Resident Life

Alyssa Adkins, MD

Introduction: I was born in Columbus, Ohio but grew up in Rock Hill, South Carolina. I love OB/GYN but particularly obstetrics. I am very interested in social justice issues. Anyone who knows me knows I am utterly obsessed with my massive cat George who I adopted when moving here. I am an animal lover through and through. I also enjoy true crime shows and reading in my down time. If the weather is nice, you'll always find me outside.

Hometown: Rock Hill, SC
Medical School: University of South Carolina
Career Goals: I hope to be a generalist OB/GYN who also is able to practice family planning. Ideally I will be able to teach residents as well.
Why I Chose URMC: I loved how close the residents and their families were with each other at the interview dinner. They were genuinely thrilled to be hanging out together.
Program's Best Feature: My co-residents without question. I also appreciate how easy to talk to our faculty is.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: Its proximity to state parks and hiking.
Before I Started the Program I Wish I Knew: The importance of all wheel drive in the winter.

Adam Evans, MD

Introduction: I graduated from Tufts University with a degree in History. I worked for a network of charter schools in Boston for two years prior to completing a post-bac at Bryn Mawr College.

Hometown: Niskayuna, NY
Medical School: University of Rochester
Career Goals: I'm interested in Reproductive Endocrinology, more specifically hyperandrogenism and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). I'm also passionate about family planning, gynecologic oncology, critical care and medical education.
Why I Chose URMC: Great mentorship, commitment to reproductive justice, supportive and family-like resident community.
Program's Best Feature: Robust GYN oncology and family planning services, regional referral center for high-acuity high-risk obstetric care.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: Rochester has a great restaurant and bar scene. Some of my favorites are Good Luck, Fiorella, Owl House, REDD, Atlas Eats and Branca Midtown. Best Coffee shops are Fuego, Ugly Duck and Glen Edith. Root 31 is great for sandwiches. Scratch Bakeshop is a fantastic bakery with specialty doughnuts every Sunday morning. Weekend hikes through Mendon Ponds Park or Letchworth State park, beach volleyball at Ontario Beach Park.
Before I Started the Program I Wish I Knew: Lean on your co-residents but don't forget to stay in touch with friends and family. Residency is busy but it's important to maintain those relationships.

Miriam McQuade, MD

Introduction: Born in CA, went to University of California, Berkeley for undergraduate. During medical school, I started a non-profit public health Harm Reduction organization providing sterile needles for people who inject drugs to reduce HIV and hepatitis C.

Hometown: Novato, CA
Medical School: University of California
Career Goals: I am hoping to go to Family Planning fellowship.
Why I Chose URMC: URMC is a great place to couples match! As one of the biggest hospitals in New York outside of NYC, it has a ton of residents and almost every specialty. Additionally it is one of the best places in the US to get family planning training which is what I hope to do with my life!
Program's Best Feature: My co-residents are truly the best part of this program. Even days that are hard to get out of bed, I know when I get to work I will be greeted with hugs and smiles. Additionally, the family planning training continues to make me very happy I matched here.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: Rochester is an awesome city as well. It is easy to live in while still having fun things to do. I love eating out here. You can get almost any food or drink you want for a very reasonable price. The cost of living is amazing, a resident can afford a whole house easily.
Before I Started the Program I Wish I Knew: Residency is hard, surround yourself with people who support you and you feel you can go to for help

Alexandra Morell, MD

Introduction: I'm originally from Buffalo, NY. I attended SUNY Geneseo for my undergraduate education and returned to Buffalo for my medical school training. I am a huge Buffalo sports fan (Go Bills)! I love being outdoors and like to spend my free time hiking, biking, and running. I also enjoy traveling, spending time with my friends and family, and trying new recipes.

Hometown: Buffalo, NY
Medical School: University of Buffalo
Career Goals: I am interested in pursuing a fellowship in gynecologic oncology. I also have an interest in academic medicine and medical education.
Why I Chose URMC: I really enjoyed my interview day. All of the residents and faculty were welcoming and seemed genuinely interesting in getting to know me as a person. The program had a great reputation and I was impressed with the family planning and maternal fetal medicine exposure as well as the resident surgical experience.
Program's Best Feature: My co-residents!
My Favorite Things About Rochester: Exploring new restaurants and breweries, hiking in the Finger Lakes, running and biking along the Erie Canal.

Lauren Paraison, MD

Introduction: I'm originally from Massachusetts and primarily grew up there during my childhood. My parents moved to Dallas about 12 years ago, and that's where I currently call home. I went to Tufts University for my undergraduate education and majored in Spanish. I then attended medical school in San Antonio at the UT Health Science Center. While I was there, I was able to cultivate my passion for women's health and family planning, partake in interesting research, and participate in global health trips to Guatemala. I started my OB/GYN residency here in Rochester in 2018 and I've absolutely loved building my new life here!

Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical School: University of Texas
Career Goals: When I finish residency, I would like to practice as a Generalist OB/GYN. My ultimate career goal is to become a laborist. I absolutely love inpatient OB/GYN care!
Why I Chose URMC: I selected the URMC OB/GYN program because I wanted to be at a large academic institution where I would get a ton of experience throughout residency. I've already seen things in my time here that I probably won't see again in my career. I feel like I've learned so much in such a short period of time because of all of the interesting cases that I've been involved with either firsthand or peripherally. URMC has been an amazing and supportive learning environment. I know that I will be a well prepared physician and take great care of my patients because of the training that I've received here.
Program's Best Feature: Without a doubt the best feature of my program is my co-residents. I have so much fun with the people I work with and everyone is so supportive. I can turn to my co-residents for anything and they truly are always there for me. I don't think I could work with a better group of people!
My Favorite Things About Rochester: My favorite thing about Rochester is the weather. I love that there are all four seasons. I appreciate the snowy days and the warm summer days just the same. Overall, living in Rochester is so easy and convenient. There's so much to do and great restaurants to try. As a resident, I appreciate living in a city that has so much to offer but daily living is easy.
Before I Started the Program I Wish I Knew: It's hard not to worry about starting a new job in a new city, especially starting residency. When I first started, I was so worried about everything that I had to learn and how to be a good doctor and team player that I did not take time to take care of myself. I wish I knew that taking care of myself is absolutely critical. Now I value my health and my overall wellbeing in addition to being a good resident. I think that's made me a happier person overall. I honestly would not have come to this conclusion if I didn't have faculty members and upper level residents who encouraged me to really take care of myself and sometimes put myself first. It makes a huge difference when you have a community of people who are invested in your health and happiness.

Margaret Schoeniger, MD

Introduction: I am originally from Baltimore, but have spent the vast majority of my life in the Rochester area. I am now officially a Rochester "lifer," so ask me anything about the Roc! I enjoy hiking and traveling with my husband; we like to eat and drink our way through the world.

Hometown: Pittsford, NY
Medical School: University of Rochester
Career Goals: My goal is to be a generalist OB/GYN in the Rochester area.
Why I Chose URMC: From my medical school rotation, I knew that I loved the people here and would be exposed to a broad scope of all that this specialty has to offer. URMC is a huge referral center for the area with a diverse patient population, which was important to me when choosing a program.
Program's Best Feature: My co-residents. These are the people that keep me going during the tough times and celebrate and relax during the good times.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: Besides the people, its the food! So many wonderful bars and restaurants, many of them I walk to from my house.

Kaylee Underkofler, MD, MPH, MS

Introduction: I was born and raised in Upstate NY. After spending time in the Midwest and across New England for grad school in chemistry and medical school, I decided to come home for residency. In my free time I enjoy swimming, cycling, running, hiking, camping, and spending as much time with family and friends as possible!

Hometown: Fulton, NY
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine - Maine Track
Career Goals: Gynecologic Oncology
Why I Chose URMC: Many reasons, but a huge factor was the collegiality amongst residents! We really try to take care of each other. I also love upstate NY.
Program's Best Feature: Your co-residents become your family and there is never-ending support from your attendings.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: The summer & fall seasons, parks and recreation trails, Wegmans, the amenities of a big city located in a smaller city without crazy traffic, and proximity to friends and family.

Madeline Ann Coulter, MD

Introduction: I grew up on the CT shoreline and then went to Wesleyan University for college where I played 4 years of varsity lacrosse. I love to be outdoors and to run. Obsessed with chocolate milk and love to ski!

Hometown: Branford, CT
Medical School: University of Connecticut School of Medicine
Career Goals: I am most interested in sub-specialization in Gyn Oncology or Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. The medical and surgical complexity of these patients I find incredibly compelling.
Program's Best Feature: I think a hidden gem about this program is our experience with family planning and surgery surrounding this subspecialty. The FP specialists here are amazing and help residents gain unique procedural skills that can be applied to may areas of OB/GYN.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: The food scene and running in Highland Park when the lilacs are in bloom!
Before I Started the Program I Wish I Knew: More about how much OR exposure and practice residents receive in robotic surgery especially through the MIGS and Gyn Oncology departments. To prepare us for this we also have protected didactic time on Benign Gyn rotations to practice skills on the DaVinci starting 1st year.

Jordana Gilman, MD, MPH

Introduction: I grew up in Rochester, NY and attended Cornell University for Undergrad. I completed medical school in Syracuse at SUNY Upstate, where I also got my MPH in a combined program with Syracuse University. My wife (internal medicine) and I couples matched to URMC, and we are now living our best lives with our kittens in the White Coat Neighborhood.

Hometown: Rochester, NY
Medical School: SUNY Upstate Medical University
Career Goals: Rochester for LIFE! Hopefully I can find a career here. I am deciding between generalist OB/GYN and potentially urogynecology—whenever I spend time with our urogynecologists in the OR or office, it's always an amazing time!
Why I Chose URMC: I was looking for an OB/GYN program with great opportunities in Family Planning, and I felt surrounded by people who care about Reproductive Justice at the interview. I loved growing up in Rochester and I was eager to come back to this amazing city.
Program's Best Feature: The people! My co-residents are my best friends, and our attendings are incredibly brilliant, kind, and patient teachers.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: Walking along the Erie Canal, renting a cabin in the Finger Lakes, picking up produce and fancy cheeses at the Public Market, skiing at Bristol Mountain, and walking around the historic neighborhoods admiring beautiful houses.
Before I Started the Program I Wish I Knew: How to speak Spanish! I didn't realize how diverse our patient population would be. It is an honor to take care of so many different kinds of people and families.

Becky Hartman, MD

Introduction: I was born and raised in the western suburbs of Minneapolis, MN, where we spend a lot of time on the water regardless of whether or not it is frozen. Prior to becoming a doctor, my passion was the sport of hockey. I was recruited to play at The University of Minnesota where we won the national championship in 2012 and 2013. I currently live with my husband Jared and our chocolate lab Abe.

Hometown: Minnetonka, MN
Medical School: University of Minnesota
Career Goals: I plan to move back to Minnesota and practice as a generalist.
Why I Chose URMC: I worked with several graduates of the program during medical school. They all were excellent clinicians and had rave reviews of the program. Every person I met during my interview day was fun to be around, and seemed to share many of my same values. I got the impression that a strong camaraderie existed between the residents which was important to me. My husband has family ties to Rochester so we felt we would be well supported from that perspective.
Program's Best Feature: The residents! We have a ton of fun at work and everyone is incredibly supportive of one another.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: There are so many waterfalls upstate NY!

Hallie Nelson, MD

Introduction: Born and raised in Richmond, VA. Then to William and Mary for undergrad (Biology, Spanish minor), with a short stent abroad in Argentina. Spanish medical interpreter then ER scribe for short while, before moving to Boston for stem cell research. Penn State for medical school, where I got to start my research in contraception choices and to go to Ecuador for a women's health elective. In my free time, I like to play cello, crochet, run along the river, eat ice cream, travel in a world pre-COVID, hike, and lazily search Petfinder.

Hometown: Mechanicsville, VA
Medical School: Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine
Career Goals: Probably a generalist, maybe in academics. As I try out more specialties in residency maybe I will change my mind, but for now I do not want to give up OB or GYN.
Why I Chose URMC: I knew I wanted to go to a program with a strong family planning curriculum, which is what initially got me interested in UofR. Then during my interview day/dinner, I got to see how great a community UofR is when interacting with the residents and the faculty.
Program's Best Feature: Support of the residents. If you need time off for a maternity leave, disability leave, or a death in the family, the residents cross-cover so you can get the support you need to be a person as well as a resident.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: I really like how much Rochester has to offer as a smaller city. There is a vibrant arts scene with traveling Broadway shows, countless breweries and wineries in the Fingerlakes area, great hiking with the Adirondacks close by for a weekend off, and even a good food scene!

Sara Spielman, MD

Hometown: Belmont, MA
Medical School: Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University
Career Goals: I am debating between a career as a generalist or pursuing a fellowship.
Why I Chose URMC: URMC offered a balance of excellent education and clinical experience, with a friendly/supportive atmosphere.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: Summer festivals, exploring parks in and around the city, trying new restaurants and breweries.

Sarah Thappa, MD

Introduction: I grew up in the Midwest, and graduated from Carleton College with a degree in Biology. I then joined AIDS United AmeriCorps and served in Washington, DC at an NGO focusing on healthcare and housing for homeless, low-income and immigrant women in the District. After deciding to pursue medical school, I moved to NYC and completed a MS then matriculated to medical school at TouroCOM Harlem.   

Hometown: Rockford, IL
Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harlem
Why I Chose URMC: For the clinical experience and the welcoming community fostered by the program. 
Program’s best feature: The people and vast breadth of clinical experience. 
My favorite things about Rochester: The outdoor spaces. There are so many great places to explore including trails, hikes, parks along the river, canal, and lakes. 

Logan Todhunter, DO

Introduction: I grew up in Ithaca, NY, and have three younger siblings and both of my parents are veterinarians. We always had a lot of dogs running around. I spent a lot of my life in a pool and swam for Williams College. I did a post-baccalaureate year and then bopped around Boston, MA, after college, tutoring high schoolers at Lawrence High School. I was then lucky enough to start medical school at UNE COM.

Hometown: Ithaca, NY
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Goals: Hopefully I end up close to my family, would love to stay in upstate NY!
Why I Chose URMC: Upstate NY has always had such a special place in my heart, after growing up in Ithaca, and it was a dream to come back for residency. I was fortunate enough to do a rotation at URMC at the beginning of my fourth year of medical school and was so impressed by the residents, faculty, staff, and patient population. I could tell this was a place I could learn and thrive in.
Program's Best Feature: The people.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: I love that it is close to the water.

Chloe Williams, MD

Introduction: I'm a bit of a nomad having moved around the US when I was younger but my family moved to NM before High School and that's where I call home. I did my undergrad in Minnesota at Carleton College where I majored in Spanish. I then spent 3.5 years in the Peace Corps in Benin, West Africa working in a maternity ward and then in public health. I went back to NM for med school but wanted to come back east for residency.

Hometown: Albuquerque, NM
Medical School: University of New Mexico School of Medicine
Career Goals: I don't know yet! Career wise I will probably end up as a generalist because I like so much about Ob/Gyn that I find it hard to give up any part of it to specialize. If I were to do a fellowship it would probably be a global health fellowship or a family planning fellowship. I see myself long term in academics but will probably start out in Private Practice initially to get more surgical experience.
Why I Chose URMC: The people! I had been extremely interested in the program prior to interviewing but what really sold me was the interview day when I got to meet everyone. The residents were friendly and seemed to love the program and the faculty seemed very invested in the residency and getting to know the interviewees. The people plus the fact that I was looking for a strong academic program with an interest in family planning sold me that this was where I wanted to be.
Program's Best Feature: The people! I feel like that's a bit of cliche since most programs say that, but it's true. I chose this program for the people and they are definitely the best part of the program.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: The proximity to outdoors. Being from the southwest I love the outdoors and the nice thing about Rochester is how easy it is to get to hikes, lakes, national parks. There are definitely some delicious restaurants, as well.

Yanling Dong, MD

Introduction: I grew up in Fuzhou Fujian province, China. My family and I moved to Queens, New York City when I was eighteen years old. I went to SUNY University at Buffalo for undergrad and SUNY Stony Brook University for medical school. I always wanted to become a doctor since middle school, and I am the first doctor in my family. My hobbies of crocheting, origami and cooking make me fall in love with surgical fields, where I can continue to use my hands. I chose obstetrics and gynecology because it is a perfect combination of medicine, surgery and primary care.

Hometown: Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China, and Queens, NYC
Medical School: Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University
Career Goals: I have not finalized my career goal yet, since I just started my residency and I want to explore the specialty more. So far, I enjoy all aspects of obstetrics and gynecology, especially the continuity of care. I may end up being a generalist if I don't develop a particular interest in a subspecialty.
Why I Chose URMC: URMC Obstetrics and Gynecology program is one of the most supportive programs I have ever met on my interview trail. It provides tremendous efforts to help the residents to achieve their career goals, as well as start and grow their families during residency. The training quality of our program is also extraordinary, as the residents have the opportunities to see complex referrals from upstate New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
Program's Best Feature: I love the people in our program so much. All the attendings are dedicated to teaching, and the nurses on the floors are very friendly. My co-interns and senior residents have regular get-together events to de-stress, debrief and bond. We celebrate the important moments in our lives together, like birthdays and baby showers. It makes me feel that I belong to a big family.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: My favorite things about Rochester are the beautiful sceneries and Wegmans!
Before I Started the Program I Wish I Knew: I wish I knew there are so many beautiful trails in Rochester, so I could quit my sedentary lifestyle earlier!

Emily Hart, DO

Introduction: I grew up in Webster, NY and met my partner in middle school. Crazy, I know. We moved to Maine for my medical school education and got married along the way. Fell head over heels for OBGYN in my 3rd year of school and never looked back!

Hometown: Webster, NY
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why I Chose URMC: I always knew that I wanted to be back home near family, but I also wanted a residency program that felt like a second family. I loved the emphasis on bettering yourself and one another that was clear from talking to anyone involved in the program. Also, I admired the amazing reputation for great teaching, research, and happy residents who love each other!
Program's Best Feature: Everyone supports one another and really wants everyone to succeed!
My Favorite Things About Rochester: Close to the finger lakes (Dry Riesling anyone?), close to state parks for camping or hiking, Buffalo Bills games close by (GO BILLS)... It truly is an underrated city with endless things to do in and around the city.

Jared Lee, MD

Hometown: Port St. Luice, FL
Medical School: University of Miami School of Medicine
Career Goals: I would love to one day end up practicing as an academic gynecologic oncologist or urogynecologist!
Why I Chose URMC: Strong support for family planning, early exposure to urogynecology, strong didactics, the supportive faculty and residents!
My Favorite Things About Rochester: There are so many beautiful parks and trails up here! I'm a huge fan of the Maplewood Rose Garden.

Joanna Lin, MD

Introduction: I was born in Chicago and raised in the suburbs of Cleveland. I received my BS in Nutrition Science at The Ohio State University and MD at Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine.

Hometown: Solon, OH
Medical School: Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine
Why I Chose URMC: After my interview, I had the sense that the residency felt like a big family, which is an environment in which I would thrive. Plus, my mentor completed his fellowship here and had nothing but glowing remarks about the residency.
Program's Best Feature: It's one big family!
My Favorite Things About Rochester: The close proximity of beautiful hiking trails and scenic lake views.

Victoria Ly, MD

Introduction: I was born in Poughkeepsie, NY ("upstate" in the mid-Hudson Valley), but I lived with my grandparents in the Bronx for the first few years of my life. I eventually moved back to Poughkeepsie—although technically Wappingers Falls—to live with my parents and brothers after kindergarten. Then I went to Stony Brook University on Long Island for undergrad (biochemistry major) and medical school before I decided to move back upstate for residency! I will forever be a New Yorker.

Hometown: Poughkeepsie, NY
Medical School: Stony Brook University
Why I Chose URMC: I have only heard wonderful things about URMC. The OB/GYN department is phenomenal, and residents truly receive a comprehensive education in all breadths of obstetrics and gynecology. The program has a robust family planning curriculum based on the Ryan Program, which was one of my deal breakers because I want to be a strong advocate for reproductive rights. Additionally, Strong Memorial Hospital (SMH) is one of the few places where there is a separate designated L&D for high risk patients. I also knew I wanted to train in an academic institute with a high research output, but ultimately, I think I chose the University of Rochester because I was blown away by how incredibly kind and genuine everyone was on my interview day. The strength of the training may have lured me to the program, but the people made me choose it.
Program's Best Feature: The people! Everyone is approachable, patient, and extremely eager to teach. That's a good combination to have in an educator. Also, I feel like people care about me and my well-being here, and I am not just another interchangeable person rotating through their program.
My Favorite Things About Rochester: I received a lot of mixed comments when I told my friends and family downstate that I was moving to Rochester, but honestly, I am loving it here! Granted I have not yet experienced the Rochester winters, but I am thoroughly enjoying the craft breweries, vineyards, and hiking trails either locally or along the Finger Lakes. Although garbage plates have not grown on me yet, I am a true fan of Wegmans at Pittsford.

Alexis Platek, MD

Introduction: I am from Hamburg, NY, a suburb of Buffalo, NY. I went to the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada where I studied zoology. After receiving my BSc I obtained a Masters of Science degree from Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center in Natural and Biomedical sciences and then pursued medicine at the University at Buffalo. I love spending time with my husband and our fur babies, Lille (husky/shepherd) and Leo (Maine coon).

Hometown: Hamburg, NY
Medical School: University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
Why I Chose URMC: I chose URMC for the people I met on my interview day and at my pre-interview dinner. Everyone I met during the interview process was wonderful and extremely welcoming. I felt comfortable and new that these were the type of people I wanted to work with everyday.
Program's Best Feature: The residents!
My Favorite Things About Rochester: I am new to Rochester and am enjoying exploring all of the restaurants in the area!

Michelle Vu, MD

Introduction: I am a Chicago native to Rochester transplant. Runner, sushi lover, and reproductive rights advocate!

Hometown: Barrington, IL
Medical School: University of Illinois College of Medicine
Why I Chose URMC: URMC is an incredible place to learn and work. I am able to work with an extremely diverse, urban patient population. I am also able to receive comprehensive family planning training.
Program's Best Feature: Your co-residents become your family and there is never-ending support from your attendings.

Devin Williams, MD

Introduction: I have spent the majority of my life in school. However, it gave me the opportunity to live in other cities such as Atlanta and NYC before returning to Rochester for medical school and residency. Outside of work, my favorite things are food and travel. I am always looking for a new restaurant to try. Specifically , a good burger and the best happy hour deals! When I get vacation time, I will probably be traveling to somewhere new or visiting friends out of Rochester. I also enjoy working out, reading and puzzles.

Hometown: Rochester, NY
Medical School: University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry
Career Goals: I am not sure where I will end up but I hope to be the best advocate for my patients and work to end racial disparities in maternal morbidity and mortality.
Why I Chose URMC: Rochester is home. I wanted to train at a program close to family and friends. Additionally, I chose a program where I felt supported and there were people with values similar to mine.
My Favorite Things About Rochester:  My favorite thing about Rochester is there is something for everyone! There is amazing food, wineries, breweries, fun festivals in the summer, beaches and great hiking. I also love that we get all four seasons, and I don't mind the winter!

Patricia Coughenour, MD

Introduction:  I'm Tricia. I went to the University of Virginia where I studied biology and 
neuroscience and spent my free time enjoying Charlottesville and performing as part of an 
acapella group. I spent a year after undergrad teaching at a boarding school in England 
and traveling around Europe before coming back to the states and applying to med 
school. I couples matched with my partner, and we found our way to Rochester!

Hometown: Williamsburg, VA
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth School of Medicine 
Why I Chose URMC: I chose URMC for the amazing training, including the focus on family planning. 
Program's Best Feature: The great group of people I get to train alongside! 
My Favorite Things About Rochester: Summer has been beautiful! My partner and I enjoy getting to explore all the awesome places to eat and drink in the city! 

Savannah Kaszubinski, MD

Introduction: My name is Savannah and I am originally from Arizona. I went to undergraduate at the
University of Arizona where I completed a dual major in Molecular and Cellular Biology and Physiology. I wanted to live in the Northeast for the first time and ended up at Albany Medical College in Albany, NY. I love coffee, ballet, and exploring new restaurants with friends and family.

Hometown: Peoria, Arizona
Medical School: Albany Medical College
Why I Chose URMC: I chose URMC based on the wonderful people I met during my virtual interview.Even though the virtual interviews made it hard to truly get a feel for the program, I could tell right away that this program was the right one for me. I also appreciated that the generalists at URMC feel comfortable managing complex cases.
Program's Best Feature: The family planning program here is robust and the residents graduate with a ton of experience that other residency programs may not see. Of course, the people here are amazing too!
My Favorite Things About Rochester: I am brand new to Rochester, but I am excited to explore new restaurants and events! I can't wait for the fall/winter to enjoy apple cider and snowboarding.

Lila Marshall, MD

Introduction: Hi, I'm Lila! I was born and raised in Southern California and studied Biomedical Engineering at the University of Southern California. I went to medical school at SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, NY, and now I am Rochester's newest California transplant! I am the proud mother of two Siamese cats and I love being outside, whether reading in Highland Park on the weekend or enjoying some beers with my co-interns on a 
rooftop patio. I plan to do a fellowship in Gynecologic Oncology or Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery. 

Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Medical School:  State University of New York Downstate Medical Center College of Medicine
Why I Chose URMC: I wanted to be in a place that would not only provide me with incredible surgical training and 
clinical opportunities but that would also be a home for me. At URMC, I've found like-minded people and an incredible environment for learning and building strong friendships. 
Program's Best Feature: One of the best parts of our program is the opportunity to participate in specialty clinics! You get the opportunity as a resident to help people that travel hundreds of miles to be seen in our
clinics. It's an incredible honor and training that few programs offer! 
My Favorite Things About Rochester: The people are passionate about making this city a better place, from social justice to urban agriculture. But my most favorite thing about Rochester is Misfit Donuts - vegan donuts just a few blocks from my apartment! 

Danielle Martin, MD

Hometown: Stamford CT
Medical School: Frank H Netter School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University

Leanne Ondreicka, MD

Introduction: I was born and raised in Massachusetts. I studied Kinesiology at UMass Amherst and was on the varsity rowing team there before going to UMass Med. I love traveling whenever I can and anything that involves the outdoors and/or eating! 

Hometown: Sutton, MA
Medical School: University of Massachusetts Medical School 
Why I Chose URMC: I chose URMC for the people! On interview day, everyone seemed genuinely happy and so 
supportive of each other. It feels like one big family!
Program's Best Feature: My intern class, obviously. 
My Favorite Things About Rochester: I love exploring all of the restaurants and breweries in the area! 

Aladeyemi Osho, MD

Introduction: Hello! I'm Aladeyemi. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY and studied Biological Sciences at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ. I went to medical school at SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, NY and I decided to bring my talents to Rochester, NY! In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, catching up on my favorite shows, skincare routines, traveling, trying new restaurants, and interior decorating. 

Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Medical School: State University of New York, Downstate Medical Center College of Medicine 
Why I chose URMC: From my (virtual) interview day, I was thoroughly impressed with the program's supportive community of residents and faculty and emphasis on education, wellness, and patient advocacy. I knew immediately that this was the right program for me! URMC also provides well-rounded clinical experiences and diverse patient encounters.
Program’s best feature: The residents! 
My favorite things about Rochester: Since I just moved here, I have so much to explore! So far, I'm enjoying diverse restaurant options and spending time with my co-interns. ​

Pavithra Vijayakumar, MD

Hometown: New Haven Connecticut
Medical School: Yale School of Medicine

Introduction: Hi, I'm Pavithra! I'm from Yonkers, NY, and went to Princeton for undergrad where I studied public policy. I did research at the NIH in Phoenix, Arizona for one year and then went to Medical School at Yale where I was involved with our student-run free clinic. I love hanging out outdoors, baking, and road trips!

Hometown: Yonkers, NY
Medical School: Yale University
Why I Chose URMC: I chose URMC because of how welcoming the environment was on interview day, and how committed the program was to education. I was also looking for a program in a larger city that served both an under-resourced population and saw interesting cases a broader and more rural populations, and URMC had all of the above.
Program's Best Feature: My co-interns! 
My Favorite Things About Rochester: I am still very new to Rochester and so far I've loved exploring the different neighborhoods and coffee shops!

Kathryn Voss, MD

Introduction: I completed my undergrad at William & Mary in Virginia and studied Kinesiology and Health Sciences. My interest in nutrition, exercise, and public health led me to pursue a master's in nutrition at Columbia University. For medical school, I attended Albany Med. In my free time, I love golfing, skiing, and being on the water!

Hometown: Brighton, NY
Medical School: Albany Medical College
Why I Chose URMC: Having grown up in Rochester, I had the opportunity to volunteer at Strong in high school, intern during my college summers, and work as an ambulatory tech in the year prior to med school. I loved each of these experiences and the people I met, and knew I wanted to return to the URMC community.
Program's best feature: My co-interns
My Favorite Things About Rochester: All of the outdoor activities no matter the season. From Lake Ontario and the Finger Lakes, hiking in the many parks, biking on the Erie Canal, golfing, or skiing at Bristol, Rochester has so much to offer. I also enjoy spending time with my parents, brother, and extended family!