Invited Applicant Resource Page

Year Completed USA-IM Program: 2024

Undergraduate Institution: Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences

Medical School: Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences

Fellowship or any additional training post-residency: Nephrology Fellowship, Washington University in St. Louis

Current Job: Nephrology Fellow, 2024-2026

Where do you live now: St. Louis, MO

How did USA prepare me for my current job: The training I received at USA laid the foundation for becoming a well-rounded physician and internist. The skills I developed in teamwork, communication, clinical reasoning, and internal medicine have been instrumental in shaping the nephrology fellow I am today.

Thoughts on time and training at USA: I loved my time at USA. The complexity of patient can prepare you for really anything after residency and the faculty, co residents, staff are kind and easy to work. The faulty is cares about each resident and wants to see them succeed. Not to mention, you make friends for a lifetime while learning in a incredibly positive environment.

Any professional accomplishments you wish to share: The start of my year as a chief nephrology fellow at Washington University! Presenting at multiple conferences including ACP and NKF. Being able to be apart of the Washington University Teaching Physicians Pathway Program. And my almost-5 -year-old daughter Alagu!

Advice/anything else you wish to share with applicants: You can really go anywhere and get the education you need to be a competent internist, what sets USA apart is being able to work in a collaborative and family friendly environment during a very impressionable phase of training (intern year and residency). Residency can be hard, but it makes a world of difference being able to do it a supportive environment with colleagues that treats you like family.

Year Completed USA-IM Program: 2024

Undergraduate Institution: University of West Florida

Medical School: Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Fellowship or any additional training post-residency: None

Current Job: Academic Hosp, now private

Where do you live now: Fairhope, AL

How did USA prepare me for my current job: USA allowed me to care for complex patients while growing as a person and as a doctor. I worked as an academic hospitalist at a fast paced hospital with SICK patients after training. I was over-prepared and supported even after graduation. Thoughts on time and training at USA:

Residency in general is hard, but I enjoyed residency at USA as much as you can! I felt supported and cared for. If I had to re-apply I would apply to USA 100x over (esp after working in another program)

Advice/anything else you wish to share with applicants: Look for a residency that feels like home/family! These will be your people for the next 3 years.

Year Completed USA-IM Program: 2023

Undergraduate Institution: East Central University in Ada, OK

Medical School: University of Oklahoma COM in OKC, OK

Fellowship or any additional training post-residency: Pulmonary Critical Care

Current Job: Current Fellow

Where do you live now: Mobile, AL

How did USA prepare me for my current job: USA gave me a strong foundation for clinical practice as a fellow and an IM attending by granting me autonomy while always making me feel supported. I was encouraged, challenged, and given the space to grow into a leader.

Thoughts on time and training at USA: Our program fosters a close-knit, friendly atmosphere where we look out for each other. Residency is tough anywhere, but I wouldn’t change where I trained. I became a confident physician and made lifelong friends doing so.

Any professional accomplishments you wish to share: I was voted Intern of the Year for 2020–2021, selected as a chief resident at USA, and inducted into AOA. I’ve also contributed to several publications in my chosen field and led QI projects that have helped shape clinical practice at our institution.

Advice/anything else you wish to share with applicants: Residency is what you make of it. The most important thing a program can offer you is a supportive environment, everything else is a bonus. If you show up ready to learn, work hard, and listen, you’ll thrive wherever you train.

Year Completed USA-IM Program: 2023

Undergraduate Institution: University of Missouri

Medical School: VCOM, Auburn University

Fellowship or any additional training post-residency: None

Current Job: IM Faculty, USA

Where do you live now: Mobile, AL

How did USA prepare me for my current job: Training at USA allowed me to develop a wide range of diagnostic and management techniques via the diverse patient population. I feel confident in taking care of any patient that walks through the door having seen a vast array of patient presentations during my training. USA also has a strong academic curriculum which has prepared me for working in an academic setting.

Thoughts on time and training at USA: My time and training at USA prepared me for independent practice. The program leadership and housestaff here are very supportive and foster a true learning environment. Many of our faculty members have completed at least a portion of their training here at USA which is evidence for the welcoming learning environment and overall satisfaction here at USA.

Any professional accomplishments you wish to share: SRC Medical Director; USA IM APD

Advice/anything else you wish to share with applicants: Choose a program that fits your and your interests. Place value on patient/pathology diversity and a program with a strong, proven academic curriculum.

Year Completed USA-IM Program: 2022

Medical School: Dow Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan

Fellowship or any additional training post-residency: Pulmonary & Critical Care Med

Current Job: Assistant Professor of Medicine

Where do you live now: Mobile , AL

How did USA prepare me for my current job: Training at USA Health shaped me into a confident and compassionate physician. The residency program provided extensive clinical exposure, laying a strong clinical foundation in Internal Medicine that greatly helped me make critical decisions during my fellowship. I also had ample opportunities for research and procedures, which boosted my confidence throughout my fellowship training.

Thoughts on time and training at USA: It’s an excellent program, well-run, and greatly values its interns and residents. During my training, the support from peers and leadership that I got was unmatched. The program balances work and life well, with approachable leadership and a strong emphasis on education, personal growth, and mutual respect.

Any professional accomplishments you wish to share: Getting into a competitive fellowship like Pulmonary Critical Care Medicine.

Advice/anything else you wish to share with applicants: Residency is a crucial step in a physician's career, testing not only medical knowledge and clinical skills but also personal resilience and temperament. In my opinion, the most important factor to consider in a program is the support it offers when mistakes happen, as they inevitably will. I’ve found this program to be incredibly supportive, and I hope you will have a similar experience.

Year Completing USA-IM Program: 2021 
Undergraduate Institution: Pennsylvania State University 
Medical School: University of Medicine & Health Sciences, St. Kitts 
Fellowship or any additional training post-residency: Nephrology 2022-2024, Transplant Nephrology Subspecialty 2024-2025 
Current Job: Nephrology Fellowship, Tulane University 
Where do you live now: New Orleans, Louisiana 
How did USA prepare you for your current job: South taught me how to be a good physician and a good internist specifically. Those skills pertaining to teamwork, communication, internal medicine and critical thinking are what have made me a good nephrology fellow today. 
Thoughts on your training/time at USA: I love USA, and I loved my time there, so much that I stayed for a chief year. In those four years, I not only got great internal medicine training but made lifelong friends and family. 
Any professional accomplishments you wish to share: My acceptance to Tulane’s Transplant Nephrology Fellowship. (I guess I'll too say my greatest accomplishment though would be my son, Adam Bruce, who's now almost a year old). 
Anything else you wish to share with applicants: If you want a program that truly cares about you, come to South. They will teach you to be great, you just have to trust the process and work hard. I was made into a real doctor there, I started my family there, I love it there. 

Year Completing USA-IM Program: 2021 
Undergraduate Institution: UCLA  
Medical School: Universidad Autonoma de Guadalajara School of Medicine 
Fellowship or any additional training post-residency: Hematology/Oncology at University of South Alabama 
Current Job: 3rd year Hematology/Oncology fellow 
Where do you live now: Mobile, AL 
How did USA prepare you for your current job? My time as a resident in internal medicine at USA provided me with a strong foundation that helped me transition to hematology/oncology. Hematology/oncology frequently demands not only medical proficiency, but also empathy and emotional support given the nature of the conditions patients face. Through my internal medicine residency, I actively engaged with patients and their families, often during trying circumstances. These experiences helped me to learn how to communicate effectively and allowed me to develop a strong understanding of general medicine and critical thinking. Additionally, my exposure to various medical specialties during residency helped cultivate an appreciation for effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams. The experiences I gained while managing complex medical conditions during my residency have equipped me with the confidence and proficiency to confront the challenges presented by a hematology/oncology career. 
Thoughts on your training/time at USA: My experience during my internal medicine residency was incredibly positive. I was fortunate to be part of a program with a dedicated and skilled staff, which greatly contributed to my learning and growth. The strong team of professionals provided excellent guidance and supervision throughout my training, allowing me to acquire a wealth of knowledge and practical skills. The emphasis on supervision ensured that I received the necessary support and direction, enhancing my ability to handle diverse and complex medical cases. The experience was truly invaluable in preparing me for the challenges and responsibilities that come with a career in hematology/oncology. 
Anything else you wish to share with applicants: The journey can be challenging, but perseverance pays off. Understand your career goals and how the program aligns with them. Whether it's a specific specialty, research interests or patient populations, having a clear sense of your goals will help you find the right fit. Remember to stay positive, but most importantly be true to yourself. 

Year Completing USA-IM Program: 2021 
Undergraduate Institution: Birmingham-Southern College 
Medical School: University of Alabama at Birmingham 
Current Job: General Internist, Partner at Southview Medical Group 
Where do you live now: Birmingham, Alabama 
How did USA prepare you for your current job: My training and experience at USA's internal medicine program exposed me to a diversity of pathology, which has prepared me for the challenges of independent general practice. The level of patient acuity and complexity seen in the Gulf Coast, USA Hospital and its clinics is very high compared to many regions of the country. Treating these sick patients early in my training and learning from the experts who serve this population allowed me to move confidently into my career.   
Thoughts on your training/time at USA: I am eternally grateful to my mentors at USA Internal Medicine.  I believe the kindness and collegiality among faculty, residents, students and staff at USA is unparalleled.  It encouraged me to set a high bar when considering work environment in my future career prospects.  From your first day of intern year to residency graduation and beyond, the faculty at USA Hospital are truly invested in your success.  
Any professional accomplishments you wish to share: I was honored to have served as one of three IM chief residents at USA and to receive the Victor Benator Award for excellence in teaching. 
Anything else you wish to share with applicants: Intern year and residency are crucial times in your development as a new physician as it can set the tone for the rest of your career. It is important to select a program where you stay busy, have a diversity of experiences and, most importantly, are supported by your program faculty and administration. 

Year Completing USA-IM Program: 2021 
Undergraduate Institution: University of Regina, Regina, SK, Canada 
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts 
Fellowship or any additional training post-residency: Pulmonary and Critical Care 
Current Job: Currently a fellow at Tulane Pulmonary and Critical Care 
Where do you live now: New Orleans, Louisiana 
How did USA prepare you for your current job: Excellent training! I felt that the program focuses on the residents, their training through dedicated teaching and wellbeing. They allowed for autonomy. I feel like the program set me up well for my fellowship. 
Thoughts on your training/time at USA: Loved my time at USA! Loved it so much that I did a chief year and felt that I came out a competent physician. 
Any professional accomplishments you wish to share: Currently a fellow in pulmonary critical care and my greatest accomplishment is my 11-month-old son! 
Anything else you wish to share with applicants: Picking South will be one of the best decisions you make. 

Year Completing USA-IM Program: 2020 
Undergraduate Institution: North Carolina State 
Medical School: University of South Carolina  
Fellowship or any additional training post-residency: Pulmonary and Critical Care 
Current Job: Fellowship at LSU 
Where do you live now: New Orleans, Louisiana 
How did USA prepare you for your current job: The training at USA prepared me for both private practice and academic medicine. The variety and acuity of patients prepared me to independently and competently practice in any setting. 
Thoughts on your training/time at USA: I really enjoyed the staff, the residents and everyone I interacted with during training. I have only fond memories of working and training there and would not have gone anywhere else. 
Anything else you wish to share with applicants: Pay very close attention to the people you interview with and especially the program director. They set the tone for your entire residency. Board pass rate is 90% so you will gain relative competency in any program, but the people you work with will make that experience something you cherish for a lifetime. 

Year Completing USA-IM Program: 2020 
Undergraduate Institution: Boston University (BA), Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (MS) 
Medical School: Trinity School of Medicine (MD) 
Fellowship or any additional training post-residency: Pulmonary Disease at Eisenhower Health, Critical Care Medicine at University of Tennessee Health Science Center 
Current Job: PGY-VI Critical Care Medicine Fellow 
Where do you live now: Memphis, Tennessee 
How did USA prepare you for your current job: Completing my residency at University of South Alabama prepared me to be a very well-prepared fellow in both my previous and current programs. The diverse patient population, didactics and overall training have allowed me to thrive in any hospital setting I have been in since graduating. 
Thoughts on your training/time at USA: The combination of a well-developed academic program and the camaraderie between the residents and faculty that I found at USA is unmatched. I left USA not only with confidence in my own medical ability, but also with a whole new set of colleagues and lifelong friendships who I know I will keep in touch with for years to come. 
Any professional accomplishments you wish to share: Chief Resident at University of South Alabama, Chief Fellow at Eisenhower Health, and I have presented at multiple national conferences including CHEST, ATS, and AABIP. 
Anything else you wish to share with applicants: At the end of the day, you can go anywhere to complete your residency training. What stood out to me about USA was that I immediately felt like I was part of a family during my interview and that I would thrive in the environment that South provided. I encourage you to look for that "perfect fit" during your interviews. Best of luck! 

Year Completing USA-IM Program: 2020 
Undergraduate Institution: Auburn University 
Medical School: Kansas City University 
Fellowship or any additional training post-residency: Gastroenterology 
Current Job: Gastroenterologist 
Where do you live now: Alabama and Israel  
How did USA prepare you for your current job: USA prepared me tremendously for GI Fellowship and beyond. The fundamental base that was provided to me by training at South was pivotal not only in my knowledge base, but also built confidence in me to progress onward. The acuity and level of care as well as the patient population at USA is optimal for clinical training. One of my first memories of fellowship (in a large NYC inner-city hospital) was how much healthier and clinically more simple to manage my patients were compared to the complexity of my patients at USA. After training in multiple large institutions I still have this perspective and truly believe that training at South thoroughly prepares you from a volume, pathology, knowledge standpoint to treat all patients. In addition, learning by example from my attendings at USA taught me how to interact with patients and families both in simple and complex situations. 
Thoughts on your training/time at USA: I can’t say enough positive thoughts about my time and training at USA. First, the most important part of training is the people. Having a program director that cares about her residents and is compassionate about her job is invaluable as this defines the tone of your training. As a resident at South, I always felt respected and heard by the faculty. Faculty members are approachable, and given the program size, you develop friendships not only with your peers, but also with your faculty. The teaching is unparalleled, and as a subspecialist, I now understand the emphasis that is placed on the value of appropriate primary workup for consultative services. The volume of patients is appropriate, and it allows for adequate time in the day for educational opportunities, which is optimally utilized. The ability to interact with fellows and be exposed to subspecialties at a high level is beneficial both for education and pursuing careers in subspecialties. As a gastroenterologist who did residency at South, I can say that my exposure with the GI department propelled me to fellowship through multiple avenues including research, academia and clinical practice. The ability to do research, present and attend the major GI conferences during residency was also vital and highlighted as an important aspect from the residency and fellowship perspective. Though I personally did not complete fellowship at South, I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to consistently interact with the department. Ultimately this groundwork not only aided me into taking the next step into fellowship, but has made me into a better gastroenterologist as a whole. Finally I’d like to emphasize the camaraderie and family atmosphere. Overall this program is very resident-focused and the friendships you build with your peers are lifelong. Some of my best friends come from my time during residency training, and I truly believe that this is due to the positive atmosphere that the institution provides. 
Anything else you wish to share with applicants: In comparison to my friends who trained at some of the greatest institutions in the United States, the time and allocation to teaching provided to us as residents at South is of the highest caliber. Autonomy and trust are a major focus, and you feel significant confidence instilled upon you by your attendings. You don’t act out of fear as a resident, but rather out of knowledge and ability to know what you are able and not able to handle during training. There is always someone there to help or assist if need be, all the way from other upper levels to attendings at any time during the day or night. Additionally Mobile is a great place to train, and the quality of life it allows you to live as a resident is unparalleled. Between great weather, many places to go out, proximity to the beach among others, I greatly enjoyed my time in the Bay area.

Year Completing USA-IM Program: 2018
Undergraduate Institution: Florida State University
Medical School: Florida State University
Fellowship or any additional training post-residency: Cardiology Fellowship at Mayo Clinic Florida; Interventional Cardiology Fellow at Brown; Structured Heart Cardiology Fellow at Vanderbilt
How did USA prepare you for your current job: USA was instrumental in me becoming who I am today. All of the faculty take time to teach and cultivate the interests of residents. Drs. Omar and Malozzi were instrumental in mentoring me on my path to Cardiology. The lecture series, end of rotation test and required 50 EKGs all helped to make me an exceptional resident and furthered my interests in Cardiology. I can’t say enough about the internal medicine faculty. Drs. Crook, Blair, Schilthuis, Ballard, Hogue, Bessette, Seaman, Bolton, Henderson, Dipalma, Calderon, Vande Waa, TJ, Culpepper, Fouty, Almalouf, Haynes, Schaphorst and Fagan taught me SO much and pretty much created the physician I am today! Dr. Omar even helped me publish my first Cardiology case report; he and Dr. Malozzi read over my personal statement prior to applying to fellowship.
Thoughts on your training/time at USA: USA prepared me by exposing me to a tremendously amount of pathology and giving me the autonomy to manage these incredibly tough cases. They were always a phone call away or right beside me when running a code or managing a critical patient in the ICU, PCU or floors. That experience gave me the confidence and experience to manage any patient I come across. Nothing scares me because of my experience here. 
Anything else you wish to share with applicants: Because of my experience at South Alabama, I won the Top Fellow Teaching award among all 42 fellows here at Mayo Clinic Florida – as a first year fellow – something  I can truly only attribute to the preparation I had at South Alabama. I also won the Florida ACC Young Investigator Award for my research on patient outcomes after MitraClip which would not have been possible without the research experience I received at South Alabama.