Meet Our Residents

Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Medical School: Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences
The most interesting fact about you is: I never learned how to ride a bicycle. Don’t ask why, don’t laugh at me. Also, learned English by listening to hip-hop and rap music.
I chose PM&R because: after I watched patients make progress after SCIs or reclaim their independence after strokes, it instantly clicked—this is why I wanted to go into medicine.
If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: a soccer ball named Wilson to kick but also befriend, a big bottle of Taco Bell’s Diablo sauce to keep bugs away but also marinade fish, and a Moka pot for some fire-top espresso because I think I am cool.
My dream job would be: a decent mix of clinical medicine and healthcare consulting. I want to help change my patients’ lives, but I also want to have a say in changing the future of medicine.
If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: David Goggins scream “Who’s gonna carry the boats?!” so I can push myself to get through the day. Also, Afrobeats, RnB, UK Drill, ASMR rain sounds —all together sometimes.

Hometown: Birjand, Iran
Medical School: Shahid Beheshti University of Medical sciences, Tehran
The most interesting fact about you is: I’m learning different dance styles!
I chose PM&R because: In PM&R treatment goes beyond the body; It’s not about a right sided hemiparesis; it’s about a grandmother’s wish to play with her grandkids again. It’s not just loosening a spastic arm; it’s about the joy of lifting a spoon to taste a dessert made by a mother.
On my days off, you're most likely to find me:  In dance classes or somewhere window shopping!
If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have:  A flask, tea bags, chocolate and a satellite phone to call for help before I start talking to coconuts and naming them!
The most rewarding thing about being a resident is: meeting fellow residents and learning how to provide the best possible care for patients.
My dream job would be Volunteering at a zoo!
If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: Persian dance mix! Always cheers me up!

Hometown: Alexandria, Louisiana
Medical School: VCOM Louisiana
The most interesting fact about me is: I've seen 106 artists/bands in concert (134 total performances if you count the ones I've seen more than once)
I chose PM&R because: I like that PM&R combines facets from multiple specialties (orthopedics, neurology, internal medicine, etc.) to provide a well-rounded training experience & knowledge base. I also love the opportunity to work both inpatient and outpatient and perform many different procedures!
If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: Bug spray and a solar-powered Kindle
My dream job would be: Within PM&R, an EMG clinic with a little bit of inpatient rehab. Outside of medicine, I'd love to be a Peloton instructor!
If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: Giggly Squad podcast, an audiobook on Libby, MGK, twenty one pilots, or Tate McRae

Hometown: Memphis, TN
Medical School: Southern Illinois University School of Medicine
The most interesting fact about me is: I used to genuinely believe I was going to play in the WNBA, my knees however had other plans.
I chose PM&R because: I enjoy journeying with patients through difficult times. As a physiatrist we get to be involved in people getting better and that is something I am ever grateful for. Additionally, I really enjoy the combination of anatomy and neuroscience and our unique approach to medical problems.
If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: A fire starter, at least that's what I learned from watching survival shows.
My dream job would be: World renowned author
If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: Something from YouTube, a long form TikTok video or one of my many playlists (que jazz, hip-hop, R and B, pop, soft rock, etc).

Hometown: Fayetteville, NC
Medical School: Brody School of Medicine

The most interesting fact about me is: At one point, I could do 10 back handsprings in a row! This was during my gymnastics era when I was younger.

I chose PM&R because: I find fulfillment in helping patients progress toward their goals. While on my PM&R rotations, I got to see patients be grateful for even the smallest improvements in functionality, and it really inspired me. PM&R also offers a breadth of practice and a great work-life balance, which are equally as important to me.

If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: Plenty of non-perishable food! I can't figure out how to survive on an empty stomach.

My dream job would be: part-time doctor, part-time travel influencer, part-time stay-at-home Netflix binger. That's what I call balance!

If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: 90s-2000s R&B

Hometown: Austin, TX
Degree: Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
The most interesting fact about me is:  I am a certified personal trainer, registered yoga teacher, and Pilates instructor
I chose PM&R because: inpatient and outpatient opportunities, hands-on procedures while establishing meaningful relationships, and a diverse population but overall, the population is very underserved, with tons of opportunities for research and growth.
On my days off, you're most likely to find me: At the gym or at the pool 
If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: My husband and our pets because I truly couldn’t live without them
The most rewarding thing about being a resident is: knowing that the dream I’ve dreamt for so long is finally my reality! 
My dream job would be: a part-time outpatient, part-time inpatient, and part-time yoga teacher. I also would love to participate in global health work, especially in Central and South America. 
If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: Odesza, Rufus du Sol, Coldplay, The Killers - alternative, EDM, and rap are my go-to! 

Hometown: Takoma Park, MD
Medical School: University of North Texas Health Science Center: Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
The most interesting fact about me is: During college, I spent a year and a half working as an amateur makeup artist. I collaborated with photographers on headshots, artistic photoshoots, and even a photography class held on a cruise.
I chose PM&R because: I wanted to be in a specialty that focused on helping patients regain their abilities and access the resources and equipment needed to improve their quality of life and engage in the daily or leisure activities they value. I wanted to partner with my patients throughout their recovery journey—from inpatient to outpatient care—while using my resourcefulness and problem-solving skills to support their progress.
If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: My Sodastream! I love creating my own sparkling drinks with various juices and added flavors. It tastes delicious, and I feel like I am a mixologist.
My dream job would be: A dream job would allow me to travel the world, immerse myself in different cultures, and attend music festivals full-time. While that may not be entirely realistic, I hope to achieve a version of it by pursuing a career as a physiatrist—one that provides the flexibility and time off to enjoy these incredible experiences.
If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: Electronic dance music! Some of my favorite artists include Armin Van Burren, Nora En Pure, and Kaskade. I also enjoy EDM radio shows such as A State Trance, Group Therapy, and Purified.

Hometown: Hyattsville, MD
Medical School: Tulane University

The most interesting fact about me is: I was a pediatric psychiatry tech and then a critical care nurse before medical school.

I chose PM&R because: It brings together my experience and interest in pediatrics, psychiatry, nursing, critical care, and orthopedics. I get to help some of the most vulnerable patients to achieve amazing things and get back to living. Most importantly, it allows me to use my work to help my 18-month-old son thrive with his disability.

If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: My Acebeam X45 18,000 lumen flashlight

My dream job would be: Outside of medicine, it would have to be an engineer for the “Fun Theory” designing and making goofy things to help make it easier for everyone to help the environment and the world.

If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: The Succession theme song, Run the Jewels, YAOSOBI, Creepy Nuts, DMX, Blackpink, Panic at the Disco

Hometown: Des Moines, Iowa
The most interesting fact about you is: The most traveling I have done in my entire life is in 2025, traveling to Guatemala, Japan and Greece.
I chose PM&R because: I find fulfillment and joy in working side-by-side with patients in their journey in restoring function and improving their quality of life.
On my days off, you're most likely to find me: staying active and working out, playing soccer, and video games. I am also trying to get into golf!
If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: My fishing rod and a filet knife
The most rewarding thing about being a resident is: having the opportunity to continue my journey in medicine and advancing my career as a future physiatrist
My dream job would be: Being a professional soccer player, I was a goalkeeper.
If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: R&B, Morgan Wallen, & EDM

Hometown: Sheridan, AR

Medical School: UAMS

The most interesting fact about me is: I lettered in baseball in high school, I can solve expert-level Sudokus in 4 minutes or less, and I write left-handed but am ambidextrous at pretty much everything else.

I chose PM&R because: Physiatry focuses on treating the whole patient rather than just a symptom, which perfectly aligns with my personal values in medicine. I love that it lets me build meaningful, long-term relationships with patients while helping them regain their quality of life and return to the activities that matter most to them. 

If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: Diet Coke and a way to listen to music!

My dream job would be: Makeup artist 

If you see my earbuds in, I’m probably listening to: Classic rock or whatever my random song obsession of the week is… there's no in between!

Hometown: Houston, Texas
Medical School: Arkansas College of Health Sciences, Fort Smith
The most interesting fact about me is: I placed first in the national collegiate Taekwondo tournament, NCTA 2017. "Texas, fight!"
I chose PM&R because: I enjoy working with the large, multidisciplinary team often seen in rehab care. Some of the best, and most caring, teams I've worked with in my entire educational journey were through PM&R. Having a team like this really allows me to have the in-depth, supportive care that I love providing for my patients.
If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: My Steamdeck and a solar panel. I have to take care of my Stardew Valley farm and finish my sixth campaign of Baldur's Gate.
My dream job would be: PM&R and all other things aside. I sometimes daydream about being a martial arts instructor or volleyball coach. Still putting my MSK knowledge to good use!
If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: Mostly indie like Electric Guest, Glass Animals, The Greeting Committee, or the opening song of whatever anime I'm currently watching.

Hometown: Russellville, AR
Medical School: UAMS
The most interesting fact about me is: I added “mom” to my resume during intern year, because why settle for just one full time job?
I chose PM&R because: There is something powerful and deeply rewarding about meeting patients who are at some of the most challenging and vulnerable moments in their lives and then helping guide them through recovery. Witnessing the human capacity for resilience is a truly testament to the role of interdisciplinary care in helping patients gain back function and independence. It’s truly an honor and privilege to be a part of their journey.
If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: It would be nice if the island happened to have an all inclusive resort on it
My dream job would be: Luxury Resort Critic
If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: No genre is marked safe from my playlist. If you hand me the aux, you never know what you’re going to get.

Hometown:  Pomona, CA
Degree:  Touro University Nevada 
The most interesting fact about me is: I love to travel and so far have been to at least 23ish countries. 
I chose PM&R because: I love the positive impact the specialty can have on someone's life beyond medicine. 
On my days off, you're most likely to find me: eating something yummy
If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: my trusty pan, cooking utensils, and e-reader
The most rewarding thing about being a resident is: celebrating and encouraging my patient's progress no matter how big or small!
My dream job would be: back up dancer or Cirque du Soleil performer 
If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: anything I can groove to

Hometown: De Queen, Arkansas
Medical School: UAMS
The most interesting fact about me is:  I used to be certified in nuclear medicine technology before medical school.
I chose PM&R because: PM&R is a field of medicine in which you get to see a tangible difference in patient outcomes.  I love watching patients improve physically over time and regain their functionality.  Every patient I work with has a unique story that inspires me in a different way.
On my days off, you're most likely to find me: snoozing till noon, playing my Nintendo Switch, playing online games with friends, dancing around my apartment, crying over a TV show, crying over a book, crying for no reason at all, or writing a fantasy novel that I’ll never finish.
If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: sunscreen, unlimited Twitter access, and a means to play the entire Taylor Swift discography.
The most rewarding thing about being a resident is: getting to teach medical students cool things.  I’ve always wanted to be the cool resident!
My dream job would be: a best-selling author.  Move over, Stephen King!
If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: popular music (Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Doja Cat), dance pop (Calvin Harris, Kygo, Matoma), indie pop (Lana Del Rey, Lorde), alternative pop/rock (Imagine Dragons, Twenty One Pilots, Of Monsters and Men), or lo-fi if I’m trying to be semi-productive.  I also frequently listen to fantasy ambient music when I'm feeling particularly adventurous.

Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA
Medical School: Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine

The most interesting fact about me is: I love traveling and discovering new places around the world. A few of my favorite places so far have been South Korea, Japan, and Taiwan. I have also been lucky enough to visit over 30 states across the United States (and I hope to visit all 50 someday).

I chose PM&R because: I think it’s an amazing specialty. As someone who has experienced multiple traumatic brain injuries and post-concussion syndrome, I’ve seen how important rehab is to recovery. There is nothing more fulfilling than witnessing a patient regain their independence and quality of life.

If I were stranded on an island, I would HAVE to have: A comfortable resort, my laptop, and high-speed Wi-Fi.

My dream job would be: A physician-innovator in brain injury rehab.

If you see my earbuds in, I'm probably listening to: Anything about AI engineering, Warren Buffett, or an audiobook.