What drew you to Mayo Clinic for your residency training?

I rotated at Mayo Clinic as a visiting medical student and witnessed first-hand the emphasis on trainee learning and unparalleled patient care. I knew this was a collegial, welcoming environment that would support me in fulfilling my career goals. I am privileged to learn from and treat a diverse patient population with a breadth of pathologies ranging from bread and butter to rare once-in-a-career cases. I have also been provided with endless opportunities to support my academic and research interests, which mirror the experiences of the residents I worked with during my clerkship as a medical student.

Tell us about your residency experience as an international medical graduate.

Intern year is challenging no matter where you train, but as an international medical graduate, being away from home adds an extra layer of difficulty. That said, I have been incredibly fortunate to receive exceptional support from my co-residents and the residency leadership team. From day one, I felt welcomed into a community that genuinely cares about each other's well-being. Over the past year, I have built lasting friendships and established a support system that has truly become my home away from home. The collaborative spirit and camaraderie within the program have made the challenges of residency feel more manageable.

What advice would you give to an international medical graduate looking to complete their residency training in the US?

Prioritize excellent clinical training and professional development, but do not compromise culture or work-life balance. You want to find a program where residents are not only talented but also genuinely happy and eager to support one another. These people will become part of your extended family, so choose wisely! I firmly believe that you thrive where your hard work is nurtured and where your program is genuinely invested in your personal and professional development.

What do you like most about this residency program?

Without a doubt, the people are the highlight of my residency experience. The relationships I have formed with my patients, co-residents, clinical mentors, research collaborators, and allied health professionals are what make every day special. The strong sense of community and shared commitment to excellence is what makes training at Mayo Clinic so extraordinary.

What advice would you give to an international medical graduate looking to complete their residency training in the US?

Prioritize excellent clinical training and professional development, but do not compromise culture or work-life balance. You want to find a program where residents are not only talented but also genuinely happy and eager to support one another. These people will become part of your extended family, so choose wisely! I firmly believe that you thrive where your hard work is nurtured and where your program is genuinely invested in your personal and professional development.

Is there anything that surprised you about Rochester?

It is so easy living in Rochester! It has all the conveniences of a mid-sized city without the traffic and long commute times of a larger city. There is always a new hiking trail or restaurant to explore, and spring here is absolutely beautiful.