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Zac Adams, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Duluth, GA
Undergraduate
University of Georgia
Medical School
Medical College of Georgia
Career/Clinical Interests
Heme/Onc or Gen Peds
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
The people! On my interview day I could tell that the atmosphere at UAB Pediatrics was different from any other program that I interviewed with, and I knew it would be the best fit for me!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Hiking, swimming, and anything outdoors.
Fun Fact
As I was finishing up my undegrad and grad degrees from UGA, I completed my first Half Ironman Triathlon!
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Maya Ahmadieh, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Augusta, GA
Undergraduate
University of Georgia
Medical School
Mercer University
Career/Clinical Interests
Nicu/Picu/Em
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
UAB has the best of both worlds - there's such a special & supportive atmosphere and you get the best training!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Cheering on the dawgs, being a plant mom, pilates/yoga/running, & reading
Fun Fact
I’m fluent in Arabic and finally taught myself how to read it at 26 (this isn’t sponsored by duolingo)
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Ryan Boykin, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Atlanta, GA
Undergraduate
University of Georgia
Medical School
Medical College of Georgia
Career/Clinical Interests
Endocrinology or Allergy/Immunology
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I chose UAB Pediatrics Residency Program because I was looking for a medium-sized, highly competitive program that would have all of the subspecialty exposure and opportunities I was looking for while also being surrounded by the most compassionate and dedicated colleagues! I also wanted a program where I could be close to my family back home, and where my boyfriend and I could couples match together.
Hobbies/Special Interests
Hiking, travel, photography, hot yoga.
Fun Fact
My mission whenever I travel to a new place is to visit the local farmers market and/or the botanical garden.
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Owen Chandler, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Vestavia Hills, GA
Undergraduate
Auburn University
Medical School
Wake Forest
Career/Clinical Interests
Currently, I’m interested in general pediatric neurology, but I am also very interested in traumatic brain injury, neuromuscular disorders, and epilepsy. I’m also interested in understanding the interplay of medical care and adoption, specifically the quality of care both domestically and internationally adopted children receive.
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
Children’s of Alabama provides some of the greatest volume and diversity of patients in the country. Because we see all of Alabama and parts of Florida, Mississippi, Georgia and Tennessee, I was confident I would get to take care of a wide variety of illnesses that will permit me and my fellow residents to become well rounded doctors. The people here are also hands down the kindest, happiest yet most professional group of people I encountered when looking for a residency program. I’m thrilled to be back in my home town amongst some of the best doctors at the best hospital!
Hobbies/Special Interests
I love Auburn and Wake Forest sports—War Eagle and Go Deacs! I love hiking, working out, and being active in general. I also have a passion for youth ministry and involvement in the local church. I served as a youth pastor while in medical school in North Carolina and can’t express in words how powerful and meaningful it was. It is increasingly hard to be a middle schooler or high schooler in this world, but the Good News of Jesus provides life, direction, clarity and joy for adolescents (and all people). I hope to continue mentoring and ministering while at UAB to kids, teens, and their families.
Fun Fact
I speak German and am trying to become fluent in Spanish—if anyone wants to practice their Spanish, I’d appreciate help anytime.
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Jessica Corners, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Orlanda, FL
Undergraduate
Florida State University
Medical School
Florida State University Pensacola
Career/Clinical Interests
Critical Care or Pediatric Hospitalist
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
As a large academic medical center, I knew UAB would provide all the sub-specialities that my patients would need and that I could learn from. I know that I will leave this residency well-rounded and prepared for any future career in pediatrics. Since starting residency, I have felt truly welcomed and a part of the UAB family
Hobbies/Special Interests
Reading, gardening, video games, hiking, and listening to podcasts
Fun Fact
I have played the cello for almost 20 years!
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Mary Claire Doss, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Morris, AL
Undergraduate
Auburn University
Medical School
Heersink School of Medicine
Career/Clinical Interests
General Pediatrics or Nephrology
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
As a UAB medical student I had the opportunity to witness firsthand the hard work and dedication that the UAB pediatrics residents bring to their work everyday. They stood out to me as such thoughtful, compassionate, and knowledgeable physicians. As a native of the Birmingham area, having the opportunity to serve the children of my home state alongside such physicians was the perfect opportunity!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Reading, playing board games, and spending time on/near water with family
Fun Fact
I was a patient of Children’s of Alabama when I was just a few months old!
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Lauren Dunavant, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Memphis, TN
Undergraduate
University of Georgia
Medical School
University of Virginia
Career/Clinical Interests
General pediatrics, advocacy
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I knew that training at UAB and Children's of Alabama would give me the opportunity to work with a diverse patient population and gain the skills I need to care for high-acuity complex patients. Every single faculty member and resident I met on my interview day were so kind and welcoming - I knew the program would offer a supportive learning environment!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Cooking, DIY-ing, windowsill gardening, hiking
Fun Fact
Cooking, DIY-ing, windowsill gardening, hiking
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Sydney Escott, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Lafayette, LA
Undergraduate
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Medical School
Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center at Shreveport
Career/Clinical Interests
Pediatric Hospital Medicine and/or Pediatric Intensive Care
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
Employees are truly happy to be here, are encouraged, uplifted and supported in their pursuit to provide excellent care of our youth. UAB challenges it’s employees to maintain high standards of care for its patients as well as it’s staff’s own well-being.
Hobbies/Special Interests
Crochet, drawing, running
Fun Fact
If she could eat any food for the rest of her life, it would be potatoes in any form.
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Rachel Galya, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Suwanee, GA
Undergraduate
University of Tennessee
Medical School
Emory University
Career/Clinical Interests
General Pediatrics
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I was looking for two major things during residency applications: a program that would train me to be an excellent pediatrician and a program that would support me and my family through the process. On my interview day, I could really tell how much the program cared about the residents as people and made an effort to incorporate residents' significant others and families. I have so far found this to be true since I started and I am so happy to be apart of UAB's program!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Cooking (and especially eating!), Hanging out with my husband and toddler, Long distance running, Breastfeeding Medicine.
Fun Fact
I have lived in five southeastern states: Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee, and now Alabama!
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Michelle Gautreaux, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Lafayette, LA
Undergraduate
Louisiana State University
Medical School
LSU New Orleans
Career/Clinical Interests
Child Neurology
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I chose UAB because of how supportive this program is! They are so dedicated to making sure everyone is prepared to succeed. They have incredible programs for pediatrics, child neurology, and adult neurology - I knew I would get the best training possible from my time with all 3 programs!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Running/Hiking, Painting, Building Puzzles
Fun Fact
I've been to 44 states and 20 national parks!
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Meredith Goldenberg, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Bossier City, LA
Undergraduate
Louisiana Tech University
Medical School
LSU Shreveport
Career/Clinical Interests
Pediatric Hospital Medicine and/or Pediatric Intensive Care
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
UAB offers a wide variety of clinical experiences that I believe will help me become the best physician possible for my future patients. Also, the people and atmosphere here are one of a kind.
Hobbies/Special Interests
Baking, reading, outdoor activities
Fun Fact
My first language was Greek!
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Matt Harberg, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Babylon, NY
Undergraduate
College of Charleston
Medical School
Medical University of South Carolina
Career/Clinical Interests
Cardiology, medical education
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I knew UAB had a great reputation as a high volume children's hospital with diverse exposure to pediatric medicine. When I got to my interview, the supportiveness of the program directors and sense of family among co-residents really stood out. Plus, my wife and I loved the affordability and size of Birmingham.
Hobbies/Special Interests
Cooking, cocktail making, hiking, running, gardening, traveling, long walks with my wife.
Fun Fact
I grew up surfing and rode my first wave when I was five years old.
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Carson Huynh, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Birmingham, AL
Undergraduate
Mississippi College
Medical School
Heersink School of Medicine
Career/Clinical Interests
Undecided
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I was fortunate to be exposed to the program as a medical student. I witnessed how well- trained the residents were and how the program leadership genuinely cares for their residents. I knew that I would receive the best training possible and be prepared for whatever career path I choose.
Hobbies/Special Interests
Traveling, aviation, gardening, reading.
Fun Fact
I love to cook all sorts of Asian foods.
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Claire Johnson, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Hoover, AL
Undergraduate
Samford University
Medical School
University of South Alabama
Career/Clinical Interests
Cardiology/undecided
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
The people! It was evident to me on my interview day that the people I spoke to were kind and invested in knowing who I was. The breadth and complexity of clinical exposure that we get here makes our education fantastic!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Running, playing piano, bioethics, petting all the hospital therapy dogs
Fun Fact
I love speaking with patients and their families in Spanish (decently well) and would love to be good enough to get my translator certification one day!
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Harshadayani Jagadish Kumar, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
India
Medical School
Sapthagiri Institute
Career/Clinical Interests
Pediatric Neurology
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
Great academic program and the people
Hobbies/Special Interests
Badminton, hiking
Fun Fact
I'm a dog person
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Shaun Kuo, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Huntsville, AL
Undergraduate
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Medical School
Heersink School of Medicine
Career/Clinical Interests
Unsure maybe something inpatient
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
Close to home and a really good place to settle down!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Triathlon and anything that involves going outside
Fun Fact
I am currently working as a resident and renovating a house!
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Maggie McCartney, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Saint Simons Island, GA
Undergraduate
University of Georgia
Medical School
Medical College of Georiga
Career/Clinical Interests
Hospital Medicine
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
At Children’s of Alabama, the diversity of patient acuity and medical complexity is unbelievable. COA is a true high-volume center with amazing pediatric resources. Most importantly, the program here invests in the development of each and every resident on a personal and professional level. Every person you meet wants you to succeed and is willing to put aside time and energy just for you - from attendings to Program Directors to co-residents. The culture could not be more supportive.
Hobbies/Special Interests
Tennis, cooking, trying new restaurants, spending time with my dog, and board games
Fun Fact
My favorite dinner to make with my husband is homemade pork gyoza!
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Sam McCartney, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Augusta, GA
Undergraduate
University of Georgia
Medical School
Medical College of Georgia
Career/Clinical Interests
NICU/Intensive Care
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
UAB stood out to me as a perfect blend of a large volume program with huge amounts of support and personalization in my training as a resident. It was clear that both attendings and administrative staff viewed residents as peers, spending time in not only educating, but also in building relationships with their teams. The UAB pediatrics program is a place that encourages the building up of others, and it creates an amazing culture of both professional and individual growth!
Hobbies/Special Interests
I enjoy games in any form, from sports like soccer and tennis to board games with friends! I also love cooking with my wife, Maggie, as well as going on hikes with my dog, Clementine!
Fun Fact
I have a severe bee allergy but for some reason I love beekeeper videos. I guess you want what you can't have.
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Brian Murphy, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Troy, MO
Undergraduate
Avila University
Medical School
University of Kansas
Career/Clinical Interests
Academic medicine in PICU or rural pediatrics involving research
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
It is a place where my co-residents are like family and we see a wide variety of etiologies and acuities.
Hobbies/Special Interests
Cooking, fishing, hiking, escape rooms, gaming.
Fun Fact
He has escaped from 30+ escape rooms across 3 states.
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Jake Picicci, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Mobile, AL
Undergraduate
Auburn University
Medical School
Heersink School of Medicine
Career/Clinical Interests
Heme/Onc
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
The people!!!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Being outdoors, tennis, pickleball, fantasy football, comedy series, summer camps
Fun Fact
I love doing trivia but I'm really bad at it.
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Elizabeth Proenza, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Tampa, FL
Undergraduate
University of South Florida
Medical School
West Virginia University
Career/Clinical Interests
General outpatient pediatrics or cardiology
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I really liked the people and felt like I would fit well with the program. On interview day, it felt like a place where I could learn a lot and have fun doing so!
Hobbies/Special Interests
I love hiking, cooking, dancing, and watching a good rom-com!
Fun Fact
I was born in Cuba.
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Stefan Raicevic, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Escondido, CA
Undergraduate
Southern Methodist University
Medical School
Texas Tech University
Career/Clinical Interests
PICU
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
UAB Pediatrics is an excellent program. The administrators and department leadership take very real interest in you, both as a candidate and as a person. I know I made the right choice in coming here for residency. The UAB medical complex is a huge place filled with many physicians and patients, meaning exposure to all sorts of conditions and backgrounds. When you're off-shift, Birmingham is an amazing city to live, reminding me a lot of Austin, Texas. Overall, I would highly recommend UAB Pediatrics to any and every applicant.
Hobbies/Special Interests
I like to spend as much time as I can outdoors. I've hiked Red Mountain and Oak Mountain on my off-days, and plan on picking up fishing and more outdoor activities when I can. I've been reading through the Game of Thrones series, and learning to cook traditional family recipes.
Fun Fact
Before medical school, I was a bartender, EMT, interior designer, and political fundraiser.
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Rachel Saravia, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Lafayette, LA
Undergraduate
LSU Baton Rouge
Medical School
LSU New Orleans
Career/Clinical Interests
Palliative care or developmental/behavioral pediatrics
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
The kind and supportive people!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Hiking, making clay earrings, road trips, concerts
Fun Fact
I have a former racing greyhound as a pet!
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Stephanie Smith, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Miami, FL
Undergraduate
Florida State University
Medical School
Meharry Medical College
Career/Clinical Interests
Neonatology or PHM
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I rotated here for my inpatient Pediatrics rotation in my third year of medical school, and I loved the hospital. The patient population was exactly what I was looking for, and the faculty and staff were always (and still are) very intentional about making me feel welcome and well-supported.
Hobbies/Special Interests
I am a huge Star Wars and Anime fan, and I love taking long naps.
Fun Fact
I adopted two guinea pigs named Mando and Finn!
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Sara Stuart, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Columbia, SC
Undergraduate
Furman University
Medical School
University of South Carolina School of Medicine - Greenville
Career/Clinical Interests
Neonatology
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I chose the UAB Pediatrics Residency Program because it offered high acuity training alongside some of the best physicians in the country, as well as a close-knit community that feels like family. I am so thankful to be a part of this program!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Swimming, crochet, traveling, baking, and playing with my cat, Kiwi.
Fun Fact
I was a collegiate equestrian!
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Alexa Tafaro, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Lafayette, LA
Undergraduate
LSU Baton Rouge
Medical School
LSU Health Shreveport
Career/Clinical Interests
Undecided! Keeping an open mind
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
The patient diversity and acuity, the many fellowship opportunities, and most importantly, I felt welcomed and part of a family from the get go!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Dance classes, trivia nights, and exploring the city/region
Fun Fact
I was a backup dancer in the Beyonce Super Bowl XLVII Halftime Show!
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Chris Turley, M.D.
PGY 2
Hometown
Hattiesburg, MS
Undergraduate
The University of Dayton
Medical School
The University of Mississippi Medical Center
Career/Clinical Interests
Primary Care
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I felt at home with all of the residents I met and attendings I talked with! Additionally, UAB has so much to offer and I knew that I would receive the training I need to be the best pediatrician!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Mountain Biking, Hiking, Camping, Playing Board Games, and Reading
Fun Fact
I was a college cheerleader for like 3 months in college (Go Flyers!).