PGY 1

Hometown

Lake Charles, LA

Undergraduate

University of Louisiana Monroe

Medical School

Louisiana State University – New Orleans

Career/Clinical Interests

NICU

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

I did my away here in the NICU and absolutely loved all of the people I worked with, how welcoming they were, and their positive energy! There is such a strong family feel to this program!

Hobbies/Special Interests

I love hiking and kayaking.

Fun Fact

I couples matched with my fiance who is a psychiatry intern here at UAB!

PGY 1

Hometown

Miami, FL

Undergraduate

Agnes Scott College

Medical School

Florida State University College of Medicine

Career/Clinical Interests

Pediatric Hospital Medicine

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

I chose UAB Pediatrics because I wanted to be part of a program offering a diverse patient population and a wide range of pathology. I was searching for a program that would challenge me while providing a supportive environment. Everyone I met was so kind and welcoming!

Hobbies/Special Interests

Slow pitch; yoga and pilates; reading; art.

Fun Fact

I played college softball!

PGY 1

Hometown

Monticello, AR

Undergraduate

Mississippi State University

Medical School

University of Mississippi School of Medicine

Career/Clinical Interests

Open-minded, but I do know that I love academic medicine!

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

Going into interview season, UAB had everything to offer that I was looking for from the outside: impressive facilities and board pass rates, a stellar reputation, numerous fellowships, and exposure to a diverse and complex patient population. Then, in my interview and second look experiences, UAB met every expectation and beyond. I realized my priorities on finding a strong and close-knit resident community, warm and supportive faculty, proximity to family, and the perks of living in a great city would all be met here! I am ever grateful for the opportunity to train and grow as a pediatrician alongside the UAB Pediatrics family!

Hobbies/Special Interests

Barre/yoga, cooking/baking, Christian faith/Involvement with the local church and community, planning the next travel adventure!

Fun Fact

I have a collection of over 30 teaspoons from my travels in a piece of pottery on my coffee set, and they are a fun reminder every time I go to make my morning cup(s) of coffee!

PGY 1

Hometown

Muncie, IN

Undergraduate

Indiana University

Medical School

Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine

Career/Clinical Interests

Pediatric Hospital Medicine

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

I knew I wanted to train at a hospital where my patients could get specialized care without being transferred out. On interview day, UAB felt so special and I immediately fell in love with everything about this program. At other places, I felt like I would have good colleagues to work with. Here, I felt like I would have great people to do life with.

Hobbies/Special Interests

Cooking, traveling, playing with my dog, trying new restaurants.

Fun Fact

I make cakes for fun on the side! (Check out my insta @elsheikh.and.bake)

PGY 1

Hometown

Madison, MS

Undergraduate

Mississippi State

Medical School

University of Mississippi Medical Center

Career/Clinical Interests

Unsure

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

I felt like UAB would push me as a clinician but also support me as a human:)

Hobbies/Special Interests

Food (tasting more than cooking) reading and the gym!

Fun Fact

As a child, I had a strong disdain for the color purple!

PGY 1

Hometown

New Orleans, LA

Undergraduate

Davidson College

Graduate

Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health

Medical School 

Louisiana State University – New Orleans

Career/Clinical Interests

Hospital Medicine, Infectious Disease, General Pediatrics

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

UAB has so much to offer! The education, patient care, and variety of specialties available are all top notch. Most importantly, I picked UAB because I loved the friendly and welcoming atmosphere!

Hobbies/Special Interests

Baking, reading, and travel.

Fun Fact

On a trip to Iceland, I got to stand on two continents at once!

PGY 1

Hometown

Ocean Springs, MS

Undergraduate

Mississippi State University

Medical School

University of Mississippi Medical Center

Career/Clinical Interests

Primary Care

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

As someone interested in primary care, I was looking for a program with high acuity, volume, and diversity of patients so that when I begin my career, I'm well equipped to provide the best care for my patients! UAB checked all those boxes. During my in-person second look, I felt welcomed by both residents and faculty and was very impressed by the hospital! 

Hobbies/Special Interests

Reading sci-fi/fantasy novels, hiking, board games, trivia, and trying out new places to eat in Bham!

Fun Fact

I once won a royal flush jackpot in Texas Hold'em at a casino near my hometown! (Not sure if my luck has been the same since...)

PGY 1

Hometown

Jacksonville, FL

Undergraduate

Emory University

Medical School

Florida State University

Career/Clinical Interests

General Pediatrics

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

Growing up, my grandmother would tell me stories about how amazing UAB was as an institution and healthcare system because she got to watch it expand over time, while working as a pediatrician in Birmingham for over 35 years. When it came to my interview day, I already had a good feeling about the level of training I would receive, but it truly came down to the friendliness and kindness exhibited by the residents, faculty, and staff that I interacted with. I felt like this was a place where I could fit in and thrive, and now that I'm here, I couldn't agree more.

Hobbies/Special Interests

Swimming, hiking, gardening, rooting for the Jacksonville Jaguars, and walking my dachshund named Ketchup

Fun Fact

I can speak Portuguese

PGY 1

Hometown

Nashville, TN

Undergraduate

Belmont University

Medical School

East Tennessee State University

Career/Clinical Interests

Primary care, hospital medicine

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

I chose UAB because I knew I would get the best training in a program with the most supportive co-residents and faculty!

Hobbies/Special Interests

Cooking, baking, reading, playing tennis.

Fun Fact

I enjoy cooking multi-cultural foods!

PGY 1

Hometown

Saint Cloud, FL

Undergraduate

Auburn University

Medical School

Florida State University – Orlando

Career/Clinical Interests

Pediatric Hospital Medicine, Infectious Disease, General Pediatrics

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

I wanted to be at a program that would expose me to diverse patient populations with a broad spectrum ofmedical complexity and acuity to best prepare me for my future career. After an away rotation here, I knew UAB would provide me with endless learning opportunities and the opportunity to train alongside residents and faculty who genuinely cared for me and my success as an individual. The community and culture that has been created at the program is incredibly unique and I’m so grateful to be a part of it!

Hobbies/Special Interests

College football (war eagle!), running, reading, embroidery, and needlepoint.

Fun Fact

My family has two pet tortoises! We have raised them since they were babies, and they will actually outlive my parents!

PGY 1

Hometown

Birmingham, AL

Undergraduate

Unviersity of Alabama

Medical School

UAB Heersink

Career/Clinical Interests

Hospital Medicine, PICU

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

UAB had everything I was looking for in a residency program — a stand-alone children’s hospital with a large catchment area and high acuity patients, mediumsized classes, a wide range of fellowships, a fun city with lots of cool things to do, etc… but what really sold me was the people. The program directors are genuine, kind, and personally invested in the success of each resident, and my co-residents are some of the smartest people I’ve ever met. Not to mention how cool and interesting everyone is. I feel so incredibly lucky to train here!

Hobbies/Special Interests

Reading historical fiction, thrifting/antiquing, trying new restaurants.

Fun Fact

I was a competitive Irish step dancer for eight years!

PGY 1

Hometown

Chattanooga, TN

Undergraduate

Sewanee: The University of the South

Medical School

East Tennessee State University-Quillen College of Medicine

Career/Clinical Interests

Allergy & Immunology/Hospital Medicine/Undecided with a special interest in advocacy

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

I was looking for a robust academic program that also maintained a "familyfeel" culture, and UAB offered the perfect blend of both! I wanted to gain exposure to various subspecialties to enhance my experience and knowledge while also exploring potential career paths. Additionally, the program fosters such a supportive environment and close-knit community. The best of both worlds!

Hobbies/Special Interests

Golf/yoga/gardening/cooking/going on walks AND I am a proud cat mom :)

Fun Fact

I am fluent in farsi!

PGY 1

Hometown

Thibodaux, LA

Undergraduate

Louisiana State University

Medical School

Louisiana State University – New Orleans

Career/Clinical Interests

Not sure! I'm considering hospital medicine, general pediatrics, and palliative care.

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

When I visited UAB for an away rotation, I knew I wanted to come here for residency! I felt supported and academically/clinically challenged in the best way possible! The culture within our program, our diverse patient population, and range of pathologies made choosing UAB Pediatrics an easy choice!

Hobbies/Special Interests

Cooking/baking, planning dream vacations, working out, hiking/exploring beautiful Birmingham!

Fun Fact

My favorite holiday is St. Patrick's Day! I highly recommend experiencing the annual parade in New Orleans!

PGY 1

Hometown

Lima, Peru

Undergraduate

Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia

Medical School

Peruana Cayetano

Career/Clinical Interests

ID, NICU, GI, PC, a lot to explore!

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

Because offers me the opportunity to continue giving health to kids in the comunity scene, not only in a hospital!!

Hobbies/Special Interests

Travel, swimming, hiking with Luna my dog!

Fun Fact

My UAB interview was on my birthday! That was a signal!!

PGY 1

Hometown

Topeka, KS

Undergraduate

Creighton University

Medical School

University of Kansas Medical School

Career/Clinical Interests

GI/ General Peds/Undecided

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

It was clear on my interview day that everyone here learned a ton, worked hard, and had fun doing it. No one complained and I knew that was a culture I wanted to be apart of.

Hobbies/Special Interests

I like hiking, climbing, lifting, just about anything active. I enjoy playing games with friends as well.

Fun Fact

I threw out the first pitch at a white sox game

PGY 1

Hometown

Gainesville, FL

Undergraduate

University of Florida

Medical School

University of Central Florida

Career/Clinical Interests

Undecided on specialty, but interested in academic medicine and teaching, as well as child advocacy and community outreach. Undecided on specialty, but interested inacademic medicine and teaching, as well as child advocacy and community outreach.

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

Children's of Alabama is a high-volume hospital that cares for some of the sickest kids in Alabama and beyond, so I knew I would receive top-notch training here. In addition to its academic strength, the program also has such welcoming, supportive culture and takes great care of its residents!

Hobbies/Special Interests

When I am not working I enjoy yoga, running, spin class, and anything outdoors! I also love painting, baking, and spending time with my family and friends!

Fun Fact

My claim to fame is that I once won a drawing award at my school art show!

PGY 1

Hometown

Rock Hill, SC

Undergraduate

Norfolk State University

Medical School

Morehouse School of Medicine

Career/Clinical Interests

Considering pediatric emergency medicine vs. hospital medicine vs. infectious disease!

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

I was looking for a program that would support my goals as a budding pediatrician and provide numerous opportunities to explore my interests. I also wanted to be part of a program that would give space to allow me to carry out Morehouse's vision for advancing & creating health equity. I was excited to learn how involved the program is with their surrounding community because being an advocate for pediatric patients extends beyond the hospital/clinic settings.

Hobbies/Special Interests

I play piano, enjoy running, and all things fitness!

Fun Fact

I have a toy Volkswagen collection!

PGY 1

Hometown

Lexington, KY

Undergraduate

University of Kentucky

Medical School

University of Louisville

Career/Clinical Interests

Maybe primary care!

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

I loved how incredibly genuine and kind the people were! They were the kind of people I wanted to be friends with. The program was super supportive and it stood out to me from the beginning. It checked all the boxes in all the academic areas as well!

Hobbies/Special Interests

Pickleball, bread baking, and caring for my plants! Love being involved with my church and always down for a good game night as well!

Fun Fact

My husband and I have the exact same birthday!

PGY 1

Hometown

Waco, TX

Undergraduate

Texas A&M University

Medical School

Texas Tech University

Career/Clinical Interests

General Pediatrics

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

Throughout my interview season, I found myself always thinking back to my experience interviewing with UAB and remembered how welcoming, supportive, and fun my day was with them. I came for the second look event and loved seeing just how close the residents were not only to each other, but also with program leadership and other faculty. I was also impressed with all the opportunities UAB offered for my professional growth. I left without a doubt that this is where I wanted to be for the next (at least) three years!

Hobbies/Special Interests

Hiking, cycling, cooking, spending time with my dog, Aggie football

Fun Fact

My family loves to cruise, and I've been on more than 12 cruises spanning over 20 countries

PGY 1

Undergraduate

University of Florida

Graduate School

University of Florida

Medical School

Florida State University

Career/Clinical Interests

General outpatient pediatrics or Hematology/Oncology

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

I chose UAB Pediatrics for so many reasons! But most notably, for the diverse patient population, commitment to the community, and supportive culture. Since beginning residency, it has become increasingly evident how much this program values its residents- both as pediatricians in-training and as people. I can't imagine a better place to learn and grow!

Hobbies/Special Interests

In my free time I enjoy drawing/painting, running, and exploring national parks with my husband, Jeremy.

Fun Fact

Before medical school, I worked as a barista! I'd love to hear your go-to coffee order :)

PGY 1

Hometown

El Paso, TX

Undergraduate

Baylor University

Medical School

University of Texas Southwestern

Career/Clinical Interests

GI or General Outpatient Pediatrics

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

UAB offers a variety of clinical experiences and serves a diverse patient population which was exactly what I was looking for. I also felt so welcomed during my interview day and made to feel like I really belong here!

Hobbies/Special Interests

Trying new coffee shops/restaurants, running, weightlifting, hiking, and reading.

Fun Fact

I got to eat at a Michelin star restaurant this year!

PGY 1

Hometown

Canton, GA

Undergraduate

University of Georgia

Medical School

Mercer University

Career/Clinical Interests

Undecided

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

One of the reasons I chose UAB’s pediatric program is due to its strong commitment to community advocacy and involvement. Residents have the opportunity to join advocacy organizations such as the Coat of Arms, along with volunteering at camps and participating in medical mission trips, which underscores their dedication to pediatric healthcare, not only as professionals but as compassionate individuals.

Hobbies/Special Interests

Reading, hot yoga, and vegan cooking.

Fun Fact

I grew up on an animal rescue farm

PGY 1

Hometown

Thomasville, GA

Undergraduate

Wake Forest University

Medical School

Medical College of Georgia

Career/Clinical Interests

Cardiology or Critical Care

Why did you choose UAB Peds?

I was struck by the sense of community within the program and the way that UAB Pediatric Residents invest in each other and their patients! Children's of Alabama provides the highest level of care for the sickest children from all over the state, and I wanted to train at a program that would give me the opportunity to care for those kids.

Hobbies/Special Interests

I am a big fan of college sports and all things outdoors. I love rooting on Wake Forest and my home team of UGA in all sports whether it be football, baseball, or soccer! I also enjoy hiking, hunting, fly fishing, rock climbing, and kayaking. Professionally I am really interested in how outdoor activity can impact heart health and overall health!

Fun Fact

I won a radio game show in middle school, but never got the prize because I couldn't drive to go get it