 |
Lori Bjork, M.D.
Hometown: Johnston, IA
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? Based on my experiences as a medical student, I knew that Mayo Clinic provided an outstanding learning environment with strong teaching, interesting cases, and robust administrative support. The PM&R program checks all those boxes and more. The consultants that you work with may be leaders in their fields, but they often stand out more for their approachability and compassion. The camaraderie and cooperative nature of the residents within the PM&R program – something I first witnessed as a medical student tagging along with PM&R residents who were performing sideline coverage at high school football games – was also a selling point. Additionally, Mayo Clinic has a long tradition of service to the military, and I appreciate how the institution welcomes and values veterans.
|
 |
Julia Carter, M.D.
Hometown: Centralia, WA
Medical school: University of Washington
What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? I love many things about Mayo PM&R, but the strength, number, and variety of our consultants (attendings) is a major factor that drew me. No matter what your interests are, we have multiple specialists in that area who are leaders in that field, all doing the latest and greatest medicine in that area. From pain procedures, to sports medicine, to pediatrics, and all the rest, Mayo has physiatrists that are incredibly knowledgeable and also incredibly kind. They love to teach and allow us to be so hands-on. They support us in and outside the clinic/hospital. I knew coming to Mayo would set me up for whatever career I finally set my heart on, and I’ve found that to be incredibly true.
|
 |
Autumn Dach, D.O.
Hometown: Byron, IL
Medical school: Rocky Vista University College of Medicine
What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? Growing up in the Midwest, I had the privilege of witnessing numerous family members and friends benefit from the exceptional healthcare provided by Mayo Clinic. During my fourth year of medical school, I had the incredible opportunity to rotate within Mayo Clinic PM&R residency program. I was immediately embraced and impressed by the strong sense of camaraderie and the sense of building each other up, not only within the residency program but throughout the entire institution. I wanted to pursue my training at this world-class hospital where individuals are equally devoted to fostering innovation and advancing education, as well as delivering compassionate healthcare. The specialized training in musculoskeletal ultrasound and an anatomy cadaver course really spoke to the comprehensive nature of the training provided by this program. I knew this was an environment that would both challenge me and support me in my path to becoming the PM&R physician I aspire to be.
|
 |
Brandon Feaster, M.D.
Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC
Medical school: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? As I began to research residency programs, it quickly became apparent that Mayo Clinic PM&R is much more than its phenomenal name. From the innovative and engaging curriculum to the diverse breadth of clinical experiences, it was evident that the training fosters excellence and creates field-leading physiatrists. During my interview, I was especially impressed by the in-depth diagnostic ultrasound course and the musculoskeletal education. Through these facets, residents spoke with confidence regarding their procedural proficiency upon completion of the program. Furthermore, I was delighted to witness the atmosphere of support and camaraderie amongst program leadership, staff, alumni, and current residents. I'm beyond excited to have the opportunity to be a part of Mayo Clinic PM&R.
|
 |
Alyssa Golden-Hart, D.O.
Hometown: Fort Myers, FL
Medical school: Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine
What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for Residency training? After interviewing at Mayo Clinic, I was immediately impressed by the outstanding training the PM&R department provides for its residents. Due to being a large academic center, the training consists of a wide range of pathologies that I knew would be a stimulating environment to learn in. The in-depth anatomy and ultrasound courses, musculoskeletal training, and exposure to an impressive number of procedures were all part of the academic draw. Besides the academic side of Mayo Clinic PM&R, I also enjoyed the sense of camaraderie between the members of the department. I felt that the residents and faculty were welcoming and really stood out as a family-like environment. After my interview, it was clear Mayo would help shape me into the type of physiatrist I want to be.
|
 |
Anthony Kilgore Jr., M.D.
Hometown: San Luis Obispo, CA
Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? Choosing to be a part of the Mayo family was an easy decision, it’s an institution that speaks to my authentic self - meeting people where they are. I grew up in a small town on the coast of California, San Luis Obispo, and I never envisioned myself living outside the state. I was blessed with the opportunity to study at Mayo for medical school but was timid to move too far away from loved ones. I spent time at the Mayo Clinic campus in Arizona and graciously adapted to the culture through my four years there. When it came time to choose a residency program, my family and I knew what would further grow me into the doctor I have always wanted to be. One who takes the time to see his patients in their entirety, avoiding the common pitfalls that exist when existential pressures creep into the healthcare system dynamic. I love the opportunity to spend time with each patient so that I know them more than their injury or disease, I can truly begin to appreciate the lived experience of said malady. This affinity has been a perfect fit for the field of physical medicine and rehabilitation. I was able to spend my intern year at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, and it was a tremendous year of growth both in and out of the hospital. Living in Rochester provides me and my loved ones the comfort of small-town day-to-day living without the potential distractions of a larger metro area. When we are ready for this, we can easily access the Twin Cities or Chicago metro areas for events and activities. I'm happy and fulfilled at this stage in my career, and I'm grateful I truly was open to this unique opportunity.
|
 |
Matthew Moberg, D.O.
Hometown: Mahtomedi, MN
Medical school: A.T. Still University Kirksville
What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? There are a lot of things that attracted me to Mayo. It’s close to home, which means being closer to my family and friends. The didactics are second to none, as I get to learn from world-renowned experts in various disciplines and participate in a comprehensive MSK and US curriculum. However, I think the biggest thing that attracted me to Mayo was the people. I’ve had multiple family members receive treatment here at Mayo and they constantly rave about the compassionate, patient-centered care that they receive. Since arriving at Mayo, I have been surrounded by program leadership, staff, and resident colleagues who truly demonstrate a vested interest in helping me become the competent, well-rounded, and caring physiatrist that I hope to become. I could not be more thrilled to have the opportunity to train here.
|
 |
Cam Smock, M.D.
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Medical school: Indiana University School of Medicine
What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? The most impressive aspect of my Mayo Clinic interview day was the strong camaraderie among the residents and faculty who helped facilitate the interview experience. It was evident that the program was composed of residents who genuinely enjoyed working together and faculty truly invested in the success of their trainees. This welcoming culture enhances the exceptional educational opportunities the program offers. The well-rounded didactic curriculum and rotation experiences prepare residents to succeed in whichever facet of PM&R they choose to pursue, and the incredibly strong exposure to musculoskeletal anatomy and ultrasound aligns very closely with my own clinical interests. The faculty are experts in their respective areas of practice and are eager to share their knowledge with trainees and collaborate on cutting-edge research projects. Each day provides an opportunity to work alongside genuinely kind people united by a common mission to provide world-class, patient-centered care.
|