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.

Tyler Bendrick, M.D.

Hometown: Colorado Springs, CO
Medical school: Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha NE

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? I think the better question may be, what didn’t attract me to Mayo Clinic? I remember entering the hospital on my first day as a rotating student, feeling intimidated to simply walk the halls of this world-renowned institution. However, my apprehension quickly vanished as every consultant, nurse, resident, and staff greeted me with the universal respect, kindness, interest, and humility that are fundamental to Mayo culture. The PM&R program impressed me with its focus on individualized teaching, procedure numbers that far outweigh other programs, and endless opportunities for research, niche learning, and personal and professional development. Mayo provides opportunities to train under experts in all fields, participate in cutting-edge research, and learn from the best to deliver the highest quality of care. I was certain this program would motivate and support me in becoming the exceptional physician and person that I aspire to be, and every day I am more grateful to be here!

Corbrielle Boulard, M.D. 

Hometown: Beaumont, TX
Medical school: McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston 

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? Entering the season of choosing a residency program, my primary priority was finding an institution that was well-rounded, with strengths within every facet of PM&R available. Mayo Clinic ensured that no options within the field would be closed off, as well as beyond serving as a platform, as my interests evolved with greater exposure. Mayo Clinic PM&R proved to have vast opportunities as well as support for incorporating my many interests into my career. Another value that I view as a necessity for a program, which Mayo has exceeded, is in providing a healthy work environment with a warm atmosphere of colleagues that feel like family away from family, after moving far across the country away from my home. Ultimately, Mayo Clinic has proven to be set apart within residency and beyond, as all doors are opened upon training at this remarkable institution. 

Jessica Buttinger, M.D.

Hometown: Waterloo, Ontario
Medical school: Central Michigan University College of Medicine 

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? My decision to complete my PM&R training at Mayo Clinic was hugely influenced by my experience rotating here as a fourth-year medical student. I was met by some of the kindest, and most empathetic residents and consultants I have ever worked with. Their passion for teaching was equally matched by their commitment to excellence in patient care. The commitment of the program to provide dedicated time to hone our skills in advanced ultrasound, EMG, and didactics in the anatomy lab is unparalleled and allows residents the opportunity to truly master their clinical and procedural skills. Finally, I knew that by coming here, I would be joining this PM&R family. It is a tight-knit group that celebrates one another’s successes both professionally and personally. I am beyond grateful to train at this incredible, world-renowned institution and aim to continue this culture that all those before me have created.

Wassim Drissi, D.O.

Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical school: Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? Growing up, I’d always heard amazing stories from patients about Mayo Clinic but finally, I understood how special Mayo was during my interview with the program. Even through a virtual interview, I could sense a strong team dynamic, filled with brilliant people focused on a single goal. The culture here is a giant celebration of humanity. I felt that differences in ideas and thinking are celebrated and met with curiosity. The culture here is to find a reason to say yes. I felt like Mayo would give me the space to focus on caring for my patients and allow me to formulate and chase questions in my practice. The culture here is to normalize excellence. I felt like the community goes out of its way to support me, and I, in return, am grateful for the daily opportunity to be my best self for my patients and my team members I stand shoulder to shoulder with. 

Kira Kopacz, M.D.

Hometown: Chatham, NJ
Medical school: Cooper Medical School of Rowan University 

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? After interview day, I knew that Mayo Clinic was the right fit for what I wanted from a residency program. From a curriculum standpoint, I was attracted to the in-depth ultrasound training, 6-month EMG course, and access to the cadaver lab to build on our anatomical knowledge. I also was excited to have access to world-renowned resources including learning and working with other departments in the Mayo Clinic system, a strong support network for conferences and research, and the ability to rotate across other Mayo Clinic sites in the country to broaden our skill sets. Most importantly though, I chose this program because of how genuinely humble and kind the people are which encourages a community of teamwork and camaraderie.

CC Mitchell, M.D.

Hometown: Vancouver, BC Canada
Medical school: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? During my medical school training here, I saw firsthand the level of care and expertise that goes into every patient’s treatment plan. I just knew I had to stay for residency. Training at Mayo has been an experience of continuously unearthing new eye-opening opportunities to learn and grow alongside amazing mentors. Additionally, being equipped with top-notch resources and awe-inspiring technologies at our fingertips is truly a blessing. When I rotated through the PM&R department, the close-knit family feels shared between the residents and staff stood out to me as a community I wanted to be a part of; the kindness shown by everyone I encountered convinced me that this program would nurture me into the kind of physician I hope to become. I also fell in love with Rochester as a home – it’s not just Mayo that makes this place special, but the supportive community and sense of belonging I’ve found here.

Lauren Penz, M.D.

Hometown: Thornton, CO
Medical school: University of Minnesota Medical School 

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? Prior to residency, I had several experiences with Mayo Clinic – as a student researcher, as a clinical laboratory employee, as a medical student during my away rotation, and as a patient when I lived in Rochester for two years. By applying these experiences and Mayo Clinic culture and values to what I imagined residency would be like, I was confident my clinical learning would be prioritized, and research or other interdisciplinary learning would be strongly supported. During my away rotation as a medical student, the clinicians I learned with exemplified the humanistic and patient-centered approach to care that I aspired to deliver. I experienced the right balance of challenge and support to maximize my learning, and the staff and residents alike showed genuine care for each other and for me and my family. I was also pregnant with our first baby during residency interviews and knew this would be a fantastic community for my child to grow up in and an incredible residency program for me as a new mother to train in.

Michael Zhitnitsky, D.O.

Hometown: Los Angeles/ Ventura County, CA
Medical school: Touro University 

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? I chose Mayo Clinic for my PM&R residency because of its world-renowned faculty, extensive research mentorship program, and the opportunity to care for a diverse patient population from across the globe. Mayo offers a unique training experience, including ACGME-leading EMG and injection numbers, and a comprehensive MSK ultrasound curriculum which are essential for my goals of becoming skilled at general MSK rehabilitation and ultrasound-guided procedures. During my interview, I was particularly impressed by the faculty’s genuine commitment to creating a supportive and enriching environment for resident education and well-being; I felt I would be cared for and respected here. Additionally, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to be closer to my wife, who is also a resident at Mayo.

Maddie Berg, M.D.

Hometown: Cottage Grove, MN

Medical School: University of Minnesota

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training?

As a visiting medical student, residents and consultants (attendings) alike made me feel like one of their own - they took the time not only to teach me and provide effective feedback, but also to get to know me and my interests both within and outside of medicine. A sense of camaraderie overflowed from the workrooms and hallways, and I knew I would be surrounded by supportive colleagues during my training at Mayo. The breadth of Mayo PM&R training, along with the opportunity to be mentored by experts in every area, makes me confident that I will have the tools to excel in my career.

Michael Franco, M.D.

Hometown: Omaha, NE

Medical School: Creighton University School of Medicine, Omaha, NE

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? I was drawn to Mayo Clinic for my residency training after completing a rotation here during my M4 year. During that time, I was impressed by Mayo’s commitment to high-quality, patient centered care and a collaborative, team-based approach. The educational environment was exceptional—faculty members were not only knowledgeable, but also genuinely invested in teaching and mentoring. What really stood out to me, though, was the supportive and welcoming environment. I felt like I was part of the team right away. This created a fantastic environment for both personal and professional growth and made me feel confident I could grow into a well-rounded, compassionate physiatrist.

Nick Kessler, M.D.

Hometown: Pensacola Beach, FL

Medical School: University of Central Florida College of Medicine

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? In medical school I had the opportunity to work with Mayo Clinic PM&R trained attendings. Their clinical skills with ultrasound diagnostic imaging, minimally invasive procedures, and medical decision making, in addition to their culture of professionalism were second to none. I knew I wanted to train at a program that would get me to that level. Before my interview for residency, I met with program leadership and current residents at one of the national conferences. Everyone was welcoming, down to earth, and incredibly accomplished in their professional and personal lives. I immediately felt the warmth and support of the Mayo clinic family. It was apparent how this program encompassed work-hard play-hard culture at a world-renowned institution, in a family-friendly community with excellent cost of living. For me, Mayo clinic was a no-brainer!

Ted Miclau, M.D.

Hometown: San Francisco, CA

Medical School: University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? When my girlfriend and I were identifying residency programs strong in both Family Medicine and PM&R, we quickly realized Mayo was one of our top options. From an educational standpoint, I believe Mayo offers the best PM&R training in the country for outpatient musculoskeletal care, particularly in its use of ultrasound for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. The curriculum, which links cadaver lab, physical exam review, and ultrasound training by body region each week, was a clever design. And all of this came with what residents described as a protected work-life balance. Several months later, as she began her intern year in Mayo’s Family Medicine program, I already knew that Mayo was where I hoped to match — but during my away rotation, I was surprised by how deeply I connected with the program, both practically and culturally, and became even more excited at the prospect of training here. I was struck by the warm, team-oriented environment — something I didn’t experience to the same extent elsewhere. On inpatient, residents worked together in a large, communal team room (affectionately named “the fishbowl”), rather than in silos. Outside of work, they made noticeable efforts to spend time together. Faculty were enthusiastic teachers, and program leadership was clearly invested in resident growth. It also meant a lot to me that medical students were actively included in group activities, from afternoon didactics to intramural sports like kickball and volleyball, which spoke volumes about the program’s culture. 

Lindsey Palm-Vlasak, M.D.

Hometown: Largo, FL

Medical School: University of Florida

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? Mayo Clinic’s reputation for excellence is well-established, and there were multiple times during my medical school/interview journey where the curriculum or research here was essentially referenced as the gold standard. I knew Mayo Clinic would provide a robust and rigorous training experience, but my interactions w/residents and faculty during interviews made it clear that I would truly enjoy the process along the way – that this would be a place where I could grow, contribute, and thrive.  I was inspired by the team dynamics I saw virtually and in-person when I visited – everyone was genuinely invested in building each other up, with a trickle-down effect that both optimized patient care and enhanced resident learning.  I am excited and grateful to be immersed in such a supportive environment with endless clinical and research opportunities, surrounded by peers and mentors who exemplify attributes I aspire to develop as a future physician-scientist.

Neil Sinha, M.D.

Hometown: San Jose, CA

Medical School: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, AZ

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? Mayo Clinic was a great place to learn during medical school. In medicine, Mayo Clinic’s reputation as an institution precedes itself, but behind the decoration and the awards are the people that really make this place great. The folks I met were the kindest, most down-to-earth individuals who were genuinely interested in teaching and patient care for its own sake. That impression didn’t change when I left Arizona’s campus to rotate at the PM&R department in Minnesota. Knowing that I’d be supported no matter what path I pursued as a physiatrist, I was sold to stay on with Mayo for residency as well.

Hunter Soleymani, M.D.

Hometown: Pelham, Alabama

Medical School: University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? Prior to medical school, I had a mentor who completed their physiatry training at Mayo. After hearing how much they enjoyed their time at Mayo I knew I was highly interested in the program, so I applied for an away rotation. The one-month elective was truly one of the most enriching, educational, and enjoyable months I’ve ever had. I was blown away with the emphasis placed on teaching and loved that there was specific time carved out in the daily schedule for teaching. The didactics were engaging and highly hands on and it was clear the residents had a high level of musculoskeletal, ultrasound, and procedural experience, all of which were very important to me. Lastly, and most importantly, the people and culture of the program and institution are what sealed the deal for me. During my month here I was welcomed warmly and felt that I was part of the PM&R family. The residents went out of their way to make sure I was included in things and always had so much fun hanging out together. I cannot think of a better place to train and words do not justify how amazing of a place and program this is!

Tyra Swanson, M.D.

Hometown: Plymouth, MN

Medical School: Albany Medical College

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for residency training? My decision to pursue residency training at Mayo Clinic was profoundly influenced by my experience as a visiting medical student, where I was welcomed into a community defined by kindness, mentorship, and a shared commitment to excellence. I was particularly impressed by the collaborative environment, where faculty actively supported trainees and fostered a culture of shared learning and mutual respect. Additionally, being close to home offers a meaningful opportunity to give back to the Minnesota community that has shaped my values and aspirations. Mayo Clinic’s strong emphasis on patient-centered care, coupled with its supportive and collaborative environment, provides an ideal foundation for both personal and professional growth. The program’s comprehensive approach to education, along with its emphasis on fostering a positive learning atmosphere, assures me that I will be well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to the field of PM&R. I am truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to train at Mayo Clinic and grow within such an exceptional institution.