Learn what a few of our trainees have to say about their experience in the program.

Class of 2027

Aaron Downs, M.D. Medical school: California Northstate University COM   Why Mayo? I love Mayo for the strong friendships among co-residents, the incredible resources like the 7T MRI, and the joy of training in child neurology—where a neuro exam can involve playing with a baby or child. Rochester has also been a wonderful surprise: the seasons are fun, winter is manageable, everything is close by.

Erin Triplet, M.D., Ph.D. Medical school: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine in Rochester, MN   Why Mayo? I went to Mayo Medical School and after meeting the Child Neurology group as a medical student, I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else for residency! We are fortunate to work with neurologists who are excellent clinicians, dedicated teachers, and just fun people to know. The camaraderie between residents is also amazing; I have fun coming to work and getting to work with people I consider friends.

Class of 2028

Ellie Baugher, D.O. Medical school: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine   Why Mayo? I chose Mayo Clinic for its culture of compassion, exceptional patient care, and supportive learning environment. I'm passionate about child neurology because it combines my fascination with the brain and my love of pediatrics. Outside of work, I enjoy exploring coffee shops and hiking trails, traveling, crocheting, and spending time with my cat, Stanley.

Mary Sohn, M.D. Medical school: University of Oklahoma College of Medicine   Why Mayo? I chose Mayo Clinic because of its patient-first culture and the genuine support I felt from residents and faculty during the interview process. The program’s exceptional educational, research, and mentorship opportunities allow trainees to grow not only as child neurologists but also as educators and researchers. I was drawn to child neurology because it combines my love of pediatrics and neurology, and outside of work I enjoy running, CrossFit, cooking with friends, and exploring Rochester’s trails, coffee shops, and markets.

Class of 2029

Manou Amanat Yazdi, M.D.  Medical school: Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran   Why Mayo? I chose Mayo Clinic because of its rich history and the depth of both its adult and pediatric neurology programs. The chance to learn from some of the best neurologists in the country was a big draw for me. I was also looking for a place with a strong research culture where clinical work and scholarship go hand in hand. Mayo offered all of that in one place, and it felt like the right fit from the start.

Noah Trapp, M.D.  Medical school: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health   Why Mayo? As parents of young children, my wife and I were looking for a place where our whole family could thrive, and Rochester has been an easy and enjoyable place to live with hiking, biking, and gardening close to home. I chose Mayo for its strong emphasis on education, independence, and clinical growth, along with the incredible support from both pediatrics and child neurology. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from experts, explore my interests, present research nationally, and become a Mayo-trained child neurologist.