The University of Tennessee Family Medicine Residency Program – Jackson, TN

Hometown: Memphis, TN
Medical School: University of Tennessee
Stats: Married to Amy; two sons and one daughter
Hobbies: Golf, Hunting, Tennis, Ole Miss football
Research/Areas of Interest: Family Medicine Outpatient procedures including no-scapel vasectomy, colposcopy with LEEP, and dermatological surgeries
Tidbits: Outstanding Clinical Lecturer Award, Golden Apple Teacher’s Award for the University of Tennessee, Faculty of the Year Award, SGAEC Excellence in Teaching Award for the University of Tennessee, West Tennessee Healthcare Doctor of the Year Award

Hometown: Silver City, OK
Undergraduate: Oklahoma State University
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Residency: University of Tennessee - Jackson
Hobbies: Travel, Movies, Cars
What I did before medical school: EMT. I did my training here and realized it is like no other residency in the country. Jackson is very unique in the breadth of training it provides to it's residents and I wanted to be a part of that atmosphere. I love to teach and wanted to help continue the legacy of where I was trained.
Interest: Critical care, teaching office and hospital procedures to residents.

Hometown: Pulaski, TN
Undergraduate: University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN
Medical School: St. George's University, Grenada West Indies
Stats: I was homeschooled and come from a family of 12 children.
Hobbies: hiking, camping, kayaking, I am working on completing section hikes of the Appalachian trail and am up to about 300 miles completed.
What I did before medical school: I worked at Starbucks and Cabelas.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose Jackson first of all for location. It's a great place to live and close to my grandparents. During the interview process I was impressed by all the good things the current residents had to say about the program and I like that it is unopposed.

Hometown: Chattanooga, TN
Undergraduate: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University-DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Stats: Happily Single
Hobbies: Spending quality time with my loved ones, bowling, theatre/acting, motivational speaking, binge-watching TV shows, watching hair, skin, and make-up tutorials on YouTube
What I did before medical school: I was a high school science teacher in my hometown for a year. I also got my Master of Science in Biomedical Professions prior to medical school.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: Based on my research during the application process, I knew UT-Jackson was a very strong unopposed family medicine program. However, I absolutely fell in love with this program during my audition rotation. The residents, faculty, and staff welcomed me with open arms, constantly making me feel like part of the team. Although things got hectic at times, I constantly felt a sense of peace, enthusiasm, and belonging throughout the rotation. I would describe this residency as a hidden gem with amazing people and well-rounded, invaluable training. Finding out I matched at UT-Jackson was one of the happiest moments of my entire life. I cannot wait to begin my journey with this exceptional program and become a phenomenal physician.

Hometown: Adamsville, AL
Undergraduate: University of West Florida, Pensacola, FL
Medical School: Trinity School of Medicine
Stats: Single for now…Plans include adopting two fur babies in the near future
Hobbies: All the things! Haha. No…seriously! I enjoy laughing, dancing, eating, sleeping, hiking, cooking/baking, audiobooks, volunteering, helping people, trying new restaurants…you know… basically all the things J
What I did before medical school: I had a few jobs. I worked at Red Mountain Park in Birmingham, AL. I also worked as an Office Manager for a Tax Accounting firm. I worked, too, at Planet Fitness! My most rewarding job, however, before medical school was teaching at-risk youth, helping them get their GEDs while learning a trade.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT Jackson because…well…the name “Jackson” resonated with me. I thoroughly enjoyed my virtual interview with the UT Jackson family. I was looking for a program that would prepare me to be a well-rounded physician and provide me with a myriad of exposure within the full scope of Family Medicine—UT Jackson fit the bill. Additional reasons include the program’s proximity to my hometown and the ability to have a life outside of the hospital.

Hometown: Tampa, FL
Undergraduate: Gardner-Webb University, Boiling Springs, NC
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Auburn
Stats: I married my amazing wife, Amanda, on March 27, 2021. We have a beautiful dog, Claire.
Hobbies: I played college football so naturally I love everything sports related. I also enjoy outdoor activities including water skiing, wakeboarding, golfing, and kayaking.
What I did before medical school: I obtained my Master’s Degree in Medical Sciences from the University of South Florida in Tampa, FL.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I heard about this program from a friend and decided to do an audition rotation during my fourth year of medical school. During my month at UT-Jackson, I saw the relationship the residents had with each other and with the attendings, and I witnessed how much they enjoyed being together. It was very important to me to be at an unopposed program with high exposure to procedures, critical care, and outpatient medicine. UT-Jackson felt like a place that I could build great relationships and become prepared for anything I might face during my future career. It felt like home. I am also very excited about the potential opportunity to obtain an Emergency Medicine Fellowship at UT-Jackson.

Hometown: Rogersville, AL
Undergraduate: The University of North Alabama
Medical School: Edward VIa College of Osteopathic Medicine - Auburn
Stats: Married to my favorite person, Russell, since June of 2019. We have two pups, Ollie and Hattie.
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, the outdoors, Peloton workouts, and reading. Also, I shamelessly enjoy reality TV and (poorly written) medical shows.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a bank teller and as a patient care tech at a local hospital during undergrad.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I was lucky enough to spend a month at UT-Jackson during an audition rotation, and I knew almost immediately it was where I wanted to continue my medical training. I felt welcomed from the first day of my audition, and I could not help but notice all of the wonderful relationships that were comprised of even better people. There was such a strong sense of camaraderie between all of the residents, attendings, and staff, and this helped make an exceptional and enjoyable learning environment. Being from a small-town with intentions on practicing in a rural area, it was important for me to find an unopposed program that would offer full-scope training, and I knew by the end of my first day in Jackson that I would get that type of training here. Every single day felt like a new adventure with different pathologies, procedures, deliveries, etc., and I just knew this was the place I had to be! I am truly thrilled to be a part of this program, and I am looking forward to the next 3 years!

Hometown: Cleveland, MS
Undergraduate: Calvin University, Grand Rapids, MI
Medical School: New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University
Stats: I recently celebrated four years of marriage with my beautiful wife Johanna. We have a son Tristan, whom we adore, and a vivacious Golden Retriever named Sadie.
Hobbies: I enjoy exploring the great outdoors, reading historical fiction, playing board games, travelling, and spending quality time with friends and family.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a Nursing Technician at the Fred and Lena Meijer Heart Center in Grand Rapids, MI.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT-Jackson because it felt like I was working with family from day one. From genuine interactions with faculty and staff, to down-to-earth conversations with residents, I felt like this program was tailor-fit for me both personally and professionally. If great people weren’t enough, this program is also unopposed, which means that as a resident here I’ll have numerous opportunities to train and develop as a physician before I head out to serve in my community. I sincerely believe that UT-Jackson will provide me with the tools to practice the full spectrum of Family Medicine and I am so excited to be a part of this team!

Hometown: Kansas City, Mo
Undergraduate: University of Central Missouri bachelor in exercise physiology
Medical School: University of Kansas School of Medicine
Stats: I have a brother who is 19 years older than me
Hobbies: I enjoy playing basketball, lifting weights, trying new restaurants and a huge movie buff. I spend alot of time hanging with my family and friends. Of note I have late developing interest in becoming great at cooking.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a technician in the cardiovascular and telemetry department Of University health. (Truman Medical Center) in Kansas city missouri.
Why I choose UT-Jackson: After my interview with faculty of UT-Jackson I felt this program was a perfect fit for me due to the easy going yet hard working nature this Program has. I also was attracted to the different tracks options this program provides.

Hometown: Madisonville, TN
Undergraduate: Emory University
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Stats: Youngest in a family of four. My older brother and I are both first generation graduates from college and medical school.
Hobbies: Growing up in East Tennessee, I enjoy nature and spending time outdoors. I enjoy running and doing trails. I also enjoy live music and playing the guitar.
What I did before medical school: I completed post baccalaureate studies at Georgetown University School of Medicine.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT-Jackson for my residency training because it is one of the most complete programs in the country. In addition to being an unopposed program, I could feel the support from every member that I interviewed with during the time. Everyone seems genuinely ready to help in all aspects. Nowhere else would I be seeing the volume of patients, have the independence to encounter a variety of pathologies, and grow into the most complete physician that I possibly can. I feel as though residents who complete their training here are ready for whatever they decide to pursue next. I am excited to start my journey and see where residency takes me.

Hometown: Nashville TN
Undergraduate: Berry College, Rome GA 
Med School: Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lynchburg VA
Stats: I am a Nashville native and my family still lives in Tennessee. My fiancé Stephen and I are excited to be moving home. We have three dogs Nissa, Josie and AJ. 
Hobbies: I enjoy being outside especially hiking and paddle boarding. I’ve recently started refinishing furniture and am excited to start some new projects. 
What I did before Med school: I got my masters in biomedical sciences and completed my thesis in breast cancer research. 
Why UT Jackson: I chose Jackson because it is an unopposed program. As residents we have the opportunity to be exposed to many aspects of medicine making us well rounded future family physicians. I am particularly interested in women’s health and UT Jackson has an excellent program and training for women’s health. The residents and faculty are all amazing, friendly, hardworking and treat each other as family. I could not think of a better place to train than UT Jackson.

Hometown: Bayamón, PR
Undergraduate: University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts 
Stats:I am married to my High School sweetheart Andrea Marín. We have a 2y/o toddler named Cosmos, yes he is our little Universe, and two dogs named Milan and Magno.
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family and trying to teach something new to Cosmos every day. Also I love to play basketball, online chess, read about Astronomy or Cosmology and watch Real Madrid win. Hala Madrid! 
What I did before medical school: I was enjoying my undergraduate years and I was the student manager for the UPR Rio Piedras. Arriba los Gallos!
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I was looking for an unopposed program with plenty of exposure to hands on experience and which felt as a family environment. When I had my interview with UT-Jackson I knew I had found exactly what I was looking for. As soon as the interview was over I told my wife "How do you feel about moving to Tennessee?". UT-Jackson is a big program which offers everything a Resident needs to become the best Physician one could be.

Hometown: Delta, Nigeria
Undergraduate: Jackson State University. Jackson, MS
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine, Barbados
Stats: I am a proud member of a large extended family, so family is very important to me. 
Hobbies: I am always down for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and going to the park. Love visiting historical sites such as museums.
What I did before medical school: I volunteered at a Gastroenterology center in Tylertown, MS
Why I chose UT-Jackson: The program's advanced obstetric curriculum was a unique feature that I appreciated during my interview. Following that, the healthy learning environment as well as the family orientated relationship among themselves inspired my decision.

Hometown: Huntsville, AL
Undergraduate: University of Alabama at Birmingmham
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine at Auburn
Stats: We will be celebrating our 7 year marriage anniversary with my wife, Caitlin, in August 2023. We have a Beagle named Milo.
Hobbies: I’m an avid reader and gamer. I’ve also been known to watch  TV dramas(Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon, Wednesday)
What I did before medical school: I worked as a scribe in the ER for the St. Vincent’s Health System in Birmingham, Alabama.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: Before the interview, UT-Jackson appealed to me because it was an unopposed family medicine residency with an emergency medicine fellowship. During the interview, they sealed the deal with a professional but friendly and down to earth atmosphere during the interview. I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of. When we were looking back and considering my rank list, my wife commented that I was genuinely beaming after the interview, and no other program had quite such a positive effect on me. I am looking forward to learning and growing as a physician and a person alongside my fellow residents!

Hometown: Rochester, MN
Undergraduate: St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Stats: Engaged, wedding in October of 2023!
Hobbies: Playing soccer, Call of Duty. If it’s sunny and warm, you’ll see me enjoying time outside. With my parents originally from Missouri, I root on the St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Chiefs! My fiancé is a UT alum and has opened my eyes to Vol football and baseball.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a soccer coach in Kasson and Rochester, MN. I also spent time volunteering as a EMT for the city of Eyota, MN.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: Having the ability to train at an unopposed program was a huge incentive for me, as it will let me fully explore every possibility of FM and train to be a great physician. On interview day, it was obvious to see how the residents viewed and loved their program, which made me want to experience the same and work with them in the future.

Undergraduate: University of Mississippi, Oxford, MS
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine - Auburn
Stats: I am a borderline crazy cat lady with two cute kitties, Oliver and Josie.
Hobbies: I have way too many plants, which include a few thriving (not dying, I promise) orchids. I also really enjoy playing the cajon in my spare time. 
What I did before medical school: I played the snare drum for the Ole Miss Band and had a wonderful time there.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: The very first quality that I saw at UT Jackson was the family atmosphere between residents and faculty. Since having a strong community was high on the list of things I wanted to find in a residency, UT Jackson immediately stood out, Also, I really wanted to train at an unopposed program so that I could get as much experience as possible, and UT Jackson offer just that.

Hometown: Nashville, TN
Undergraduate: Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green, KY
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University-Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Stats: I am a first-generation college graduate and physician. I am married to Kaylie, my lovely wife of 2 years. We have a newborn son named Cason and two goldendoodles, Ember and Milo.
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my family, fishing, going to the dog park, watching movies, and rooting for the Titans and Predators.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a scribe in the emergency department.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT-Jackson for several reasons. It is an unopposed program at a large hospital with a rural surrounding area. During my two away rotations here, I saw firsthand the diverse pathology and sheer volume of patients the residents are exposed to. There are many opportunities for a wide array of procedures and patient encounters. The staff and residents are kind and inviting, creating a feeling of inclusion. I truly believe I will become the best physician I can be at UT-Jackson.

Hometown: Cleveland, TN
Undergraduate: University of Tennessee at Chatanooga, TN
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine- Auburn, AL
Stats: I have an orange tabby cat that I adopted from shelter when I was a third-year medical student 
Hobbies: Fine arts- music, drawing, painting. Making simple and healthy foods. Learning about finance
What I did before medical school: I had one gap year and I worked as a scribe in the emergency room.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I was looking for an unopposed program with robust inpatient curriculum, strong ER opportunities, and diverse medical pathology. I did a rotation there as a 4th year student and was impressed with the comradery and learning opportunities. 

Hometown: Savannah, TN
Undergraduate: Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS
Medical School: University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
Stats: I am married to Nick. We have a goldendoodle named Sawyer and two cats, Tommy and Niko.
Hobbies: I love going to the gym, cooking, and spending time outdoors with family.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a medical assistant at Jackson Heart in Jackson, MS.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I was first drawn to UT-Jackson due to the full scope training with advanced obstetrics in an unopposed program. I did an away rotation my fourth year of medical school and absolutely loved the program and the city of Jackson. The faculty and residents are truly like a big family. I know that I will get the very best training at UT-Jackson!

Hometown: Waukee, IA
Undergraduate: University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
Medical School: A. T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
Stats: Getting married June 10, 2023 in South Dakota and moving to Tennessee the next day.  Have a 4-year-old golden retriever named Josey - IG: @joseytheboydog
Hobbies: Spending quality time with my family and dog. Being active in my church and other Christian ministries. Cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes and Denver Broncos football teams while losing at fantasy football. Reading a good book. Playing Nintendo switch.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a nursing assistant starting in my senior year of high school then scribed for two ophthalmologists at the University of Iowa. I also traveled to Hawaii, Arizona, California, and Colorado.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I had a unique introduction to the program through the SOAP. Right away I felt a comfort and connection in this being a foreign process to both me and the program. Despite the limited interactions, I knew there was something different about this program. I am blessed to have chosen UT-Jackson. The people here continually surpass expectation and I cannot wait to start residency here.

Hometown: Frisco, TX
Undergraduate: University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX
Medical School: Midwestern University Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Glendale AZ
Stats: Most of my immediate family still lives in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. I have a little sister who I am very close with. I have a 2-year-old silver lab named River who I hike, bike, and jog with!
Hobbies: I love going to art shows and am a big reader! I’ve recently started to get more active, especially after adopting my dog, and am very excited to explore all the outdoor activities Tennessee has to offer! 
What I did before medical school: I worked as a medical assistant and lead billing specialist for a podiatry clinic in Frisco, TX.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I chose UT-Jackson because it is an unopposed program with extensive opportunities to train as a well-rounded family physician and because of the program’s warm and friendly culture. I am still undecided as to whether I will pursue outpatient primary care versus hospital medicine, but I am confident that UT Jackson will not only equip me with the skills and training to excel in whatever path I choose, but also nurture my passion for family medicine!

Hometown: Knoxville, TN
Undergraduate: University of Tennessee, Knoxville
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University, DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Stats: I am the second oldest amongst my two brothers and two sisters. 
Hobbies: I enjoy weightlifting, hiking, snow-skiing, soccer, Brazilian jiujitsu, music, board/video games, and playing with my dogs.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a nursing assistant at UTMC between college and medical school, and that was where I fell in love with patient care and knew I wanted to become a physician.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: After visiting the clinic, I found that the learning environment was wonderful. Everyone was so welcoming, and it was evident that there was a fantastic and supportive culture here. Moreover, the residents were very competent, and I ultimately wanted a program that produced physicians similar to what I seek to become.

Hometown: Smyrna , TN
Undergraduate: Elon University. Elon , NC
Medical School: LMU-DCOM
Hobbies: Working out, hiking, skiing, connecting with friends
What I did before medical school: A year of graduate school.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I love the large hospital in combination with family medicine being the only program on campus. I plan to practice independently post-residency and need to be confident in any situation. When researching and interviewing, I connected with the inviting culture and people here. We are quick to smile and joke but expect your best. 

Hometown: Albemarle, NC
Undergraduate: Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Stats: I am the youngest of 8 children, and I have a cat named Charlie.
Hobbies: I love music – classical violin, piano, singing. I also enjoy movies, crocheting, diamond painting, jigsaw puzzles, bowling, escape rooms, spin class, game night, and being active in my church.
What I did before medical school: I worked in a rural primary care clinic in Rocky Mount, NC, as a MedServe Fellow.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: UT-Jackson was the first program to contact me during SOAP. After meeting the team and learning about how strong the curriculum was, it was quickly the program to beat. During a stressful time, this is the place that felt right – genuinely supportive people, stellar education, and an unopposed program – it was a no-brainer for me. I truly believe UT-Jackson will make me the best physician I could possibly be.

Hometown: Cayey, Puerto Rico
Undergraduate: University of Puerto Rico at Cayey, Puerto Rico
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts
Stats: I am currently single and a proud dog mom.
Hobbies: I enjoy mostly outdoors activities, particularly going to the beach, to the park, traveling and exploring different places. I also love to cook, paint, read and go to the gym. Lastly, but no less important, I love to spend quality time with family and friends.
What I did before medical school: While I was doing my bachelor degree General Sciences and to cover my own expenses during that time I worked in a retail store.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: During the Match process, UT-Jackson stood out to me for being a well rounded program, by being an unopposed and community based program. I was captivated by the strong Women's Health component and their plans of opening an OB/GYN Fellowship, which has been a big interest of mine since the beginning. During interviews I got a better understanding of the program and the welcoming environment; residents and staff members were so caring and genuine that I knew I wanted to be part of it. I was able to picture myself living in Tennessee and thriving in a program that would not only give me the necessary tools to achieve my goals, but also the most needed support through residency. I believe this program has all the qualities to help me succeed as a resident and become a knowledgeable, outstanding physician and the best version of myself.

Hometown: Gadsden, TN
Undergraduate: MTSU
Medical School: CMU-SOM
Stats: I am a west TN local and so happy to be home! I grew up in the Gadsden and Humboldt areas, graduated high school in Jackson, and worked on our family tree farm in Trenton. My husband is also starting as a resident physician this year too! We have one feisty feline named Henselae. 
Hobbies: long-distance running, MMA, tang soo do, weightlifting, horseback riding, gaming, reading, traveling, and language-learning
What I did before medical school: I worked as an ESL teacher in Normandy, France. Before that, I worked with a Forensic Anthropology Search and Recovery Team at MTSU excavating skeletal remains at crime scenes here in Tennessee.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I was actually born here in the Jackson General Hospital, so this already feels like home! I shadowed multiple physicians in Jackson when I was in college and they are simply phenomenal physicians and were incredibly inspiring! My late grandfather, Dr. Tom was also a Family Medicine physician and he absolutely loved being a physician here. Everyone at UT-Jackson immediately made me feel welcomed and were so well-rounded, optimistic, and confident that it was easy to see that this was the program for me!

Hometown: Canton, MI
Undergraduate: Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Stats: I was born in Romania and immigrated to the United States with my family when I was 5 years old. I am the youngest of three siblings. I am married to my wonderful husband. 
Hobbies: I love spending time with my family and friends. I also enjoy traveling, cooking, gardening, shopping and watching movies. 
What I did before medical school: I worked as a pharmacy technician at CVS Pharmacy while earning my undergraduate degree and then as a surgical scheduling coordinator at Michigan Spine & Brain Surgeons.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I never thought I would end up in Jackson Tennessee for my residency training; however, when I visited the area for my in-person interview and met the dedicated team behind the UT-Jackson program, I knew I had found something special. My decision to choose UT-Jackson was driven by its stellar reputation as an unopposed program that offers comprehensive training in family medicine. I firmly believe that UT-Jackson will best equip me with a robust foundation of skills to excel as a family physician. Yet, what truly makes UT-Jackson exceptional is the authentic sense of camaraderie and the family-like atmosphere it fosters. 

Hometown: Greenville, SC
Undergraduate: Furman University
Medical School: Medical University of South Carolina
Stats: I'm currently looking forward to spending time in the beautiful Tennessean outdoors during my training!
Hobbies: I enjoy outdoor activities like going to the beach, swimming, hiking, and running.
What I did before medical school: I worked for a German biotech company in Rochester, New York.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: UT Jackson has an excellent reputation as an unopposed and heavily procedural program that prepares graduates for any style of practice they wish to pursue. Having an interest in rural practice, I knew that UT Jackson would provide me with the rigorous didactics and rotation experiences I would need to thrive as a family practitioner in this environment. They have a strong family culture, and the faculty are clearly committed towards ensuring our success as physicians. For me, the choice was obvious.

Hometown: Milan, TN
Undergraduate: University of Memphis, Memphis, TN
Medical School: University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Stats: My girlfriend, Jenna, and I will be celebrating our 7-year anniversary in June.  We have two miniature dachshunds, Babette and Fluff.
Hobbies: I enjoy weightlifting and doing lots of outdoor activities such as fishing, disc golf, playing tennis, and spending time with friends and family.
What I did before medical school: I worked as an EKG technician at Jackson General Hospital. 
Why I chose UT-Jackson: My decision to choose this residency program was greatly influenced by my positive experiences during multiple medical school rotations at UT Jackson. Being close to my hometown and family further solidified my choice. The warmth and camaraderie among the faculty, residents, and their families during a summer research project during my M1 year and clinical rotations at UT Jackson left a lasting impression on me. I could envision myself being a part of this close-knit community for years to come. Additionally, the program's unopposed nature and impressive history made it an easy and exciting decision for me.

Hometown: Jackson, TN
Undergraduate: Union University, Jackson, TN
Medical School: University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Stats: My wife, Megan, and I will be celebrating our two-year wedding anniversary in May 2024. We are so happy to celebrate the birth of our daughter Lilah in March 2024. 
Hobbies: My wife and I love to spend time outdoors with our daughter and three dogs. We enjoy going to the dog park and going on walks. I also enjoy gardening, tennis, raising chickens, and fishing. 
What I did before medical school: I came to medical school straight from Union. At Union, I enjoyed working in different departments within the Office of Student Life, as well as working as a CNA at the local hospital. 
Why I chose UT-Jackson: There were three main aspects that I sought during the interview process from a residency program. I wanted to train at a program where Family Medicine was respected. In Jackson, there is a rich network of alumni physicians that promote the program both at the hospital and in the community. Further, the ER physicians are all Family Medicine trained. Secondly, I wanted a program that provided a comprehensive educational experience in all aspects of Family Medicine. On my rotations here, I can verify that this program trains a family physician well in all aspects of medicine. Finally, I wanted to train at a program where I could serve underserved communities. Madison County sits at the junction of multiple counties in West Tennessee with shortages in primary care, mental health care, and obstetrical care. Also, there is a large Spanish speaking population. With these three aspects, Jackson was the ideal place for me to train.

Hometown: Paris, TN
Undergrad: The University of TN, Knoxville 
Medical school: Lincoln Memorial University, DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Stats: My husband and I are from Paris, TN and we are very excited to be moving closer to home! We have two dogs, George Tucker and Severus Snape. 
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time in nature appreciating God’s beautiful creation. I love to spend time with my family, walking my dogs, running, and reading a good book. 
What I did before medical school: During undergrad, I was very involved in the local ministry. I served as Chaplain in a Christian Sorority and got to lead young women closer to Christ. I also went on a Mission Trip to the Dominican Republic. 
Why I chose UT Jackson: As my husband and I planned for our future, we desired to move closer to our hometown to be near family. When I first visited UT Jackson, I knew it was the perfect fit for us. The community, relationships, and support between residents and faculty was immediately evident. I wanted a residency where I could grow both as a physician and as a person, and I knew I found it here. I can’t wait to see what the next three years have in store for us. 

Hometown: Tarpon Springs, Florida
Undergraduate: University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean, St. Maarten 
Stats: First generation physician and proud member of a large Greek family. I have two older brothers and a younger sister. Aunt to my two adorable nephews! 
Hobbies: I love spending time in the sun, exploring different cultures and cuisines, enjoying time with friends and family, and watching old Hollywood films.  
What I did before medical school: I worked as a medical scribe in various work settings including the emergency department, family medicine outpatient clinic, and specialist outpatient clinics. I also volunteered at Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida where I interacted and cared for patients and their families. 
Why I chose UT-Jackson: I felt very comfortable with the faculty and residents during my interview. I could envision myself working here with this welcoming, supportive group of people and felt I could call this place home. Not to mention, the residency program is unopposed, very well established, and has strengths in emergency medicine and obstetrics/gynecology, which are some of my interests. After my interview, I could not stop thinking about UT-Jackson because it had everything I was looking for in a residency program. I am grateful I have  this incredible opportunity to train here because I feel UT-Jackson will help me become the best, well-rounded family physician I can be. 

Hometown: Naples, FL
Undergraduate: Florida Gulf Coast University, Fort Myers, FL
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Stats: I lifetime goal of mine is to travel to every continent (may exclude Antarctica). To date, I have traveled to  5 of the 7. Australia is my next stop!
Hobbies: I enjoy most outdoor activities (hiking, jet skiing, taking walks, etc.), crocheting, boxing, and traveling.
What I did before medical school: I worked as a middle school teacher.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: From the moment I met the team at UT-Jackson, I felt welcomed. Knowing I will be in an extremely supportive program with the rigorous demands of residency was vital to me. In addition, with my high interest in women’s health, being an unopposed program made my choice that much easier.

Hometown: Fort Smith, Arkansas
Undergraduate: Arkansas Tech University, Russellville, AR
Medical School: New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University
Stats: I am the youngest of three siblings. Most of my family is still in Arkansas so I like to visit when I can. 
Hobbies: Outdoors I enjoy hiking, running, kayaking, camping, gardening, and playing sports (tennis, soccer, and racquetball). Indoors I love playing board games, watching movies, or reading. 
What I did before medical school: I had a gap year prior to matriculating into medical school where I held 4 jobs. I worked as the graduate assistant for the alumni office of my undergraduate university while starting my masters in Psychology. I also worked at the Barnes and Noble on campus. Healthcare wise I worked as an ED Tech and Switchboard Operator at Saint Mary’s Regional Health System in Russellville, AR. 
Why I chose UT-Jackson: After doing an audition rotation I fell in love with the program. The sheer volume of patients with varying acuity and being an unopposed family medicine program was impressive in and of itself. In addition to that the faculty were the most knowledgeable and easiest to talk to out of every program I had looked at. The residents I got to interact with had nothing but good things to say about the place they worked and the program they were a part of.

Hometown: Mississauga, ON, Canada
Undergraduate: Brock University, St. Catharines, ON
Medical School: XUSOM
Stats: Canada --> Chicago --> Jackson. Enamored with the opportunity to train in the best specialty with my best friend in the best program.
Hobbies: Cooking, lifting, gaming, tutoring, reading sci-fi novels, technology, and film/TV analysis. 
What I did before medical school: I was a personal trainer and massage therapist. 
Why I chose UT-Jackson: In the age of virtual interviews, it's something special when a program takes the time to interview its candidates in person. When it's also an unopposed program with access to prestigious fellowships, faculty who genuinely care about their residents, and glowing recommendations from current residents - coming here was an obvious choice. I cannot wait to plant roots in Jackson and make it my forever home. 

Hometown: Kannapolis, NC
Undergraduate: High Point University, High Point, NC
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University, DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Stats: I am a follower of Messiah, a husband, and a father. I am grateful to be a first-generation college graduate and physician.
Hobbies: You can find me spending time with my family, homesteading, hunting, overlanding, or deep in theological study.
What I did before medical school: I served my community as an EMT throughout undergrad, obtained my master’s degree in biomedical science at Liberty University, then worked as a high school teacher and athletic trainer.
Why I chose UT-Jackson: As an unopposed program that puts an emphasis on comprehensive family medicine, Jackson provides all the opportunities needed to practice full-spectrum family medicine including breadth and depth in procedural medicine. The leadership is entirely supportive of osteopathic manipulative medicine and fosters an environment enabling development of my skills. During my two away rotations at Jackson, I experienced the incredible volume of patients, diversity of pathology, and acuity the residents are entrusted with daily. Additionally, these residents are truly competent, and I am confident the team here will push me to be my best as a physician.