PGY4 - Chief Resident
Louisa Bauer
- Year in ProgramPRG4
- HometownBedford, MA
- UndergraduateUniversity of Rochester
- Medical SchoolTufts University School of Medicine – Maine Track Program
- Interests / HobbiesHiking, travel, skiing, salsa dancing
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandNoble Barbecue
- Personal quoteHiking! I recommend checking out the Bigelows during foliage season, easily one of my favorite hikes ever!
- Favorite Place in MaineAcadia National Park
- Medical InterestsHospital medicine, primary care, GI
- Favorite weekend destinationSunday River (and Butcher Burger for post-ski burgers and fries, the best in Maine)
- Why Maine Medical Center?I completed my 4th year medical school rotations at MMC and felt welcome from Day 1. I found the faculty and residents to be talented, caring providers and passionate teachers, all while maintaining a wide range of interests outside of medicine. Also, Portland is a wonderful place to live – it has an incredible restaurant and brewery scene and access to beautiful beaches, lakes, and mountains.
Katelyn Chadwick
- Year in ProgramPRG4
- HometownNarragansett, RI
- UndergraduateProvidence College
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesReading, cooking & baking, traveling, going to the beach
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandTerlingua for a casual night, Fore Street for special occasions
- Favorite Place in MaineBar Harbor/Acadia National Park
- Medical InterestsHospital medicine, medical education, advocacy, public health
- Favorite weekend destinationPortland Farmer's Market in Deering Oaks
- What did you do before Medical SchoolPrior to med school I received a Master's of Health Promotion at the National University of Ireland, Galway and went on to work for the Rhode Island Department of Health
- Why Maine Medical Center?For me, MMC is the best of both worlds: a smaller residency size with people who are welcoming and eager to teach, at a large, academic hospital that is a tertiary care center but that also serves such a vibrant and diverse community. On my interview day, we were told about how for Mainers, MMC is “Maine’s Miracle Center” and I wanted to be a part of that.
PGY3
Jamal Choudhary
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownTewksbury, MA
- UndergraduateUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst
- Medical SchoolFrank H. Netter SOM at Quinnipiac University
- Interests / HobbiesWatching the Boston professional sports teams, playing baseball and basketball, video games, spending time with family
- Medical InterestsGeneral internal medicine with a specialty interest in nephrology
- What did you do before medical schoolServed as an AmeriCorps member for the educational nonprofit organization City Year, supporting elementary school
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterThe supportive and welcoming community with a strong focus on resident education in a great location
Shannon Donovan
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownCumberland, ME
- UndergraduateSimmons College
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesBaking, painting, going to the beach, hiking, and fishing.
- Favorite place in MaineThe beaches and my family camp up north
- Medical InterestsCritical Care and Pulmonology
- What did you do before medical schoolProsthetic and Orthotic Clinician
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterGrowing up in Maine, I only ever heard about one hospital. Everyone I knew who was sick or hurt would go to Maine Med. I’ve always wanted to care for the community I grew up in. Maine Medical Center is an excellent place that provides excellent care. I have been dreaming about working here for a long time.
- If I wasn’t a doctor, I would be a…detective
Yusuf Ebrahim
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownPortsmouth, New Hampshire
- UndergraduateUniversity of New Hampshire
- Medical SchoolGeisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
- Interests / Hobbiesspending time with family, piano, computer and tabletop games, woodworking, programming, learning math
- Medical Interestsrural medicine, global & refugee health, end-of-life care, point-of-care ultrasound, medical procedures, medical education, intersection of medicine and computing
- Favorite Bookusually whatever I am currently reading...a favorite is The Earthsea Cycle!
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterI felt inspired by the people at the program. Although I had not been to Maine Medical Center prior to residency, it was clear during my interview that the culture was a friendly one that reflected a sincere and remarkable degree of curiosity and integrity with regards to patient care and the teaching of medicine. And there is room to delve into and explore a wide variety of interests and projects throughout your training here. The unique rural internal medicine program is a huge plus for me as well, as it strongly suits my interests and provides the perfect blend of training, between learning at a large academic hospital and living in and caring for a rural community at a critical access hospital. And living in Maine is wonderful.
Camille Ezran
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownBay Area, California
- UndergraduateUniversity of California, Berkeley
- Medical SchoolUniversity of Rochester
- Interests / Hobbiesballet and salsa dancing, yoga, rock climbing, butter tasting, reading
- Medical InterestsInternal Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Public Health
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterAt Maine Med, I found a group of health care providers that are passionate about providing comprehensive care to its patient population. I feel fortunate to join this dedicated community. And after growing up on the West coast, it’s time to dip my toes in another ocean.
- Personal Quote“I’ll take a vet over an M.D. any day. They gotta cure a lizard, a chicken, a pig, a frog, all on the same day.” – Kramer, Seinfeld.
Beth Garbitelli
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownBrookfield, VT
- UndergraduateGeorgetown University
- Medical SchoolTufts University School of Medicine - Maine Track
- Interests / HobbiesBaking, cooking, exploring Portland’s amazing food scene, aspiring to be outdoorsy, podcasting with The Curbsiders
- Medical InterestsInfectious disease, hematology, advocacy, medical humanities
- Favorite weekend destinationRangeley
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterMMC is a very special place. The care is patient-centered and MMC is a hub for medical care in New England. There is a focus on excellence and clinical teaching but within a holistic, warm, collegial environment. And I absolutely love living in Maine, with easy access to gorgeous beaches, lakes, mountains, trails, and parks. I feel so lucky to be here.
Michael Gilleo
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownAfton, MN
- UndergraduateUniversity of Minnesota
- Medical SchoolUniversity of Minnesota
- Interests / HobbiesNordic skiing, rock climbing, running, board games, and cooking!
- Medical InterestsPoint-of-care ultrasound, medical education, and nephrology
- Favorite Maine ActivityExploring all the nearby parks and beaches!
- Craziest / Best / Worst JobWorking at McDonald’s
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterMy wife and I wanted to experience life outside of Minnesota. It felt like Portland would allow us to easily explore the outdoors, while also providing access to a vibrant small town. In addition, I wanted a supportive residency program that put an emphasis on education and wellbeing, and these priorities were apparent during my interview day with Maine Med. It also didn’t hurt that my wife and I visited Maine on a beautiful weekend in October and absolutely fell in love.
- If I wasn’t a doctor, I would be a…Meteorologist
Kurt Grahnke
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownOak Park, IL
- UndergraduateDenison University
- Medical SchoolLoyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesSurfing, biking, camping, music, creative writing.
- Favorite place in MaineBeing in the pocket of a wave or J’s Oysters
- Medical InterestsI’m interested in everything, which I think lends itself to general IM, but I am open to fellowships as I progress through residency. I’m also interested in making healthcare a more environmentally-conscious field.
- Favorite weekend destinationAcadia or the local beaches
- Favorite Maine activityEating seafood and drinking a local craft beer after getting some good exercise outside
- Personal GoalsTo love what I do on a daily basis
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterIt is an excellent program first and foremost. I was also interested in coming somewhere which would allow me to surf, go camping, biking, and hiking in beautiful natural areas with ease on my off days. All this and more is accessible here. I’ve learned that these activities are not only critical for my personal wellness, but they also remind me of why I went into medicine in the first place. These activities show me the beauty of life and that is what I seek to preserve when taking care of people. Hopefully through good medicine, I can help get my patients back to doing the things they love to do, as much as I love surfing and exploring in nature.
Devon Huntley
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownWhitefield, Maine
- UndergraduateAmerican University, BS, Boston University, MS
- Medical SchoolTufts University School of Medicine – Maine Track
- Interests / Hobbiescooking, gardening, figure skating, coffee/espresso
- Favorite place in MaineReid State Park in the summer, the Old Port in the winter
- Medical Interestssexual and reproductive health through the lifespan, medical education, palliative care
- Favorite weekend destinationOn Sundays my husband and I have a pizza business at a local brewery, so that is our favorite destination! If we’re not slinging pies, we love to have friends over for a big, cozy dinner that never has leftovers.
- Favorite Maine activityTruly just living in Maine and being able to enjoy the state with so many wonderful people around me is my favorite thing – it truly is a special place!
- What did you do before medical schoolI worked as a nursing assistant at Maine Med before going to graduate school!
- Personal GoalsLearn how to sail, help my husband open a restaurant, have a family
- Craziest / Best / Worst JobMy first job was scrubbing dirt off winter squash with a shower scrubber in middle school at a nearby farm – an incredible life experience looking back but not easy at the time!
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterI compared every other program to MMC. After working as a CNA and spending my clinical years of medical school here, I knew I wanted to stay. The culture is supportive, people are truly friendly, and I feel completely comfortable asking for help and admitting when I don’t know an answer (not always the case in medical school). If I don’t have a smile on my face while at MMC, find me some coffee!
- Celebrity I most resembleI have been told I look like Julianne Moore more than once!
- If I wasn’t a doctor, I would be a…if not a nurse or something within healthcare, probably a teacher
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandSO difficult to choose! My husband and I love going to the Miss Portland Diner on the weekend – our order is the same each time, always including a blueberry pancake to share!
Anna Levesque
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownCincinnati, OH
- UndergraduateUniversity of Notre Dame
- Medical SchoolThe Ohio State University College of Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesReading, trivia, trying new restaurants and exorbitantly sugary coffee beverages, exploring art/history museums, light hiking
- Favorite place in MainePemaquid Point Lighthouse, Reid State Park
- Medical InterestsHospital medicine, infectious diseases
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterMy family is from Maine, and it was already one of my favorite places. Maine Medical Center seemed like the perfect balance between community hospital and academic medical center with the chance to see and learn a lot. Most of all, I appreciated that everyone seemed like part of a strong community that looks out for each other.
- If I wasn’t a doctor, I would be a…history professor
David W. Ngala
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownKinshasa (DRC)
- UndergraduateUniversite de Kinshasa
- Medical SchoolUniversite de Kinshasa, Faculte de Medecine
- Interests / HobbiesWatching Soccer, Football, Basketball, Movies, and cooking
- Favorite place in MaineWells Beach
- Medical InterestsUniversal Healthcare accessibility, GI and Cardiology
- Favorite weekend destinationHave not found one yet!
- Favorite Maine activityWalking and going to the beach (Summer time)
- Craziest / Best / Worst JobUber and Lyft Driver
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterI have loved MMC since the first day I started working here as a phlebotomist. I have been profoundly affected by the core values of the hospital and how everyone’s job is valued. I also appreciate the emphasis on clinical reasoning in education, and the friendly and supportive culture.
- If I wasn’t a doctor, I would be a…Sports Critics or a Sports journalist
- Favorite Restaurant in PortlandLonghorn!
Sam Pettit
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownLa Grande, Oregon
- UndergraduateBYU & Harvard
- Medical SchoolUNE
- Interests / HobbiesMusic (jazz & classical trumpet, piano), hiking, biking, skiing, traveling, time with my family (including my toy poodle)
- Favorite place in MaineAcadia National Park
- Medical Interestseverything!
- What did you do before medical schoolCorporate Finance for 7 years
- Personal Goalsjust to be a great doc who lives a happy balanced life
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterI love Portland! And MMC has what I feel is the optimal balance of academics in training residents.
- Celebrity I most resembleBuddy Holly
- If I wasn’t a doctor, I would be a…band teacher
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandBird & Co
Lester Sit
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownPetaluma, CA
- UndergraduateUniversity of California, Davis
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / Hobbiesrock climbing, gymnastics, specialty coffee, fermenting foods
- Medical Interestsclinical reasoning, medical education, hospital medicine, critical care, POCUS
- Favorite weekend destinationBoston for the Asian food
- Favorite Maine activityskiing in winter, hiking in the fall
- What did you do before medical schoolPrior to pursuing a career in medicine, I coached men’s gymnastics. I worked as a medical scribe and barista prior to starting medical school.
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterThe attendings, fellows, and residents I interacted with as a medical student were personable, supportive, and passionate about teaching. I felt that the culture was inviting and conducive to learning and growth.
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandMiyake
Lukas Sprick
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownOsborne, Kansas
- UndergraduateKansas State University
- Medical SchoolUniversity of Kansas School of Medicine
- Interests / Hobbiesrock climbing, mountain biking, snowboarding, camping, starting to get into scuba. Really anything to get outside and active!
- Medical InterestsHospitalist or pulmonary critical care
- Favorite weekend destinationHorseshoe Canyon Ranch or Bentonville, Arkansas (before moving to Maine)
- What did you do before medical schoolBefore medical school I took a year off and moved to Denver to be a manny (male nanny). It was hard work taking the two boys to school and then going hiking, biking or snowboarding!
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterAt first I was interested in Maine Medical for a change of geography. After interviewing at the program, I saw how close knit the residents were, and there was a large focus on medical education. I realized the program would be a perfect fit for me!
- Celebrity I most resembleI’ve been told I look like Shawn white (with short hair) or I could be the third property brother.
- If I wasn’t a doctor, I would be a…park ranger at a National park OR a carpenter.
Rami Waked
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownLebanon
- UndergraduateSaint Joseph University of Beirut
- Medical SchoolSaint Joseph University of Beirut
- Interests / HobbiesReading
- Favorite place in MainePortland
- Medical InterestsGeneral Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases, medical research
- Favorite Maine activityWalking along Pine Point beach
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical CenterWonderful place. Amazing supportive faculty. Very friendly environment. The opportunities to learn and grow in this beautiful community.
PGY2
Alessandra Daskalakis
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownSan Francisco, CA
- UndergraduateUniversity of California, Los Angeles
- Medical SchoolMichigan State University College of Human Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesKayaking, skiing, camping. I also love reading science fiction and fantasy!
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandVery much looking forward to figuring that out!
- Medical InterestsHospital medicine, health access, community outreach
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI worked at a community health center in San Francisco providing free and low-cost medical, gynecological, mental health and gender-affirming care.
- Best/worse job: Former Children’s Lead at Barnes and Noble – crazy, but great!
- Why Maine Medical Center?My wife and I wanted to be somewhere where we could easily enjoy the outdoors while also being close to the ocean and family again. But what really sold me was my experience during my acting internship: the camaraderie between the attendings and residents, the variety of pathology, and the patient advocacy I was able to be part of each day. It made me excited to learn more about the community in Portland and become more involved inside and outside the hospital. The food scene here is the cherry on top.
Erin Eidsness
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownMoorhead, MN
- UndergraduateConcordia College Moorhead, MN
- Medical SchoolUniversity of North Dakota
- Interests / HobbiesPlaying soccer, hiking with my husband, checking out new breweries, and going for walks with my dog.
- Medical InterestsEverything, that's why I chose Internal Medicine! I do have specific interests in POCUS, Geriatrics, and Critical Care medicine.
- Why Maine Medical Center?My husband and I wanted to explore new landscapes outside of the Midwest while also going to a program that embodied our home values. We are excited to be here and to hopefully experience a more moderate winter!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aMiddle or high school science teacher. I would follow in the footsteps of my family, who are all educators.
Patrick Fleming
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownNorwell, MA
- UndergraduateNortheastern University
- Medical SchoolFrank H. Netter SOM at Quinnipiac University
- Interests / HobbiesMusic (playing drums, collecting records, college/independent radio), various outdoor activities with my family
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandSo far, probably Isa
- Personal quoteSkiing the local mountains
- Medical InterestsInfectious disease, endocrinology, preventive medicine, primary care
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI worked in biotech research for about 10 years.
- Why Maine Medical Center?It’s a great hospital to train at, it’s a great city to live in, and everyone I meet at MMC is amazing. I haven’t come across anywhere else like it.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aSession musician in the studio
Cani Greg Garsuta
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownBohol, Philippines
- UndergraduateHoly Name University
- Medical SchoolUNECOM
- Interests / HobbiesRunning and hiking
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandPai Men Miyaki
- Personal quoteExploring Maine’s coastal towns
- Favorite Place in MaineBar Harbor, Acadia
- Medical InterestsPulmonary Critical Care, General Internal Medicine, Veterans Care
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI was an Enlisted Soldier in the US Army
- Best/worse jobCraziest – being a housekeeper in NYC, Best- being a soldier, I get to work with the best team in the world.
- Why Maine Medical Center?During my first week of acting internship, I knew this was the place I would want to work and learn. I’m surprised by how approachable the attendings and staffs were and how they focused on clinical reasoning in our learning. I immediately felt the camaraderie among the residents was akin to what I felt when I was in the Army. Also, I fell in love with Maine, and I love serving Mainers!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aMarine biologist and a carpenter and maybe own a power wash cleaning company!
Anna Gates
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownMechanic Falls, ME
- UndergraduateFranklin & Marshall College, University of Missouri – Kansas City
- Medical SchoolTufts University School of Medicine Maine Track
- Interests / HobbiesRunning, cooking, playing with my dogs, reading, exploring local trails and state parks
- Favorite Place in MaineIt’s a tie between Crescent or Willard Beach at sunset, or snowed in at home with my husband, our dogs, and lots of coffee.
- Medical InterestsOncology, Medical Education
- Why Maine Medical Center?Having grown up in Maine, it is a true privilege to learn from and care for patients in the place that made me who I am. I am so happy to be continuing my medical training in a collaborative and supportive atmosphere full of people who highly value teaching, learning, and the best quality patient care.
Sarah Gensheimer
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownBaltimore, Maryland
- Medical SchoolJohns Hopkins University School of Medicine
- Interests / Hobbieshome renovation projects, sci-fi/ fantasy novels, hockey, biking, hiking, camping, gardening, getting out on the water, long conversation over an excellent meal, adventures with my husband, kids, and pup.
- Favorite Place in MainePopham beach, New Meadows river/inlet, Owl’s head light house
- Medical Interestsprimary care, addiction medicine, women’s health, mental health; affordable housing policy, primary care delivery, population health
- What did you do before Medical Schoollived in NYC and San Francisco, working for a nonprofit providing a health education program in schools across the country
- Why Maine Medical Center?MMC offers exactly what I was looking for in a residency program – a kind, collegial community, down-to-earth residents and program leadership, and excellent, well-rounded clinical training. The program is thoughtfully designed, with a 4+2 block schedule alternating inpatient and outpatient weeks, and an academic half day every week to allow the mental space for focused learning. I also couldn’t think of a better way to do wellness in residency than to do residency in Maine! It’s beautiful, with amazing food, community, arts, and of course the outdoors. I am grateful to call this place home.
Kenleigh Hebel
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownMiddletown, Rhode Island
- UndergraduateUniversity of Rhode Island
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England COM
- Interests / HobbiesAnything outdoors, hiking, going to the beach, cooking, sea glass collecting, board games, reading, spending time with family and friends
- Personal quoteBeach/water activities then eating all of the delicious food
- Medical InterestsHospital medicine, critical care, patient advocacy
- Favorite weekend destinationBack home in Rhode Island
- Why Maine Medical Center?After completing a 4th year sub-I at MMC, I felt so welcomed and supported by everyone I interacted with. MMC has such an encouraging environment, and I knew I would be surrounded by amazing people while getting a fantastic education. I think the program size is perfect for me and after attending medical school in Maine, I knew I wanted to stay in the Portland area. MMC is in a location where I can enjoy my time outside of medicine which is very important to me!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aWildlife conservationist
Harrison Homer
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownWatchung, NJ
- UndergraduateTufts University
- Medical SchoolTufts University School of Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesRunning, hiking, cooking/baking, board games, mindfulness
- Medical InterestsEverything! I’m excited to dive deeper and explore different subspecialties throughout my medical training.
- Why Maine Medical Center?When looking at programs I was searching for a place with a strong community of people with diverse interests who would challenge me, support me, and have fun with me both within the hospital and outside of it. Those I have met at MMC so far have exceeded my expectations and I am excited to work side by side with such incredible people.
Liam John
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownEssex, VT
- UndergraduateSt. Olaf College
- Medical SchoolUniversity of Vermont Larner College of Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesCycling (all kinds), backcountry and Nordic skiing, playing chamber music
- Favorite Place in MaineCarrabassett Valley
- Medical InterestsRemote monitoring and telehealth for chronic disease management
- Favorite weekend destinationAnywhere by bike
- What did you do before Medical SchoolCoached cross-country skiing and worked in a vascular research lab
- Why Maine Medical Center?Wanted UVM vibes but a new city and the ocean is a bonus!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aentrepreneur
Taylor Mezoian
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownOld Orchard Beach, ME
- UndergraduateProvidence College
- Medical SchoolTufts University School of Medicine – Maine Track!
- Interests / HobbiesSpending time with family, going out to dinner in Portland (or anywhere!), cooking, admiring any dog I cross paths with, DIY home projects
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandOh my goodness, so many!! Scales, Central Provisions, Regards, Solo Italiano, Honey Paw, Wayside Tavern, Eventide… there are probably a couple more that I missed!
- Medical InterestsHospital Medicine, Clinical Reasoning, Cardiology
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI worked as a clinical research coordinator in ALS research at MGH.
- Best/worse jobI grew up in a family restaurant and waitressed for many years. I think waiting tables can be good, bad, ugly, and crazy all at once!
- Why Maine Medical Center?I love Maine Medical Center. As a Tufts Maine Track student, I had the privilege of getting to work with the incredible residents and attendings at MMC throughout medical school, and I was always inspired by the kindness and dedication to teaching I encountered. In addition to MMC being a wonderful place for medical education, Maine is a beautiful place to live, and I could not be happier to continue being a part of this community.
Avery Pellnat
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownStuyvesant, New York
- UndergraduateUAlbany
- Medical SchoolUpstate Medical University
- Interests / HobbiesWeight lifting, baking, cooking, board games, TV, video games, reading, and doing some outdoorsy stuff with my gf & dog!
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandSo far Duckfat, but I’m still exploring!
- Medical InterestsHospitalist Medicine and Critical Care Medicine.
- What did you do before Medical School: I was originally working on a career as a pilot, but switched to pre-med. After undergrad I took some gap years while working in a hospital and volunteering.
- Best/worse jobBest job with the best bosses I’ve ever had was scooping ice cream in Hudson, NY. Craziest (but still great) was working in a hospital as a nurse’s aide. Worst job was being a waiter.
- Why Maine Medical Center?I LOVED the interview here, got a VERY good vibe from the residents and staff. Also, my gf and I absolutely LOVED Portland when we came to visit, lots of great food and things to do!
- Celebrity I most resembleDanny DeVito
Rosellen Provost Shahidi
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownToms Brook, VA and Winchester, VA
- UndergraduateVCU College of Humanities
- Medical SchoolVCU School of Medicine
- Interests / Hobbiescooking, baking, reading, hiking, watching TV and movies, enriching the life of my dog, taking pictures
- Medical InterestsSubstance use and associated sequelae, rural medicine, procedures, occupational exposures
- Favorite weekend destinationBug Light
- Why Maine Medical Center?I’m here for the RIMM program’s unique combination of learning in a large tertiary care and in a smaller rural setting with fewer resources. I’m hoping to come out of residency well-rounded and ready to practice internal medicine in any setting.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aChemist
PGY1
Samuel Briggs
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownYork, ME
- Medical SchoolTouro College of Osteopathic Medicine -Middletown
- Interests / HobbiesGuitar, mountain biking, live music
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandCentral Provisions
- Personal quoteMountain biking
- Medical InterestsOncology, Preventative Medicine, Health Policy, Education
- What did you do before Medical SchoolClinical Research at MSKCC!
- Why Maine Medical Center?It was a dream of mine to come back to Maine and I feel so fortunate to be a part of this program. My experience rotating at MMC during my fourth year sealed the deal for me. My teams were tight-knit and supportive, education was always a priority, and the patients were wonderful. Teams at MMC were unique in their focus on getting to know patients beyond their brief stay in the hospital. We worked with them and their families to make sure they had the support and the resources they needed to succeed after they left.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aMusician
Michael Cooper
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownLewisburg, PA
- Medical SchoolEdward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine -Virginia Campus
- Interests / HobbiesSkiing, cooking (mainly Italian food), playing/watching soccer, gaming
- Personal quoteSkiing in the winter/beaches in the summer
- Favorite Place in MainePortland!
- Medical InterestsHospital medicine, critical care, POCUS
- Why Maine Medical Center?Residency at MMC gives you all the advantages and resources of training at a large tertiary center, but with a genuinely welcoming and supportive culture that is rare to find. Plus, you get to live in the most beautiful state in the country!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be astay at home cat-dad
Rachel Cutting
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownCambridge, MA
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Katie Florescu
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownMerritt Island, FL
- Medical SchoolUniversity of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville
- Interests / Hobbiesall things outdoors, cooking & baking, house plants, reading, coffee & tea
- Medical Interestsmedical education, medical humanities
Hina Hashmi
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownVeazie, ME
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesHiking, traveling, cooking, henna, coffee shop hopping, spending time with family and friends.
- Personal quoteHiking and nature walks
- Favorite Place in MaineThe East End in Portland especially for sunset, Higgins Beach
- Medical InterestsSocial determinants of health, advocacy, primary care, preventative medicine
- What did you do before Medical SchoolMaine is home! I completed some of my third and fourth year rotations at Maine Med, and was always in awe of how knowledgeable, kind and collaborative residents and preceptors were. I am excited to be part of a supportive, teaching-centered program that also happens to be in the best little city.
Kailey Kowalski
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownAlbany, NY
- Medical SchoolKansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesSpending time with my dog, skiing, playing soccer and eating
- Personal quoteSkiing
- Favorite Place in MaineSugarloaf, Eastern Prom
- Medical InterestsCardiology
- Favorite weekend destinationBoston or NYC, since most of my friends live there
- What did you do before Medical SchoolBreast cancer research at Dana-Farber
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aWork at a doggy daycare
Jia Liu
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownQueens, NY
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesCooking, Shopping, Movies, and Spending time with family/friends
- Medical InterestsGI, Pulmonary/Critical Care, Immigrant Health, Health Disparity
- Favorite weekend destinationAny Coffee Shop
- Why Maine Medical Center?The sense of community and camaraderie among the residents, coupled with the collaborative and supportive atmosphere at MMC. I want to train at a close-knit community-like program with the resources of a large academic center.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be agoing to culinary school
Madison Oxley
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownBrewer, ME
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesReading, baking, skiing, running, yoga, spin class, spending time with family/friends
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandYosaku
- Personal quoteEither a hot summer beach day or a fall hike
- Favorite Place in MaineFortunes Rocks Beach
- Medical InterestsHospitalist, gastroenterology
- Favorite weekend destinationStowe, VT
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI attended UNE for my undergraduate and worked as a Care Transitions Coordinator
- Best/worse jobBest - Concert venue: making lemonade
- Why Maine Medical Center?It's home! I love Maine and knew I wanted to stay in the area. During my SubI rotation, I felt so welcome and cared for as part of the team.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aWildlife photographer
Karishma Patel
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownWaltham, MA
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesCooking, Traveling, Painting, Time With Family/Friends, Going To The Beach, Watching TV
- Personal quoteBeach days
- Favorite Place in MaineFortune's Rocks Beach
- Medical InterestsInternal Medicine, Public Health
- Favorite weekend destinationBoston, MA
- What did you do before Medical SchoolClinical Data Coordinator, Endoscopy/Colonoscopy Technician
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aChocolatier
Sydney Pickering
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownEmmaus, PA
- Medical SchoolEdward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine -Virginia Campus
- Interests / HobbiesNew York Times crossword puzzles, grass/sand volleyball, trivia, camping
- Favorite Place in MainePortland, Maine
- Medical InterestsGeriatrics
- Favorite weekend destinationDeer Valley, Pennsylvania
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI was a CNA in a nursing home and rehabilitation center
- Why Maine Medical Center?During my interview, someone said to me, "People who move to Maine never want to leave- we all love it here." It is so important to me that I train at a center which will not only challenge me as a physician, but also set me up for happiness in my personal life. My partner and I could envision a beautiful life in Maine, and the residents ahead of us shared stories that affirmed this vision. MMC also offered many astounding opportunities in geriatric medicine and research, a passion of mine. It seemed to us that all the pieces had fallen into place and MMC Internal Medicine was a perfect new home for us.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aStoryteller
Stephanie Quoss
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownSt. Louis, MO
- Medical SchoolRocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesI love anything outdoors! I like hiking, camping, snowboarding, skiing, painting, and yoga
- Medical InterestsHeme/Onc but mostly undecided
- Favorite weekend destinationAny lake house
- Best/worse jobBest - Working as a bartender
- Why Maine Medical Center?After doing my interview and doing more research about the program I thought that the residents seemed happy, the program and fellowship matches are excellent, and Portland looked like a fun place to live. My partners family also lives close to Portland so it allowed us to have a support system during residency. It checked all of the boxes for us!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aArtist/Glassblower
Courtney Sharp
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownPrairie Village, KS
- Medical SchoolUniversity of Kansas School of Medicine - Wichita
- Interests / HobbiesHiking and camping, getting outdoors. I also love reading fantasy novels at home and trying out new recipes in the kitchen.
- Favorite Place in MaineStill to be discovered!
- Medical InterestsInfectious Disease
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI studied Microbiology at Kansas State University.
- Best/worse jobBest - I spent a summer doing altitude sickness research in the mountains of northern New Mexico. I got to live in a cabin in the woods at 10,000 feet of elevation, and greet backpackers who were summiting a nearby peak every day. It was so much fun! I loved being in the backcountry and getting to meet folks from all across the country every day. It was really rewarding to see them enjoying the outdoors.
- Why Maine Medical Center?I was drawn to Maine Med’s supportive, close-knit learning environment. I also value their clinical excellence and their committed faculty. The broad learning opportunities at MMC produce very well-rounded Internal Medicine physicians. Living in Maine is perfect. I feel incredibly lucky to get to live near the ocean, the mountains, and so many incredible places to explore.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aA laboratory microbiologist! I loved learning about microorganisms and doing research on them while I completed my undergraduate degree. Growing little guys in petri dishes was super cool, and I've always been fascinated by the complexity of our world at its smaller scales.
Charu Tiwari
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownFalmouth, ME
- Medical SchoolTufts University School of Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesApart from spending time with my family, friends, and our two rescue dogs, I love volunteering with the dogs at the animal shelter, watching reality TV, and listening to true crime podcasts.
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandGreen Elephant
- Personal quoteexploring Portland's restaurants
- Medical InterestsPrimary care, mentoring
- What did you do before Medical SchoolWorked as a CNA, scribed in an emergency department
- Why Maine Medical Center?I spent some of my third year and all of my fourth year at MMC. Everyone I worked with was so kind, and the environment was focused on learning and wellness. I also wanted to be close to my support system!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aI would work in animal rescue/welfare/rehabilitation
Nicholas Toma
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownWindber, PA
- UndergraduatePenn State
- Medical SchoolLMU DCOM
- Interests / HobbiesMaking music, art, coffee roasting, cats
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandTony's Donuts
- What did you do before Medical SchoolMany different jobs, but mostly recently, IT sysadmin
- Best/worse jobBest was maybe farmwork, worst was line cook
- Why Maine Medical Center?MMC struck me as being an academic center with a rich learning environment while maintaining a positive and supportive residency culture
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be abaker
Anastasia Tsomides
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownTroy, ME
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesHiking, skiing, traveling, trying new restaurants
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandToo many to choose! Scales and Taco Escobar are high on the list
- Personal quoteEating lobster rolls
- Favorite Place in MaineAnywhere near the ocean or on a lake!
- Medical InterestsHospitalist medicine, oncology
- Favorite weekend destinationSchoodic Lake in the summer and Sunday River in the winter
- What did you do before Medical SchoolWorked at Weill Cornell Medicine completing medical research with 3D tumor models
- Why Maine Medical Center?Growing up in Maine, I have always dreamed of being a doctor in my home state. After completing a 4th year Sub-I at MMC and working with all of the amazing attendings and residents, I knew Maine Med was the perfect mix of strong academic medicine and a kind, supportive environment!
Michael Wons
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownWakefield, NH
- Medical SchoolRocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesBasketball, hiking, cooking + going out to new restaurants, snowboarding
- Favorite Place in MaineWells Beach - where I grew up going with my family.
- Favorite weekend destinationPine River Pond, the greatest lake to exist.
- Best/worse jobBest - Moving furniture in college at UNH.
- Why Maine Medical Center?The people, the place, and the new adventures that await in Maine all drew me to Maine Med!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aChef!