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Meet Our Residents

Mayo Clinic neurologist examining a case

Our residents come from medical schools around the U.S. and outside the country. While all of our trainees have a love of learning and a compassionate approach to patient care, they come from diverse backgrounds, family status, and professional and personal interests.

Words from current residents

See what a few of our current residents have to say about why they chose to train in the Adult Neurology Residency at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Headshot of Jairo Hernandez, M.D.

Since starting residency at Mayo Clinic, I have found a level of fulfillment that is far beyond what I expected. Every morning as I walk into the hospital, I feel grateful to be training in a place that has earned the trust of so many patients over the years. I often think about the generations of physicians and patients who have walked these same hallways before me, and it motivates me to do my part to carry that tradition of excellence forward.

One of the most meaningful parts of residency has been hearing patients tell us that Mayo Clinic changed or even saved their lives. Those conversations remind me of the responsibility that comes with being part of this institution and push me to keep learning, improving, and giving my best to every patient. In just a short time, I have already grown tremendously as a physician through the support of outstanding faculty, incredible co-residents, and the opportunity to care for patients with both common and rare diseases.

I feel incredibly lucky to train in an environment that encourages me to keep growing every day while always putting patients first. Coming to work each morning gives me a strong sense of purpose and belonging. Indebted to my luck and devoted to my passion, I will continue to become the kind of neurologist my patients deserve.

Jairo Hernandez, M.D.
Class of 2029

Anna Liu, M.D.As a resident, I feel fortunate to learn from and work with a diverse patient population presenting with both common and rare neurologic disease. This occurs alongside collaborative faculty members who are not only dedicated educators and world-class leaders in the field, but also prioritize supporting the unique interests of each resident. The camaraderie with other residency programs creates an inclusive environment where residents can thrive and pursue their passions. Above all, Mayo Clinic's primary value of putting the needs of the patient first permeates through every aspect of clinical practice, research, and education. Experiencing this culture every day reaffirms that there is no other place I would want to complete my training.
Anna Liu, M.D.
Class of 2027

Headshot of Rishi Sharma, M.D.Every day I go to work, I walk in with a smile on my face. The camaraderie between co-residents and faculty makes even the hardest of days enjoyable. Residency is hard, but to be able to form friendships through this contributes to a level of resiliency that I did not appreciate until I was already here. The breadth of pathology brings a sense of joy to my nerd heart. From learning to manage bread and butter neurology to the rare diagnoses, our faculty help us learn from every patient regardless of the complexity. We are lucky to have world-renowned faculty who are experts in the field and are simultaneously approachable, down to earth, and represent the core value of how medicine should be practiced: the needs of the patient come first. Beyond the excellent clinical training, there are endless opportunities to develop and shape our career to what we want it to be, whether that be research, education, community engagement, patient advocacy, and beyond. Professionally and personally, the opportunity to train here has been fulfilling beyond what I could have hoped for.

Rishi Sharma, M.D.
Class of 2028

Current residents

Class of 2027

Erin Finn, M.D.

Erin Finn, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: West Bloomfield, MI
Undergraduate school: University of Michigan
Medical school: University of Michigan Medical School
Career interests: Behavioral neurology neurohospitalist 

Why Mayo Clinic? Mayo exudes a quiet excellence. The institution carries high expectations for itself, yet the people who work here have proven to be humbly devoted to patient care and education. It's an honor to train amongst giants in the field who are also teaching me how to truly care for patients and colleagues.

Hobbies/passions: I have the ability to photosynthesize, so anything in the sun gives me life. Running, hiking, reading, writing, coffee drinking, and more, as long as it's outside!
Favorite things to do around Rochester: Sunrise runs on the bike path, nature walks in the evenings, and Hollandberry Pannekoeken. I also enjoy biking to work when it’s less than 0 degrees outside and seeing people’s reactions when I tell them about it.

Kasey Hill, M.D.

Kasey Hill, M.D. (they/them)

Hometown: Shakopee, MN
Undergraduate school: University of Minnesota
Medical school: Yale School of Medicine
Career interests: Diversity, equity, and inclusion research, working with Latino and Spanish-speaking patients, stroke, and inpatient neurology.

Why Mayo Clinic? The people! Everyone who works at Mayo Clinic is wonderful. I cannot say enough kind things about my co-residents, nursing staff, support staff, and program leadership. All of the consultants are great teachers and amazing mentors.

Favorite things to do around Rochester: Hiking, trivia, trying new restaurants
Favorite food: Ice cream

Rachel Anderson, M.D.

Rachel Knopp, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Hudson, WI
Undergraduate school: University of Wisconsin - Madison
Medical school: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
Career interests: Cerebrovascular neurology, medical education, public health

Why Mayo Clinic? Mayo Clinic sets itself apart by truly putting the needs of the patient first. This sustains an incredible culture of collaboration, support, and lifelong learning that is unmatched and attracts the most genuine and astute colleagues from around the world with whom I now get to work. There is no institution that fosters a better environment for innovation and professional development for its trainees, making Mayo Clinic the obvious choice for me.

Hobbies: Running, hiking, waterskiing, and trying new restaurants to find the best nachos!
Favorite food: The abundance of free food provided around the hospital!

Anna Liu, M.D.

Anna Liu, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Peoria, IL
Undergraduate school: University of Illinois at Chicago
Medical school: University of Illinois College of Medicine
Career interests: Vascular neurology, neurohospitalist, community engagement!

Why Mayo Clinic? From my interview day and beyond, it is evident that everyone at Mayo are truly invested in helping you grow as a person and physician. There is ample support for your individual interests and goals.

Hobbies: Traveling, tennis, spending time outdoors, ballet, music, watching Formula 1, trying new coffee shops and cuisines
Favorite things to do around Rochester: Thursdays downtown, Squash Blossom Farm, Whitewater State Park

Santiago Martinez-Sosa, M.B.B.S.

Santiago Martinez-Sosa, M.B.B.S (he/him)

Hometown: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Undergraduate school: University College London, UK
Medical school: University College London, UK
Career interests: Neuroimmunology, neurohospitalist, medical education

Why neurology? The nervous system is the most fascinating organ! I am enthralled by the breadth and depth of neurology. The ability to localize deficits to specific neuroanatomical sites through examination is empowering. The lesion differentials are challenging and engaging. The yet undefined edges of the field invite meaningful, novel research that will transform patient care. Through neurology, we can understand and treat this incomparable organ whose function we depend entirely on and whose injury or degeneration causes unparalleled impairment.

Why Mayo Clinic? There are many excellent medical institutions in the U.S., but you would be hard-pressed to find a more wholesome one than Mayo. I was floored by Mayo’s culture of collaboration, the friendly atmosphere, the humility of their world experts, the warm and pleasant staff, and the palpable driving force at the center of it all: a genuine desire to help patients to the best of our ability.

Hidden talent: Charcoal portraits, creative writing
Favorite food: Empanadas, asado, helado argentino

Sofia Rael, M.D.

Sofia Rael, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: I was born and raised in Bogota, Colombia, until nine years of age and then spent the rest of my childhood in Colorado (Broomfield, Colorado).
Undergraduate school: Metropolitan State University of Denver (Go Roadrunners!)
Medical school: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Career interests: Currently neuro-oncology but open to exploring all the subspecialties neurology offers!

Ryan Nguyen, M.D., M.S.

Ryan Nguyen, M.D., M.S. (he/him)

Hometown: Plano, TX
Undergraduate school: Texas A&M University
Medical school: Texas A&M Health Science Center - Engineering Medicine Program
Career interests: Epilepsy, Movement, General Neurology, Academic Medicine

Why neurology? I love neurology because clinical neurology engages my engineering problem-solving brain like no other specialty. I also value the impact neurologists can make in the daily lives of patients.

Why Mayo Clinic? I chose Mayo Clinic because of the collegial and supportive atmosphere and because Rochester is a great place to raise my kids.

Favorite neurology-related TV show: Severance
Favorite medicine-related TV show: Scrubs
Favorite reality TV show: Terrace House

Nathaniel Rogers Jr., M.D.

Nathaniel Rogers, Jr., M.D. (he/him)

Hometown: Richmond, VA 
Undergraduate School: University of Virginia 
Medical School: Tulane University School of Medicine 
Career Interests: Neurocritical care, medical education, history of medicine 
Favorite Rochester restaurant: First Meeting Noodle
Favorite Rochester bar: Bitter & Pour
Favorite Rochester coffee shop: Café Aqui
Favorite food: Half-baked chocolate chip cookies
Hobbies: Tennis, weight lifting weights, photography, videogames, reading, espresso and coffee roasting
Favorite TV show: It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia

David Sohutskay, M.D., Ph.D.

David Sohutskay, M.D., Ph.D. (he/him)

Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Undergraduate school: The Ohio State University
Graduate school: Purdue University Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering
Medical school: Indiana University School of Medicine
Career interests: Neurocritical care, neurohospitalist, neurogenetics, computational biology

Why neurology? The brain is the coolest organ, and I find neurological disease uniquely interesting and terrifying.

Why Mayo Clinic? Amazing clinical opportunities in every subspecialty of neurology, a multitude of rare and interesting cases, and cutting-edge research!

Favorite historical figure: My favorite historical physician-scientist is Hermann von Helmholtz – among whose many accomplishments include being the first to measure the speed of nerve conduction, a postulate of free energy that underlies modern computational mechanics, equations of vortex formation, and the development of the ophthalmoscope.

Anna Thomsen, M.D.

Anna Thomsen, M.D. (she/her)

Undergraduate school: Carthage College
Medical school: University of Kansas
Career interests: Undecided in career interests, but love the long-term relationships with patients so many specialties in neurology offer.

Hobbies: When my partner and I moved to Rochester we immediately adopted a Shepard mix puppy from Paws and Claws and we are obsessed with her. So, currently, our favorite thing to do is explore the parks and trails with her (at least during the summer).
Favorite restaurant: First Meeting, I will hopefully make my way through all the noodles on the menu during residency.
Favorite book: I'm an active member of a Zoom book club with friends (a positive that came out of the pandemic for me!), so I am always looking for recommendations. But historically my favorite is Pride and Prejudice, I am just a sucker for a happy ending!

Allison Valerius, M.D.

Allison Valerius, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Fargo, ND
Undergraduate school: The College of Saint Benedict
Medical school: University of North Dakota
Career interests: Neuro-oncology, global neurology, vascular neurology

Favorite food: Crumbl cookies!
Hobbies: Long runs on the Douglas Trail, cross-country skiing, hiking, watching hockey games with my husband, reading a good book in my hammock, visiting local breweries, exploring new countries, finding cool Airbnbs.

Why Mayo Clinic? Growing up in the Midwest, I’ve long heard stories from neighbors and family about their positive patient experiences at the Mayo Clinic. While on a visiting rotation at the Clinic as a medical student, it was evident these positive experiences extend into the trainee experience as well. At Mayo, I am immersed in a warm and welcoming learning environment, filled with endless opportunities and support to foster my clinical, academic, and personal interests.

Class of 2028

Hira S. Chouhdry, M.D.

Hira Chouhdry, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Naperville, IL
Undergraduate school:
University of Illinois at Chicago
Medical school:
University of Kansas, Kansas City
Career interests:
Vascular neurology
Hobbies/passions:
Cooking, baking, painting, henna art, watching crime thrillers
Favorite food:
Any type of pasta
Favorite TV show:
Criminal Minds

Rikki Cunningham, M.D.

Rikki Cunningham, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Eureka, CA
Undergraduate school: Humboldt State University
Medical school: University of California, Davis School of Medicine
Career interests: Neuropalliative care, behavioral neurology
Why Mayo Clinic? The allure of the official state fish, the walleye, was undeniable. Kidding. It was actually the weather. No, it was because Mayo’s primary value, that the needs of the patient come first, was evident in each of my faculty and resident interactions on interview day and beyond. I knew I wanted to be surrounded by educators and learners who shared the same passion, and my experience has already far exceeded my expectations.

Hobbies: Lying very very still on the couch, watching bunnies hop, ambient music, placing items in my virtual cart then taking them out again, spraying hose water on hot cement (for the smell)
Favorite music: Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf
Fun facts: I was diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy during cranial nerve week in medical school (I was born for this!).

Ganiru Mathis, M.D.

Ganiru Mathis, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Columbus, OH
Undergraduate school: Case Western Reserve University
Medical school: University of Toledo College of Medicine
Career interests: I am interested in pursuing a career in headache and hope to incorporate medication education into my future work!  
Why Mayo Clinic? I knew that by choosing Mayo, I’d have an unparalleled level of support and strong training. With an emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration and patient-centered care, Mayo Clinic provides an ideal environment for me to develop into a well-rounded physician.

Favorite book: Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Hobbies/passions: 
I love cooking, trying new foods/restaurants, exercising, and traveling.

Rebecca Merrill, M.D.

Rebecca Merrill, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Moorefield, WV
Undergraduate school: Wake Forest University
Medical school: Wake Forest University School of Medicine
Career interests: Undecided on specialty maybe neuro-oncology? I enjoy medical education and mentorship so would like to stay in academic medicine.
Why neurology? Neurology combines many of my interests in medicine including undifferentiated mysteries, imaging findings, physical exam, and most importantly close patient connections.
Why Mayo Clinic?
I remember going into my Mayo interview hoping that I would not fall in love with it as I had been spoiled by the warm summers and mild winters of North Carolina, and I was not eager to move to the cold. After the interview, I instantly knew that I had fallen in love with the people, opportunities, and love for medicine at Mayo. Mayo encompassed all of the things I was looking for in a residency program and would prepare me for whatever career path I decided to pursue.
Hobbies/passions: I enjoy playing tennis, going on long walks after work, gardening, and cooking.
Favorite things to do around Rochester: Exploring all the restaurants and parks! Any other fun facts: I was raised on a family farm!

Tanish Modi, M.B.B.S.

Tanish Modi, M.B.B.S. (he/him)

Hometown: Chandigarh, India
Medical school: Government Medical College Chandigarh, India
Career interests: Neuromuscular, but open to exploring many others during residency!
Why neurology? Conditions affecting the nervous system can be highly debilitating and directly impact daily functioning. Assisting patients in reclaiming their quality of life is something I find immensely fulfilling. Moreover, the long-term nature of many neurological disorders enables neurologists to build deep, meaningful relationships with their patients, providing ongoing support, understanding, and care throughout their medical journeys.
Hobbies: Swimming, calligraphy
Favorite read: Calvin and Hobbes
Favorite food: Butter chicken, dal makhani with garlic naan

Nicole Rigler, M.D.

Nicole Rigler, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: San Diego, CA
Undergraduate school: University of California Berkley
Medical school: University of California San Diego School of Medicine (UCSD)
Why Mayo Clinic? The people! I immediately felt that the faculty, staff, and residents in the neurology department were my people on interview day. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming, and it felt like they truly cared about my passions, interests, and my future career from the start!

Favorite things to do around Rochester: River walks with my dog and husband, Flapdoodles, the farmer’s market, and Thursdays on First
Favorite Book: The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Hobbies/passions: I love trashy TV, the Great British Bake Off, gardening, cooking, and painting/crafting

Rishi Sharma, M.D.

Rishi Sharma, M.D. (he/him)

Hometown: Rochester, MN
Undergraduate school: University of Minnesota
Medical school: University of Minnesota
Career interests: EMG, movement disorders, or vascular neurology. While I do plan on sub-specializing, I hope to continue to practicing general neurology long-term.

Why neurology? I chose to pursue a career in neurology because the brain is easily the most exciting, interesting, and complex system in the human body. A career where I can care for patients with neurological disorders and have an opportunity to advance the field through research is an ideal fit for me.

Hobbies: Basketball, video games, and hanging out with my cat named Princess Bunny.
Favorite restaurant in Rochester: Mango Thai

Lorraine Siebold, M.D., Ph.D.

Lorraine Siebold, M.D., Ph.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Berrien Springs, MI
Undergraduate school: Andrews University in Michigan
Medical school: Loma Linda University in Southern California
Career interests: Epileptology

Why neurology? Neurology offers the ability to engage my intellectual curiosity and my compassion for individuals who have had their lives turned upside down by a neurological condition. Neurology is an ever-growing field of diagnosis and treatment providing ample opportunities for a developing physician-scientist. Neurology gives me the opportunity to be my favorite version of myself.

Favorite books: I love listening to Audible and have several favorite books including most books by Simon Sinek (my favorite is Leaders Eat Last), Mistakes Were Made (but Not by Me) by Tavris and Arsonson, and my most recent favorite is Range by Epstein.
Fun facts: Prior to starting med school, I taught high school science for six years. I love my sweet little geriatric dog who is the most opinionated mutt rescued from the streets of San Francisco. I am a very proud aunt of two nephews and two nieces. Microglia are my favorite cell in the body and if you ever want to see me really excited, just ask me about these remarkable little cells.

Nanthaya (Yui) Tisavipat, M.D.

Nanthaya (Yui) Tisavipat, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Bangkok, Thailand
Undergraduate and medical school: Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University
Career interests: Neuroimmunology and more! I'm still exploring the possibilities.

Why Mayo Clinic? Amazing mentorship, resources, and policies that support individual growth.

Hobbies/passions: Seeing musicals and concerts
Favorite things to do around Rochester: Exploring new restaurants and shows by local theater companies
Favorite food: Japanese curry rice

Zachary Trottier, M.D.

Zachary Trottier, M.D. (he/him)

Hometown: Pequot Lakes, MN
Undergraduate school: Carleton College
Medical school: University of Colorado
Career interests: Behavioral neurology/neuropsychiatry, neuropalliative care, general neurology

Why neurology? The underlying neuroscience is fascinating, the broad range of patient populations we see, we have excellent continuity with patients, and the rapid growth and progress of the field were all factors that made neurology the right choice.

Favorite Rochester bar: North Star Bar: The Guiding Light
Favorite things to do in Rochester: Enjoying the many walking/biking trails, climbing at RoCA, fighting the war on gravity at the DAHLC, and failing to exhaust my polar bear cub (for example, Great Pyrenees - it’s basically the same thing)
Favorite movie: Silence of the Lambs
Favorite book: The Stand by Stephen King How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan
Fun facts: I once caught a live trout bare-handed (I do not fish), and I went to college with plans to be an ecologist.

Emma Wetmore, M.D.

Emma Wetmore, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Orangeburg, SC
Undergraduate school: University of Virginia
Medical school: Medical University of South Carolina
Career interests: Movement disorders, social determinants of health, medical education and headache
Why neurology:
Neurology is the most fascinating and exciting field of medicine! It is constantly advancing with innovative research, technologies, and therapeutics. I love having the opportunity to support patients with chronic neurological conditions through long-term relationships.

Hobbies/passions: Watching Clemson football, going on walks with my husband and Havanese puppy, snow skiing, and attending as many Broadway productions as possible
Favorite book: Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton
Favorite movie: The Devil Wears Prada

Class of 2029

Headshot of Isabel Friedenberg, M.D.

Isabel Friedenberg, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Danville, PA

Undergraduate school: (We Are) Penn State

Medical school: LKSOM at Temple University

Career interests: Undecided

Why Mayo: After attending medical school at a patient-driven institution, I found myself wanting a similar residency experience. Mayo’s dedication to the patient stood out among others as a place where the mission statement is more than just words.

Hobbies: Baking, thrifting/vintage shopping, film, anything sports

Favorite food: My mom’s food, no contest

Headshot of Felipe Giuste, M.D., Ph.D.

Felipe Giuste, M.D., Ph.D. (he/him)

Hometown: Appleton, WI

Undergraduate school: Washington University in St. Louis

Medical school: Emory University School of Medicine

Career interests: Neurology

Why Mayo: The patient actually comes first!

Why neurology: You get to leverage the physical exam, advanced imaging, and breakthrough treatments to solve problems and help patients

Favorite Rochester coffee shop: Caribou nitro cold brew and Jamaican cold break from MOKA are both very good.
Headshot of Greg Heller, M.D.

Greg Heller, M.D., Ph.D. (he/him)

Hometown: Cupertino, CA

Undergraduate school: University of California, Riverside

Medical school: University of Illinois, Chicago

Career interests: Neurocritical care

Why Mayo: Mayo Clinic is a truly unique place where the patient truly comes first. The usual obstacles are circumvented to ensure that everyone receives the best care possible.

Why Neurology: Neurology patients have impairments that hamper their ability to think, to move, and to communicate – the things that make us who we are. Being able to help these patients get their lives back is incredibly fulfilling.

Favorite book/show: Currently reading the Expanse series and loving it!

Headshot of Jairo Hernandez, M.D.

Jairo Hernandez, M.D. (he/him)

Hometown: Managua, Nicaragua

Undergraduate school: University of Florida

Medical school: University of Florida College of Medicine

Career interests: Neurocritical care, vascular neurology, global health, and medical education

Why Mayo: From the brief glimpse I had during the interview, I sensed that Mayo’s values matched the kind of physician I wanted to become. That feeling turned out to be right. Patients consistently speak about the high-quality, respectful care they receive, and it's meaningful to be a part of that. The faculty are approachable, engaged, and genuinely committed to our learning. I'm grateful to be training in a place that values both clinical excellence and human connection.

Hobbies: Rock climbing, weightlifting, running, and playing video games

Favorite movie: Interstellar

Headshot of Hassan Karoam, M.D.

Hassan Karoam, M.D., Ph.D. (he/him)

Hometown: originally from Kawa, Sudan; raised in Iowa City, IA

Undergraduate school: University of Iowa

Medical school: University of Iowa CCOM

Career interests: Central lesions and how they relate to the experience of pain

Why Mayo: The exceptional training in a place that emphasizes patient care made Mayo an easy choice for residency. Here, you can explore your clinical interests and further underscore them with endless research opportunities. The reach, depth, and breadth of the Neurology program makes it world class for training.

Hidden talent: keeping my talents hidden

Hobbies: playing tennis and basketball

Favorite movie: Good Will Hunting

Krystyna Cios Phillips, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Richmond, VA

Undergraduate school: University of Virginia

Medical school: University of Virginia

Career interests: General neurology, neurophysiology, healthcare access, medical education

Why Mayo: While there are many great neuro programs, Mayo is unique because of the lived mission (“the needs of the patient come first”), strong leadership, and abundant resources. When a hospital system sets you up for success, it’s easier to show up to work enthusiastic, curious, patient, humble, and kind — the Mayo culture is real! I also appreciate the opportunity to get world class training in a place where I can afford a house, don’t have to worry about traffic, and get to enjoy the roughly 1 million* parks in the area. *1 million is hyperbole, but there are a lot.

Favorite TV shows: Gilmore Girls and Modern Family are constantly on the rewatch rotation

Favorite book: East of Eden

Favorite spot in Rochester: Chester Woods Park — great for a walk, paddle, or kayak!

Headshot of Neha Reddy, M.D.

Neha Reddy, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Edina, MN

Undergraduate school: Brown University

Medical school: University of Minnesota Medical School

Career interests: Sleep medicine

Why Mayo: It is so clear how much patients trust and value the care they receive at Mayo Clinic, and I wanted my training to prepare me for that level of trust. Mayo’s patient-centered values and culture of mutual respect make it a truly special place to provide and receive care.

Hobbies: Reading, baking, painting, ice skating, running, and trying new workout classes

Favorite Rochester dessert spot: Flapdoodles makes the best mint chocolate chip ice cream!

Headshot of Matt Rode, M.D.

Matt Rode, M.D. (he/him)

Hometown: Toledo, OH

Undergraduate school: The Ohio State University

Medical school: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Rochester

Career interests: Neuroimmunology, peripheral nerve, neurophysiology EMG

Why MayoThe program has an excellent balance of learning from clinical opportunities and learning from didactics, self-directed learning, and research. We also have the privilege of learning from work experts in neurology who are excited to teach! There is something new to learn each and every day. 

Favorite Rochester restaurant: First Meeting Noodle — some of the best quality and value food in town!

Hobbies: I love playing pickleball, and Rochester has a thriving community of players offering both competition and friendship! (Summer in Minnesota is very underrated). I also love watching Ohio State football and Formula 1.

Headshot of Mario Shammas, M.D.

Mario Shammas, M.D., Ph.D.

Hometown: Baghdad, Iraq

Undergraduate school: University of Michigan

Medical school: University of Chicago

Career interests: Movement disorders

Why Mayo: I have always been interested in rare diseases, and Mayo is often people’s last hope for a diagnosis. I want to be part of that system which continues to give hope to those who feel like there is none left

Why neurology: Neurology lies at the intersection of the physical and metaphysical (let’s call it the physical-metaphysical junction). In it we find the tools to answer some of the most fundamental questions that we face

Hobbies: Collecting etymologies, tennis, guitar, Roman Empire

Favorite book: The Master and Margarita

Favorite movie: Wings of desire

Jennae (Nae) Shelby, M.D., Ph.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Columbus, OH

Undergraduate School: The Ohio State University

Medical School: Wright State University, Boonshoft School of Medicine

Career Interests: I am currently exploring the many subspecialties within neurology to find the best fit. I am passionate about combining patient care with research and envision a career that bridges both clinical practice and scientific discovery.

Why Mayo: Mayo Clinic is an institution that prioritizes the well-being of its residents both inside and outside the hospital. I was drawn to the unparalleled resources available for training, learning, and growth. Mayo’s strong reputation attracts exceptional faculty and mentors who are deeply invested in teaching. What stood out most during the interview process was the warm, welcoming culture and the genuine camaraderie among the residents. It felt like a place where I could thrive.

Favorite Restaurant in Rochester: Thai Pop

Hidden Talent: Hand embroidery

Hobbies: I enjoy gardening, cooking and trying new restaurants. I value laughs shared over a dinner table and how people come together over a meal.

Favorite TV show: I’m a big fan of the One Piece manga series by Eiichiro Oda

Fun Fact: I collect playful and funny pop culture earrings. My favorite pair are bottles of Kuzco’s poison from The Emperor’s New Groove, with my mouse brain slide earrings coming in a close second.

Headshot of Emma Vivlamore, M.D.

Emma Vivlamore, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Woodstock, GA

Undergraduate school: Wake Forest University

Medical school: Wake Forest University

Career interests: Undifferentiated — I like too many things!

Why neurology: In high school, I attended a summer program course on molecular biopsy, which covered the pathophysiology of several neurological diseases. One of our homework assignments was to read the memoir of a patient with Huntington’s disease. I was moved by her story and realized that I wanted to treat other patients like her.

Hobbies: Reading, writing, baking, knitting, and playing the flute

Favorite book: Juliet by Anne Fortier

Favorite TV show: House of the Dragron

Favorite movie: Star Wars

Favorite food: Ice cream (even in the winter)

Class of 2030

Gretchen Anderson, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Grand Forks, North Dakota

Undergraduate school: Grinnell College

Medical school: University of North Dakota

Career interests: General neurology, medical education

Why neurology: I find it fascinating how the nervous system defines the human experience – our thoughts, personality, movement, and the way we interact with the world. My favorite part of neurology is the special privilege of walking such vulnerable journeys with patients as they navigate conditions that threaten to compromise the deepest parts of who they are.

Hidden talent: Braiding hair, doing the worm

Hobbies: Rock-climbing, cooking new recipes, ping pong, pickleball, learning mechanic/carpentry skills from my husband, exploring nature (National Forests are amazingly underrated!)

Favorite food: Dutch baby, gyoza, anything spicy

Fun fact: I survived a hypothermia-inducing near-death experience while backcountry hiking in the Bighorn Mountains.

Grace Cardenas, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Dallas, Texas

Undergraduate school: Washington University in St. Louis

Medical school: Baylor College of Medicine (Houston)

Career interests: Epilepsy, Movement, General Neuro, Overall Undecided!
Why Mayo: During my interview and second look weekend, I was so blown away by everyone’s friendliness and by the supportive atmosphere I saw. I loved that everyone is curious, and how there is a culture of always asking questions. In addition, I felt like there were not only opportunities available in every field I was interested in, but also there were plenty of people willing to help you find those opportunities!
Favorite things to do in/around Rochester: Every Saturday there’s a great farmer’s market! I’ve been growing my herb collection and trying new baked goods anytime I can get there
Hobbies: Volleyball, pickleball, group exercise (yoga, spin class, Pilates), and cooking/baking

Remy Johnson, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Winnetka, Illinois

Undergraduate school: Wesleyan University

Medical school: University of Minnesota 

Career interests: Movement disorders, gut-brain axis

Why Mayo: For me, it is all about the people. Everyone I've interacted with has been kind, generous, and passionate, bringing that same energy into the quality of care they give patients. It's a gift to learn here. 

Favorite Rochester restaurant or coffee shop: Little Thistle for the World Cup! and Café Aquí for a coffee and a philodendron

Favorite book/TV show/movie: O Brother, Where Art Thou? and 10 Things I Hate About You

Stephen Mazurchuk, M.D., Ph.D (he/him)

Hometown: Buffalo, New York 

Undergrad: The University at Buffalo

Medical School: The Medical College of Wisconsin

Career Interests: Critical care, neurobiology of language, neuroscience of consciousness

Why neurology: It has, hands down, the most interesting pathology seen in medicine. There is an allure, a siren song, to seeing something like hemineglect. There is a temptation to enter deep into the unknown about what makes us, us, with so many neurological diseases and disorders. Aside from the pathology, I also enjoy the “doctoring” that comes with being a primary service, and the frequent detective work that is a part of neurology!

Favorite book: Most recently, The Matter with Things by Iain McGilchrist

Hobbies: self-hosting, learning about phenomenology, watching the Bills

Jennifer McKay, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: New Richland, Minnesota

Undergraduate school: University of St. Thomas

Medical school: University of Minnesota Medical School

Career Interests: Neurocritical care, vascular neurology, medical education

Why Mayo: The people, the pathologies, and the teaching! Every single person I met from Mayo was so kind and uplifting, and I truly felt I would be so supported in all aspects of training and life while simultaneously getting to learn from brilliant teachers at the top of their field.  I will also give Rochester a plug – I love being able to live somewhere where everything is within a 10 min drive, I can afford a home, and nature is right out my front door!

Hobbies: I love spending time outdoors, and I do a ton of hiking along the northern shores of Minnesota in all seasons. When I’m not outdoors, I enjoy baking, weightlifting, reading, watching movies/ TV shows, and playing video games.

Favorite Rochester restaurant/coffee shops: Thai Pop (great Thai food), Old Abes (vegan food/donuts), First Meeting (hand pulled Chinese noodles), Café Steam (fav coffee)

Books: All things fantasy!

Headshot of Hannah Padilla, M.D.

Hannah Padilla, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Sacramento, California

Undergraduate school: University of California, Los Angeles

Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine

Career Interests: I like everything in Neurology so far! But I am especially passionate about mentorship, medical education, and equitable health care access.

Why Mayo: Mayo Clinic's culture, exceptional clinical training, and commitment to putting patients first make it a truly unique place to train. The collaborative environment, abundant opportunities to pursue individual interests, and genuine support from faculty and colleagues create an ideal setting for both personal and professional growth. That, and having no traffic and affordable housing is a nice bonus :)

Favorite Books: Beartown trilogy by Fredrick Backman, Stormlight Archives series by Branden Sanderson

Hobbies: Reading, lifting weights, hanging out with my orange cat, and baking/eating desserts

Favorite food: tacos- could eat it 3 times a day and any sort of sweet treat (big fan of ice cream from Flapdoodles)

Cynthia Papantonatos, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Cameron, Wisconsin

Undergraduate school: University of Wisconsin-Madison

Medical school: Saint Louis University School of Medicine

Career interests: Not sure yet!

Favorite book: Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

Hobbies: Playing Nintendo Switch, running, listening to many genres of music, jigsaw puzzles

Favorite things to do in Rochester: Running the many miles of paved trails and seeing the squirrels, bunnies, and birds

Headshot of Rahi Patel, M.D.

Rahi Patel, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Itasca, Illinois

Undergraduate school: University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

Medical school: Chicago Medical School

Career interests: Women's neurology, advocacy, rare/ultra-rare disease. Subspecialty TBD, depends on the day!

Why neurology: The brain is the most interesting organ (biased but true). Neurology also has such a wide breadth and depth of subspecialty opportunities, and I love that the pace of neurological innovation is so rapid. There will never be a shortage of new things to learn and see!

Favorite Rochester restaurant or coffee shop: My recent addiction is the iced cookie butter latte from Cafe Steam. Honorable mention to the raspberry white chocolate chip ice cream at Flapdoodles.  

Fun fact: I’m a world champion flute player!

Anish Sethi, M.D. (he/him)

Hometown: Vadnais Heights, Minnesota

Undergraduate school: University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

Medical school: Drexel University College of Medicine

Career interests: Hope to decide soon!

Why Mayo: Mayo's collaborative culture and an abundance of resources really drew me to the program. I knew that, with mentorship and guidance, I could become an excellent clinician while also pursuing my passions in research and teaching.

Why neurology: I was fascinated by neurology because the brain is fundamental to who we are as individuals, and I hope to walk alongside patients and help individuals navigate the uncertainty in their medical journey and help them live their best life.

Favorite Rochester restaurant: Dave’s Hot Chicken

Favorite thing to do in Rochester: Tennis!

Headshot of Madison Tharp, M.D.

Madison Tharp, M.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Winter Garden, Florida

Undergraduate school: University of Florida

Medical school: Florida Atlantic University

Career interests: Neurohospitalist, vascular neurology, neuro-oncology
Hidden talent: Identifying birds and making fondue

Favorite Rochester restaurant: Old Abe’s — they have the best vegan banh mi!

Favorite things to do in/around Rochester: Exploring the nearby bluffs, running on the extensive trail system that runs through the area, and exploring all of the new restaurants with my co-residents.

Hobbies: Bird watching, running, hiking, crocheting, and exploring new cuisines.  

Yang Zheng, M.D., Ph.D. (she/her)

Hometown: Hangzhou, China

Undergraduate school: Zhejiang University

Medical school: Zhejiang University

Career interests: Epilepsy, neuroimmunology and more!

Why Mayo: My dream place to be trained, with world-class clinical neurology, exceptional education and mentorship, amazing people, as well as abundant research resources and support! 

Why neurology: I LOVE the reasoning and problem-solving process behind every case. Neurology just makes me excited! 

Favorite things to do in/around Rochester: Staying active at the gym, exploring local trails, and spending time with my kids at parks and playgrounds (Rochester is such a family-friendly place).

Hobbies: Fitness, outdoor adventures of all kinds, and exploring new coffee shops and great food whenever I get the chance.