Class of 2028
Krishna Ashwin, MD
Bio
Hometown: Chennai, India
Undergraduate: PSG Institute Of Medical Sciences and Research, Tamil Nadu, India (MBBS)
Medical School: Smt. Municipal Medical College, Gujart, India
Stats: I am married to a family medicine physician, we have one very energetic baby girl and a little boy on the way.
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family, we’re big on being outdoors. In addition to this, I love traveling and tasting new cuisines.
What I did before medical school: Figuring out if I should pursue medicine or genetics, while traveling extensively- I had been to 17 different countries!
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT Jackson because of its welcoming atmosphere and the overwhelmingly positive feedback from the residents, which made me feel it was the right fit. The hospital’s expansion reflects its commitment to growth and excellence in patient care. Having worked as a physician in a rural setting in England for three years, I value autonomy and diverse medical experiences, and I believe UT Jackson fosters well-rounded, holistic physicians prepared for any challenge.
Undergraduate: PSG Institute Of Medical Sciences and Research, Tamil Nadu, India (MBBS)
Medical School: Smt. Municipal Medical College, Gujart, India
Stats: I am married to a family medicine physician, we have one very energetic baby girl and a little boy on the way.
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family, we’re big on being outdoors. In addition to this, I love traveling and tasting new cuisines.
What I did before medical school: Figuring out if I should pursue medicine or genetics, while traveling extensively- I had been to 17 different countries!
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT Jackson because of its welcoming atmosphere and the overwhelmingly positive feedback from the residents, which made me feel it was the right fit. The hospital’s expansion reflects its commitment to growth and excellence in patient care. Having worked as a physician in a rural setting in England for three years, I value autonomy and diverse medical experiences, and I believe UT Jackson fosters well-rounded, holistic physicians prepared for any challenge.
Melissa Belanger, MD
Bio
Hometown: Oklahoma City, OK
Undergraduate: Oklahoma State University
Medical School: The American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Stats: I have four children; two girls and two boys that are my entire world. I have two dogs, two cats,
and three horses.
Hobbies: Horses, hunting, snowboarding, traveling, hiking, snorkeling, crocheting, living my best life
What I did before medical school: I have been in the medical field since 2006. I started as a CNA on a
med-surg unit, worked two years in the ER as a tech while obtaining my paramedic license, and then
worked on the BooBoo Bus as a paramedic until starting med school. Raising my children, I guess, goes without saying.
Why I chose UT Jackson: I chose UT Jackson for many reasons; the program checked all of my
boxes. They are an unopposed program with amazing opportunities to train and become the confident,
well-rounded physician I aspire to be. The program is very hands on with innumerable opportunities in
procedures. They have the opportunity to do an ER fellowship after residency, which was very
important to me. I wanted a program that was in a rural area where I could plant roots and build my practice. During my extensive research on residency programs, I knew from the very first that UT
Jackson would be my number one choice and after I met several of the faculty and residence during
my interview, my decision was solidified.
Undergraduate: Oklahoma State University
Medical School: The American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Stats: I have four children; two girls and two boys that are my entire world. I have two dogs, two cats,
and three horses.
Hobbies: Horses, hunting, snowboarding, traveling, hiking, snorkeling, crocheting, living my best life
What I did before medical school: I have been in the medical field since 2006. I started as a CNA on a
med-surg unit, worked two years in the ER as a tech while obtaining my paramedic license, and then
worked on the BooBoo Bus as a paramedic until starting med school. Raising my children, I guess, goes without saying.
Why I chose UT Jackson: I chose UT Jackson for many reasons; the program checked all of my
boxes. They are an unopposed program with amazing opportunities to train and become the confident,
well-rounded physician I aspire to be. The program is very hands on with innumerable opportunities in
procedures. They have the opportunity to do an ER fellowship after residency, which was very
important to me. I wanted a program that was in a rural area where I could plant roots and build my practice. During my extensive research on residency programs, I knew from the very first that UT
Jackson would be my number one choice and after I met several of the faculty and residence during
my interview, my decision was solidified.
Carson Bodiford, DO
Bio
Hometown: Milan, TN
Undergraduate: Freed-Hardeman University, Henderson, TN
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harrogate, TN
Stats: I grew up in West Tennessee in Milan with two brothers, a sister. My family also fostered children throughout my childhood. I’m excited to be doing my residency back home and to be able to serve the local community.
Hobbies: I went straight through to medical school from undergrad at Freed-Hardeman University while also doing things such as youth ministry and landscaping.
What I did before medical school: I went straight through to medical school from undergrad at Freed-Hardeman University while also doing things such as youth ministry and landscaping.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I found that the environment at UT-Jackson is very welcoming and community-minded. Growing up in the area and doing my clinical years in West Tennessee, I was exposed to many alumni of the program; I’ve always found them to be excellent physicians, who not only were very adept in their patient care, but also are genuinely great people.
Undergraduate: Freed-Hardeman University, Henderson, TN
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harrogate, TN
Stats: I grew up in West Tennessee in Milan with two brothers, a sister. My family also fostered children throughout my childhood. I’m excited to be doing my residency back home and to be able to serve the local community.
Hobbies: I went straight through to medical school from undergrad at Freed-Hardeman University while also doing things such as youth ministry and landscaping.
What I did before medical school: I went straight through to medical school from undergrad at Freed-Hardeman University while also doing things such as youth ministry and landscaping.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I found that the environment at UT-Jackson is very welcoming and community-minded. Growing up in the area and doing my clinical years in West Tennessee, I was exposed to many alumni of the program; I’ve always found them to be excellent physicians, who not only were very adept in their patient care, but also are genuinely great people.
Kaylan Burgess, MD
Bio
Hometown: Murfreesboro, TN
Undergraduate: University of Tennessee in Knoxville, TN
Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dothan, AL
Stats: I married my best friend, Aaron, last year near his hometown in Banff, Alberta, CA. We are excited to be close to my family in Tennessee and start this new chapter in Jackson. Also coming with us is our four-year-old cat, Franklin, who is definitely not spoiled but will need a moving van of his own this summer.
Hobbies: I love trying new recipes and have always been a big reader. I'm continually looking for friends to join in some card games and board games as well. My husband and I also love playing video games together in our free time which is, funnily enough, how we first met!
What I did before medical school: I worked as a medical scribe in several Emergency Departments over East Tennessee.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT-Jackson because I wanted training at a rigorous program that I knew would prepare me to be the most capable physician I could be, all while supported by a fantastic team. The faculty and current residents were all incredibly welcoming and passionate about their mission to serve their community. It was clear this program prioritizes its residents and no matter what direction I take within family medicine, I know I will be well-equipped for my future career.
Undergraduate: University of Tennessee in Knoxville, TN
Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dothan, AL
Stats: I married my best friend, Aaron, last year near his hometown in Banff, Alberta, CA. We are excited to be close to my family in Tennessee and start this new chapter in Jackson. Also coming with us is our four-year-old cat, Franklin, who is definitely not spoiled but will need a moving van of his own this summer.
Hobbies: I love trying new recipes and have always been a big reader. I'm continually looking for friends to join in some card games and board games as well. My husband and I also love playing video games together in our free time which is, funnily enough, how we first met!
What I did before medical school: I worked as a medical scribe in several Emergency Departments over East Tennessee.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT-Jackson because I wanted training at a rigorous program that I knew would prepare me to be the most capable physician I could be, all while supported by a fantastic team. The faculty and current residents were all incredibly welcoming and passionate about their mission to serve their community. It was clear this program prioritizes its residents and no matter what direction I take within family medicine, I know I will be well-equipped for my future career.
William (Greg) Canella, DO
Bio
Hometown: Hendersonville, Tennessee
Undergraduate: University of Mississippi
Medical school: Edward via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Auburn, AL
Stats: Originally from Maryland, my family has embraced the country music lifestyle and now calls the Nashville area home. I'm thrilled to be learning in a place where so many incredible physicians have trained before me!
Hobbies: Outside of medicine, I love staying active—whether it’s running, swimming, basketball, or my newest obsession, pickleball. I also enjoy spending time outdoors and tackling puzzles. Music is another passion of mine, and I play both piano and guitar.
What I did before medical school: Before medical school, I earned a degree in forensic chemistry and worked as a forensic scientist just outside of Nashville. That experience deepened my love for problem-solving and precision—skills that serve me well in medicine.
Why I chose UT–Jackson: I chose UT Jackson because it embodies everything I was looking for: a welcoming community, outstanding training, and an incredible patient population. Plus, its Southern charm keeps me close to the places I love—especially Oxford, Mississippi, where you’ll find me at every game I can make. Hotty Toddy!
Undergraduate: University of Mississippi
Medical school: Edward via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Auburn, AL
Stats: Originally from Maryland, my family has embraced the country music lifestyle and now calls the Nashville area home. I'm thrilled to be learning in a place where so many incredible physicians have trained before me!
Hobbies: Outside of medicine, I love staying active—whether it’s running, swimming, basketball, or my newest obsession, pickleball. I also enjoy spending time outdoors and tackling puzzles. Music is another passion of mine, and I play both piano and guitar.
What I did before medical school: Before medical school, I earned a degree in forensic chemistry and worked as a forensic scientist just outside of Nashville. That experience deepened my love for problem-solving and precision—skills that serve me well in medicine.
Why I chose UT–Jackson: I chose UT Jackson because it embodies everything I was looking for: a welcoming community, outstanding training, and an incredible patient population. Plus, its Southern charm keeps me close to the places I love—especially Oxford, Mississippi, where you’ll find me at every game I can make. Hotty Toddy!
Charade Foster, MD
Bio
Hometown: Covington, TN
Undergraduate: University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
Medical School: Meharry Medical College
Stats: I am a proud West Tennessee native with the majority of my family still residing in the area in Covington and Memphis, TN.
Hobbies: In my free time, you’ll find me listening to music, binge-watching a Netflix series, or drawing. I especially enjoy practicing mindfulness activities, such as meditation and prayer. When the weather decides to be kind (It’s Tennessee), I love to do my mindfulness activities outdoors, surrounded by nature.
What I did before medical school: I did a lot of volunteering at my local nursing home and the boys and girls club. Mentorship in the youth community is very important to me.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: UT Jackson reminded me so much of home, and not just because I am from West Tennessee. I can speak a lot about the strength of the curriculum, being an unopposed program, and the match in desire to serve underserved populations, especially in rural communities, but the biggest factor in choosing UT Jackson was the sense that I had found my village. Visiting the second look showed me that this was the place and people I wanted to experience my good and bad days with. So many members of the community showed up and supported potential incoming residents, and I knew that support would carry me throughout my time in the program and beyond. This was reminiscent of the family and love that I had grown up in, and I couldn’t have chosen a better place to be nurtured into the physician my future patients deserve.
Undergraduate: University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
Medical School: Meharry Medical College
Stats: I am a proud West Tennessee native with the majority of my family still residing in the area in Covington and Memphis, TN.
Hobbies: In my free time, you’ll find me listening to music, binge-watching a Netflix series, or drawing. I especially enjoy practicing mindfulness activities, such as meditation and prayer. When the weather decides to be kind (It’s Tennessee), I love to do my mindfulness activities outdoors, surrounded by nature.
What I did before medical school: I did a lot of volunteering at my local nursing home and the boys and girls club. Mentorship in the youth community is very important to me.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: UT Jackson reminded me so much of home, and not just because I am from West Tennessee. I can speak a lot about the strength of the curriculum, being an unopposed program, and the match in desire to serve underserved populations, especially in rural communities, but the biggest factor in choosing UT Jackson was the sense that I had found my village. Visiting the second look showed me that this was the place and people I wanted to experience my good and bad days with. So many members of the community showed up and supported potential incoming residents, and I knew that support would carry me throughout my time in the program and beyond. This was reminiscent of the family and love that I had grown up in, and I couldn’t have chosen a better place to be nurtured into the physician my future patients deserve.
Jacob Ghee, MD
Bio
Hometown: Dallas, GA
Undergrad: Kennesaw State University, GA
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts
Stats & Hobbies: I am the first in my family to go through medical school. My wife, Harmony, and I live with our pet Corgi, Ellie. We are both avid travelers and enjoy experiencing new places and things together. I enjoy board games in many forms, finding new espresso shops to try, and off-roading.
What I did before medical school: I opted to complete my undergraduate studies in Biology with a minor in Criminal Justice. I shadowed alongside my PCP, who has long been an integral pillar to my passion for medicine.
Why I Chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT Jackson not only for the superior training that is associated with the program but the attitudes of the current residents and dedication to the program that the faculty show.
Undergrad: Kennesaw State University, GA
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts
Stats & Hobbies: I am the first in my family to go through medical school. My wife, Harmony, and I live with our pet Corgi, Ellie. We are both avid travelers and enjoy experiencing new places and things together. I enjoy board games in many forms, finding new espresso shops to try, and off-roading.
What I did before medical school: I opted to complete my undergraduate studies in Biology with a minor in Criminal Justice. I shadowed alongside my PCP, who has long been an integral pillar to my passion for medicine.
Why I Chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT Jackson not only for the superior training that is associated with the program but the attitudes of the current residents and dedication to the program that the faculty show.
Shayan Mostafavi, DO
Bio
Hometown: Memphis, TN
Undergraduate: University of Memphis
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harrogate TN
Stats: My family still lives in Memphis but my brother is in a surgical residency in Mesa, AZ. I have a white, blue-eyed husky named Leuka and a mutt named Smokey.
Hobbies: I do a little bit of everything ranging from hiking, puzzles, astronomy, and video games. I can usually find enjoyment in whatever I choose to do
What I did before medical school: I worked as an ED scribe in Memphis for 3 years and as a certified pharmacy technician at Walgreens for 5 years.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose this program for a few reasons. Some of the main reasons include that the program is unopposed and situated in a big hospital so that we are exposed to a plethora of different ways to practicing medicine along with having first priority to do any type of procedure. However, the number one reason I chose this program was because of the people I interacted with when I came to visit. I knew based on the atmosphere that I observed that the faculty truly care about their residents and that both the faculty and residents genuinely want the best for each other.
Undergraduate: University of Memphis
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harrogate TN
Stats: My family still lives in Memphis but my brother is in a surgical residency in Mesa, AZ. I have a white, blue-eyed husky named Leuka and a mutt named Smokey.
Hobbies: I do a little bit of everything ranging from hiking, puzzles, astronomy, and video games. I can usually find enjoyment in whatever I choose to do
What I did before medical school: I worked as an ED scribe in Memphis for 3 years and as a certified pharmacy technician at Walgreens for 5 years.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose this program for a few reasons. Some of the main reasons include that the program is unopposed and situated in a big hospital so that we are exposed to a plethora of different ways to practicing medicine along with having first priority to do any type of procedure. However, the number one reason I chose this program was because of the people I interacted with when I came to visit. I knew based on the atmosphere that I observed that the faculty truly care about their residents and that both the faculty and residents genuinely want the best for each other.
Delaney Puckett, DO
Bio
Hometown: LaGrange, KY
Undergraduate: Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, KY
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, TN
Stats: Most of my family still lives in Louisville, KY and/or the area around. I have two brothers, one older and one younger. I currently live with my Fiance and our four cats!
Hobbies: I love to play volleyball whenever I can. I also enjoy hiking, reading, and watching movies!
What I did before medical school: I entered medical school immediately after my undergraduate degree. While in undergrad, I worked as an RA, a substitute teacher, and a TA!
Why I chose UT Jackson: I chose UT Jackson because they were able to provide me with the opportunities to explore all of my areas of interest. They were also one of the only residency programs that made me feel like I was “home”. Everyone is very welcoming, friendly, and easy to talk to. It was clear that everyone enjoyed their jobs and those around them. I am so grateful to have been fortunate enough to be selected for their residency program and am beyond excited to start working here!
Undergraduate: Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, KY
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University in Harrogate, TN
Stats: Most of my family still lives in Louisville, KY and/or the area around. I have two brothers, one older and one younger. I currently live with my Fiance and our four cats!
Hobbies: I love to play volleyball whenever I can. I also enjoy hiking, reading, and watching movies!
What I did before medical school: I entered medical school immediately after my undergraduate degree. While in undergrad, I worked as an RA, a substitute teacher, and a TA!
Why I chose UT Jackson: I chose UT Jackson because they were able to provide me with the opportunities to explore all of my areas of interest. They were also one of the only residency programs that made me feel like I was “home”. Everyone is very welcoming, friendly, and easy to talk to. It was clear that everyone enjoyed their jobs and those around them. I am so grateful to have been fortunate enough to be selected for their residency program and am beyond excited to start working here!
Hannah Shea, DO
Bio
Hometown: Corinth, MS
Undergraduate: Union University, Jackson, TN
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Stats: I am the ninth of ten children born to the same parents. I am the only one to have been delivered at home. I now have 16 nieces and nephews. My dog Ryker is a rescue and he is a great travel buddy.
Hobbies: I recently got into oil painting and have really enjoyed it! I also enjoy playing board/card games with friends/family as well as playing pickup volleyball and soccer.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a medical scribe in the ER, a pulmonology clinic, and a sleep medicine clinic for 2 years. I then moved back home to be with family during COVID and worked at ALDI until medical school.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT-Jackson because of its reputation of producing well-rounded physicians capable of full-scope family medicine. UT-Jackson encompasses what I want in an FM program: obstetrics, pediatrics, adult medicine, geriatric medicine - both outpatient and inpatient; osteopathic manipulative treatment; procedures; as well as a culture of support amongst the residents, attendings, and ancillary staff. Plus, it definitely doesn’t hurt that such a wonderful program is close to home.
Undergraduate: Union University, Jackson, TN
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Stats: I am the ninth of ten children born to the same parents. I am the only one to have been delivered at home. I now have 16 nieces and nephews. My dog Ryker is a rescue and he is a great travel buddy.
Hobbies: I recently got into oil painting and have really enjoyed it! I also enjoy playing board/card games with friends/family as well as playing pickup volleyball and soccer.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a medical scribe in the ER, a pulmonology clinic, and a sleep medicine clinic for 2 years. I then moved back home to be with family during COVID and worked at ALDI until medical school.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT-Jackson because of its reputation of producing well-rounded physicians capable of full-scope family medicine. UT-Jackson encompasses what I want in an FM program: obstetrics, pediatrics, adult medicine, geriatric medicine - both outpatient and inpatient; osteopathic manipulative treatment; procedures; as well as a culture of support amongst the residents, attendings, and ancillary staff. Plus, it definitely doesn’t hurt that such a wonderful program is close to home.
Lane Tupa, MD
Bio
Hometown: Sparkman, AR
Undergraduate: Henderson State University, Arkadelphia, AR
Medical School: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock
Stats: I'm currently engaged to my beautiful fiancée, Emily. We'll be getting married in May of 2025.
Hobbies: I enjoy reading, video games, and hiking. I've been rock climbing (mainly indoor, but slowly working on climbing outdoors more) for almost 2 year, and I started playing ice hockey a little over a year ago.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a farmhand in high school and some summers during undergrad. During undergrad, I also worked as a valet for a while, and I worked collecting information for the 2020 census.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT-Jackson because it's an unopposed Family Medicine program where the residents were able to learn to do as much as they wanted to when it comes to being a Family Medicine physician. I want to work somewhere rural after graduating residency, and the more I'm able to learn to do during residency means that I'm able to help out my patients more before I have to refer them to a specialist that may be 1-2 hours away.
Undergraduate: Henderson State University, Arkadelphia, AR
Medical School: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock
Stats: I'm currently engaged to my beautiful fiancée, Emily. We'll be getting married in May of 2025.
Hobbies: I enjoy reading, video games, and hiking. I've been rock climbing (mainly indoor, but slowly working on climbing outdoors more) for almost 2 year, and I started playing ice hockey a little over a year ago.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a farmhand in high school and some summers during undergrad. During undergrad, I also worked as a valet for a while, and I worked collecting information for the 2020 census.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT-Jackson because it's an unopposed Family Medicine program where the residents were able to learn to do as much as they wanted to when it comes to being a Family Medicine physician. I want to work somewhere rural after graduating residency, and the more I'm able to learn to do during residency means that I'm able to help out my patients more before I have to refer them to a specialist that may be 1-2 hours away.
Landon Waite, MD
Bio
Hometown: Covington, LA
Undergraduate: Spring Hill College
Medical School: LSU Health Shreveport
Stats: I was born and raised in Southeast Louisiana. I’m married to my beautiful wife Meghan and we are expecting a baby girl this summer!
Hobbies: I enjoy cooking, golfing, watching LSU Football and Baseball, and my Catholic faith.
What I did before medical school: In Undergrad, I was very involved in volunteering in the Mobile community through the Boys and Girls Club and through a health clinic for the uninsured. I also spent a large portion of my time growing in my Catholic faith. From undergrad, I went straight to LSU for medical school.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: When deciding where I wanted to train to become a Family Physician, I had three main requirements. I wanted a program that offered full-spectrum, unopposed training that would prepare me for anything in Family Medicine. I wanted to goto a program that would not only make me a great physician, but that would also make me a better person outside of the hospital. And I wanted to go somewhere where I felt like I was joining a family. As soon as we met UT-Jackson at National Conference, we knew we had found our home. The training is unparalleled, the people are genuine and truly care about one another, and the graduates of the program were the kind of physicians and people that we wanted to be like. We couldn’t be more excited to train at such a great program surrounded by incredible people!
Undergraduate: Spring Hill College
Medical School: LSU Health Shreveport
Stats: I was born and raised in Southeast Louisiana. I’m married to my beautiful wife Meghan and we are expecting a baby girl this summer!
Hobbies: I enjoy cooking, golfing, watching LSU Football and Baseball, and my Catholic faith.
What I did before medical school: In Undergrad, I was very involved in volunteering in the Mobile community through the Boys and Girls Club and through a health clinic for the uninsured. I also spent a large portion of my time growing in my Catholic faith. From undergrad, I went straight to LSU for medical school.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: When deciding where I wanted to train to become a Family Physician, I had three main requirements. I wanted a program that offered full-spectrum, unopposed training that would prepare me for anything in Family Medicine. I wanted to goto a program that would not only make me a great physician, but that would also make me a better person outside of the hospital. And I wanted to go somewhere where I felt like I was joining a family. As soon as we met UT-Jackson at National Conference, we knew we had found our home. The training is unparalleled, the people are genuine and truly care about one another, and the graduates of the program were the kind of physicians and people that we wanted to be like. We couldn’t be more excited to train at such a great program surrounded by incredible people!
Meghan Waite, DO
Bio
Hometown: Mandeville, LA
Undergraduate: Spring Hill College
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Monroe
Stats: Fun fact, I’m a triplet! I’ll be working alongside my husband Landon who I couples matched with! We have two cats, Toby and Stanley and are expecting a little girl this summer!
Hobbies: Running, watching Disney movies, spending time with my family, and deepening my Catholic faith!
What I did before medical school: I ran track in college. I also converted to Catholicism and went on a mission trip to Belize. After graduating, I went straight to medical school at VCOM!
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I first fell in love with UT Jackson at National Conference where we talked with Dr. Studabaker about family. I was so amazed that at such a well-respected, rigorous program could care so deeply about its residents and their families. You could see how close the residents and faculty where and how they considered each other family. I wanted a positive, uplifting environment to train and start my family. Further, the training was second-to-none with a diverse array of pathologies, experiences, and procedures that would prepare me for anything! I knew that UT Jackson would make me the best possible physician and person that I could be. I am so thankful for the opportunity to train at UT Jackson and join this great family!
Undergraduate: Spring Hill College
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Monroe
Stats: Fun fact, I’m a triplet! I’ll be working alongside my husband Landon who I couples matched with! We have two cats, Toby and Stanley and are expecting a little girl this summer!
Hobbies: Running, watching Disney movies, spending time with my family, and deepening my Catholic faith!
What I did before medical school: I ran track in college. I also converted to Catholicism and went on a mission trip to Belize. After graduating, I went straight to medical school at VCOM!
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I first fell in love with UT Jackson at National Conference where we talked with Dr. Studabaker about family. I was so amazed that at such a well-respected, rigorous program could care so deeply about its residents and their families. You could see how close the residents and faculty where and how they considered each other family. I wanted a positive, uplifting environment to train and start my family. Further, the training was second-to-none with a diverse array of pathologies, experiences, and procedures that would prepare me for anything! I knew that UT Jackson would make me the best possible physician and person that I could be. I am so thankful for the opportunity to train at UT Jackson and join this great family!
Naadia West, MD
Bio
Hometown: Bossier City, LA
Undergraduate: University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe LA
Medical School: LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine, Shreveport LA
Stats: I was raised by my mom as her only child, and we are extremely close—we talk on the phone every day, even though I still live at home. My immediate family is from Plain Dealing, a small town north of Bossier City, and I love getting to see them every week when I go to church. I don’t have any pets.
Hobbies: I enjoy outdoor walks and weight training at the gym. Lately, I’ve been interested in trying yoga or Pilates. Exercise is an important part of my routine—it helps me reset and stay balanced, no matter what else is going on. I love listening to all types of music. I also love watching TV and movies. I have favorites like A DiOerent World, Supernatural, and Grey’s Anatomy, but I’ve also been trying to watch newer shows. I love the Marvel movies and a good horror film—any subgenre really. I also enjoy attending church, as it gives me time for reflection, renewal, and connection with my family and community.
What I did before medical school: Before starting medical school, I was focused on preparing for and applying to medical programs, spending much of my time studying for the MCAT. I also worked a few part-time retail jobs and had a stay-at-home position with USCIS through GDIT.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT-Jackson for its unopposed training environment and strong OB curriculum, which aligns with my interests. The program offers full-spectrum family medicine training, and from the moment I attended the social and interview, I felt a sense of belonging. Jackson, TN, reminds me of home, making the transition feel natural rather than overwhelming.
Currently, I am interested in pursuing a surgical OB fellowship after residency, but I know that if my path changes, UT-Jackson will provide the comprehensive training I need to feel confident in my future practice.
Undergraduate: University of Louisiana at Monroe, Monroe LA
Medical School: LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine, Shreveport LA
Stats: I was raised by my mom as her only child, and we are extremely close—we talk on the phone every day, even though I still live at home. My immediate family is from Plain Dealing, a small town north of Bossier City, and I love getting to see them every week when I go to church. I don’t have any pets.
Hobbies: I enjoy outdoor walks and weight training at the gym. Lately, I’ve been interested in trying yoga or Pilates. Exercise is an important part of my routine—it helps me reset and stay balanced, no matter what else is going on. I love listening to all types of music. I also love watching TV and movies. I have favorites like A DiOerent World, Supernatural, and Grey’s Anatomy, but I’ve also been trying to watch newer shows. I love the Marvel movies and a good horror film—any subgenre really. I also enjoy attending church, as it gives me time for reflection, renewal, and connection with my family and community.
What I did before medical school: Before starting medical school, I was focused on preparing for and applying to medical programs, spending much of my time studying for the MCAT. I also worked a few part-time retail jobs and had a stay-at-home position with USCIS through GDIT.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT-Jackson for its unopposed training environment and strong OB curriculum, which aligns with my interests. The program offers full-spectrum family medicine training, and from the moment I attended the social and interview, I felt a sense of belonging. Jackson, TN, reminds me of home, making the transition feel natural rather than overwhelming.
Currently, I am interested in pursuing a surgical OB fellowship after residency, but I know that if my path changes, UT-Jackson will provide the comprehensive training I need to feel confident in my future practice.