minnesota
Medical School: AT Still University - Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
Pathway and/or specialization: Nephrology
What do you like best about living in Minnesota? Walking around the lakes, the numerous music and arts festivals and the vegan and vegetarian restaurant scene 
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? I completed my undergraduate degree at the U of MN, the personalities of the APD and PD, and the vast research and specialty opportunities (and I am a BIG gopher football fan!)
What are your future career plans (so far)? Nephrology 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Peloton (and exercise), candy crush saga and outdoor activities 
What do you like most about being a resident? Autonomy, and establishing relationships with my clinic and hospital patients and families 

Where is your hometown? Rochester, Minnesota
Medical School: Saint Louis University 
Pathway and/or specialization: Pulmonary/Critical Care
Why did you choose the University of Minnesota for your Residency? The residents all got along and look out for each other. 
If you weren't a doctor, what would your career be? I would try and start my own coffee shop. 
What are your future career plans (so far)? I'm interested in pursuing a career in pulm/crit, but also being involved in medical education 
What are your favorite hobbies and/or ways to decompress outside work? Rock climbing