Meet Our Residents

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From the chief resident

Christian Jara, M.D. Thank you for taking the time to learn about the Mayo Clinic Anesthesiology Residency Program.

When applying to residency, I remember trying to understand what programs were really like beyond the case numbers, rotation schedules, and interview-day presentations. Those things matter, of course, but what I wanted to know most was simple: Would I be happy here? Would I be supported here? Would I become the kind of anesthesiologist I hoped to be?

Looking back on my time here at Mayo Clinic in Arizona, I can honestly say the answer has been yes.

We take care of complex patients, work in high-acuity environments, and develop the clinical judgment needed to manage difficult cases with confidence. Our training gives us exposure to a wide range of anesthesia experiences across multiple clinical sites. Over time, the growth is very real. You start to notice yourself becoming more comfortable in moments that once felt intimidating, and that is one of the most rewarding parts of residency.

At the same time, this is a program where you do not feel anonymous. Our residency is small enough that people know each other well. Your attendings know your strengths, your goals, and the areas where you are trying to improve. Your co-residents become the people who help you troubleshoot a difficult day, celebrate a good case, trade advice, and make residency feel less overwhelming. The culture here is one of the things we value most. People are kind, approachable, and invested in one another.

We also appreciate that there is no single mold for what a resident here has to become. Some of us are interested in fellowship, some in private practice, some in academics, education, leadership, research, or a combination of all of these. The program gives us room to explore those interests while making sure we graduate with a strong clinical foundation. We have felt supported not just in becoming better anesthesiologists, but in figuring out what kind of careers and lives we want to build.

We are proud to represent this program because it has given us excellent clinical training, meaningful mentorship, and a community of people we genuinely enjoy working with. Residency will always be demanding, but training in a place where you feel supported makes all the difference.

As you explore programs and think about where you want to train, I hope you are able to picture not only the physician you want to become, but also the kind of people you want around you during that process. I am excited to meet you, hear your story, learn about your goals, and share more about what makes our program and community special. Please feel free to reach out with any questions throughout the application and interview season. I look forward to getting to know you.

Christian Jara, M.D.
Chief Resident, Class of 2027
ARZanesresidency@mayo.edu

Meet our residents

Our residents come from a variety of backgrounds. Learn what a few of them have to say about our program.

Class of 2027

	Christian Jara, M.D. Hometown: North Las Vegas, Nevada Medical school: University of Nevada, Reno Why Mayo: Mayo Clinic in Arizona stood out to me for its friendliness, approachability, and top-tier training. I was particularly impressed by the emphasis on resident education, with access to cutting-edge technology/resources and a diverse range of clinical experiences. I chose Mayo because I knew I would receive incredible training in an environment that prioritizes and promotes education. The opportunity to work alongside renowned faculty and be part of a team dedicated to excellence in patient care and innovation was something I could not pass up. I would highly recommend anyone thinking about a career in anesthesiology to consider training here.
	Eryberto Martinez, M.D. Hometown: Van Nuys, California Medical school: Creighton University School of Medicine Why Mayo: I chose Mayo Clinic in Arizona because of the small class size, the dedication to cutting-edge research, and the faculty. I have experienced nothing but kind and patient teachers at every site we rotate at. The residents and faculty share a tight bond because of the class size and we quickly see each other as colleagues—this rings true during intern year and clinical anesthesia years. Favorite things to do in Phoenix: I'm a big foodie and like to explore the restaurant scene in Phoenix. When I'm not eating out, I also like to cook, hike, and play with my pet hedgehog. I really enjoy outdoor running and hiking, and with sunshine nearly everyday, there's hardly a time we can't spend outside.
	John Raynak, M.D. Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona Medical school: University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson Why Mayo: Mayo Clinic in Arizona was my top choice for anesthesiology training because of its unique advantages. The small class size offers a highly personalized educational experience, allowing for close mentorship from world-class consultants in the field. This intimate setting also fosters a strong camaraderie among everyone in the program. Additionally, training in my hometown means I can continue to enjoy the support of my family and friends, making this opportunity both professionally and personally fulfilling.
	Emily Terry M.D. Hometown: Elizabeth, Colorado Medical school: Mayo Clinic School of Medicine in Arizona Why Mayo: As a medical student at Mayo, I had the chance to work with several of the anesthesiologists, identify mentors, and spend time in the department. Everyone was extremely supportive, welcoming and collegial and I was excited to continue working with them as a resident. Since beginning residency, I have received tremendous support from leadership and staff when I faced a challenging time, and I am extremely grateful that I was able to continue my training here after medical school.

Class of 2028

	Areen Badwal, M.D. Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona Medical school: Creighton University School of Medicine Why Mayo: I chose Mayo Clinic in Arizona due to the collaborative and supportive nature, the opportunity to learn from renowned faculty, and the high complexity of cases. Favorite things to do in Phoenix: Staying active with hiking, yoga and Pilates, reading, and exploring new restaurants!
	Kisanet Habtegiorgis, M.D. Hometown: Portland, Oregon Medical school: Oregon Health and Sciences University School of Medicine Why Mayo: I chose Mayo Clinic in Arizona because of its collaborative learning environment, exceptional faculty, and uniquely complex cases. The special combination of close-knit community and dedication to both didactic and clinical education fosters Mayo Clinic’s warm, team-oriented work atmosphere. Favorite things to do in Phoenix: Rebounding, hiking, cooking, trying new restaurants, and watching 90’s comedies.
	Aden Hassan, M.D. Hometown: Portland, Oregon Medical school: Rush Medical College Why Mayo: At Mayo Clinic, there is an exceptional commitment to education with genuine investment in the residents. I was especially drawn to the high-quality, complex cases and wide range of clinical experiences. Additionally, there is a real emphasis on resident wellbeing that I found to be unique. I chose Mayo because I felt it was the ideal setting to grow both personally and professionally. Favorite things to do in Phoenix: Trying various Mexican restaurants, hiking, pick-up basketball, and soccer.
	Melissa Pelkey, M.D. Hometown: Franklin, Wisconsin Medical school: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine Why Mayo: After completing medical school at Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, Arizona campus, I knew I wanted to stay for my residency training. I wanted to continue in a small program for the close-knit community and opportunity for strong relationships with my co-residents as well as faculty. When rotating through the Anesthesiology department, I felt welcomed and supported; each resident and faculty member was excited and ready to teach. Even as a medical student, I was exposed to a large variety of very complex cases that only a center such as Mayo Clinic can offer and I knew this would serve me well in my residency training. I am so excited to continue to call Mayo Clinic in Arizona home! Favorite things to do in Phoenix: Anything with food or the outdoors! Paddle boarding, hiking or outdoor dining, I am always looking for a great patio.
	Zakaria Sharif, M.D. Hometown: Chicago, Illinois Medical school: University of Illinois at Chicago Why Mayo: I chose Mayo because of the people, the training, and the overall support. As a resident here in Arizona, I’ve really come to appreciate how down-to-earth and approachable everyone is — attendings, co-residents, staff. The teaching is strong, the expectations are high, but it never feels like you’re on your own. The location is a big plus — good weather, diverse community, and just a great place to live and train. Favorite things to do in Phoenix: Outside the hospital, I like being outdoors and staying active. I’ve been getting into biking and hiking. I enjoy going on weekend hikes — so many trails in AZ. At home, I’ve been diving into espresso and tea and trying to perfect my home setup. Overall, I just try to stay adventurous and make the most of what Arizona has to offer.
	Chris Worrell, M.D. Hometown: Enid, Oklahoma Medical school: University of Texas Health, San Antonio Why Mayo: Professionally I felt Mayo Clinic Arizona offered a great balance of strong mentorship, complex caseload, and small class size which was a preference of mine. Personally, I have always loved Phoenix when travelling to the area and could not imagine a better place to live and maximize my valuable off days during residency. Favorite things to do in Phoenix: Spending time outside! Hiking, golfing, dinners with co-residents, exploring new restaurants (there is an abundance of great places in the area).

Class of 2029

	Bayley Brennan, M.D., M.P.H. Hometown: Tucson, Arizona Medical school: University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix Why Mayo: This program specifically stood out to me due to the complexity of cases as well as how close the residents were with each other. Having a smaller program where all the residents are in the same workroom creates an incredible level of camaraderie and togetherness. Additionally, the faculty are incredibly supportive of residents and often reach out with professional opportunities. Favorite things to do in Phoenix: Trying new restaurants (there are so many!), going for walks/runs when it's not 100 degrees out, watching the Suns and Dbacks! When I'm at home, you can find me cooking/baking or crocheting.
	Adam Carl, M.D. Hometown: Flagstaff, Arizona Medical school: University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson Why Mayo: Mayo Clinic in Arizona was my top choice for anesthesiology training because of its exceptional educational environment and strong sense of community. The program’s small class size fosters individualized learning and close mentorship from distinguished faculty, creating opportunities for both professional and personal growth. Equally important, the collaborative culture among residents and faculty promotes meaningful relationships and a supportive training experience. Training in my home state also allows me to remain connected to my family, friends, and community, whose encouragement has been invaluable throughout my journey in medicine. Favorite things to do in Phoenix: Outside of medicine, I enjoy attending Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and University of Arizona sporting events—a big fan of basketball, baseball, and football. Living in Arizona, I spend much of my free time on the lake wake surfing, paddle boarding, and spending time with friends. I also enjoy hiking, free-range shooting, running, golfing, and staying active in the gym. When I’m not outdoors or at a sporting event, there’s a good chance I’m at a country concert, I rarely miss one when it comes to town!
	Nicole Falls, M.D., M.P.H. Hometown: Scottsdale, Arizona Medical school: University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix Why Mayo: I chose Mayo Clinic for residency after experiencing the collaborative and supportive environment firsthand as a rotating medical student. The small cohort size allows for a tailored educational experience and the opportunity to form close relationships with both residents and faculty. The program values resident education and wellness, and sets trainees up for successful careers no matter what their post-residency plans are! Favorite things to do in Phoenix: Yoga, walks outside with my dachshund, baking, shopping, sporting events, and trying all sorts of fun arts and crafts!
	Hannah Nguyen, M.D. Hometown: Tucson, Arizona Medical school: Boston University Why Mayo: I chose Mayo because I was looking for a small program that balances academic rigor with resident wellbeing close to my support network on the west coast and in a relatively affordable city. I’ve found Mayo to have a phenomenal culture of support from attendings, friendliness and collegiality with my co-residents from other departments, and a fantastic anesthesiology cohort. Favorite things to do in Phoenix: Running when its' not too hot, hiking in Flagstaff and Tucson, dancing (bachata and salsa), knitting/crochet, book club, baking, and live music.
	Bryant Noss, M.D. Hometown: Yokohama, Japan, and Honolulu, Hawaii Medical school: Creighton University School of Medicine Why Mayo: I chose Mayo Clinic Arizona for the combination of clinically complex, high volume cases and the genuine camaraderie that exists between residents, faculty, and staff. The program size allows for real mentorship from renowned faculty who are invested in our growth. The collaborative environment, paired with a strong emphasis on resident well being, has made this an exceptional place to train, grow, and thrive as a physician. Favorite things to do in Phoenix: Playing pickleball, basketball, and soccer. Catching football, basketball, and baseball games, binge-watching shows and movies, traveling, exploring new restaurants.
	Gianna Vermeys, M.D. Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada Medical school: University of Nevada, Reno Why Mayo: I chose Mayo Clinic in Arizona because of its exceptional clinical education, uniquely complex cases, and breadth of training offered by rotating at multiple clinical sites. I was drawn to the small class size that fosters a personalized learning environment and meaningful mentorship with the renowned faculty members. The program’s emphasis on wellness makes it clear that Mayo values its trainees. Favorite things to do in Phoenix: Enjoying walks at sunset with my dog, farmer’s markets, trying new Pilates studios, exploring restaurants, and day trips to Sedona!
	Lexi Winfrey, M.D. Hometown: Welch, Minnesota Medical school: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine Why Mayo: I was first drawn to Mayo because of how welcoming and invested in teaching everyone was. What really sold me was how much thought program leadership puts into resident education, even hand-selecting cases each day to maximize learning and tailor experiences to each of our goals and areas for growth. Favorite things to do in Phoenix: I love enjoying live music, disappointing karaoke listeners, hanging out at PIP Coffee & Clay, exploring new restaurants and matcha spots, taking weekend trips around Arizona, and spending time at dog parks.