Our Residents
Class of 2022

Jakob Adkins, DO:
Hometown: Orlando, FL
Undergraduate Institution: Clemson University
Medical School: LECOM - Bradenton
Hometown: Orlando, FL
Undergraduate Institution: Clemson University
Medical School: LECOM - Bradenton
Career Interests: Anesthesiologist
Real Interests: weightlifting, cars, dogs, aquariums, wine tastings
Why did you choose UH? Great program in a great city! Also, less traffic!

Eric Brzozowski, MD:
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Undergraduate Institution: George Washington University
Medical School: Penn State University College of Medicine
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Undergraduate Institution: George Washington University
Medical School: Penn State University College of Medicine
Real Interests: Pre-modern history, travel, hiking, exercise/weightlifting
Why did you choose UH? I did an away rotation and I enjoyed it because of the camaraderie and dedication to resident education.

Adi Cosic, DO:
Hometown: Erie, PA
Undergraduate Institution: Gannon University
Medical School: LECOM
Hometown: Erie, PA
Undergraduate Institution: Gannon University
Medical School: LECOM
Career Interests: Interventional chronic pain management
Real Interests: Basketball, video games, cars, dogs
Why did you choose UH? Proximity to home, collegial atmosphere, associated chronic pain fellowship.

Anesah Elhaddi, MD:
Hometown: Brookfield, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution: Michigan State University
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University
Hometown: Brookfield, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution: Michigan State University
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University
Career Interests: International health, critical care medicine, cardiac physiology, entrepreneurship and teaching medical students
Real Interests: Quality time with family and friends, playing tennis, belly dancing, cooking, playing cards and skiing.
Why did you choose UH? I chose UH because of excellent training I'd receive. Being exposed to the wide variety of advanced pathologies across multiple practice settings, diverse patient population and ample opportunities with research and quality improvement were only a few of the reasons. Additionally, being from Northeast Ohio and staying nearby allowed me to give back to the community that once invested in me.

Victoria Gilbride, MD:
Hometown: Akron, OH
Undergraduate Institution: University of Toledo
Medical School: University of Toledo
Hometown: Akron, OH
Undergraduate Institution: University of Toledo
Medical School: University of Toledo
Career Interests: unknown, likely fellowship but not sure in what field
Real Interests: outdoor activities (only in the summer), craft beer and wine tasting, crafting, Cleveland sports
Why did you choose UH? Getting to come closer to home and of course, the people!

Daniel Gotlib, DO:
Hometown: Dallas TX
Undergraduate Institution: University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: University of North Texas, Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Dallas TX
Undergraduate Institution: University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: University of North Texas, Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: Pain Management
Real Interests: Playing guitar, reading fiction, working out, tending to my koi pond, going on walks with my dog, going to restaurants, bars, and movies with friends and family.
Why did you choose UH? I chose UH for the strong comradery among my fellow residents, and for diverse, knowledgeable and approachable faculty in our department. As a level 1 trauma center, UH provides a state-of-the-art facility with leading medical equipment and vast opportunities to expand my skills and knowledge. I chose to relocate to Cleveland due to low cost of living, while providing me the full amenities and culture of a large city for me and my family.

Brian Hom, MD:
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Akron University
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Akron University
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University
Career Interests: I love everything about anesthesia
Real Interests: Basketball, Cleveland Sports, Collecting Sneakers, Fine Dining and Breathing
Why did you choose UH? The best APD in the world works here, Dr. Pesa.

Bradford Jones, DO:
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Ohio University
Medical School: Ohio University COM
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Ohio University
Medical School: Ohio University COM
Career Interests: Chronic Pain
Real Interests: Family, eating. I need more hobbies.
Why did you choose UH? Great training in my hometown.

Jacob Justinger, MD:
Hometown: Sylvania, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution: University of Toledo
Medical School: University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences
Hometown: Sylvania, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution: University of Toledo
Medical School: University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences
Real Interests: My hobbies include getting outdoors and staying active: distance running, fishing, kayaking, boating, and skiing. When I'm not spending time outside, you'll find me trying one of Cleveland's many great restaurants, music venues or cultural institutions.
Why did you choose UH? I chose UH for the strong training we get working in a large quaternary academic care center. Additionally, staying in Ohio was an important consideration in my selection of residency program. Cleveland is the quintessential revitalized "rust belt" city; great restaurants, numerous Metroparks and trails, and a thriving cultural scene make Cleveland a great place to live. Finally, the people make UH great. As a resident at UH it was evident early on that the leadership, clinical faculty, senior residents and peers are all invested in the programs success.

Wolfgang Nnchiiffor, MD:
Hometown: Grand Forks, North Dakota
Undergraduate Institution: University of North Dakota
Medical School: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine
Hometown: Grand Forks, North Dakota
Undergraduate Institution: University of North Dakota
Medical School: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine
Career Interests: Undecided
Real Interests: Traveling the world, trying new foods, working out, hanging out, watching soccer, going to movies, dancing and listening to music
Why did you choose UH? I fell in love with UH during my interview with Dr. Poynton and Dr. Helou. All my questions were answered and I felt needed at UH. The diversity of patients and employees at UH also attracted me to UH.

Michelle Salloum, MD:
Hometown: Cave Creek, Arizona
Undergraduate Institution: University of Arizona
Medical School: University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson
Hometown: Cave Creek, Arizona
Undergraduate Institution: University of Arizona
Medical School: University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson
Career Interests: I currently have interests in critical care and acute/chronic pain, as well as global health
Real Interests: Running, Hiking, Being a Foodie, Arizona Sunsets, Traveling
Why did you choose UH? At UH, Anesthesiologists in all walks of their careers are truly a family and work incredibly as a team. I felt like I belonged here from the moment I interviewed. This Anesthesiology program has a great reputation with strong leaders, and I knew this is where I wanted to grow as a physician. I also wanted to be close to family and have a strong support system during my residency years, which was another reason coming to UH was so important to me.

Gautam Sharma, MBBS:
Hometown: New Delhi, India
Undergraduate Institution: None
Medical School: Padmashree Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Pune, India
Hometown: New Delhi, India
Undergraduate Institution: None
Medical School: Padmashree Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Pune, India
Career Interests: Academic Anesthesiology
Real Interests: Cooking and gaming
Why did you choose UH? The Anesthesiology residency at UH offered wide clinical exposure, mentoring support for clinical and academic growth in a warm atmosphere.

Evan Stanger, DO:
Hometown: Stow, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution: The Ohio State University
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (Erie, PA)
Hometown: Stow, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution: The Ohio State University
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (Erie, PA)
Career Interests: I plan to further explore subspecialties such as Pediatrics and Critical Care as potential fellowships to pursue
Real Interests: Cleveland sports, hip-hop music, running/biking/hiking, Sous Vide, craft beers
Why did you choose UH? Being from Northeast Ohio, I always knew that I wanted to end up in Cleveland for residency. From the moment I set foot on campus at UH, I felt an overwhelming sense of comfort, familiarity, and belonging. The environment at UH has all the intangibles of home, and as an added bonus offers me the distinct privilege to give back to the community I grew up in.

Cameron Stuart, MD:
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Undergraduate Institution: The Ohio State University
Medical School: University of Toledo College of Medicine
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Undergraduate Institution: The Ohio State University
Medical School: University of Toledo College of Medicine
Career Interests: I am interested in teaching and can see myself working with future residents in academic anesthesia.
Real Interests: Anything outdoors! I enjoy golfing, hiking, and biking. I am an avid Cleveland and Ohio State sports fan. I love to travel and experience new places and cultures. I have watched The Office more times than I can count.
Why did you choose UH? The diversity and volume of surgical cases. Unlike most training environments, Cleveland Medical Center has all subspecialties within one hospital. The faculty and residents within the anesthesia department are eager to teach and quick to help in times of need.
Class of 2023

Noah I. Alcodray, MD:
Hometown: Dearborn, MI
Undergraduate Institution: The University of Toledo
Medical School: The University of Toledo
Hometown: Dearborn, MI
Undergraduate Institution: The University of Toledo
Medical School: The University of Toledo
Career Interests: Regional Anesthesia and Pain Management
Real Interests: backcountry camping, coffee roasting, video games with the squad, graphic novels/science fiction/satire
Why did you choose UH?: Energetic faculty dedicated to a positive learning environment and exposure to the many fields of Anesthesiology in the Clinical Base Year (can pursuit fellowship interests as early as possible).

Keith A. Andrews, DO:
Hometown: Hillsboro, OR
Undergraduate Institution: Seattle University
Medical School: Kansas City University
Hometown: Hillsboro, OR
Undergraduate Institution: Seattle University
Medical School: Kansas City University
Career Interests: TEE, decompression theory, hyperbaric medicine
Real Interests: Cave/wreck diving, bread baking, camping, skiing, tinkering with my bike
Why did you choose UH? I was very impressed with my interview day with the collegial atmosphere and the camaraderie amongst the residents. From an academic standpoint, this program emphasized exploring whatever I found personally interesting, has a very robust ICU experience, and supports taking the TEE Basic with ample cases to be eligible for that certification.

David P. Bennett, MD:
Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
Undergraduate Institution: Brigham Young University
Medical School: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
Undergraduate Institution: Brigham Young University
Medical School: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Career Interests: Ever more anesthesiology!
Real Interests: Printmaking, skiing, hiking, dutch oven cooking
Why did you choose UH? The residents were genuinely happy and uniquely invested in the program. I was, and still am, impressed by the camaraderie the residents have with the attending staff.

Jeffrey W. Cannon, MD:
Hometown: Beckley, WV
Undergraduate Institution: Pensacola Christian College, Pensacola FL
Medical School: West Virginia University School of Medicine
Hometown: Beckley, WV
Undergraduate Institution: Pensacola Christian College, Pensacola FL
Medical School: West Virginia University School of Medicine
Career Interests: Global health, medical education, mentorship, POCUS
Real Interests: Traveling, singing barbershop, baking, skiing Why did you choose UH?: I like Cleveland, and the program residents and leadership are incredibly supportive. I feel like I "fit" here!

Al-Awwab M. Dabaliz, MBBS:
Hometown: Levant
Medical School: Alfaisal University, College of Medicine
Hometown: Levant
Medical School: Alfaisal University, College of Medicine
Career Interests: Critical care, Medical education
Real Interests: Family, friends, and sports
Why did you choose UH? Historically strong residency program with lots of young and enthusiastic mentors, educators and leaders. World-class academic affiliation. Diverse residents and department. Cleveland.

Tarek B. D. Elshazly, MD:
Hometown: Egypt
Undergraduate Institution: Cornell
Medical School: Cornell
Hometown: Egypt
Undergraduate Institution: Cornell
Medical School: Cornell
Career Interests: Critical Care
Real Interests: Travel, Reading, Swimming, Cooking, Interior Design.
Why did you choose UH? Frankly, the critical care interest was the most gravitating factor, not to mention the seamless camaraderie and the very palpable welcoming energy during interview season.

Harrison H. Ghouche, DO:
Hometown: Lagos, NGA
Undergraduate Institution: University of Michigan
Medical School: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Lagos, NGA
Undergraduate Institution: University of Michigan
Medical School: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: Critical Care
Real Interests: Charcoal art, billiards, road trips, classic cars
Why did you choose UH? The best APD in the world works here, Dr. Pesa.

Brendan J. McCafferty, DO:
Hometown: Parma, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Ohio University
Medical School: University of Pikeville - Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Parma, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Ohio University
Medical School: University of Pikeville - Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: Critical Care
Real Interests: Cleveland sports, golf, running. Arm wrestling my older brother Ryan.
Why did you choose UH? The best APD in the world works here, Dr. Pesa.

Ian M. Paterson, MBBS:
Hometown: Blairstown, NJ
Undergraduate Institution: Davidson College
Medical School: Brighton Sussex Medical School (UK)
Hometown: Blairstown, NJ
Undergraduate Institution: Davidson College
Medical School: Brighton Sussex Medical School (UK)
Career Interests: Critical Care
Real Interests: Live music, playing sax, running, snowboarding, cooking, foreign travel
Why did you choose UH? Friendly faculty, happy residents, good hospital resources, Cleveland is a great place to live!

Sucheta Ravindran, MD:
Hometown: Baltimore, MD
Undergraduate Institution: Boston University
Medical School: Rush
Hometown: Baltimore, MD
Undergraduate Institution: Boston University
Medical School: Rush
Career Interests: Critical Care
Real Interests: Cooking, eating, cooking shows, Gordon Ramsey. The older I get, the more I understand why Gordon is angry all of the time.
Why did you choose UH? Best interview experience. Dr. Helou being a young, energetic PD inspired me.

Saad M. Siddiqui, MD:
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Northeast Ohio University
Medical School: Northeast Ohio School of Medicine
Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Northeast Ohio University
Medical School: Northeast Ohio School of Medicine
Career Interests: Spinal cord stimulators, dorsal root ganglion stimulation and peripheral nerve procedures. I am also fascinated by OR cases requiring massive transfusions such as transplants. Complicated airway situations are also fascinating; helping with a percutaneous tracheostomy on a patient with high BMI was particularly memorable
Real Interests: I like staying active with kickboxing, basketball, tennis, soccer and hiking. Video games and watching sports when it's time to relax. I would love to take a trip to Istanbul!
Why did you choose UH? The best APD in the world works here, Dr. Pesa.

Brian T. Ta, MD:
Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
Undergraduate Institution: University of Utah
Medical School: University of Utah
Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
Undergraduate Institution: University of Utah
Medical School: University of Utah
Career Interests: Acute pain, TEE
Real Interests: lifting weights, boxing, video games, cooking, camping, fishing, Utah Utes football, Utah Jazz
Why did you choose UH? Good training program with great residents and leadership.

Parnell M. White, II, MD:
Hometown: Saginaw, MI
Undergraduate Institution: Grand Valley State University
Medical School: Wayne State University SOM
Hometown: Saginaw, MI
Undergraduate Institution: Grand Valley State University
Medical School: Wayne State University SOM
Career Interests: Critical Care
Real Interests: Weightlifting, football, riding motorcycles, car audio, bowling
Why did you choose UH? The best APD in the world works here, Dr. Pesa.
Class of 2024

Kristin N. Alspach, DO
Hometown: North Star, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Miami University
Medical School: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: North Star, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Miami University
Medical School: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: General anesthesia, exploring all fellowship possibilities
Real Interests: Finding new restaurants to eat at, hiking, spending time with my family, friends and my two cats
Why did you choose UH?: I was impressed by the inviting atmosphere during my interview, as well as the camaraderie among the residents and throughout the department.

Laurent Del Angel Diaz, MD
Hometown: Cd. Madero, Mexico
Undergraduate Institution: Instituto Cultural Tampico
Medical School: Universidad Autonoma de Tamaulipas, Fac de Medicina “Dr. Alberto Romo Caballero”
Hometown: Cd. Madero, Mexico
Undergraduate Institution: Instituto Cultural Tampico
Medical School: Universidad Autonoma de Tamaulipas, Fac de Medicina “Dr. Alberto Romo Caballero”
Career interests: Critical care medicine, Post-transplantation intensive care, Acute pain.
Real interests: Taco lover, CrossFit, Music, Playing guitar, Travel, Horror movies, Dogs
Why did you choose UH?: It was a combination of things, the faculty at UH is outstanding with a real passion for teaching. They are interested in the well-being of their residents and in their growth as future anesthesiologists. Also, UH is an academic institution run by residents, you will have plenty of opportunities to develop skills that will prepare you to tackle any situation that you can encounter. Finally, the people at UH, from the nurses, residents, staff and everyone involve in the care of patients, are very happy with what they do, and that has a profound impact on how we treat all of our patients.

Stephan M. Friedman, MD
Hometown: Dana Point, CA
Undergraduate Institution: UCLA
Medical School: UC Irvine
Hometown: Dana Point, CA
Undergraduate Institution: UCLA
Medical School: UC Irvine
Career Interests: Regional, OB, and POCUS
Real Interests: Traveling, cooking, video games, board games, and spending time with my family.
Why did you choose UH?: I wanted to be closer to my family in Ohio, while finding a close-knit program that is supportive of its residents. Also…the cost of living is cheap and the pay is nice!

Alain C. Harb, MD
Hometown: Lebanon
Undergraduate Institution: Holy Spirit University of Kaslik
Medical School: Lebanese University, Faculty of Medical Sciences
Hometown: Lebanon
Undergraduate Institution: Holy Spirit University of Kaslik
Medical School: Lebanese University, Faculty of Medical Sciences
Career Interests: Pediatric anesthesia
Real Interests: Skiing, Snowboarding, Cycling, Tennis
Why did you choose UH?: After being here for a year, doing Pediatric anesthesia, I call it home! Collegial atmosphere. Incredibly supportive program leadership.

Zachary C. Headman, DO
Hometown: Salt Lake City, UT
Undergraduate Institution: University of Utah
Medical School: ATSU-KCOM
Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
Undergraduate Institution: University of Utah
Medical School: ATSU-KCOM
Career Interests: Cardiac and Chronic Pain. Education/teaching.
Real Interests: Traveling, trying new things/foods, spending time outside, anything with a engine, and quality time with my family and friends.
Why did you choose UH?: I had the awesome opportunity to do an AI at UH. All of the residents and faculty were fantastic and took the time to teach and make me feel like member of the team. The feeling of camaraderie throughout the classes and specialties was very evident. The cases were diverse and I got to see pathologies that I thought I’d only see in textbooks. UH has plenty of fellowship opportunities as well, so it would be great to stay and further my education here without having to move my family. Cleveland itself it a great place as well; it always has something going on or new things to try and the cost of living is great on a resident's salary.

Richard K. Jordan, MD
Hometown: Jackson Township, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Miami University
Medical School: The University of Toledo College of Medicine
Hometown: Jackson Township, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution: Miami University
Medical School: The University of Toledo College of Medicine
Career Interests: Academic, Fellowship TBD
Real Interests: Playing golf poorly, Anything outdoors, The Office, Cleveland sports and John Grisham novels
Why did you choose UH?: I had a great experience during my interview, I felt like I really connected with the residents and the attendings. The early exposure to anesthesia during our intern year and the early exposure to subspecialties during the CA-1 year. Proximity to family.

Adam M. Lepkowsky, MD
Hometown: Hauppauge, NY
Undergraduate Institution: Binghamton University
Medical School: The Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Hometown: Hauppauge, NY
Undergraduate Institution: Binghamton University
Medical School: The Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Career Interests: Chronic and Acute Pain
Real Interests: Anything sports, snowboarding, painting
Why did you choose UH?: Best Interview Experience. Faculty that are leaders in the field, who are enthusiastic about teaching and getting residents involved. You get exposure to the many fields of Anesthesiology in the Clinical Base Year, so you can pursue fellowship interests as early.

Wana Mathieu, MD
Hometown: Phoenix, AZ & Gonaives, Haiti
Undergraduate Institution: University of Arizona
Medical School: The Ohio State University COM
Hometown: Phoenix, AZ & Gonaives, Haiti
Undergraduate Institution: University of Arizona
Medical School: The Ohio State University COM
Career Interests: Chronic Pain
Real Interests: adventures, new experiences, my nieces and nephews, eating delicious food
Why did you choose UH?: After my interview, I felt that I would be supported by faculty and residents in my training and my personal development. I knew that I would be expose to diverse experiences and be comfortable after graduation managing patients on my own. UH was a great fit for me.

Zil Patel, DO
Hometown: Bradenton, FL
Undergraduate Institution: University of Miami
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine – Bradenton
Hometown: Bradenton, FL
Undergraduate Institution: University of Miami
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine – Bradenton
Career Interests: Critical care
Real Interests: tennis, basketball, working out, baking, reading, and sleeping
Why did you choose UH?: Ever since my interview day, I knew this program was my “perfect fit.” I was blown away by the strong camaraderie between the residents, the faculty's enthusiasm to teach, and the overall positive and welcoming atmosphere. This is a dynamic program that truly values and listens to its residents, and that was evident from the beginning. Cleveland is also a great city! It has everything you find in other major cities (sports, food, art, theater, culture, etc.), but it's also super affordable to live here…win-win situation!

Kareem B. Rasul, MD
Hometown: Hilliard, OH
Undergraduate Institution: The Ohio State University
Medical School: University of Cincinnati
Hometown: Hilliard, OH
Undergraduate Institution: The Ohio State University
Medical School: University of Cincinnati
Career Interests: Education/teaching. Various aspects of anesthesia including interventional pain, cardiothoracic, and regional anesthesia.
Real Interests: Traveling, weightlifting, hanging out with friends, trying new restaurants.
Why did you choose UH?: Strong program with great intensive care and pain medicine experiences. Strong desire to stay in Ohio and to get lots of hands-on experience at a hospital focused on resident learning. Great program director in Mada Helou with high emphasis on improving the program year-to-year.

Elizabeth N. Scheiderer, MD
Hometown: Sheffield Village, OH
Undergraduate Institution:The Ohio State University
Medical School: Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine
Hometown: Sheffield Village, OH
Undergraduate Institution: The Ohio State University
Medical School: Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine
Career Interests: Cardiothoracic anesthesia, POCUS
Real Interests: Baking, especially chocolate desserts. Hiking, running, biking, ballet. Hanging out with my sweet husband.
Why did you choose UH?: University Hospitals is close to my parents and siblings, so I'll get more quality time with them! The residents were nice and welcoming on interview day, they appeared to enjoy the program.

Danielle Schepperley, MD
Hometown: Michigan
Undergraduate: Michigan State University
Medical School: Michigan State University
Hometown: Michigan
Undergraduate Institution: Michigan State University
Medical School: Michigan State University
Career Interests: I hope to do an ICU fellowship and split my time between the OR and the ICU in the future!
Real Interests: I love to spend my time traveling and going on hikes with my dog!
Why did you choose UH?: The people are what really drew me to UH. It was very important to me to be in a program with supportive residents and faculty, which was very clearly the environment at UH.

Sameam Shahrestani, DO
Hometown: Cincinnati, OH
Undergraduate Institution: University of Cincinnati
Medical School: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Cincinnati, OH
Undergraduate Institution: University of Cincinnati
Medical School: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: Pain management, critical care, medical education
Real Interests: Traveling, tennis, volleyball, soccer, spending time with family/friends
Why did you choose UH?: Excellent faculty, close to home, strong training opportunities

Sharon H. Tran, DO
Hometown: Alhambra, CA
Undergraduate Institution: University of California, Los Angeles
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton
Hometown: Alhambra, CA
Undergraduate Institution: University of California, Los Angeles
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton
Career Interests: Pediatric Anesthesia. Academic mentorship and outreach to aspiring healthcare professional. Feel free to ask me questions!
Real Interests: Olympic weightlifting. Also, pets! If you have a fur baby, I will 100% ask for pictures and cuddles.
Why did you choose UH?: UH was by far my favorite interview. I love how well all the residents and attendings get along. Everybody is incredibly talented, friendly, patient, and willing to help no matter how “dumb” the question or ridiculous the request. Same goes for our colleagues in other departments. We have a huge variety of cases: OB, pain, transplants, peds, critical care, plastics – you name it. I am fully confident I will finish this program as a well-rounded anesthesiologist prepared for the craziest cases.
Class of 2025

Sanam Babbar
Hometown: Flower Mound, Texas
Undergraduate Institution: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Medical School: University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
Hometown: Flower Mound, Texas
Undergraduate Institution: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Medical School: University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
Career Interests: Currently have interests in acute pain, chronic pain, OB anesthesia
Real Interests: Cooking, baking, dancing, singing, Zumba, traveling, puppies, food
Why did you choose UH?: Wonderful faculty with a vested interest in making their residents competent and excellent anesthesiologists. And I wanted to experience living in the north! Cleveland is a fun, vibrant city to train in.

Huda Ahmad Saimaldahar, MBBS
Hometown: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Undergraduate Institution: N\A
Medical school: King Abdulaziz University
Hometown: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Undergraduate Institution: N\A
Medical school: King Abdulaziz University
Career Interests: Pain management, Pediatric anesthesia, and Medical education/simulation.
Real Interests: Baking, singing, and spending time with my family and friends.
Why did you choose UH?: A strong program with great faculty and wide exposure to various subspecialties and cases.

Jaime Freiburger, DO
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Undergraduate Institution: Iowa State University
Medical school: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Undergraduate Institution: Iowa State University
Medical school: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: So far I like cardiothoracic intensive care, but things can change in 4 years! We’ll see!
Real Interests: Cooking, traveling the world, hiking/anything outdoors, horseback riding, Marvel movies, napping, and hosting with my husband, Kyle.
Why did you choose UH?: The people. I jived with everyone I met and loved how confident everyone was in their training here. I also loved the variety of medicine I saw in the Cleveland patient population, and I LOVE Cleveland! It’s a hidden gem for sure.

Samuel Gardner, MD
Hometown: Chagrin Falls, OH
Undergraduate Institution: The College of Wooster
Medical school: Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine
Hometown: Chagrin Falls, OH
Undergraduate Institution: The College of Wooster
Medical school: Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine
Career Interests: Critical Care Medicine is the best!
Real Interests: my dog, skiing in the winter, camping, splitting wood, fishing, woodworking, books, and animal tracking
Why did you choose UH?: Doctor Pesa is the greatest APD in the world!

Kavita Kandaswamy
Hometown: San Francisco, California
Undergraduate Institution: University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC Canada
Medical School: American University of Antigua College of Medicine
Hometown: San Francisco, California
Undergraduate Institution: University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC Canada
Medical School: American University of Antigua College of Medicine
Career Interests: Pediatrics J
Real Interests: Houseplants, cats, kayaking and comedy shows.
Why did you choose UH?: This program has some of everything!. There’s an attached Rainbow Babies&Children’s hospital, Level 1 Trauma, Anesthesiology-led ICU, great caseload and variety ICU plus Cleveland is relaxing city to live in!

Boris Ladyzhensky, MD
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Undergraduate Institution: Vaughn College of Aeronautics
Medical school: University of Duisburg-Essen (Germany)
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Undergraduate Institution: Vaughn College of Aeronautics
Medical school: University of Duisburg-Essen (Germany)
Career Interests: Probably cardiac anesthesia and critical care. Taking care of the sickest patients and being a mentor for the next generation of anesthesiologists.
Real Interests: Playing with my kids, riding motorcycles, anything to do with planes, discovering new EDM tracks to shuffle to.
Why did you choose UH?: Having done an AI here, I saw firsthand the warm relationship the residents had with each other as well as the program leadership. You get great training in a supportive environment with a low cost of living. What more do you want?!

Kelsey R. Lawrence, DO, MBS
Hometown: Fort Collins, Colorado
Undergraduate Institution: Colorado State University
Medical School: Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Fort Collins, Colorado
Undergraduate Institution: Colorado State University
Medical School: Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: Chronic Pain, Medical Education, Quality Improvement
Real Interests: Drawing, Beekeeping, Horseback riding, Running, Traveling, and spending time with my Husband and Dog!
Why did you choose UH?: I wasn’t able to visit in person during COVID-19, but my first impression of UH was that they were a well-rounded program with lots of types of cases that would help me become a strong anesthesiologist, and it also seemed like the people there really enjoyed being there! Also, I had a great interview experience with the program director and faculty who were all very energetic and passionate about the field of anesthesiology.

Efrain Montero Nieves, MD
Hometown: Ponce, PR
Undergraduate Institution: Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Medical school: Ponce Health Sciences University
Hometown: Ponce, PR
Undergraduate Institution: Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Medical school: Ponce Health Sciences University
Career Interests: Regional Anesthesia
Real Interests: travel, beach, sports, craft beer
Why did you choose UH?: Diversity in patient population as well as within the institution. Amazing faculty and co-residents!

Bradley Nowosielski
Hometown: Erie, PA
Undergraduate Institution: Gannon University
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (Erie, PA)
Hometown: Erie, PA
Undergraduate Institution: Gannon University
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (Erie, PA)
Career Interests: Undecided
Real Interests: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Exercise, and anything outdoors!
Why did you choose UH?: I chose UH because of the warm, welcoming leadership and camaraderie among the residents. I was confident that UH would offer a positive learning environment and provide me with the exposure necessary to become an excellent physician.

Ricki Pad, DO
Hometown: West Bloomfield, MI
Undergraduate Institution: University of Michigan
Medical school: Michigan State College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: West Bloomfield, MI
Undergraduate Institution: University of Michigan
Medical school: Michigan State College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: Acute pain, POCUS, and exploring the various subspecialties of anesthesiology!
Real Interests: dogs, trying new restaurants, hiking, biking, baking desserts, and spending time with family and friends
Why did you choose UH?: I loved my interview with UH. I knew that coming to UH would provide me with excellent experiences and I would have a strong support system. There is a great sense of community between the residents and faculty. Everyone is enthusiastic and willing to teach!

Kenneth Phi, MD
Hometown: Findlay, OH
Undergraduate Institution: THE Ohio State University
Medical school: THE Ohio State University College of Medicine
Hometown: Findlay, OH
Undergraduate Institution: THE Ohio State University
Medical school: THE Ohio State University College of Medicine
Career Interests: Cardiac Anesthesia, Regional Anesthesia
Real Interests: Eating, video games (COD, fortnite etc.), sports, guitar
Why did you choose UH?: In the virtual interview season, I had the best vibe and feeling from UH. The people made me feel like I belonged here and I knew that I was gonna be able to get phenomenal training and preparation for fellowship or independent practice.

Natasha Samanich
Hometown: Rocky River, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution: University of Southern California
Medical School: The University of Toledo
Hometown: Rocky River, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution: University of Southern California
Medical School: The University of Toledo
Career Interests: Current interests include global health, regional anesthesia, chronic pain, and cardiac anesthesia
Real Interests: Hiking, traveling, sailing & all summer Lake Erie activities, cooking, wine, & walks with my pup
Why did you choose UH?: The people! Even via zoom interviews, I could tell that this was a well-rounded program that truly cares about its residents and their education. That became even more apparent throughout my intern year. And as an added bonus, coming home to Cleveland meant being close to family and friends.

Maddi Tenbarge
Hometown: Fishers, IN
Undergraduate Institution: Indiana University Bloomington
Medical School: Indiana University School of Medicine
Hometown: Fishers, IN
Undergraduate Institution: Indiana University Bloomington
Medical School: Indiana University School of Medicine
Career Interests: Critical Care
Real Interests: Cooking ridiculously extravagant meals (especially for my co-residents), backcountry hiking/camping, playing piano, 70s-80s music record collecting, biking, watercolor painting, and re-watching Schitt’s Creek on loop.
Why did you choose UH?: Despite a season of virtual interviews, I could tell immediately that UH was the fit for me, so much so that I told my family and friends immediately after my interview that this was the program for me. Personality fit was a big component and everyone was so incredibly friendly and helpful. I knew I wanted to do a critical care medicine fellowship as well, so I was especially excited to match into a program that had combined anesthesia and critical care track.

Kaylie Young
Hometown: Glasgow, KY
Undergraduate Institution: University of Louisville
Medical School: University of Louisville
Hometown: Glasgow, KY
Undergraduate Institution: University of Louisville
Medical School: University of Louisville
Career Interests: General Anesthesia
Real Interests: Spending time with my dog, art, sleeping
Why did you choose UH?: The city is fantastic, the weather is fantastic, and the people are the best I’ve ever met. Shout-out to my co-residents for being my new family and always making me laugh.