Fellow Life
The life of a Pulmonary Medicine fellow at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, is a dynamic and enriching experience that offers a blend of rigorous academic training and vibrant community engagement. As part of one of the world's leading medical institutions, fellows benefit from access to cutting-edge resources, renowned faculty mentors, and a diverse patient population.
Beyond the learning and clinical settings, Mayo Clinic fosters a supportive and inclusive environment where trainees form lasting friendships and professional networks. Whether attending lectures, participating in hands-on clinical rotations, or engaging in social activities organized throughout the year, fellows at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, find themselves immersed in a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning.
Life in Rochester
Rochester is consistently recognized as one of the best cities to live in the U.S. Our fellows love the small-town safety and conveniences paired with an array of diverse restaurants, entertainment venues, recreation spots, and activities for both families and young professionals. With live concerts, craft breweries, and over 3,500 acres of parks and trails, it's easy to find something for everyone! Learn more about our community and what our fellows love about living here. Visit Experience Rochester to learn more.
Wellness initiatives
As a trainee, your physical and mental health are priorities to Mayo Clinic and the department. Trainees have access to several resources to promote well-being, as well as time off clinical duties to attend appointments.
- Dan Abraham Healthy Living Center
- Groups on campus
- Well-being
Dan Abraham Healthy Living Center
Trainees have access to the Dan Abraham Healthy Living Center (DAHLC), which is located on both Mayo Clinic campuses (downtown and Saint Marys) in Rochester, Minnesota. This state-of-the-art fitness facility offers basic classes (including free weights, stretching, cardio, and more), drop-in classes, evaluation services, group training, virtual personal training, and virtual wellness coaching.
Membership to the DAHLC is available at a low cost to trainees and their families through payroll deduction.
Video: Dan Abraham Health Living Center
Video: A look inside the Dan Abraham Health Living Center
Groups on campus
Several groups on campus help you connect with other fellows and their families, such as the Mayo Fellows Association, the Mayo Families' Connection, and Mayo Employee Resource Groups. These groups help enhance your training by providing and organizing wellness initiatives and social activities.
Workshops for spouses and significant others are also available.
Well-being
The Student Services office provides resources to promote academic, emotional, social, cognitive, financial, and physical well-being. Career and academic services include academic advising, peer tutoring, and accommodations for learners with disabilities or health conditions. Mental health services, counseling, interview practice, and a variety of enrichment sessions on topics like budgeting, resiliency, and stress and burn-out are also available through the Student Services office.
Life inside and outside of the program
Amina Hamza, D.O.
Class year: 2023-2025
Hometown: Lagos, Nigeria, New York City
Medical school: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
What do you like about the program? I like the open-door policy in the Pulmonary/PCCM training program. The consultants love to teach and are very humble. The staff genuinely care about our well-being and mental health and professional growth, and everyone is treated like family.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time? During my free time, I enjoy traveling (arriving at my destination, not the flying part), nature photography, and exploring different cultural practices and foods. I generally enjoy new and unique experiences/activities. When I’m stuck at home, I enjoy watching Nollywood movies and romantic comedies.
Wigdan Farah, M.B.B.S., M.P.H.
Class year: 2022-2024
Hometown: Khartoum, Sudan
Medical school: Ahfad Univeristy for Women
What do you like about living in Rochester? One of the major things I truly enjoyed about living in Rochester was the strong sense of community that fostered connections and support among the residents. The surrounding natural beauty also provided endless outdoor activities and relaxation opportunities during summer.
Why did you choose Mayo Clinic? The humility, kindness, effective teamwork, and dedication to patient care, research, and education demonstrated by Mayo Clinic staff and leadership in all divisions were one the main reasons why I chose the pulmonary fellowship training program. Additionally, the program's balance between clinical experience, research, and education, along with its personalized education plans designed to match each fellow's goals, further reinforced my decision.
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