Current Residents
2022 - 2023 Residents
| PGY-1 | PGY-2 | PGY-3 | PGY-4 |
| Amerta Bai | Michael Figueroa | Meaghan Berns | Salman Ikramuddin |
| Karly Broderson | Ernest Hanes | Jeff Bowers | Nikita Khetarpal |
| Andrew Carlson | Omair Lodhi | Madisen Janssen | Nick Purcell |
| Abhigyan Datta | Monica Ngo | Rob Lowe | Apameh Salari |
| Benjamin Ransom | Abhiram Pillai | Rebecca Roberts | Grace Tobin |
| Stephen Ward | John Ziegler | Joshua Vandeburgh | Mai Kau Yang |
Meet Our Residents
Class of 2023
Nikita Khetarpal
Hometown: Saginaw, MI
Medical School: Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: Easy -- the people! I loved the camaraderie between the residents and the fact that faculty go out of their way to make this residency program a positive experience. An added perk is that Minneapolis is a beautiful city with plenty of neat places to explore and things to do!
What do you enjoy most about the program: Friday School
What are your plans after residency: Neurohospitalist in the Memphis, TN area
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Complaining about the snow/cold weather, but secretly enjoying it.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I love classic British comedies!
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Airline pilot or professional makeup artist
Nick Purcell
Hometown: Rapid City, SD
Medical School: University of South Dakota
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: My training hospitals in South Dakota would occasionally send patients to UMN and I remember them speaking highly of the care they received here. Additionally, I plan to practice Neurology in a rural setting, and I spoke to multiple residents and faculty who spoke to the many ways this program could accomplish that goal. Finally, I was thoroughly impressed with the staff and residents I met during the interview process, which truly exceeded most other interviews I had.
What do you enjoy most about the program: The faculty and staff. They continually help me address my needs to become the best neurologist I can be, all while caring for my personal wellness.
What are your plans after residency: Practice Neurology in a rural setting and do a multitude of procedures (EMG, EEG, Botox, etc)
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Fishing, and I can bike a few blocks from my house to do it.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: As a kid I played in the Little League World Series
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Game, Fish and Parks supervisor
Apameh Salari
Medical School: Shahid Beheshti Medical University, Tehran, Iran
What do you enjoy most about the program: My co-residents and Friday school!
What are your plans after residency: Fellowship, not sure about the subspecialty
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Kayaking and paddle boarding on the lakes
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I'm a good oil painter
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Animal rescuer or interior designer
Grace Tobin
Medical School: Rush Medical College of Rush University
Mai Kau Yang
Hometown: Fresno, CA
Medical School: University of Minnesota Medical School
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: Great experiences as a medical student, fantastic residents and supportive faculty, training in various hospitals serving different populations
What do you enjoy most about the program: My co-residents!
What are your plans after residency: Neurohospitalist, but also taking the time to explore subspecialties and considering fellowship.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Getting ice cream as Izzy's and walking along the Stone Arch Bridge
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I watch the entire Back to the Future series at least twice a year
If you weren't a physician, you would be: A judge on a television cooking competition, but if I'm being realistic, a teacher.
Class of 2024
Meaghan Berns
Hometown: Stillwater, MN
Medical School: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: It had a reputation for being a very supportive program with rigorous training. I was also particularly drawn to the way Neurology pulls its students into its program during the first year with multiple neuro rotations, neurology continuity clinic, and attendance at Friday school. I felt that most other programs left you to IM that first year, but why wait until PGY2 to start practicing your field of choice? Plus, I knew the Twin Cities to be a diamond in the rough, having a surprising amount of diversity, arts and culture, and excellent food scene while maintaining a more close-knit, Midwestern feel.
What do you enjoy most about the program: Everyone from the Program Director to faculty to my fellow residents have welcomed us interns with open arms and have worked hard to make us feel like we're already part of the Neuro team
What are your plans after residency: Not quite sure yet. I'm interested in neuroimmunology, movement disorders, and neuro-infectious disease
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Camping in the Boundary Waters
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I have a playlist containing exclusively Renaissance-era music
If you weren't a physician, you would be: A baker or archaeologist
Jeff Bowers
Hometown: Rochester, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota Medical School
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: The wonderful people involved with the program and the nurturing learning environment they have fostered.
What do you enjoy most about the program: Friday school
What are your plans after residency: Vascular or Neurocritical Care Fellowship
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Boot hockey in the winter
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I love conspiracy theories
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Professional baseball player (kidding)
Madisen Janssen
Hometown: Denver, Colorado
Medical School: Rocky Vista University
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: The residents and faculty alike were all very easy to talk to, shared a mutual enthusiasm for the quality of the program, and the resident camaraderie I sensed was exceptional. I decided to come to the U of M Neurology program because of the people I met during the interview process, the teaching environment I sensed, and because I knew this program would push me and prepare me for any fellowship and ultimately for a successful life-long career in Neurology.
What do you enjoy most about the program: I really love the teaching focus, the people, the camaraderie, and the vast unique medical exposure.
What are your plans after residency: Likely a fellowship, but its too early for me to decide which sub-specialty yet.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Spending time outside and enjoying the many lakes and trails, thus my favorite MN activity is paddle boarding and biking
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I was a River Guide on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, in Idaho
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Science Teacher/Professor
Rob Lowe
Hometown: Eagan, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: I did several neurology rotations at the U of M hospitals during medical school and was sold by the amazing culture of the program. Every attending, fellow, and resident I worked with was happy, hardworking, and eager to teach.
What do you enjoy most about the program: Starting continuity clinic in PGY-1 and the protected didactic time that we get during Friday School!
What are your plans after residency: Undecided at this point, but I'm leaning towards a Epilepsy or Movement Disorders fellowship.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Walking around the many parks in the Twin Cities area, especially in the fall.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I beta-test board games for a local board game company.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: A professor or high school science teacher.
Rebecca Roberts
Medical School: Saba University School of Medicine
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: I knew I wanted to come to the U of M for residency as soon as my interview day was complete. Everyone was extremely welcoming and excited to share the program highlights. It was made clear that the staff is very invested in your training and provide whatever support you need to reach your personal, academic, and career goals. In addition, the ability to train at several different sites allows for exposure to a wide patient population which I found to be a huge plus. Not to mention, Minneapolis is an awesome place to live!
What do you enjoy most about the program: I enjoy the diversity of patients and hospital systems we are exposed to in our training, as well as access to several different specialties within Neurology.
What are your plans after residency: Vascular Neurology
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Spending time outdoors in the summer
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Fitness Trainer
Joshua Vandeburgh
Medical School: Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine
What do you enjoy most about the program: My co-residents are the best!
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: I'm still discovering, but I heard something about lakes around here...?
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I'm only cool by association to my awesome dogs: Emma the Great Dane, and Pau the intrepid Black Lab mix.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court... or purveyor of fine foods and spirits.
Salman Ikramuddin
Hometown: Syracuse, NY
Medical School: University of Minnesota
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: After attending Minnesota for medical school I was open to exploring options outside of the midwest. However, previous experiences in medical school with the attendings, staff and research teams in this department made clear to me that our program was truly unique. My mentors here are caring and invested in my success and that is invaluable. In addition to this, the program offers a number of tangible items that set it apart from others; Weekly didactics ensure a deep understanding of basic neuroscience, neuropathology, and neuroradiology, while a PGY-1 neurology clinic experience inspires confidence in the second year. The presence of a committed neuro-critical care unit allows for unsurpassed training. The program is also the home of millions in research funding across stroke, NCC, and movement disorders among others.
What do you enjoy most about the program: The people! My co-residents have quickly becoming friends, the staff have been unwavering in their support during the challenges of residency.
What are your plans after residency: I am interested in pursuing a fellowship in Movement Disorders with a focus in deep brain stimulation. The neuroscience involved in stimulation is absolutely fascinating and I see much room for innovation and advancement in this space.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Minneapolis is truly an amazing city and is a big part of why I decided to stay for residency. Summers are fantastic for the lakes and rivers, our crisp winters are a chance to visit the many art galleries and theaters in the city. I personally love being out on a boat on Lake Minnetonka when the opportunity presents itself.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I love meteorology and read lots of weather blogs! (it's a thing around here since the weather can change at any moment)
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Most likely a pilot! Cant rule out being an investment banker or CEO of a multinational VC.
Class of 2025
Michael Figueroa
Hometown: Danville, CA
Medical School: LECOM - Erie Campus
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: The people! Everyone is so nice and inviting, really made a difference when I was choosing programs.
What do you enjoy most about the program: I like that there is exposure to more than one hospital system, which will in turn expose us to a diverse population of people.
What are your plans after residency: Probably a fellowship, but it's too early to tell.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Haven't spent enough time in Minnesota yet, but I imagine I'll spend a lot of time outdoors!
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I've kept all of my concert ticket stubs for the last 10 years in a box. One day, I plan to make a big collage with them.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: A therapist.
Ernest Hanes
Hometown: San Francisco, CA
Medical School: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: I was impressed by the energy and comradery of the residents, the organization of my interview and the commitment by the department to advocate for its residents such as ensuring protected didactic and clinic time for interns.
What do you enjoy most about the program: Personally, I had the most fun just talking with the residents, faculty and staff about their favorite experiences living in Minneapolis including raising dogs and family. Professionally, the broad scope and variety of subspecialists, hospital sites and resources for both education and research left little to be desired. Geographically, I continue to be impressed by the Twin Cities and all the beautiful scenery, great eateries and excursions they offer.
What are your plans after residency: I am most interested in Critical Care and Education. However, I am open to exploring all the subspecialties UMN has to offer.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Eating! There are tons of great restaurants here of every cuisine. What I missed most after leaving San Francisco was the abundance of good eateries. Though I am not sure if Minneapolis surpasses my hometown, it makes a strong representation of its food scene.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I love writing/reading/watching Sci-Fi! This is one of the reasons I was drawn to Neurology. The procedures and concepts we are studying now used to be Science Fiction a generation ago. I am excited to see what breakthroughs will be achieved during my career.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Firefighter
Omair Lodhi
Medical School: Shifa College of Medicine
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: I was a neurology resident in my hometown before joining UMN, so integration of neurology in PGY1 as well as Friday school stood out to me. The entire team is really invested in residents growth and follows up on resident feedback. I loved the friendly candor that made me feel very welcome, as if I was at a table with family. Everyone I spoke to seemed to genuinely care about everyone working here.
What are your plans after residency: It is too soon to say but if I had to choose right now then neuro-critical care/vascular neurology
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I used to teach street children in my hometown
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Event Manager
Monica Ngo
Medical School: University of Minnesota
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: Having been to medical school at the University of Minnesota, I was excited to continue working with the amazing faculty, mentors and residents at the program. Furthermore, I couldn't be happier to stay in Minneapolis - a commuter friendly city with food gems comparable (or even better) than other major cities.
What do you enjoy most about the program: The residents and the program's collaborative culture!
What are your plans after residency: Fellowship in an "undecided" neurology sub-specialty.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Jogging across the Stone Arch Bridge
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I really got into playing League of Legends / gaming during the COVID-19 pandemic.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Co-owner of a restaurant/bakery (still a possibility in my future!). In a fictional universe, I'd be a professional surfer.
Abhiram Pillai
Hometown: Kerala, India
Medical School: Amrita institute of Medical Sciences and Research Center
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: I am sure 2020 was a unique experience for everyone in terms of virtual interviews and the challenges associated with making positive first impressions through a computer screen. Indeed, being able to express oneself in a short time frame, and that too, through video call, proved to be quite an arduous task. But even with these modern-day obstacles, the faculty, staff, and residents at UMN portrayed their familial camaraderie and efficient yet pleasant work environment of the department in an exceptionally endearing manner. The wonderful vibe I felt from interacting with the faculty and residents at UMN was unparalleled to that of any other interview I attended during the match season, which was extremely reassuring to me as an international medical graduate. Furthermore, the long history of the department in contributing to the field of neurology, diversity of the patient population, Friday School classes, and the vast exposure of residents-in-training to different hospital setups all played a critical role in helping me choose UMN Neurology as the most suitable residency program for me.
What are your plans after residency: Fellowship for sure, undecided on which one yet. I'm really interested in vascular neurology and neuro critical but, Its always nice to have an open mind :)
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I watch too much anime!
If you weren't a physician, you would be: An Astronaut, I was always intrigued by the outer space and possible existence of aliens :P
John Ziegler
Hometown: Janesville, WI
Medical School: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: The residents, staff, and faculty are wonderful! The mix of training sites offers an opportunity to serve a variety of patient populations. Last but not least, my wife and I have lots of friends and family in the area which is ideal as we raise our two daughters!
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Exploring the parks and bike trails with my wife and our two daughters.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: The only streaming service I subscribe to is PBS Passport.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: an elementary school teacher!
Class of 2026
Amerta Bai
Hometown: Karachi, Pakistan
Medical School: Jinnah Sindh Medical University
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: I really found U of M to be a wholesome platform in all the domain be it clinical, research, academia, or being an enriching environment to train as a budding neurologist. I absolutely loved the idea of Friday school and boot camp to help residents transition to the second year and feel like the part of the Neurology team from the day one. Lastly, the senior residents gave a great vibe of a supportive and fun comradery.
What are your plans after residency: I am definitely leaning towards fellowship. But I am looking forward to exploring all the possible interests to finalize the one to pursue.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: I am yet to experience in-person all the fun that Minnesota has to offer specially the out-door activities.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I love to write poetry mostly in Urdu language. I have recently made a youtube channel that’s yet to be flourished.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: A scientist or a therapist.
Karly Broderson
Hometown: DeSmet, SD
Medical School: University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: Great exposure to numerous subspecialties and interventional fellowship.
What do you enjoy most about the program:Eexposure to diverse patient population.
What are your plans after residency: Fellowship in vascular & interventiona.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Shopping.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I was a competitive gymnast for 12 year.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Fashion designer or stylist
Andrew Carlson
Hometown: Onalaska, Wisconsin
Medical School: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: The department seems to demonstrate a commitment to providing high-quality neurologic care to the people of Minnesota. I also deeply love Minneapolis, and am excited to have the opportunity to live in this culturally rich and interesting city.
What do you enjoy most about the program: This program demonstrates its commitment to education through the Friday School curriculum. I also love my the other residents in my cohort!
What are your plans after residency: I plan to pursue a fellowship, but I'm not sure of the subspecialty yet! I have interests in movement disorders and neuro-palliative care, but love all areas of neurology at this point.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Hiking along the north shore of Lake Superior
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I studied geology in Italy for a semester during college.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: The proprietor of a small independent coffee shop.
Abhigyan Datta
Hometown: Assam, India
Medical School: Maulana Azad Medical College, University of Delhi
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: From a strictly program perspective, there were quite a few things that stood out compared to other places I interviewed at- extensive exposure to neurology right from PGY1 (4 blocks of neurology+ weekly continuity clinic), protected didactic time during Friday school, wide variety of subspecialty exposure (including fields such as pain and interventional neurology- our program houses one of the few ACGME accredited ESN fellowships around), having the AAN headquarters right across, and an educator track to name a few. However, it was my experiences on interview day that made me realize that I would absolutely love to be a part of this family- everyone was incredibly friendly, and I had a blast with the resident during the meet and greet.
What do you enjoy most about the program: Friday School for sure! All the residents get to meet every friday (and it's protected- attendings hold the pagers), and we have a ton of incredibly fun team-based activities- Quizbowl (a Jeopardy style event), Neuro-games, simulations, etc.
What are your plans after residency: Fellowship, but not sure of the subspecialty.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Walking along the chain of lakes.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I have played 400 hours of Skyrim on 4 different systems (PC, PS3, PS4, Switch)- and still have not finished the main quest yet.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Artificial intelligence safety researcher- and working on the AI alignment/control problem. In fact, I still hope to work on this at some point in the distant future, either directly or perhaps through computational neuroscience.
Ben Ransom
Medical School: University of Minnesota
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: I wanted to continue my training in the beautiful city I call home, with an institution I have come to admire and respect during my time first as a researcher (analytical chemist at the Masonic Cancer Center for ~6 yrs), then a graduate student (Masters in Biological Science), a medical student, and finally a resident physician.
What do you enjoy most about the program: The people!
What are your plans after residency: Will likely do a fellowship. Considering epileptology, sleep medicine, maybe vascular neurology -- so I'm pretty undifferentiated right now, but am excited to see where the next 4 years take me...
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Kayaking? Biking? Skiing? Hard to pick just one, but it will probably be outside.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I lived on a glacier for a month. Ask me about it...
If you weren't a physician, you would be: Pilot. For sure.
S. Jackson Ward
Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program: During medical school, I rotated with a neurologist who completed her residency training at the University of Minnesota several years ago. She was a great mentor and my positive experience rotating with her inspired me to look into the program for myself. The beauty of the state, consistent positive interactions with native Minnesotans, focus on family life, quality education, and friendly staff and faculty all influenced me to rank the University of Minnesota as my number one choice when submitting my residency rank list.
What do you enjoy most about the program: So far, I enjoy the friendly nature of my fellow residents and other staff members.
What are your plans after residency: Currently, I am interested in pursuing a fellowship in Movement Disorders.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity: Walking my Golden Retriever around Minnesota's many lakes and rivers.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I play electric guitar.
If you weren't a physician, you would be: An audio engineer or music producer.
Class of 2027
Zach Dent
Hometown: Barnesville, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? Since moving here for medical school, my wife, Courtney, and I have really come to love the Twin Cities. At the University of Minnesota I have met lifelong friends and mentors, and I know there is success in my future if I am shown the same grace and support as I have received here as a medical student. I could not be more excited to get started and to continue serving this community!
What are your plans after residency? Unsure! Likely fellowship training of some sort.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? I really enjoy biking, a refreshing drink at a local brewery, and observing the night sky with my telescope.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I only have one functioning Abducens Nerve.
If you weren't a physician, you would be... a pharmacist, physicist, or astronomer.
Ryan Fuglestad
Hometown: Green Bay, WI
Medical School: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? I felt an immediate connection with staff and residents during my interview and really just felt like I fit in. The integration into the Neurology Department beginning in the intern year is a fantastic start to our training and I will have exposure to a wide variety of subspecialties to help me choose which fellowship I want to pursue.
What do you enjoy most about the program? Friday School is a fun way to continue our education while also providing a chance to catch up with co-residents.
What are your plans after residency? I plan on completing a fellowship, but am not sure which one at this point in my training. Early favorites are neuromuscular and pain.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? I enjoy the variety of professional sports in the Twin Cities.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I'm a huge Green Bay Packer fan.
If you weren't a physician, you would be... a pilot
Andrew Metz
Hometown: New Brighton, MN
Medical School: Creighton University School of Medicine
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? There are many reasons why I chose the U of M neurology program! During my visiting sub-internship rotation, I was impressed by the strong sense of community among faculty and residents. Everyone was so welcoming, and I really enjoyed my time on rotation. I was also drawn to the wide variety of training opportunities at the program across the various sub-specialties within neurology. Finally, I'm excited to return to my home state to be surrounded by friends and family.
What do you enjoy most about the program? So far, I've enjoyed the sense of community within the program, and I'm excited to meet more of my future co-residents and faculty members.
What are your plans after residency? I will likely pursue a fellowship in an inpatient-related specialty like stroke or neuro-critical care, but I am keeping an open mind as I start residency!
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? I love getting outdoors and staying active. I enjoy golfing and hiking in the summer months and skiing in the winter!
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I've read the Harry Potter books more times than I can count (most recently last summer).
If you weren't a physician, you would be... a sports reporter! I am a big Minnesota sports fan, and my friends will tell you I'm always talking about players and statistics while watching a game (maybe too much!).
Amy Parkinson
Hometown: Waconia, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota Medical School
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? While in medical school at UMN, I thoroughly enjoyed working with the neurology residents and attendings. It is clear to me that everyone involved in the program is invested in teaching, learning from each other, and working together to serve patients to the best of their ability. The program has been shaped with intentionality to help residents become excellent neurologists. I love the integration of neurology in the first year, through continuity clinic and Friday school, and the opportunity to participate in the education track. Finally, I love Minnesota! It is an amazing place to live and I am so thankful for the ways others have invested in me throughout my time in Minnesota.
What do you enjoy most about the program? The people!
What are your plans after residency? Most likely fellowship - I love working with and supporting individuals living with dementia so I could see myself pursuing a Behavioral Neurology fellowship but I am open to that changing!
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Kayaking in the summer, looking at and collecting beautiful leaves in the fall, and cross country skiing in the winter!
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I love to write handwritten notes for my friends and family.
If you weren't a physician, you would be... an event coordinator.
Sophia Yang
Hometown: San Diego, California
Medical School: Chicago Medical School
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? U of M's clinical training is unmatched, offering diverse experiences across multiple sites. There are also ample academic and research opportunities that allow residents to customize their training to their career interests. Additionally, the program's supportive culture, including weekly protected didactics for all residents, creates an environment that encourages learning and team-building. Not to mention, Minneapolis is a beautiful and vibrant city with close proximity to many outdoor activities!
What do you enjoy most about the program? The supportive culture and friendly people! Also, the exceptional breadth and depth of neurology training here, including wide exposure to subspecialties like neuroendovascular intervention.
What are your plans after residency? Most likely fellowship, undecided - headache medicine, neuroimmunology, behavioral neurology.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Dinner at Bar La Grassa
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: In medical school, I became obsessed with houseplants, especially aroids, and acquired a massive collection. I enjoy propagating them and sharing cuttings with family and friends.
If you weren't a physician, you would be... a piano teacher or therapist.
Ziqiang (Selina) Lin
Hometown: Chengdu, China
Medical School: West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University
Why did you decide to come to the U of M Neurology Residency Program? The program is highly reputable and located in a scenic city, but the amazing people here were the ultimate factor! From program leadership to residents, everyone I met was welcoming, gracious, and engaging. I love the program's rich history with many talented alumni, among whom I'd be honored to be included in the future.
What do you enjoy most about the program? The people, of course! As an IMG, I found them extremely welcoming. I also appreciate the excellent scholarly opportunities, including Friday School, Neurology Boot Camp and others that focus on not only clinical training but also on teaching and leadership skills. The institution is well funded with exceptional research and mentorship opportunities!
What are your plans after residency? I anticipate going into a neuromuscular fellowship. My goal is to lead translational research to improve patient care and facilitate inter-disciplinary collaborations. Meanwhile, I will strive to become the best possible clinician educator to share knowledge and advance the field.
What is your favorite Minnesota activity? Exploring the history and art museums, the 10,000+ lakes, and the Mall of America.
Coolest/geekiest/most random thing about you: I am a huge VR fan and a competitive "expert plus" Beat Saber player. I enjoy cooking and went to cooking school for Sichuan cuisine, by far the most delicious Chinese food!
If you weren't a physician, you would be... a chef or a therapist to care for either body or mind!
Positions After Graduation
Heba Afeefy - Private practice, subspecialty epilepsy, St. Cloud, MN
Emily Hudson - University of Minnesota, MS Fellowship
Kaci McCleary - Ohio Health, Palliative Care
Lisa Moore - University of Minnesota, CNP Fellowship
Bindi Parikh - University of Maryland, Neurocritical Care
Hope Ukatu - University of Washington, Vascular Neurology
Mona Al Banna - Yale, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Malik Ghannam - Iowa, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Adam Lipschultz - University of Minnesota, CNP Fellowship
Kent Nichols - University of Minnesota, Research Fellowship
Stephanie Reeder - University of Minnesota, Epilepsy Fellowship
Aubree Bruhnding - University of Minnesota, Faculty
Tanner Ferderer - Ohio State, Headache Fellowship
Michael Hayes - University of Minnesota, Fellowship
Allison Ho - University of Minnesota, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Nathan McGraw - University of Kansas, Fellowship
John Riedinger - University of Minnesota, Fellowship
Rami Assadi - Washington University - St. Louis, Stroke Fellowship
Matthew Britton - University of Minnesota, Fellowship
Roshni Patel - Rush College of Medicine - Chicago, Movement Fellowship
Edward Labin - University of Minnesota, Fellowship
Matthew Ronck - University of Minnesota, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Leighton Mohl - University of Minnesota, NCC Fellowship
AJ Christnovich - University of Minnesota, Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship
Parth Dhruv - University New Mexico, Clinical Neurophysiology Fellowship
Erika Horta - Detroit, MI, Neurooncology Fellowship
Jessica Jarnot - University of Minnesota, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Jetter Robertson - University of Minnesota, Neurology Faculty
Kyle Smith - Missoula, MT, private practice
Anisha Bhangav - Washington University in St Louis, Neuromuscular Fellowship
Abby Metzler - Mayo Clinic, Headache Fellowship
Asma Moussaoui - Rush University, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
David Ortiz - University of Minnesota, Epilepsy Fellowship
Pratit Patel - University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Vascular Neurology Fellowship
Amber Stutz - University of Minnesota, Movement Disorders Fellowship
