Resident Life
More From Our Residents
Chief Residents
Youngeun Armbuster, MD
Introduction: I am Young from Pennsburg, PA. I went to Cedar Crest College in Allentown, PA where I studied Nuclear Medicine Technology. Prior to starting medical school at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, I worked as a PET/CT technologist, an EPIC electronic health system implementation specialist, and a combat medic in the U.S. Army Reserve. My husband and I have two amazing pups Jesse and Abby together.
Hometown: Pennsburg, PA; Daegu, South Korea
Medical School: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
Why I Chose URMC: It was love at first sight! I fell in love with URMC during my interview, because of the people and their passion for resident education. I could see myself as a member of this wonderful family.
Program's Best Feature: The people
My Favorite Things About Rochester: I love the food scene, Rochester Museum & Science Center, and so many beautiful parks I can take Jesse and Abby for long walks!
Laura Bowman, MD
Introduction: I am from Minnetonka, MN, a suburb of Minneapolis. I went to Pennsylvania State University where I studied biochemistry and molecular biology and played Division I ice hockey. After receiving my BS I played hockey in Vienna, Austria for a season before pursuing medicine at the University of Minnesota Medical School. I love spending time outdoors, hiking and camping.
Hometown: Minnetonka, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota Medical School
Why I Chose URMC: During the virtual interviews I immediately felt at home. The residents were easy to talk to and all seemed to support each other. This program has a culture I want to be a part of.
Program's Best Feature: I have not worked in the program yet but I'm guessing my co-residents are going to be my favorite part!
My Favorite Things About Rochester: I am new to Rochester, but I am excited to get to know the city and the surrounding area.
Annie Stoklosa, MD
Introduction: Hi, I'm Annie! I grew up in Victor, NY and went to Mercy High School and St. John Fisher College here in Rochester. I completed my MD and MPH from the University at Buffalo. In my spare time, you are most likely to find me trying out a new fitness class, reading, or walking my golden doodle, Oliver.
Why I Chose URMC: The faculty and residents were so welcoming on interview day and I felt right at home. I also get to be close to my family while training at a great institution!
Program's Best Feature: The residents, the focus on education, and the excellent exposure to sub-specialties.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: The Finger Lakes, the arts festivals during the summer, and just down the road from the Buffalo Bills!
Allison Guarin, MD
Introduction: I was born and raised in Rochester, NY and went to The College at Brockport for undergrad where I got my BS in Biology. After graduation I worked for the University of Rochester for a year as a float tech before starting medical school at the University at Buffalo in 2018. In my free time I love spending time with my husband, exploring new restaurants or cooking new recipes, and spending time outside!
Hometown: Rochester, NY
Medical School: University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
Why I chose URMC: So many reasons! The residents hosted the most fun meet and greet I attended all interview season (a fun zoom session is no small feat). The proximity to family for me, focus on training well rounded generalists, and the family planning exposure also contributed significantly to my decision.
Program’s best feature: The kind people!
My favorite things about Rochester: Accessibility of so many beautiful parks... something I took for granted growing up here!
Carolyn Larkins, MD
Introduction: Hi, I'm Carolyn! I have spent most of my life in New England, although I did venture west after undergrad for a year as a JVC/Americorps volunteer in Wenatchee, WA. I entered medical school interested in primary care, but after discovering OB/GYN during my 3rd year there was no turning back! Outside of medicine I enjoy baking delicious treats, cooking new recipes, visiting farmers markets, camping, and hiking.
Hometown: Manchester, NH
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine – Maine Medical Center Program
Why I chose URMC: I finished my interview day with a BIG smile on my face. It was clear that this is a place with a collaborative and supportive environment that cares deeply about patient care and resident education. I was also drawn by the broad exposure to all things OB/GYN and the program's commitment ?to undergraduate medical education.
supportive of each other. It feels like one big family!
Program’s best feature: The amazing people and family planning training!
My favorite things about Rochester: My favorite things about Rochester: I am enjoying exploring the beautiful parks, restaurants, and coffee shops here.
Melissa Chima, MD
Introduction: I am Melissa Chima from Baltimore, Maryland but lived in the DC metro area for many years before medical school. I went to University of Maryland in College Park, MD where I studied Biology with a concentration in Neurophysiology. After receiving my BS, I worked as a sleep technologist for four years in DC while working on my post-bac. I pursued medicine at Penn State College of Medicine. I love hanging out with my husband, my big extended family, and my cat, Mr. Darcy, who I have had since I was in college.
Hometown: Baltimore, MD
Medical School: Penn State College of Medicine
Why I chose URMC: I chose URMC because I felt it was the place to get a complete Ob/Gyn residency education. Family planning is robust and integrated in the program throughout the four years. Also, the programs directors and residents I met during my interview day were very welcoming and honest about the program. I felt confident this program was the best fit for me.
Program’s Best Feature: The program director and associate program director. I really feel heard, and they always make an effort to make the program better for residents.
My Favorite Thing about Rochester: I am new to Rochester and really love livingclose to Lake Ontario.
Emily King, MD
Introduction: I’m Emily and I grew up in rural Canton, Ohio. I went to undergrad at The Ohio State University where I studied Genetics and French and then moved north to the University of Toledo for medical school. In my free time, I love outdoor activities like running and hiking, exploring restaurants and breweries/vineyards, and listening to true-crime podcasts!
Hometown: Canton, OH
Medical School: University of Toledo
Why I Chose URMC: I was originally drawn to Rochester because of my partner who is attending residency here, however, once I got the fortunate chance to rotate at URMC I fell in love with the welcoming attitude of the team. Both faculty and residents were clearly dedicated to helping each other and I felt comfortable right away. Even during the interview process, virtual as it was, it was obvious that everyone was invested in the process and genuinely interested in not only sharing about the program but also getting to know the applicants!
Program's Best Feature: One of the things that blew me away immediately was the early and extensive involvement in family planning and reproductive rights advocacy. Coming from a region where access to this kind of care is very limited, it was an entirely different world at URMC and I loved that the residents got to play such an active role.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: I love the dozens of parks and trails in and around the city as well as the fairly cheap (35$ general admission at the Armory, how even…) and diverse music scene!
Alexsaundra Zywicki, MD
Introduction: I am Ally from Liverpool, NY, a suburb of Syracuse, NY. I went to undergrad at the University of Rochester where I studied Brain & Cognitive Science with a minor in Biomedical Engineering and played basketball. I am a big sports fan (Go Bills!), love to rollerblade, will search for new music on Spotify for hours and can never say no to French fries.
Medical School: SUNY Upstate Medical University
Why I Chose URMC: The interactions among faculty and residents impressed me the most on interview day, and I felt a genuine interest in getting to know me beyond what was written on my application.
Program's best feature: I’m interested in teaching and medical education, and I found having an Education Specialist to be a unique aspect of the program.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: The breweries and restaurant scene, rollerblading along the Erie Canal Bike Trail, Wegmans and the Public Market.
Third Year Residents
Carson Klasner, MD
Introduction: I grew up in Webster, NY (a suburb of Rochester), then moved to Los Angeles to study Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, with a minor in Theatre, at the University of Southern California. I made my way back to the East Coast for medical school at the University of Maryland, then very happily returned home for residency. I love reading, spending time on Lake Ontario, and all things musical theatre!
Hometown: Webster, NY
Medical School: University of Maryland
Career Goals: I think I'll become an academic generalist - I'd love to be a program director one day!
Why you chose URMC: URMC has the perfect mix of a friendly, community feel with all the bells and whistles of a major academic center. Even on my virtual interview day I knew that I would feel supported and empowered by my co-residents. Plus, having no 24-hour shifts is a HUGE bonus!
The Program's best feature: I've been so impressed with the care our department provides. The Rochester population is quite diverse, so each patient needs something different. I'm learning to provide evidence-based, holistic, and empathetic care to every patient.
Your favorite things about Rochester: I've seen the city grow and change so much since I was a kid - every day I hear about a new restaurant, festival, store, or park to visit! There is so much to do here, and since it's a smaller city it all feels very accessible and affordable. I love having all four seasons and living close to the Great Lakes.
Before you started the program, what did you wish you knew? When current residents tell you to enjoy your fourth year of medical school, believe them! I love going to work every day (seriously!), but I definitely miss those months when my time was truly my own.
Clare Lennon, MD
Introduction: I've taken a winding path to residency! I grew up in Florida and majored in journalism with a classics minor at the University of Florida. In the first few years after college, I worked as a newspaper reporter and healthcare tech writer, and I lived in Brooklyn, Tampa and Portland, Ore. Then I moved to the Philadelphia area to enroll in the Bryn Mawr College Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program. After postbac, I worked in clinical research in Philadelphia, took up running, and first began to think about OB/GYN. My interest in OB/GYN grew throughout medical school at the University of Rochester, and I completed a research fellowship for an additional year of medical school. When I'm not at work, I love to take walks with my husband and our toddler, read the news (morning) and fiction (evening), squeeze in a HIIT workout, and enjoy a good bowl of ice cream.
Hometown: Tampa, Fla.
Medical School: University of Rochester
Career Goals: Likely REI or MFM, but we will see!
Why you chose URMC: I loved working with the residents and faculty when I was a medical student here, and I was impressed by how residents supported one another through parental leave, life changes and the everyday stresses of training. I wanted a program with a track record of supporting residents with families as well as training outstanding generalists and fellowship applicants, and Rochester felt like the perfect fit.
Program's best feature: Your favorite things about rochester: The parks and trails in Rochester are great, and Highland Park in the spring is gorgeous. My other favorite aspect of life in Rochester is being close to family.
Before you started the program what did you wish you knew?
Hmmm, I'm still in my first month of residency. Ask me in six months!
Grace Narlock, DO
Introduction: I was born and raised in the sunny San Francisco Bay Area. I attended the University of Rochester for undergrad, where I enjoyed studying anthropology and microbiology. After graduating, I completed a fifth-year fellowship and worked at Strong’s Wilmot Cancer Center in clinical research while applying to medical school. I love to travel, hike with friends, read a good novel, and explore local breweries and eateries.
Hometown: Corte Madera, CA.
Medical School: A.T. Still University.
Career Goals: I love both obstetrics and gynecology and hope to work as a generalist.
Why I chose URMC: After my interview, I knew that URMC offered a challenging, robust curriculum at a high acuity hospital within a supportive, collaborative environment: A perfect balance. I was impressed by all aspects of the program and confident in my ability to get unhindered complex abortion care training. The humility and kindness in every person that I had the privilege of speaking to on interview day tipped the scale.
Program’s Best Feature: The people! My co-residents are kind and supportive and the faculty are knowledgeable, helpful, and eager to teach.
My Favorite Things about Rochester: Rochester has something for everyone. From spending time outdoors on Lake Ontario or taking a nice walk at Mendon Pond to shopping on Park Ave or seeing a show at the Little Theater, there is always something to do and explore.
Dana Stuehling, DO
Introduction: I’m originally from outside Philadelphia and went to Smith College in Western MA, where I studied Sociology with a focus on Black History. I worked for 8 years as a sex educator and with queer and trans folks in the Midwest before deciding to switch careers and pursue medicine. After a year at Bryn Mawr College for a post-baccalaureate I came up to Rochester for med school.
In my free time I like to hike with my dog, camp with friends, and make ice cream.
Hometown: Phoenixville, PA
Medical School: University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry
Career Goals: Providing sex-positive, queer- and trans-inclusive comprehensive sexual/reproductive health care. I’m not sure yet if this will be as a generalist or through a family planning fellowship.
Why you chose URMC: High volume second trimester abortion training, supportive faculty, friendly residents and a city that’s easy to live in.
The program’s best feature: I’ve been impressed with the accessibility of the faculty and staff, whether it’s for academic interests or support with the transition to residency. And I think it speaks volumes that so many trainees stay in Rochester after completing residency/fellowship.
Your favorite things about Rochester: music and art festivals, the public market, proximity to the Adirondacks, easy access to green spaces, amazing Ethiopian food… and so many more!
Paige Riedelsheimer, MD
Introduction: Hi I’m Paige! I was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. I was then recruited to play soccer at the University of Rochester, where I also studied Biology and Public Health. I took a year off after graduating, where I worked as the supervisor for the Emergency Department Research Associates program here at URMC. I then went back to Ohio for medical school at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. I'm excited to be back in Rochester for the next step of my training. I like to stay active in my free time, so I weight lift, hike, run, etc. I like to spend time with my husband (a former UofR squash player) and my dog, mostly exploring the city and upstate NY. During football season, you can also catch me cheering on my Cincinnati Bengals - Who Dey!
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Medical School: University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
Career Goals: I always knew I would be in a surgical subspecialty during medical school, and I have continued to love the OR so I imagine myself focusing on the gynecology side and spending more time in the operating room, whether that'd MIGS, UroGyn, or GynOnc.
Why I chose URMC: first for the people - during my interview it was easy to talk to and connect with the other residents and attendings. I also wanted a program that had great exposure to every sub specialty within the field, and I found that at UofR
The Program's best feature: Resident support from other residents, faculty, and staff
Favorite things about Rochester: the brewery and food scene - for it being a smaller city it has a really good variety!
Before you started the program what did you wish you knew? I wish I knew how much fun I could have in residency. Residency is obviously a lot of work, but here you are able to work and learn with others who truly passionate about what they do and make it fun for everyone!
Tiffany Wang, MD
Introduction: Hi! My name is Tiffany! I was born and raised in Connecticut and studied Biopsychology at Tufts University. I worked in the Boston area for several years as a research assistant before going to Albany Med. I completed my yoga teacher training certification while in medical school and love to teach/practice yoga in my spare time. I really enjoy trying new restaurants (especially if they include sushi or noodles), camping, and spending time outdoors!
Hometown: Fairfield, CT
Medical School: Albany Medical College
Career goals: Probably generalist, with a focus on medical education
Why I chose URMC: I chose URMC for the people I met on the interview day and pre-interview social. The residents, attendings, and program staff all seemed genuinely kind and down to earth. I also wanted a program with strong family planning training and the chance to serve a diverse, underserved patient population. It was clear that the program created the type of environment where I could be supported in my training and my career goals.
Program's Best Feature: My lovely co-residents!
Favorite Things About Rochester: Saturdays at the Public Market, the thriving festival scene in the summer, fun coffee shops, and proximity to the Fingerlakes
Alexandra Kershner, MD
Introduction: Hi, I'm Alex! I am from Wisconsin and have lived there my entire life until moving to Rochester, NY for residency. I went to undergrad at UW-Green Bay (Go Packers!) where I studied Human Biology and Human Development. I then went to the Medical College of Wisconsin for medical school, where I met my partner. In my free time I love to be outdoors (running, hiking, kayaking, you name it!), travelling, exploring new foods, spending time with my partner and friends, and reading fictional novels.
Hometown: Bangor, WI
Medical School: Medical College of Wisconsin
Career goals: Generalist (unsure if I want fellowship or not yet)
Why I chose URMC: I chose URMC because during all my interviews I felt right at home with everyone. I felt like each person tried to get to know me, not just ask about my application, which was something special. The focus on training well-rounded generalists, the supportive culture, and the exposure to family planning were things that greatly influenced my decision.
Program's Best Feature: The supportive people, including staff, faculty, resident, and the program leadership!
Favorite Things About Rochester: Since moving to Rochester, my favorite things about Rochester are the food scene (still in the process of discovering), breweries, and being able to take a quick drive or bike ride to find places outdoors to spend time.
Emily Young, MD
Introduction: Hi, my name is Emily! Before coming to NY for residency, I was Ohio born and raised. I grew up in the Cleveland area, went to Columbus for undergrad at The Ohio State University (Go Buckeyes!), and attended medical school at WSU Boonshoft SOM in Dayton. For undergrad I majored in biomedical engineering then worked for a little in the medical device industry with a focus on designing powered wheelchairs.
I really enjoy being outdoors and cycling – I spent the summer of 2018 cycling across the US while advocating for affordable housing. Cycling transitioned to walking/hiking my first year of medical school when I adopted the loml – my Australian Shepherd pup named Ziggy! In medical school I found my passion for the field of OBGYN, got involved in the improvement of medical school clerkship education, and participated in a global health curriculum that included a service trip to Guatemala!
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio
Medical School: Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine (Dayton, Ohio)
Career Goals: Haven’t ruled out fellowship, but as of now I enjoy both sides of the specialty and see myself being a generalist!
Why you chose URMC: The initial reason I was drawn to this program was because of the opportunity to train in a state like New York with a program providing extensive exposure and longitudinal training/education in Family Planning (all while not being too far from my family in Cleveland, OH). Interview day sealed the deal for me with the great vibe of the residents and the incredibly supportive faculty on top of the great education/training people get here.
The program’s best feature: The people! Both the faculty and my co-residents have been incredibly supportive – and shoutout to my co-interns who are AMAZING!
Favorite thing about Rochester: I haven’t been here long, and I’m still learning so much about the area, but I loved visiting the Finger Lakes and walking with my pup through all the different parks/trails the area has to offer!
Before starting the program, what did you wish you knew? The importance of having a nice supply of socks at home (and always have an extra pair in your bag)!
Second Year Residents
Sarah Danforth, MD
Introduction: Hi I'm Sarah! I grew up in Westwood, MA and went to undergrad at UMass-Amherst where I majored in Biology and Spanish Language Studies! I stayed in MA for medical school at UMMS in Worcester and couples matched here with my fiancé Henry who's a Family-Medicine resident! In my free time I love to try new recipes, get outside or go to the gym, read, and binge-watch reality TV shows.
Hometown: Westwood, MA
Medical School: UMass Chan Medical School
Career Goals: I'm definitely interested in fellowship right now, either Gyn Onc or MFM!
Why you chose URMC: URMC has a fabulous reputation for training skilled OB-GYNs and supporting residents who are interested in fellowship. It was also really important to me to train at a program with a positive and collaborative resident culture. During my interview I could tell that everyone here enjoyed one another's company, which is so important when you're working long hours and dealing with the challenges of residency. I definitely feel like I made the right decision coming here!
The Program's best feature: Amazing co-residents and super supportive faculty/staff environment!
Your favorite things about Rochester: Everything! Rochester is truly a hidden gem. There are so many amazing restaurants with a huge array of choices from Thai to Ethiopian. Not to mention a ton of ways to get out into the city and explore whether its heading to farmer's markets, walking/biking the Erie Canal trail or meeting up with friends for drinks at a cute cocktail bar or brewery!
Before you started the program, what did you wish you knew? How much I was going to love this area. Moving from MA where I was so close to so many fun cities, I was a little worried about the transition, but I've found Rochester is the perfect size for me, and I have easy access to other destinations like Toronto and the Finger Lakes!
Malayna Hocker, MD
Introduction: I grew up in Tucson, AZ and moved to western Mass for college. After graduation, I worked as an elementary school teacher before completing a post-bacc in hopes of pursuing medicine.
Hometown: Tucson, Az
Medical School: University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry
Career Goals: I'm still sorting out what I want to do with my career long term, but currently hoping to continue in academic medicine to continue my passion of teaching and mentorship. I also have a strong interest in engaging in Family planning.
Why you chose URMC: Having been a medical student here, I knew that I would love working with the other residents and faculty. I also knew this was a place where I was going to be challenged and supported.
The Program's Best Feature: There has been such an incredibly supportive and learning focused culture amongst resident and faculty.
Favorite Things About Rochester: I love how Rochester continues to surprise me. I've been here 4 years, it's still often that I stumble upon a new restaurant or thing to do. I love the proximity to all different type of nature and trails.
Before you started the program what did you wish you knew? We get exposed to such a large volume and wide variety of patients and procedures, which is so great for learning to manage nuanced patient cases.
Anna Nesgos, MD
Introduction: Hi I'm Anna! I grew up in Newton, MA (just outside of Boston). I then moved to Ithaca, where I studied Biology at Cornell. I spent a year living in New York City working as a Medical Assistant for plastic surgeon before starting medical school. After my year in NYC, I returned to Massachusetts for medical school at UMass Chan. Outside of medicine, I am a 200 hr certified yoga instructor and love exploring local yoga studios. You can also catch me taking walks in my neighborhood, spending time outdoors, and bopping into thrift and vintage stores!
Hometown: Newton, MA
Medical School: UMass Chan Medical School
Career goals: Leaning towards MFM
Why I chose URMC: When looking at residency programs, I wanted a program that was a high volume, high acuity, academic program, but still felt supportive and community oriented. URMC stood out to me as a program that did just that! We have a broad exposure to all subspecialties, and exceptional family planning opportunities.
Program's Best Feature: The support from senior residents and faculty. I never feel uncomfortable asking a question or asking for help.
Favorite Things About Rochester: I love exploring new restaurants, yoga studios, and antique and vintage stores! For a small city, there is so much to do!
Olivia Rombold, DO
Introduction: Hi, I'm Liv! I am originally from a small town outside of Pittsburgh called New Brighton, PA. I went to Penn State for undergrad and spent my gap years in Boston, MA. I met my now fiance on our interview at WVSOM. We couples matched here and couldn’t be happier!
Hometown: New Brighton, PA
Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine (WVSOM)
Career goals: Academic Generalist
Why I chose URMC: The people. I remember feeling so well aligned with everyone I talked to on interview day. I knew this was the place I wanted to be.
Program's Best Feature: The support of resident well-being and interest.
Favorite Things About Rochester: I love Rochester! It’s a cute little city with lots to explore. I particularly love the breweries and the food scene.
Emily Fronk, MD
Introduction: I was born in San Francisco, CA and raised in Penfield, NY. I went to Fordham University for undergrad (psychology major) where I played volleyball. I took two gap years- for my first, I did STEM programing for public elementary schools in Washington, DC, and for my second, I worked at a Plastic Surgery practice in NYC. Then, I moved to Charlottesville, VA to attend medical school at UVA, before deciding to move back to upstate NY for residency! Outside of work, I love to travel, watch sporting events, read, and try new restaurants!
Hometown: Penfield, NY
Medical School: University of Virginia School of Medicine
Career Goals: So far, I enjoy all aspects of the field! I'm undecided if I'll pursue a subspecialty fellowship or practice as a generalist.
Why you chose URMC: I had only heard wonderful things about the program from former residents and faculty and it was one of the most supportive programs I encountered on my interview trail! Everyone was so kind and genuine, and they emphasized wanting to help you thrive both personally and professionally which was important to me. Additionally, it has comprehensive training in all aspects of obstetrics and gynecology, as well as an incredibly robust family planning curriculum.
The Program's best feature: My co-residents!
Your favorite things about Rochester: The Finger Lakes!
Before you started the program, what did you wish you knew? Before I started the program, I wish I knew how supportive the culture was. I was nervous about transitioning from medical school to residency but they really guide you through every step of the process, so you never feel alone! There was no need to stress about it, as it's a lot more fun than you expect!
Hannah Jackel-Dewhurst, MD
Introduction: I have two kittens and I couples matched with my partner who is a child neurology resident. In my free time I love running, scoping out deals at the public market, cooking, and trying to stop my cats from eating my house plants.
Hometown: Rochester, NY
Medical School: University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry
Career Goals: Undecided currently, I hope to continue being involved with advocacy and I love GYN surgery and family planning so we will see!
Why you chose URMC: Great training in both obstetrics and gynecology, supportive faculty, excellent family planning opportunities.
The Program's Best Feature: Excellent family planning training and overall well-rounded curriculum
Favorite Things About Rochester: All of the parks and having access to great biking and running trails
Kylie Ridley, MD
Introduction: My name is Kylie and I am originally from a small town in rural Arizona. I did my undergrad at Arizona State University and wanted to explore more of the country for medical school! I attended Temple University and lived in Bethlehem, PA during medical school. I enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities and spend lots of time gardening and outdoors with my fiance and dogs.
Hometown: Arizona
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Temple University
Career Goals: I love obstetrics/critical care medicine and am considering a fellowship in MFM.
Why you chose URMC: University of Rochester was hands down my favorite interview. The faculty and residents are so obviously kind and compassionate, it was very clear that I would feel well supported. The program is well connected in terms of fellowship mentorship, and we get incredible exposure to all subspecialties (family planning!).
Favorite Things About Rochester: Awesome food scene, convenient commutes, low cost of living, very kind and accepting community, so many outdoor activities!
Before you started the program what did you wish you knew? How fulfilling it would be to be a resident! I leave work amazed by the patients I meet and inspired by my co-residents and faculty. URMC truly is a lovely place to learn and work.
Elaine (Ellie) Smith, MD
Introduction: I love yoga, art, hiking, and travel! I speak Spanish and am particularly passionate about working with underserved populations.
Hometown: Hudson, Wisconsin
Medical School: Sidney Kimmel Medical College
Career Goals: I am interested in both GYN Oncology and Family Planning.
Why I chose URMC: I was drawn to URMC for the people! I felt a genuine connection with residents and faculty on interview day and saw my values mirrored.
Program’s Best Feature: Supportive faculty and strong family planning training.
My Favorite Things about Rochester: Biking along the gorgeous Erie Canal and Genesee River Trails
Before you started the program, what did you wish you knew? Set up primary care and dental appointments before you start residency :)
First Year Residents
Manasa Ponnapalli, MD
Introduction: Hi, I'm Manasa! I grew up in Denver, Colorado, and went to college at CU Boulder, where I majored in neuroscience/biology and minored in women and gender studies. I took a gap year and worked as a medical assistant in an outpatient OB/GYN office, and then moved to Pennsylvania where I went to medical school at Temple. Outside of medicine, I love to crochet, play board games, and spend time with my husband and cat 🙂
Hometown: Highlands Ranch, CO
Medical School: Lewis Katz SOM at Temple University
Career Goals: Generalist or Complex Family Planning
Why you chose URMC: I chose URMC at first because of its robust departments in family planning and other OBGYN subspecialties. I also liked that it had a Ryan program for family planning. After the interview day, I felt confident that URMC is a place where the residents take care of each other and are well supported by faculty and other staff in all of their career and personal goals.
The Program's best feature: The people 🙂 everyone here from the program coordinators to faculty and leadership are so willing to lend a helping hand. It really feels like everyone here is invested in the success of every resident.
Your favorite things about Rochester: Proximity to city life while being able to live in the suburbs, beautiful outdoor scenery, and amazing coffee scene!
Before you started the program, what did you wish you knew? How much you will rely on your co-interns and co-residents. The kindness and generosity of my co-residents has already helped make my transition to residency as smooth as possible!
Mary Panepento, MD
Introduction: Hi, I’m Mary! I grew up in a small town about 30 minutes outside of Rochester, where many of my extended family members live just down the road. I stayed local for undergrad at the University of Rochester, where I studied Microbiology with a minor in Psychology and played lacrosse. During college, I worked as a patient care technician at the nearby Rochester General Hospital, which helped solidify my path toward medicine. I then attended Albany Medical College for medical school and eventually returned home—now with the added perk of spending time with my two little nieces and nephew.
Hometown: Walworth (Rochester, NY)
Medical School: Albany Medical College
Career Goals: I’m keeping an open mind, but I’m particularly interested in Gyn-Onc. That said, I also love OB!
Why you chose URMC: I always knew I wanted to return home for residency, surrounded by the support of my family and friends. My away rotation during 4th year confirmed that URMC was the right place for me. I felt incredibly welcomed and immediately like part of the team. It was hard to say goodbye, but I left hoping I’d be back.
The Program's Best Feature: The culture. The support from co-residents, the program director, assistant program director, and admin staff is genuinely exceptional. Just one month in, I already feel supported and comfortable reaching out to anyone on the team with questions or concerns.
Favorite Things About Rochester: The golf courses and the Finger Lakes! Greystone is my favorite course to play.
Before you started the program what did you wish you knew? How exciting and fun the transition to residency can be! It can definitely feel overwhelming at times, but your co-interns and residents truly have your back.
Lexi Thomson, MD
Introduction: Hi, name is Lexi! I was born and raised in Colorado, did undergrad at CU Boulder, and came to Rochester for medical school. In my free time I enjoy playing beach volleyball, tennis, and sewing.
Hometown: Erie, CO
Medical School: University of Rochester School of Medicine
Career Goals: Hoping to experience all that ObGyn has to offer over the next four years.
Why you chose URMC: I had a wonderful experience at URMC for medical school. I knew firsthand that the program was supportive and the people were great.
The Program's Best Feature: The people!
Favorite Things About Rochester: My favorite thing about Rochester is the springtime when it gets warm enough to be outside again.
Before you started the program what did you wish you knew? Before I started the program, I wish I knew just how much everyone is willing to teach and support you as you're starting to learn how to do this job.
Erin Stitzlein, MD
Introduction: Hi, I'm Erin! I'm from rural Ohio and grew up on a cattle farm. I went to undergrad at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. After undergrad, I went straight through to medical school at Drexel in Philly where I became a bandwagon fan of the Eagles. I also enjoy tennis, pilates, reading, traveling, camping, hiking, and hanging out with my dog!
Hometown: Millersburg, Ohio
Medical School: Drexel University College of Medicine
Career Goals: I am still deciding, but if I were to pursue fellowship, I think it would be in MFM or REI.
Why you chose URMC: I remember feeling so at ease during interview day and like I aligned with the program's values and culture. I interviewed here early in the season, but my conversations with faculty and residents stuck with me the rest of the application cycle.
The Program's best feature: Resident culture - this was the most important thing to me in picking a program and I couldn't be happier with the vibes!
Your favorite things about Rochester: The access to all the recreational activities!
Before you started the program, what did you wish you knew? There would still be time to do things I enjoy outside of the hospital! I still feel like a real human being outside of work most days :)
Paige Kieper, DO
Introduction: Hi, I'm Paige! I'm an Upstate NY native and I'm thrilled to be completing my training at URMC. I live with my family and my beloved kitten Pippa. I am most at peace when I am near a body of water, probably because my hometown is filled with waterfalls. I studied abroad in London in college and I loved it, I go back when I can to visit my best friend who still lives there. My hobbies include listening to Taylor Swift and lovingly forcing my co-residents to match me against their will.
Hometown: Ithaca, NY
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Goals: I'm hoping to be either an MFM or a Generalist!
Why you chose URMC: The level of acuity that we see here makes us ready for so many patient scenarios. I knew I wanted to be at a program that was patient centered and prioritizes advocacy. With that, I also wanted to be at a program that shows continued genuine dedication to resident wellbeing, an aspect that I picked up on immediately during my rotation here as a student. Also, my family lives in Rochester and being close to them rocks.
The Program's Best Feature: I don't feel afraid to ask questions or make mistakes or be me. This program truly fosters an environment conducive to learning without sacrificing ideal patient care or resident sense of identity.
Favorite Things About Rochester: Rochester has so many fun things to do while also being a cozy community! I love having picnics in Highland park, going out for yummy dinners on Park Ave, and visiting the cat cafe at Eastview Mall.
Before you started the program what did you wish you knew? I wish I knew how close I would become with my co-residents so quickly. Bonding with people who share similar passions as well as struggles is such a genuinely fun and golden experience.
Gina Rossi, MD
Introduction: Hi, I'm Gina! I grew up in a suburb of Philadelphia, PA called Warrington. I went to college at James Madison University where I studied biology with a minor in dance. I then spent 3 years in Cleveland, Ohio where I got my master's degree in medical physiology from Case Western Reserve University. For medical school I went to Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine in Scranton, PA. In my free time, I love to dance, run (I just ran my first marathon after med school graduation!), read, and watch The Office (my comfort TV show).
Hometown: Warrington, PA
Medical School: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
Career Goals: I'm considering a fellowship in MFM.
Why you chose URMC: URMC felt like the perfect fit — supportive faculty, strong training, and residents that are kind and genuinely happy.
The Program's Best Feature: The people!
Favorite Things About Rochester: I'm still exploring, but so far, I'm loving the food scene and walking my 2 dogs around the different parks in the area.
Before you started the program what did you wish you knew? How truly supportive everyone is here. I was nervous about transitioning into intern year, but everyone has been wonderful in helping me learn and navigate the process
My favorite memory...
"I do really love the tradition of 'caf time'. Around 2 a.m. on overnight shifts, the entire team (usually) runs to the cafeteria together for a snack. It's a nice mental break and really brings the team together. "