Our Residents
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!

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.
Class of 2026

Michelle Adamczyk, MD
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution: University of Kentucky
Medical School: Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio
Undergraduate Institution: University of Kentucky
Medical School: Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine
Career Interests: Currently I like Cardiothoracic and Peds, but we’ll see!
Real Interests: Hanging outdoors, rollerblading, biking, hiking, indoor cycling, painting, watching TV!
Why did you choose UH?: UH has a great diversity of cases for strong anesthesia training across the spectrum: trauma, transplants, cardiac, peds, everything I was looking for! Plus, everyone I met on my interview day and the meet and greet was so easy to talk to and had such a family feeling. Of course, as a native Clevelander I was happy to return to my awesome hometown!

Lama Almadhyani
Hometown: Riyadh
Undergraduate Institution: King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences
Medical School: King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences
Hometown: Riyadh
Undergraduate Institution: King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences
Medical School: King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences
Career Interests: undecided
Real Interests: Traveling, yoga, meditation and spending time with family and friends
Why did you choose UH?: Great faculty and a strong program, felt like training here will prepare me well for the future

Lidija Barbaric
Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA
Undergraduate Institution: Chatham University
Medical School: Carle Illinois College of Medicine
Hometown: Pittsburgh, PA
Undergraduate Institution: Chatham University
Medical School: Carle Illinois College of Medicine
Career Interests: Critical Care, Pediatric Anesthesia, Human Rights Advocacy
Real Interests: Piano, ballroom dance, figure skating, watercolors, coffee and hanging out with my dog Toby who is currently living rent free with my parents.
Why did you choose UH?: The leadership and residents really drew me in with their warmth, honesty and enthusiasm for things both in and outside of medicine.

Mitchell Best
Hometown: Cortland, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Youngstown State University
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University
Hometown: Cortland, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Youngstown State University
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University
Career Interests: Chronic Pain
Real Interests: Hiking, boating, any and all sports (go Steelers), movies, spending time with my dogs and cats, video games
Why did you choose UH?: Great program with diverse patient cases, camaraderie among residents, and faculty enthusiastic to teach. Happy to serve the region that raised me and has invested so much into my education and training.

Celine Chedid
Hometown: Batroun, Lebanon
Undergraduate Institution: University of Balamand
Medical School: University of Balamand
Hometown: Batroun, Lebanon
Undergraduate Institution: University of Balamand
Medical School: University of Balamand
Career Interests: Pediatric anesthesia, Regional anesthesia
Real Interests: Swimming, hiking, spending time outdoors, enjoying my time with family and friends.
Why did you choose UH? Friendly atmosphere, supportive program leadership and great residents. After spending a year in Cleveland doing pediatric anesthesia, I consider it home.

Fatema Elmasry, MD
Hometown: Columbus, OH
Undergraduate Institution: The Ohio State University
Medical School: University of Toledo
Hometown: Columbus, OH
Undergraduate Institution: The Ohio State University
Medical School: University of Toledo
Career Interests: For now general anesthesia but keeping an open mind
Real Interests: Deep conversations, cute coffee shops, quality time with the people I love, hosting, going on walks, the beach, bubble tea
Why did you choose UH?: I fell in love after the interview. Everyone was very welcoming and genuine, whether it was the residents or faculty. I knew this is the type of environment that would help me grow on a professional and personal level.

Amal Feiroze Farouk
Hometown: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia/ Colombo, Sri Lanka
Undergraduate: Alfaisal University
Medical School: Alfaisal University
Hometown: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia/ Colombo, Sri Lanka
Undergraduate: Alfaisal University
Medical School: Alfaisal University
Career Interests: Dedicated Patient Care, Quality improvement, Critical Care, Medical Education, Leadership, Research.
Real Interests: Blossoming and charging the soul, mind, and body.
Why did you choose UH?: I chose UH because I saw a bright future for myself at this distinguished program and instantly felt like I belonged at every instance from the PD to faculty to residents etc. I found home.

Morgan Keegan
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Undergraduate Institution: Penn State
Medical School: Perelman SOM at the University of Pennsylvania
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Undergraduate Institution: Penn State
Medical School: Perelman SOM at the University of Pennsylvania
Career Interests: Critical Care or Pain
Real Interests: cooking, baking, hiking, coffee, going to farmers markets, pelotoning, happy hours
Why did you choose UH?: It's cliche, but really loved everyone I met on my interview. I got a very strong sense that the APDs, PD, and Chair were all extremely supportive and that the residents were truly happy here.

Joseph Kirollos, MD
Hometown: Kinston, NC
Undergraduate Institution: Stanford University
Medical School: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Hometown: Kinston, NC
Undergraduate Institution: Stanford University
Medical School: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Career Interests: Undecided. Possibly cardiac or regional anesthesia/acute pain.
Real Interests: Soccer, hiking, swimming, watching movies, reading, board games, video games, chilling with family and friends
Why did you choose UH?: Incredible culture of residents and faculty, great program leadership, good variety and volume of cases, some family and friends nearby.

Abhi Kudaravalli
Hometown: Huntington, NY
Undergraduate Institution: York College of Pennsylvania
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Huntington, NY
Undergraduate Institution: York College of Pennsylvania
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: Chronic pain
Real Interests: Exploring the food scene in Cleveland, trying out new recipes in the kitchen, traveling (always in search of my next trip!)
Why did you choose UH?: My Sub-I showed me that UH has everything I was looking for in a residency: Friendly residents, energetic faculty, and an incredibly supportive program leadership!

Nicholas Olson
Hometown: Buffalo, Minnesota
Undergraduate Institution: Concordia College
Medical School: Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Buffalo, Minnesota
Undergraduate Institution: Concordia College
Medical School: Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: Still deciding – Cardiac, Peds Cardiac, and Chronic Pain are all areas that I would like to explore.
Real Interests: Traveling, backpacking, camping, cooking, scuba diving, water skiing, downhill skiing, and exploring the local parks
Why did you choose UH?: I did a few away rotations my fourth year of medical school and I can honestly say that UH/Case Western had some of the best clinically trained residents. UH does all of the transplants, trauma, and it isn’t saturated with fellows. Not only did residents actually seem happy, they were close with each other and the faculty. The pay is great, the city has a friendly Midwest culture, Cleveland gets lots of snow (which I enjoy), and it is centrally located to friends and family.

Nicholas Prescurea, MD
Hometown: Cleveland OH
Undergraduate Institution: University of Akron
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University
Hometown: Cleveland OH
Undergraduate Institution: University of Akron
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University
Career Interests: Interventional Pain Management & Healthcare Management/Leadership
Real Interests: Fishing, Fitness, Hiking, Cooking
Why did you choose UH?: I had two goals when searching for a residency program: stay in Cleveland and be at the best program. From my first day I immediately felt welcomed and valued by everyone associated with UH Anesthesia. I truly believe this is the place to be for anyone looking to become an outstanding anesthesiologist but also a well-rounded individual in all aspects of life.

Bryan Grubbs, DO
Hometown: Tampa, Florida
Undergraduate Institution: University of Florida
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University – DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Tampa, Florida
Undergraduate Institution: University of Florida
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University – DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: I am not sure if I will be pursuing a fellowship, but I will be serving in the United States Air Force after residency
Real Interests: Traveling, hiking, outdoor sports, watching soccer and spending time with my wife and kids
Why did you choose UH?: For great training, camaraderie and the family atmosphere.

Robert Webber, MD
Hometown: Lanesboro, MN
Undergraduate Institution: University of Maryland-University College
Medical School: Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS)
Hometown: Lanesboro, MN
Undergraduate Institution: University of Maryland-University College
Medical School: Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS)
Career Interests: I am excited about everything at the moment. I will be practicing medicine in the United States Air Force after my time at UH and joining a Critical Care Air Transport (CCAT) Team or Humanitarian Relief Team sounds exciting!
Real Interests: Traveling the world with my family, relaxing and watching movies/tv shows (even Cocomelon), golf (whenever I get the chance), and working on my home and car (I am a BMW fanatic, especially M cars).
Why did you choose UH?: Camaraderie. Whether it’s junior residents, senior residents, fellows, or attendings, everyone is so friendly, helpful, and willing to go the extra mile to make you and your family feel welcome. It’s an amazing atmosphere and I feel thankful every day I am at UH!!!

Spencer P. Willette, DO
Hometown: Dublin, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Miami University
Medical School: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Dublin, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Miami University
Medical School: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: Regional Anesthesia, Global Health
Real Interests: Sports, exercise, guitar, 90’s R&B, camping
Why did you choose UH?: So many reasons! But in brief, the people and the mission of UH resonated strongly with my values and ambitions. During my rotation, I was particularly impressed with the faculty’s devotion to teaching and the seamless camaraderie among the residents. It truly felt like home and a place where I could thrive and build meaningful connections with my patients and colleagues.

Victoria Zysik
Hometown: Perrysburg, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Wittenberg University
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hometown: Perrysburg, OH
Undergraduate Institution: Wittenberg University
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career Interests: I’m interested in pediatric anesthesia, cardiac anesthesia, and medical education! I can see myself teaching future residents when I am an attending one day.
Real Interests: True crime podcasts, playing lacrosse, yoga, painting/drawing/ceramics and anything where I get to be creative, reading murder mystery novels, watching movies and hanging out with my family and friends!
Why did you choose UH?: UH made an amazing impression on me during interview season. Our program director, Dr. Helou was so warm and welcoming and made me want to be a part of her program. The residents were so friendly, seemed like they got great training, and match into competitive fellowships every year. I wanted to join a program where I felt like a part of a team and I couldn’t be happier to have matched here!