PGY4 - Chief Resident

Amy Courtney
- Year in ProgramPRG4 - CHIEF RESIDENT
- HometownWoodstock, NY
- UndergraduateGeorgetown University
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopsthic Medicine
- Interests/hobbiesbaking, running, hiking, petting any and all dogs, stand up comedy, music
- Favorite place in MaineOld Orchard Beach
- Medical interestsmedical education, critical care, palliative care
- Favorite weekend destinationBoston - especially the Boston Tea Party Museum, where you can try the teas that were thrown into the harbor during the revolution, and, if you wish, throw some tea into the harbor yourself (it is delightful)
- Favorite Maine activityhiking!
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?The people!

Yusuf Ebrahim
- Year in ProgramPRG4 - CHIEF RESIDENT
- HometownPortsmouth, New Hampshire
- UndergraduateUniversity of New Hampshire
- Medical SchoolGeisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
PGY3

Alessandra Daskalakis
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownSan Francisco, CA
- UndergraduateUniversity of California, Los Angeles
- Medical SchoolMichigan State University College of Human Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesKayaking, skiing, camping. I also love reading science fiction and fantasy!
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandVery much looking forward to figuring that out!
- Medical InterestsHospital medicine, health access, community outreach
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI worked at a community health center in San Francisco providing free and low-cost medical, gynecological, mental health and gender-affirming care.
- Best/worse job: Former Children’s Lead at Barnes and Noble – crazy, but great!
- Why Maine Medical Center?My wife and I wanted to be somewhere where we could easily enjoy the outdoors while also being close to the ocean and family again. But what really sold me was my experience during my acting internship: the camaraderie between the attendings and residents, the variety of pathology, and the patient advocacy I was able to be part of each day. It made me excited to learn more about the community in Portland and become more involved inside and outside the hospital. The food scene here is the cherry on top.

Erin Eidsness
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownMoorhead, MN
- UndergraduateConcordia College Moorhead, MN
- Medical SchoolUniversity of North Dakota
- Interests / HobbiesPlaying soccer, hiking with my husband, checking out new breweries, and going for walks with my dog.
- Medical InterestsEverything, that's why I chose Internal Medicine! I do have specific interests in POCUS, Geriatrics, and Critical Care medicine.
- Why Maine Medical Center?My husband and I wanted to explore new landscapes outside of the Midwest while also going to a program that embodied our home values. We are excited to be here and to hopefully experience a more moderate winter!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aMiddle or high school science teacher. I would follow in the footsteps of my family, who are all educators.

Patrick Fleming
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownNorwell, MA
- UndergraduateNortheastern University
- Medical SchoolFrank H. Netter SOM at Quinnipiac University
- Interests / HobbiesMusic (playing drums, collecting records, college/independent radio), various outdoor activities with my family
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandSo far, probably Isa
- Personal quoteSkiing the local mountains
- Medical InterestsInfectious disease, endocrinology, preventive medicine, primary care
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI worked in biotech research for about 10 years.
- Why Maine Medical Center?It’s a great hospital to train at, it’s a great city to live in, and everyone I meet at MMC is amazing. I haven’t come across anywhere else like it.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aSession musician in the studio
Cani Greg Garsuta
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownBohol, Philippines
- UndergraduateHoly Name University
- Medical SchoolUNECOM
- Interests / HobbiesRunning and hiking
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandPai Men Miyaki
- Personal quoteExploring Maine’s coastal towns
- Favorite Place in MaineBar Harbor, Acadia
- Medical InterestsPulmonary Critical Care, General Internal Medicine, Veterans Care
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI was an Enlisted Soldier in the US Army
- Best/worse jobCraziest – being a housekeeper in NYC, Best- being a soldier, I get to work with the best team in the world.
- Why Maine Medical Center?During my first week of acting internship, I knew this was the place I would want to work and learn. I’m surprised by how approachable the attendings and staffs were and how they focused on clinical reasoning in our learning. I immediately felt the camaraderie among the residents was akin to what I felt when I was in the Army. Also, I fell in love with Maine, and I love serving Mainers!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aMarine biologist and a carpenter and maybe own a power wash cleaning company!
Anna Gates
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownMechanic Falls, ME
- UndergraduateFranklin & Marshall College, University of Missouri – Kansas City
- Medical SchoolTufts University School of Medicine Maine Track
- Interests / HobbiesRunning, cooking, playing with my dogs, reading, exploring local trails and state parks
- Favorite Place in MaineIt’s a tie between Crescent or Willard Beach at sunset, or snowed in at home with my husband, our dogs, and lots of coffee.
- Medical InterestsOncology, Medical Education
- Why Maine Medical Center?Having grown up in Maine, it is a true privilege to learn from and care for patients in the place that made me who I am. I am so happy to be continuing my medical training in a collaborative and supportive atmosphere full of people who highly value teaching, learning, and the best quality patient care.

Sarah Gensheimer
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownBaltimore, Maryland
- Medical SchoolJohns Hopkins University School of Medicine
- Interests / Hobbieshome renovation projects, sci-fi/ fantasy novels, hockey, biking, hiking, camping, gardening, getting out on the water, long conversation over an excellent meal, adventures with my husband, kids, and pup.
- Favorite Place in MainePopham beach, New Meadows river/inlet, Owl’s head light house
- Medical Interestsprimary care, addiction medicine, women’s health, mental health; affordable housing policy, primary care delivery, population health
- What did you do before Medical Schoollived in NYC and San Francisco, working for a nonprofit providing a health education program in schools across the country
- Why Maine Medical Center?MMC offers exactly what I was looking for in a residency program – a kind, collegial community, down-to-earth residents and program leadership, and excellent, well-rounded clinical training. The program is thoughtfully designed, with a 4+2 block schedule alternating inpatient and outpatient weeks, and an academic half day every week to allow the mental space for focused learning. I also couldn’t think of a better way to do wellness in residency than to do residency in Maine! It’s beautiful, with amazing food, community, arts, and of course the outdoors. I am grateful to call this place home.

Kenleigh Hebel
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownMiddletown, Rhode Island
- UndergraduateUniversity of Rhode Island
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England COM
- Interests / HobbiesAnything outdoors, hiking, going to the beach, cooking, sea glass collecting, board games, reading, spending time with family and friends
- Personal quoteBeach/water activities then eating all of the delicious food
- Medical InterestsHospital medicine, critical care, patient advocacy
- Favorite weekend destinationBack home in Rhode Island
- Why Maine Medical Center?After completing a 4th year sub-I at MMC, I felt so welcomed and supported by everyone I interacted with. MMC has such an encouraging environment, and I knew I would be surrounded by amazing people while getting a fantastic education. I think the program size is perfect for me and after attending medical school in Maine, I knew I wanted to stay in the Portland area. MMC is in a location where I can enjoy my time outside of medicine which is very important to me!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aWildlife conservationist

Harrison Homer
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownWatchung, NJ
- UndergraduateTufts University
- Medical SchoolTufts University School of Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesRunning, hiking, cooking/baking, board games, mindfulness
- Medical InterestsEverything! I’m excited to dive deeper and explore different subspecialties throughout my medical training.
- Why Maine Medical Center?When looking at programs I was searching for a place with a strong community of people with diverse interests who would challenge me, support me, and have fun with me both within the hospital and outside of it. Those I have met at MMC so far have exceeded my expectations and I am excited to work side by side with such incredible people.

Liam John
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownEssex, VT
- UndergraduateSt. Olaf College
- Medical SchoolUniversity of Vermont Larner College of Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesCycling (all kinds), backcountry and Nordic skiing, playing chamber music
- Favorite Place in MaineCarrabassett Valley
- Medical InterestsRemote monitoring and telehealth for chronic disease management
- Favorite weekend destinationAnywhere by bike
- What did you do before Medical SchoolCoached cross-country skiing and worked in a vascular research lab
- Why Maine Medical Center?Wanted UVM vibes but a new city and the ocean is a bonus!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aentrepreneur

Taylor Mezoian
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownOld Orchard Beach, ME
- UndergraduateProvidence College
- Medical SchoolTufts University School of Medicine – Maine Track!
- Interests / HobbiesSpending time with family, going out to dinner in Portland (or anywhere!), cooking, admiring any dog I cross paths with, DIY home projects
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandOh my goodness, so many!! Scales, Central Provisions, Regards, Solo Italiano, Honey Paw, Wayside Tavern, Eventide… there are probably a couple more that I missed!
- Medical InterestsHospital Medicine, Clinical Reasoning, Cardiology
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI worked as a clinical research coordinator in ALS research at MGH.
- Best/worse jobI grew up in a family restaurant and waitressed for many years. I think waiting tables can be good, bad, ugly, and crazy all at once!
- Why Maine Medical Center?I love Maine Medical Center. As a Tufts Maine Track student, I had the privilege of getting to work with the incredible residents and attendings at MMC throughout medical school, and I was always inspired by the kindness and dedication to teaching I encountered. In addition to MMC being a wonderful place for medical education, Maine is a beautiful place to live, and I could not be happier to continue being a part of this community.

Avery Pellnat
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownStuyvesant, New York
- UndergraduateUAlbany
- Medical SchoolUpstate Medical University
- Interests / HobbiesWeight lifting, baking, cooking, board games, TV, video games, reading, and doing some outdoorsy stuff with my gf & dog!
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandSo far Duckfat, but I’m still exploring!
- Medical InterestsHospitalist Medicine and Critical Care Medicine.
- What did you do before Medical School: I was originally working on a career as a pilot, but switched to pre-med. After undergrad I took some gap years while working in a hospital and volunteering.
- Best/worse jobBest job with the best bosses I’ve ever had was scooping ice cream in Hudson, NY. Craziest (but still great) was working in a hospital as a nurse’s aide. Worst job was being a waiter.
- Why Maine Medical Center?I LOVED the interview here, got a VERY good vibe from the residents and staff. Also, my gf and I absolutely LOVED Portland when we came to visit, lots of great food and things to do!
- Celebrity I most resembleDanny DeVito

Rosellen Provost Shahidi
- Year in ProgramPRG3
- HometownToms Brook, VA and Winchester, VA
- UndergraduateVCU College of Humanities
- Medical SchoolVCU School of Medicine
- Interests / Hobbiescooking, baking, reading, hiking, watching TV and movies, enriching the life of my dog, taking pictures
- Medical InterestsSubstance use and associated sequelae, rural medicine, procedures, occupational exposures
- Favorite weekend destinationBug Light
- Why Maine Medical Center?I’m here for the RIMM program’s unique combination of learning in a large tertiary care and in a smaller rural setting with fewer resources. I’m hoping to come out of residency well-rounded and ready to practice internal medicine in any setting.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aChemist
PGY2

Samuel Briggs
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownYork, ME
- Medical SchoolTouro College of Osteopathic Medicine -Middletown
- Interests / HobbiesGuitar, mountain biking, live music
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandCentral Provisions
- Personal quoteMountain biking
- Medical InterestsOncology, Preventative Medicine, Health Policy, Education
- What did you do before Medical SchoolClinical Research at MSKCC!
- Why Maine Medical Center?It was a dream of mine to come back to Maine and I feel so fortunate to be a part of this program. My experience rotating at MMC during my fourth year sealed the deal for me. My teams were tight-knit and supportive, education was always a priority, and the patients were wonderful. Teams at MMC were unique in their focus on getting to know patients beyond their brief stay in the hospital. We worked with them and their families to make sure they had the support and the resources they needed to succeed after they left.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aMusician
Michael Cooper
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownLewisburg, PA
- Medical SchoolEdward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine -Virginia Campus
- Interests / HobbiesSkiing, cooking (mainly Italian food), playing/watching soccer, gaming
- Personal quoteSkiing in the winter/beaches in the summer
- Favorite Place in MainePortland!
- Medical InterestsHospital medicine, critical care, POCUS
- Why Maine Medical Center?Residency at MMC gives you all the advantages and resources of training at a large tertiary center, but with a genuinely welcoming and supportive culture that is rare to find. Plus, you get to live in the most beautiful state in the country!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be astay at home cat-dad
Rachel Cutting
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownCambridge, MA
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Katie Florescu
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownMerritt Island, FL
- Medical SchoolUniversity of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville
- Interests / Hobbiesall things outdoors, cooking & baking, house plants, reading, coffee & tea
- Medical Interestsmedical education, medical humanities
Hina Hashmi
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownVeazie, ME
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesHiking, traveling, cooking, henna, coffee shop hopping, spending time with family and friends.
- Personal quoteHiking and nature walks
- Favorite Place in MaineThe East End in Portland especially for sunset, Higgins Beach
- Medical InterestsSocial determinants of health, advocacy, primary care, preventative medicine
- What did you do before Medical SchoolMaine is home! I completed some of my third and fourth year rotations at Maine Med, and was always in awe of how knowledgeable, kind and collaborative residents and preceptors were. I am excited to be part of a supportive, teaching-centered program that also happens to be in the best little city.

Kailey Kowalski
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownAlbany, NY
- Medical SchoolKansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesSpending time with my dog, skiing, playing soccer and eating
- Personal quoteSkiing
- Favorite Place in MaineSugarloaf, Eastern Prom
- Medical InterestsCardiology
- Favorite weekend destinationBoston or NYC, since most of my friends live there
- What did you do before Medical SchoolBreast cancer research at Dana-Farber
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aWork at a doggy daycare
Jia Liu
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownQueens, NY
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesCooking, Shopping, Movies, and Spending time with family/friends
- Medical InterestsGI, Pulmonary/Critical Care, Immigrant Health, Health Disparity
- Favorite weekend destinationAny Coffee Shop
- Why Maine Medical Center?The sense of community and camaraderie among the residents, coupled with the collaborative and supportive atmosphere at MMC. I want to train at a close-knit community-like program with the resources of a large academic center.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be agoing to culinary school
Karishma Patel
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownWaltham, MA
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesCooking, Traveling, Painting, Time With Family/Friends, Going To The Beach, Watching TV
- Personal quoteBeach days
- Favorite Place in MaineFortune's Rocks Beach
- Medical InterestsInternal Medicine, Public Health
- Favorite weekend destinationBoston, MA
- What did you do before Medical SchoolClinical Data Coordinator, Endoscopy/Colonoscopy Technician
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aChocolatier

Sydney Pickering
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownEmmaus, PA
- Medical SchoolEdward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine -Virginia Campus
- Interests / HobbiesNew York Times crossword puzzles, grass/sand volleyball, trivia, camping
- Favorite Place in MainePortland, Maine
- Medical InterestsGeriatrics
- Favorite weekend destinationDeer Valley, Pennsylvania
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI was a CNA in a nursing home and rehabilitation center
- Why Maine Medical Center?During my interview, someone said to me, "People who move to Maine never want to leave- we all love it here." It is so important to me that I train at a center which will not only challenge me as a physician, but also set me up for happiness in my personal life. My partner and I could envision a beautiful life in Maine, and the residents ahead of us shared stories that affirmed this vision. MMC also offered many astounding opportunities in geriatric medicine and research, a passion of mine. It seemed to us that all the pieces had fallen into place and MMC Internal Medicine was a perfect new home for us.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aStoryteller

Stephanie Quoss
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownSt. Louis, MO
- Medical SchoolRocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesI love anything outdoors! I like hiking, camping, snowboarding, skiing, painting, and yoga
- Medical InterestsHeme/Onc but mostly undecided
- Favorite weekend destinationAny lake house
- Best/worse jobBest - Working as a bartender
- Why Maine Medical Center?After doing my interview and doing more research about the program I thought that the residents seemed happy, the program and fellowship matches are excellent, and Portland looked like a fun place to live. My partners family also lives close to Portland so it allowed us to have a support system during residency. It checked all of the boxes for us!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aArtist/Glassblower
Courtney Sharp
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownPrairie Village, KS
- Medical SchoolUniversity of Kansas School of Medicine - Wichita
- Interests / HobbiesHiking and camping, getting outdoors. I also love reading fantasy novels at home and trying out new recipes in the kitchen.
- Favorite Place in MaineStill to be discovered!
- Medical InterestsInfectious Disease
- What did you do before Medical SchoolI studied Microbiology at Kansas State University.
- Best/worse jobBest - I spent a summer doing altitude sickness research in the mountains of northern New Mexico. I got to live in a cabin in the woods at 10,000 feet of elevation, and greet backpackers who were summiting a nearby peak every day. It was so much fun! I loved being in the backcountry and getting to meet folks from all across the country every day. It was really rewarding to see them enjoying the outdoors.
- Why Maine Medical Center?I was drawn to Maine Med’s supportive, close-knit learning environment. I also value their clinical excellence and their committed faculty. The broad learning opportunities at MMC produce very well-rounded Internal Medicine physicians. Living in Maine is perfect. I feel incredibly lucky to get to live near the ocean, the mountains, and so many incredible places to explore.
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aA laboratory microbiologist! I loved learning about microorganisms and doing research on them while I completed my undergraduate degree. Growing little guys in petri dishes was super cool, and I've always been fascinated by the complexity of our world at its smaller scales.
Charu Tiwari
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownFalmouth, ME
- Medical SchoolTufts University School of Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesApart from spending time with my family, friends, and our two rescue dogs, I love volunteering with the dogs at the animal shelter, watching reality TV, and listening to true crime podcasts.
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandGreen Elephant
- Personal quoteexploring Portland's restaurants
- Medical InterestsPrimary care, mentoring
- What did you do before Medical SchoolWorked as a CNA, scribed in an emergency department
- Why Maine Medical Center?I spent some of my third year and all of my fourth year at MMC. Everyone I worked with was so kind, and the environment was focused on learning and wellness. I also wanted to be close to my support system!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aI would work in animal rescue/welfare/rehabilitation

Nicholas Toma
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownWindber, PA
- UndergraduatePenn State
- Medical SchoolLMU DCOM
- Interests / HobbiesMaking music, art, coffee roasting, cats
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandTony's Donuts
- What did you do before Medical SchoolMany different jobs, but mostly recently, IT sysadmin
- Best/worse jobBest was maybe farmwork, worst was line cook
- Why Maine Medical Center?MMC struck me as being an academic center with a rich learning environment while maintaining a positive and supportive residency culture
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be abaker
Anastasia Tsomides
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownTroy, ME
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesHiking, skiing, traveling, trying new restaurants
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandToo many to choose! Scales and Taco Escobar are high on the list
- Personal quoteEating lobster rolls
- Favorite Place in MaineAnywhere near the ocean or on a lake!
- Medical InterestsHospitalist medicine, oncology
- Favorite weekend destinationSchoodic Lake in the summer and Sunday River in the winter
- What did you do before Medical SchoolWorked at Weill Cornell Medicine completing medical research with 3D tumor models
- Why Maine Medical Center?Growing up in Maine, I have always dreamed of being a doctor in my home state. After completing a 4th year Sub-I at MMC and working with all of the amazing attendings and residents, I knew Maine Med was the perfect mix of strong academic medicine and a kind, supportive environment!

Michael Wons
- Year in ProgramPRG2
- HometownWakefield, NH
- Medical SchoolRocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests / HobbiesBasketball, hiking, cooking + going out to new restaurants, snowboarding
- Favorite Place in MaineWells Beach - where I grew up going with my family.
- Favorite weekend destinationPine River Pond, the greatest lake to exist.
- Best/worse jobBest - Moving furniture in college at UNH.
- Why Maine Medical Center?The people, the place, and the new adventures that await in Maine all drew me to Maine Med!
- If I wasn't a doctor I would be aChef!
PGY1

Matthew Adolph
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownWinchester, Massachusetts
- UndergraduateUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst
- Medical SchoolCreighton University School of Medicine
- Interests/hobbiesRock climbing, lifting, traveling, cooking, pickleball, guitar
- Celebrity I most resembleSeveral people have told me I look like Pete Davidson.
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...Engineer or chef.
- Medical interestsHospital Medicine
- What did you do before medical school?Worked as a medical assistant at a dermatology office.
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?Lots of reasons! I initially became interested after working with a physician who trained here and had only great things to say about the program. Then I connected really well with the faculty and residents on interview day. My fiancée and I also love outdoor activity and Maine has lots of hiking, beaches, and skiing. It's also close to our friends and family.

Patrick Allen
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownMedford, MA
- UndergraduateBoston University
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests/hobbiesMovies, Boston sports, skiing, Russian literature, hiking
- Celebrity I most resembleSeth MacFarlane
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...Movie critic
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandThe Great Lost Bear
- Personal quote (100 words or less)These pretzels are making me thirsty!
- Favorite place in MaineBayview Beach in Saco
- Medical interestsHospital medicine, critical care
- Favorite weekend destinationNorthampton, MA
- Favorite Maine activityReading at the beach
- What did you do before medical school?I worked for two years as an ER tech at Lowell General Hospital and two years as a biopsy coordinator at Massachusetts General Hospital.
- Personal goalsContinuing to grow and strengthen my skills as a physician, starting a family with my wonderful fiancée
- Best/worst jobBoston tour guide / Seafood department at Stop & Shop
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?I had the opportunity to rotate at MaineHealth sites throughout 3rd and 4th year of medical school, and I loved how passionate and supportive the people were. This great learning environment was where I wanted to continue my medical training. I have also come to love the people of Maine and look forward to providing their care for years to come!

Abdul-Latif Armiyaw
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownAldie, Virginia and (Tamale, Ghana)
- UndergraduateBowdoin College
- Medical SchoolUniversity of Minnesota Medical School - Twin Cities
- Interests/hobbiesSoccer, travel, hiking and nature walks, going to the beach
- Celebrity I most resembleI have been told that I resemble Usher, but I just don't see it haha.
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...Athletic Trainer
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandI am yet to tryout Portland's great restaurants. I am looking forward to checking out The Grill Room and Bar.
- Favorite place in MaineBar Harbor
- Medical interestsFunctional and Integrative Medicine, Health Disparities and Social Determinants of Health
- Favorite Maine activityExploring the fall foliage and summer by the water
- What did you do before medical school?Clinical Research at the National Institutes of Health
- Personal goals1. Stay well and healthy in order to become the best physician I possibly can 2. Traveling the world and exploring diverse cultures and experiences
- Best/worst jobBest job I ever had was working as a Summer Camp Counselor in college.
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?I went to college in Maine so I was excited at the possibility of returning to Maine for Residency. I had a great interview day and knew I wanted to be part of the culture of collaboration, inclusivity, and excellence in the Internal Medicine Program at MaineHealth MMC.

Emmanuel Bimenyimana
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownSouth Portland, ME
- UndergraduateUNIVERSITY OF RWANDA, COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
- Medical SchoolUNIVERSITY OF RWANDA, COLLEGE OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
- Interests/hobbiesSOCCER AND SPORTS IN GENERAL I ENJOY DRIVING ASWELL GOING TO THE GYM AND I AM A SKI LEARNER
- Celebrity I most resembleDIEUDONNE MUNYENSHOZA ( RWANDAN MUSICIAN)
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...MILITARY
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandCHINESE
- Personal quote (100 words or less)"Life is about achieving your dreams while supporting others in theirs. Create a safe environment for growth, whether at work or elsewhere. Challenges should come from external forces, not from your peers."
- Favorite place in MaineYORK, MAINE
- Medical interestsSPORTS MED, GI EDUCATION RESEARCH
- Favorite weekend destinationANY SEASIDE AREA AS WELL AS AT THE PARK
- Favorite Maine activitySKIING AND SWIMMING
- What did you do before medical school?DIFFERENT CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES
- Personal goalsTO BE THE BEST AS I CAN AS A HEALTHCARE PROVIDER
- Best/worst jobBEST JOB: DOCTOR WORST JOB: PRODUCTION
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?IT'S MY WORKING AREA AND I LIKE THE MENTORSHIP IN THE PROGRAM

Benjamin Cerel
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownActon, MA
- UndergraduateTrinity College
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England
- Interests/hobbiesCollecting vinyl records, guitar, snowboarding, golf, cooking, hiking
- Celebrity I most resemblePenn Badgley
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...Teacher
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandScales
- Favorite place in MaineTwo Lights State Park
- Medical interestsCardiology, Heart Failure, Critical Care
- Favorite Maine activityGoing to Pine Point Beach
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?Maine Medical Center's culture is a warm, welcoming environment that fosters camaraderie amongst its faculty and trainees. These factors, combined with its high volume, high degree of acuity, world class education and location rendered it the perfect place for training!

Shane Flattery
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownBrewster, NY
- UndergraduateVassar College
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests/hobbieslacrosse, stand-up comedy
- Celebrity I most resembleA young Robin Williams
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...Sci-fi writer.
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandRun of the mill
- Personal quote (100 words or less)Its more complicated than it seems, but also more simple.
- Favorite place in MaineElizabeth Cape Lighthouse
- Medical interestsUndecided
- Favorite weekend destinationThe beach
- Favorite Maine activitySkiing
- What did you do before medical school?I was an EMT, lacrosse coach and a CNA
- Personal goalsI want to deliver great care!
- Best/worst jobDocument scanner was the worst job.
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?I loved my time in Maine while in medical school. My Sub-I in internal medicine was amazing and I loved the residents, doctors and the entire facility. I knew it would be a place I would be challenged to be a great doctor.

Chester Jacobs
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownYarmouth, ME
- UndergraduateBowdoin College
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests/hobbiesTelemark and Nordic Skiing, Biking, Sailing, Sea Kayaking
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...Avalanche Forecaster
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandChaval or Isa Bistro
- Favorite place in MaineSouthport Island
- Medical interestsRural Medicine, Hospital Medicine, Cardiology
- What did you do before medical school?Immunology Research, EMT, Ski Patrol
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?During my sub-internship rotations, I found Maine Medical Center to have a highly supportive educational environment. I felt that this program would provide me with the opportunity for tremendous growth both as a physician and as an person over the next three years. I appreciate the diverse patient population that MMC serves, both as a regional referral center for the state and as part of Portland’s diverse community.

Leonie Koellmer
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownWethersfield, Connecticut
- UndergraduateUConn
- Medical SchoolUNE COM
- Interests/hobbiesBaking, Cooking, Traveling, Hiking
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...Stew/deck hand on a yacht boat so I could travel!
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandYosaku
- Favorite place in MaineBar Harbor
- Medical interestsHospital Medicine, Critical Care, POCUS
- Favorite weekend destinationCape Cod
- Favorite Maine activitySwimming at the beach, trying new restaurants
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?Having gone to school in Maine I always felt a connection to the area and wanted to continue to train here! Maine Medical Center had so many friendly residents I knew it would be the perfect place for me!

Brianna Landis
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownElizabethtown, Pennsylvania
- UndergraduateWestminster College
- Medical SchoolRocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests/hobbiesSkiing, hiking, rock painting, learning languages
- Personal quote (100 words or less)"Let me fall, if I must fall. The one I become will catch me." Baal Shem Tov
- Favorite place in MaineBethel
- Medical interestsHematology/oncology
- Favorite weekend destinationA trip to the mountains
- Favorite Maine activityCross country skiing
- What did you do before medical school?I lived in Salt Lake City, UT where I worked as a CNA, medical scribe, and an ophthalmology technician.
- Personal goalsTo learn to speak Arabic semi-fluently and work closely with the refugee community.
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?I am drawn to the kindness and culture of the program and community, as well as the quality of education and advanced training opportunities. I am ecstatic to live in such a beautiful area all while being closer to my family.

Rebecca Lightman
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownSudbury, MA/Coto de Caza, CA
- UndergraduateMiddlebury College
- Medical SchoolUniversity of Louisville
- Interests/hobbiesbirdwatching, hiking, racquetball, pickleball, cello, reading, painting, swimming, cooking (especially soup)
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...researcher, probably in some kind of ecology lab
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandStreet & Co.
- Favorite place in MaineAcadia National Park
- Medical interestsNephrology, clinical and translational research
- Favorite weekend destinationthe White Mountains
- Favorite Maine activityHiking (so far). Excited to see all that Maine has to offer!
- What did you do before medical school?Worked as a clinical research coordinator at MGH
- Personal goalsTry as many restaurants in Portland as I can, keep practicing to get better at painting and playing cello, explore and hike more of Maine
- Best/worst jobBest: summer camp counselor. Worst: scooping ice cream during M4 (only because I couldn't take all the ice cream home with me--it was honestly such a fun job)
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?I wanted to work in a large hospital with great clinical training and teaching, but in a program that has a smaller, more supportive feel. I've also spent some time in Maine, and I couldn't be more excited to begin my training in such an incredible place.

Grace Linder
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownLower Macungie
- UndergraduateVirginia Commonwealth University
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests/hobbiesWomen's sports, live music, the outdoors, yoga, puzzles
- Personal quote (100 words or less)"Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly."
- Favorite place in MaineAnywhere by the water
- Medical interestsPalliative Medicine
- Favorite weekend destinationa house by the water or hidden in the forest
- Favorite Maine activitytrying a new restaurant
- What did you do before medical school?Prior to medical school I worked as an chief scribe of a multi-clinic orthopedic practice and later as a nanny
- Personal goalsI look forward to working with an interdisciplinary team to meet patients where they are at and work together to cultivate their health and wellness.
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?It has been a privilege to attend school in Maine and I have always wanted to return for the salt of the Earth people, beautiful outdoors, and close-knit community.

Ibrahim Ondze
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownRepublic of the Congo
- UndergraduateVinnitsa National Pirogov Memorial Medical University
- Medical SchoolVinnitsa National Pirogov Memorial Medical University
- Interests/hobbiesGym, Soccer, Cooking, Recording videos, Singing.
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...Soccer coach or player.
- Personal quote (100 words or less)" Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love " 1 Cor 16: 13-14
- Favorite place in MaineMaine Mall
- Medical interestsCardiology, Infectious diseases
- Favorite weekend destinationGeorgia
- Favorite Maine activityHiking
- Best/worst jobBest Job - Fitness trainer
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?Moving to Maine a few years ago was a huge change, but the welcoming people and sense of community made me fall in love. My experience as a medical lab assistant here provided me with a genuine insight into the hospital. The camaraderie, value, and support that this place offers exceeded my expectations. In addition to that, my decision to select MHMMC as my ideal program was strengthened by witnessing the interviewers' sincerity and honesty.

Corrine Seehusen
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownRosemount, MN
- UndergraduateCollege of Saint Benedict
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England
- Interests/hobbiesSoccer, camping, hiking, reading, going to the gym/spin classes, trying new restaurants
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...Biochemist or Dog Walker
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandN to Tail
- Favorite place in MaineAny Beach! Or Acadia
- Medical interestsHospital Medicine, Critical Care and Pulmonology, Palliative Care, Point-of-care ultrasound, Medical Education
- Favorite weekend destinationSpending time at a cabin (or "Upta camp" as Mainers say)
- Favorite Maine activityBeach Walks!
- What did you do before medical school?Clinical Research Coordinator and worked at a Spin Cycle Studio!
- Best/worst jobCashier at Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?While in Maine during my MS1 & MS2 year at University of New England I fell in love with the community here and got used to being so close to the ocean and the mountains. I had an amazing experience during my fourth year on my sub-I where I truly felt like part of the team. The residents were amazing, the faculty was passionate about teaching as well as mentoring, and the exposure to a wide breadth of pathology was exactly what I was looking for in a program. Outside the hospital, Maine had all the outdoor activities I could dream of.

Harpreet Singh
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownBuena Park, California
- UndergraduateUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas
- Medical SchoolLake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Interests/hobbiesAnki
- Medical interestsHematology Oncology Pulmonary Critical Care
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?I chose Maine Medical Center because of the strong sense of community I felt. I enjoy the beauty that Maine has to offer, which provides a great balance outside of medicine. Additionally, the commitment to collaborative learning makes it an ideal place for my training and growth.

Kacie Staples
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- HometownBelle Plaine, Minnesota
- UndergraduateUniversity of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Medical SchoolA.T. Still University Kirksville COM
- Interests/hobbiesRunning, hiking, painting, yoga, and petting every dog and cat I come across.
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...I would work at the humane society
- Medical interestsRural medicine, preventive care
- Favorite Maine activityWatching the harbor seals
- Best/worst jobI got to work as a zipline guide for a summer
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?I loved my visit to the state of Maine. The scenery is beautiful and everyone was so friendly and welcoming. My interview with MMC was no different, everyone was kind and I could tell the atmosphere was very supportive. I joined the RIMM track as it combined both rural and urban medicine into one, giving me the confidence to work with patients in all clinical settings.

Ruth Weschler
- Year in ProgramPRG1
- UndergraduateWellesley College
- Medical SchoolUniversity of New England
- Interests/hobbieshiking, camping, cross country skiing, home improvement projects, crafting, mending, reading, finding the best breakfast sandwich
- If I wasn't a doctor, I would be a...park ranger or architect or general contractor
- Favorite restaurant in PortlandYosaku
- Favorite place in MaineMonhegan and Boothbay Harbor
- Medical interestsGeriatrics and Preventative Medicine
- Favorite weekend destinationIf flying, Chicago or Atlanta. If driving, any campground
- Favorite Maine activityGetting outdoors!
- What did you do before medical school?I worked at a wonderful pediatrics office
- Why MaineHealth Maine Medical Center?I wanted to pursue a Med/Geri program in a city with easy access to the outdoors, with opportunity for continued OMM training, and in an environment that was academically rigorous with friendly collegiality. MMC had the perfect combination!