Our Residents
PGY-1s
Samuel Black, MD
How do you like your coffee?: As a chai latte
Previous lives: ED Tech, landscaper
Reason for choosing Rochester: It had strong EM and FM programs where my wife and I could couples match, and there is a surprising PNW-Upstate NY pipeline
Medical School: University of Washington
Favorite spot in Rochester: All of Park Ave
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: The Gift of Pain by Dr. Paul Brand
Tristan Diaz, MD
How do you like your coffee?: Espresso with a little sugar
Previous lives: ISwim team coach, personal trainer, EM scribe, phlebotomist
Reason for choosing Rochester: Followed my fiancé who is a OB/GYN resident here at Strong!
Medical School: Temple
Favorite spot in Rochester: Mount Hope In the Fall
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Red Rising Series
Christine Dominas, MD
How do you like your coffee?: I love it all- Black, a heavily creamed latte, cold brew, piping hot; as long as it's caffeinated, I'll drink it.
Previous lives: Medical & research assistant, biotech consultant, Medical & research assistant, biotech consultant
Reason for choosing Rochester: I wanted to be close to family, and liked the comraderie between the residents and faculty here.
Medical School: University of Buffalo
Favorite spot in Rochester: Village Bakery
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Being Mortal by Atul Gawande
Garvey Dooley, DO
How do you like your coffee?: Black and hot, or a cappuccino if I'm feeling fancy.
Previous lives: River engineer, land surveyor, raft guide and whitewater addict.
Reason for choosing Rochester: I wanted to be back in Upstate NY close to family and Rochester has the friendliest people and perks of city life without the congestion. Plus it's not too far from the ADKs, Finger Lakes, and more!
Medical School: Pacific NW Univ COM
Favorite spot in Rochester: The River of Doubt
Daniel Gold-Bersani, MD
How do you like your coffee?: I’ll drink orange pekoe tea with milk and sugar
Previous lives: Paramedic, theater technician/design, casual player of the tuba.
Reason for choosing Rochester: Close to home mainly combined with an excellent quality of life and proximity to Lake Ontario, seemed like a win to me.
Medical School: St. George’s University Sciences - SUNY Buffalo
Favorite spot in Rochester:: Walking my dog on the Empire Trail along the canal or looking for food downtown.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: The DaVinci Code
Dexter Herald, DO
How do you like your coffee?: I've never been much of a coffee drinker - I'm saving up my caffeine tolerance for SICU nights.
Previous lives: New England + East Coast BJJ champion, slow cross country runner, medical scribe, anatomy TA, nerd (ongoing)
Reason for choosing Rochester: I went to RIT for undergrad and really missed DogTown's garbage plates. The program is incredible, the hospital has all the patients and experiences you could ever ask for, and I had a great time when I came for the second look event. I also really missed Wegmans.
Medical School: UNECOM
Favorite spot in Rochester: Wegmans, Central Rock Gym, and Pittsford Farms Dairy
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Anything from the Cosmere. There's also the Kingkiller Chronicles, Dungeon Crawler Carl, and I'm a sucker for Percy Jackson and the various spin-off series.
Michael Hoffman, DO, MS
How do you like your coffee?: Like a risk factor for diabetes
Previous lives: I used to be an adventurer like you, then I took an arrow in the knee.…Bartender, Medical Scribe, EMT-B, aspiring stand-up comedian and mixed martial artist, dungeon master
Reason for choosing Rochester: I began my journey in medicine working as a scribe while attending college at RIT. I also went on to become an EMT during that time. The foundation of my medical education and experience was born here in Rochester. I've met countless people who showed me what it means to be an exceptional physician. I am fortunate to feel a deep sense of community here in Rochester. After living in several places to pursue my dream career, it was only fitting to bring it full circle and return to the place where it all began.
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine at Elmira
Favorite spot in Rochester: Ontario Beach Park, Daily Refresher, Gene Polisseni Center at RIT
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Puncheons and Flagons: The Official Dungeons & Dragons Cocktail Book
Chellise Kemis, DO
How do you like your coffee?: In the form of a chai latte
Previous lives: ED scribe, amateur artist, skier
Reason for choosing Rochester: I did an audition rotation here early in fourth year, which set the standard for all subsequent rotations. None met that standard. The faculty, residents, and other staff are incredibly kind and supportive, and the learning opportunities are second to none. The beautiful location and outdoor activities just add to the appeal!
Medical School: Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite spot in Rochester: The Genesee Riverway Trail with my puppies. Also, the Barnes & Noble on Elmwood and Mount Hope. Bad for my credit card, great for relaxation!
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
Abu-Muttalib Latif, DO, MMS
How do you like your coffee?: I don't drink coffee, but I enjoy my tea VERY sweet - my family keeps telling me stop adding so much sugar since I'm a doctor now
Previous lives: EMT, zoologist, adventure chaser, photographer
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Reason for choosing Rochester: I was blown away by how accommodating, caring, and fun the faculty and residents were during my interview and second look. Rochester is also close to family and friends and has great outdoor activity scene including winters for snowboarding.
Favorite spot in Rochester: Halal-N-Out restaurant, Views: Any place with a good drone scenery (only been to Letchworth so far)
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: I don't read due to High school English assignments - so my favorite series is Eragon
Shannon Lavender, MD
How do you like your coffee?: Hot Americano, black
Previous lives: Soup kitchen (supervisor), yoga teacher, laboratory instructor, teaching assistant
Reason for choosing Rochester: I spent my away rotation at URMC last summer and immediately felt at home. The residents went out of their way to make me feel welcome and part of the team. The attendings really seemed to care about education and helping residents grow individually to meet their potential. On a personal note, I'm closer than I have ever been to my family in any stage of my education/training which has been wonderful!
Medical School: Ohio State University College of Medicine
Favorite spot in Rochester: I'm still exploring but I love to walk my dog in highland park. As far as food goes, I've been impressed by Cure, Vern's, and Leonore's.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Anything historical fiction: i.e.The book thief, Nightingale, The things We Cannot Say
Nena Nakum, DO
How do you like your coffee?: with milk and sugar!
Previous lives: EMT-B and MA, neighborhood nanny
Medical School: A.T. Still University
Reason for choosing Rochester: I picked Rochester to be closer to my family and because everyone I met during the interview and 2nd look was so genuine and kind.
Favorite spot in Rochester: Durand Eastman Beach
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
BaileaSue Rounds, DO
How do you like your coffee?: I don’t drink coffee, but my caffeinated beverage of choice is the Starbucks Strawberry Açaí Lemonade Refresher!
Previous lives: Bath and Body Works employee, softball pitcher, orgo and biochem tutor, assistant baker neighborhood nanny
Reason for choosing Rochester: I went to college at Nazareth and my husband went to St. John Fisher, so Rochester absolutely felt like home. I was lucky enough to be able to do a sub-I here and I had such a wonderful experience. The faculty and other residents made me feel so welcome. I found myself comparing every interview/second look to Rochester, so with that, in addition to the network of family and friends we have in the area, it was a no brainer for us. Additionally, we have two dogs and the extensive outdoor activities to do in the area was a plus. We could live in the suburbs and not be too far from the hospital, which was something that was a priority for us. Proximity to Buffalo for Bills games was also a pro!!
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM-Erie Campus)
Favorite spot in Rochester: Branca Basin (specifically for their happy hour apps)
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: It’s so hard to pick just one. The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks is one of my all time favorites. I have my kindle glued to me pretty much constantly, so I have a lot of different interests, but I’m a sucker for a good romance.
William Schmitt, MD
How do you like your coffee?: Extra Large Cold Brew with a Splash of Chocolate Milk!
Previous lives: Programmer, Computer Science TA
Reason for choosing Rochester: The usual cliche (the people), but also the city has the perfect mix of everything--easy access to the outdoors and running trails, great food and coffee joints, and fantastic people to enjoy it all with!
Medical School: University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry
Favorite spot in Rochester: Winter Swan Coffee
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Mastermind: How to Think Like Sherlock Holmes by Maria Konnikova (It's Thinking Fast and Slow but more fun as System 1 and 2 are replaced by Holmes and Watson).
PGY-2s
Anne Cheng, DO
How do you like your coffee?: Depends on the day, but most likely black
Previous lives: USA Climbing Team Kid, Cross-Examination Debater, Biochem/Bio TA, Research Assistant, CNA, AmeriCorps Member
Reason for choosing Rochester: University of Rochester was my undergrad and Strong Memorial was my very first EM and shadowing experience (shoutout to Dr. Pereira), so I have a lot of roots here. The community is amazing, and it feels great to be back.
Medical School: Western University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific- Northwest
Favorite spot in Rochester: Rediscovering the city but some classics are Central Rock Gym, Shema Sushi, Memorial Art Gallery, and Cafe Sasso
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: The Glass Castle- Jeannette Walls, Never Let Me Go- Kazuo Ishiguro, Outliers- Malcolm Gladwell
Maxwell Finch, DO
How do you like your coffee?: Utilizing my Moka pot to make Italian espresso with just a little oat milk over ice has saved me hundreds, if not thousands of dollars from daily coffee shop visits.
Previous lives: Scribe, Retina Ophthalmic Technician
Reason for choosing Rochester: The People! Visiting Rochester last summer for a week between away rotations, it was clear that Rochester took care of their residents and had a sense of camaraderie that stood out immediately on top of excellent training.
Medical School: Pacific NW Univer Col of Osteo Medicine
Favorite spot in Rochester: I’m new to town and still exploring, but anywhere I can take my dogs, preferably with off leash adventure potential. Tryon Park is my current go to.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Thus Spoke Zarathustra- Friederich Nietzche
Daniel Gehan, M.S., DO
How do you like your coffee?: More of a tea drinker especially homemade Thai iced tea and chai. I will drink coffee if it's free though.
Previous lives: Cement laborer, soccer coach, half a ski bum. Also the craiglist job life is a good deal! Got paid $20 to show up at a beach and make a fire for someone once.
Reason for choosing Rochester: I knew the people that interviewed me had taken the time to get to know me through my application. I felt they asked the right questions during my interview. Additionally, the program itself offers a great learning environment with leadership that are invested in your success. This was a fantastic opportunity and I'm glad to be here!
Medical School: NECOM
Favorite spot in Rochester: Outside - Mendon Ponds. Cafe - Pearsons or Fuego. Pizza - Forno Tony. Still so much more to explore.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami, Enchantress of Florence by Salman Rushdie, All the Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy,
Matthew Gehm, DO, MSMEd
How do you like your coffee?: In the form of an energy drink
Previous lives: Biochemistry TA, Volconologist, Specialty Care Transport Paramedic (FP-C & CCP-C), Senior Instructor at Master Your Medics
Medical School: LECOM
Reason for choosing Rochester: I did a 4th year Sub-I here and was sold from the first week. Every one was so welcoming and friendly. All of the residents really made the effort to include us while rotating. The clinical education is excellent and the program always has great fellowship matches!
Favorite spot in Rochester: Wegmans
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Being Mortal
Macrobian Liu, DO
How do you like your coffee?: Black with grounds. Yum
Previous lives: Anatomy and Pathology TA, Knife salesman, Scribe, and possibly a golden retriever
Reason for choosing Rochester: I enjoyed my undergraduate experience here and the proximity to family and nature, great medical program, and the amazing community are what sealed the deal! The faculty and co-residents are fantastic and supportive, and Rochester is a wonderful place for my daughter to grow up! The Bills, the lilac festival, and garbage plates are also a plus.
Medical School: Touro University California College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite spot in Rochester: Mendon Ponds Park
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Soldier X by Don L. Wulffson and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. I prefer podcasts nowadays because you can multitask, and I recommend the Crime Junkies podcast for True crime fans.
Hayden Marshall, MD
How do you like your coffee?: Strong, with some cream
Previous lives: Bike mechanic, Ski lift operator, Server
Medical School: Temple University
Reason for choosing Rochester: The area has easy access to the outdoors and snowy winters, the program leadership and fellow residents are all great people to work with!
Favorite spot in Rochester: So far it has to be Tryon Park or anywhere you can see the high falls!
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Can’t tell you much about books but I do listen to a lot of music
Sonia Mishra, DO
How do you like your coffee?: With cream
Previous lives: Medical scribe
Reason for choosing Rochester: Location was a big factor for me. Also, the faculty and residents I met on my away rotation here were kind, genuine, and extremely helpful. Additionally, there are many opportunities and resources available here!
Medical School: LECOM
Favorite spot in Rochester: Half Pint
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Someone Like You
Drew Payton, DO
How do you like your coffee?: Black, and in large amounts
Previous lives: Life guard, swim coach, ED scribe
Reason for choosing Rochester: I did an away rotation here and loved it. The faculty and residents are wonderful people who enjoy their job and are fun to work with, and the atmosphere of the emergency department at Strong is great.
Medical School: Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite spot in Rochester: Still exploring! There are lots of cool places in Rochester I want to visit.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Currently reading The House of God, a classic.
Michael Roll, MD
How do you like your coffee?: Black and in large volumes
Previous lives: Furniture deliverer, food service worker at a BBQ joint, home care aide, tennis coach, rotary exchange student
Medical School: Temple University
Reason for choosing Rochester: It's always been home!
Favorite spot in Rochester: Highland Park during the day, the Genesee Brewhouse in the evening, or on a tennis court any time I can find someone to hit with
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes
Jad Saleh, MD
How do you like your coffee?: Light roasts, especially in latte form
Previous lives: Enjoyably Amateur Photographer, wannabe “outdoorsman”, Family IT guy
Reason for choosing Rochester: Great people, great outdoors, and an area that feels like home away from home
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University
Favorite spot in Rochester: Costco Food Court (Real answer: Chick n’ Out)
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Throwback for me, but Little Brother by Cory Doctorow
Nicholas Searcy, MD, MBA
How do you like your coffee?: No coffee for me, just water.
Previous lives: Camp counselor/commissioner/medical director, baker, smoothie-ista(?), retail department manager, pest control technician, missionary, tutor, lab aide, firefighter paramedic, wildland firefighter, and outpatient/inpatient pharmacy technician.
Medical School: University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry
Reason for choosing Rochester: Rochester is an incredible place to raise children and grow a family. There are excellent training opportunities here including the Simon Business School where I obtained my MBA. I can be out of the city and into the country in ten minutes with access to loads of outdoor activities.
Favorite spot in Rochester: Watkins Glen State Park. No wait, Durand Eastman Beach on Lake Ontario. No wait, Dogtown Hots scarfing down a garbage plate. Hmmm, how much time do you have?
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Climbing the Seven Summits by Mike Hamill and Beyond Possible by Nims Purja
Dylan Stamey, DO
How do you like your coffee?: I prefer a latte but I'll drink any coffee.
Medical School: LECOM
Reason for choosing Rochester: Great program with great faculty/reaidents in an awesome affordable location. Seemed like a place to raise my family
Previous lives: I was an EMT in Pinellas County FL, at the same time I was a SSgt in the Marine Corps Reserve. I also worked at a car dealership, as a valet, and at Walgreens prior to EMS
Favorite spot in Rochester: Wherever my family is, which is typically our house. I do love to try different food/resturants in the area though
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: I don't have a favorite book but my favorite author is Stephen King. My favorite series is A song of ice and fire (the game of thrones series)
Erica Tennant, MD
How do you like your coffee?: With hot chocolate or oat milk
Previous lives: Caterer, mosquito researcher, scribe
Medical School: University of Wisconsin
Reason for choosing Rochester: I loved my summer away rotation here. The faculty, staff, and residents were kind and welcoming. Thursday didactics were fun and engaging. URMC has a ton of resources to explore special interests. Plus Rochester is a short drive to the Finger Lakes and some of the best state parks in upstate NY.
Favorite spot in Rochester: TLucky Flea Market, Highland Park, Lake Ontario, Wegmans! It's great being able to drive around the city with minimal traffic and having an airport next to the hospital to travel easily during vacation weeks.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
Matthew Yanik, DO
How do you like your coffee?: Steaming hot with just a splash, Wakes me up in a flash.
Medical School: Campbell Univ School of Osteo Medicine
Reason for choosing Rochester: I reveled in Rochester’s renowned residency; relishing its rocking residents, robust range, rigorous readying, remarkable rapport, and respected research. Rochester is resplendent, rich with rhythm and radiance, a real renaissance region.
Previous lives: MMohs Tech, EMT-Basic, Museum educator, Engineer, Science exam writer
Favorite spot in Rochester: In Rochester, where the river bends, The Genesee Trail quietly extends. By the river's soft song, I feel strong, I belong, Nature's beauty with city amends.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Wands weave destiny, Harry Potter's saga bright, Imagination.
Dennis Youngs, MD
How do you like your coffee?: The best coffee is always a black cold brew, regardless of hot summer days or freezing winters.
Previous lives: Landscaper and Amateur Wine Connoisseur
Medical School: Upstate Medical University
Reason for choosing Rochester: The easiest decision I made was choosing the University of Rochester. The culmination of cutting edge research, high patient volume/acuity and extremely supportive faculty fosters an environment to challenge oneself and grow as a physician. The proximity to friends and family provides a perfect balance of my personal and professional life. I also could not attend a program that you couldn’t eat garbage plates at 2:00am on shift!
Favorite spot in Rochester: I would have to say my favorite spot is just a short drive from Rochester to Keuka Lake, but my second favorite spot is New York Beer Project!
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Guinness World Records or the White Coat Investor series
PGY-3s
Bryon Blanchard, MD
How do you like your coffee?: Free coffee is the best coffee. When I have the option to choose, I like Sugar-Free French Vanilla creamer and artificial sweeteners, I prefer the pink one but, the blue or yellow ones are great too.
Previous lives: Directly after high school in Fayetteville, NC, I worked as a certified nurse assistant while attending firefighter/EMT training. I found that I loved rescue and patient care far greater than firefighting so I retrained as a paramedic. I met an amazingly strong willed, funny, and perfectly matched to me nurse in the emergency department so I relocated to Ft. Myers, FL after we got married. While attending under graduate I left the ambulance and began working in an emergency department. First, as a patient care transporter, while waiting for my paramedic license to transfer to FL, then as an emergency department technician.
Reason for choosing Rochester: I was first introduced to Strong Memorial by my wife. I researched the program and knew that I would gain more from this program. Also, I have family and friends living in the Finger Lakes, between Lake Seneca and Lake Cayuga.
Medical School: American University of Antigua
Favorite spot in Rochester: I love to cook. Whether it is new foods or a new technique I love to cook. Everything from the gathering, to the prepping, the cooking, the presentation, and especially the eating. That is why Wegmans is my favorite spot. I had never been to a Wegmans until Rochester and my first Wegmans experience was euphoric.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: I have a chronic case of wanderlust for tropical destinations that all started as a child when I read Treasure Island.
Nicholas Contento, MD
How do you like your coffee?: All coffee is good coffee. But from September-January you’ll see at least one pumpkin cream cold brew in my hands at all times.
Previous lives: Clinical researcher, wannabe anthropologist, organic chemistry TA, competitive road/trail runner, lifeguard. I was definitely a border collie in my past life.
Reason for choosing Rochester: The clinical training is just outstanding here with a very diverse patient population — you really see everything. There are numerous research projects, fellowship opportunities, and tracks to pursue your interests, whether academic or not. The faculty are incredibly kind and wonderful instructors, and are committed to helping you get wherever you want to go. I also went to college and medical school in Rochester so it feels like a second home!
Medical School: University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry
Favorite spot in Rochester: Any of the parks/trail running spots! Some of my favorites are Oatka Creek, Black Creek, Mendon Ponds, and the Seneca Trail.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: How Forests Think (Eduardo Kohn), The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down (Anne Fadiman), the Harry Potter series.
Forrest Gresser-Baker, DO
How do you like your coffee?: Black or Irish
Previous lives: Occupationally I was a support counselor, phlebotomist, and ED scribe. On off days I have been a skier, mountain biker, subpar piano player, and cheesecake baker.
Reason for choosing Rochester: Rochester is closer to the family in Vermont and has great critical care training. I'm looking forward to helping my parents winterize the house and eventually head towards a fellowship!
Medical School: Pacific NW Col Osteo Med
Favorite spot in Rochester: So far Mendon Pond Park and Dryer Park have been a blast. Looking forward to exploring more!
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: The Wheel of Time series has been an absolute blast of nostalgia lately. Also anything by Neil Gaiman.
Zachary Hackett, MD
How do you like your coffee?: Warm with the regret of knowing I won't be able to sleep that night.
Previous lives: Pharmacy Tech, Tutor, Chemist, Avid pet petter
Medical School: Among the many reasons for me are the people, the culture and the environment. Everyone truly has a passion for what they do, and it resonates throughout all aspects of this program. Residents and faculty treat each other like friends and family rather than simply colleagues which speaks volumes. The location is also a great blend of lakes and parks while still being closer to home.
Reason for choosing Rochester: Ross University
Favorite spot in Rochester: With sunblock: pretty much anywhere outdoors. Without sunblock: the same but now my skin hurts
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: I am more of a music and movie type of person
Allison Havens, DO
How do you like your coffee?: In great quantities and with lots of milk and caramel
Previous lives: Medical Scribe, Dog Walker, Professional Student
Reason for choosing Rochester: Everyone I've met at URMC has been super supportive and encouraging! It's also nice to be back home and around my friends and family in the area.
Medical School: New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite spot in Rochester: Half Pint, all the coffee shops and the public market
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: I'm more of a Netflix fan but favorite books will always be the Harry Potter series
Richard Hesselbarth, DO
How do you like your coffee?: Outside on a nice morning with my dog
Previous lives: SLP, PA, lifeguard, Blockbuster cashier
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Reason for choosing Rochester: High volume and acuity were important to me when choosing a program. On top of that, the faculty and residents were welcoming, kind, and genuinely fun to be around! It was the combination of getting a great education and enjoying the people around me.
Favorite spot in Rochester: Any place with live music, Canandaigua lake, Letchworth state park
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: When Breath Becomes Air
Andrew Howell, MD
How do you like your coffee?: Cream added first so you don't have to stir.
Previous lives: Ski bum, biomedical engineer, house framer, landscaper
Reason for choosing Rochester: I had visited friends in Rochester before, so I knew it was a cool city with lots to do. The bike paths are great, the Lake Ontario beach is awesome, and there are tons of amazing restaurants and breweries. Once I realized how awesome the other residents and faculty were at the EM program here, I knew it would be an amazing fit. I really can't say enough great things about the people I've met here, there is a strong sense of community.
Medical School: Tulane University
Favorite spot in Rochester: So far it's gotta be Ontario Beach Park!
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: Endurance - Alfred Lansing (SO good!)
Rohsennase Dalton LaBarge, MD
How do you like your coffee?: Light Roast 1L Bolus
Previous lives: Poet, Yoga Teacher, Community Organizer, Land Steward, Mohawk Language Instructor, Wampum Artist
Reason for choosing Rochester: There’s no place like home!
Medical School: University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry
Favorite spot in Rochester: At the base of Lower Falls in the Genesee River Gorge
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: One Hundred Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Márquez
James Pirraglia, DO
How do you like your coffee?: Iced with cream and coffee syrup from Rhode Island
Previous lives: ED scribe, Biotech TA, Movie theater usher, Minister of the Universal Life Church
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Reason for choosing Rochester: I did my core rotations in Rochester and I love the area. There is a lot to do and the people here are great. The faculty, staff, and residents at Strong are all extremely nice and welcoming.
Favorite spot in Rochester: Youngs Korean Restaurant
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes
Emma Snyder, DO
How do you like your coffee?: as an iced vanilla oat milk latte
Previous lives: biochemist; cross country collegiate athlete; iPad kid
Reason for choosing Rochester: Getting treatment for a childhood cancer at URMC was what initially inspired me to go into medicine, so it was a no-brainer to come back.
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite spot in Rochester: Genesee Valley Park & trail system; Cafe Sasso; wherever my dog is.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: The Disappearing Spoon; Being Mortal; The Emperor of All Maladies; Calvin & Hobbes.
Devin Spivey, MD
How do you like your coffee?: In small quantities. More of a water kind of person. That may or may not change.
Previous lives: Rock climber (previous/current?), Caterer, Analytical Chemistry TA, HVAC Assistant, McDonald's super chef
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Med University
Reason for choosing Rochester: It was absolutely the interview day that did it for me. Everyone was very approachable and friendly. More so than anything the whole process felt genuine in that people were passionate when talking about medicine/residency and it wasn't just going through the motions. That said, at the end of the day I really wanted a program where I would be challenged and to become a more than competent physician. In every regard the program has exceeded my expectations thus far.
Favorite spot in Rochester: Definitely the Red Barn Climbing Gym next to RIT. Something about no air conditioning/heating in an old historic barn is just a vibe.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: I used to really enjoy Stephen King books, but I have such a short attention span now that podcasts are the best I can do
Kaylee Stepanski, MD
How do you like your coffee?: My daily drinker is a medium roast with just flavored creamer but if I had the money to drink it daily my absolute favorite is a butter pecan or caramel brulee latte
Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine
Reason for choosing Rochester: This was one of my favorite interviews and social hour with the residents. I connected with everyone so easily and they made me feel so welcomed. My gut just kept telling me I was meant to be in Rochester for some reason.... still trying to figure out that reason. But I was also super excited about all the bodies of water near me and all the outdoor activities this area offers!
Previous lives: Baker, ED scribe, Surgical scribe, world traveler
Favorite spot in Rochester: To be determined - still exploring as I moved here 5 days before orientation started! I have to say, the food at Old Pueblo Grill is my favorite food spot so far!
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: The Alchemist, When Breath Becomes Air
Tyler Wilson, DO
How do you like your coffee?: I like to keep it simple. Hot in the winter. Iced in the summer. Always with milk.
Previous lives: Lifeguard, Patient Transporter, Lab Technician in UR Biology Dept.
Medical School: New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
Reason for choosing Rochester: Rochester is an awesome city with a vibrant and supportive culture for people from all walks of life. There are things to do in every season no matter the weather. During my away rotation in the ED at URMC, I got a feeling that everyone in the program truly wanted to be there and look out for each other. The attendings were supportive and the residents were tight-knit and friendly. Could not be happier to join the family!
Favorite spot in Rochester: The Vesper for cocktails, the canal trail for a peaceful run, Frontier Field for a Redwings game, and Comedy at the Carlson for a good laugh.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: The Nix by Nathan Hill
Tarek Yamout, MD
How do you like your coffee?: Black as the universe intended it...bonus points for the gasoline that is Arabic coffee.
Medical School: Jacobs School of Medicine & Biomedical Sciences - SUNY Buffalo
Reason for choosing Rochester: Having spent my formative years in Rochester after moving to the US and then sticking around for undergrad at the University of Rochester, I never thought I would be coming back to spend another formative part of my life journey here as a resident. But, I couldn't be happier. The program is fantastic, the curriculum is broad and in-depth, and having the opportunity to serve a community that has given so much to me is a reward in and of itself.
Previous lives: Medical scribe, spine researcher, possibly a secret agent who knows
Favorite spot in Rochester: At my parents' dinner table eating whatever my mom made.
Favorite book besides Tintinalli: The Prophet by Khalil Gibran