Current residents
2023-2024 academic year
Sameer Ahmed, MD
Medical school: University of Medicine & Health Sciences, St Kitts
Why I chose Geisinger: “I chose Geisinger because of its great reputation as a hospital system in Pennsylvania. Growing up just 2 hours from Wilkes-Barre, I have the opportunity to see friends and family who are an incredible support system. I was also impressed by the program’s leadership as they are heavily invested in our wellness which is very important to me during residency. I look forward to spending the next couple of years of this adventure at Geisinger.”
Ogheneyyoma Akpoviroro, MD
Medical school: Masaryk University, Czech Republic
Why I chose Geisinger: “I chose Geisinger because I believe that the program provides a holistically balanced training that aligns with my goals for residency. This comprises the vital medical and clinical education and training, including a diverse patient population, access to a simulation center to improve resident procedural and practical competencies, dedicated and structured didactic conferences, mentorship, academic training opportunities and experiences in research and research leadership, and other varied leadership opportunities. The program also offers some training opportunities that are particularly distinctive, such as the medical humanities and population management rotations.”
Arun Chaudhury, MD
Medical school: Medical College Bengal
Why I chose Geisinger: “Caring faculties, who supported to accomplish my clinical training and advance my career in academic medicine.”
Zainab Gandhi, MD
Medical school: C.U. Shah Medical College, Gujarat
Why I chose Geisinger: “I chose Geisinger because I rotated at one of sites. I had a feeling of a positive learning environment, a lot of support for evidence-based medicine practice and equal focus on improving the quality of care and patient experience. At Geisinger, I have received ample support to kick-start my career in medicine and help get the resources I need to become a better physician.”
Ria Garg, MD
Medical school: KMC, Manipal University, Karnataka
Why I chose Geisinger: “I chose the Geisinger IM residency program because what is better than a program that has the combined qualities of providing excellent training and education, advanced research opportunities, a wide variety of patient population and cultural diversity to enrich my residency experience from, extremely dedicated staff and attendings and the most approachable and kind senior residents! This program is a family that grows together and supports each other in the process. Being a nature lover, an added bonus is exploring NEPA — I will never get tired of that!”
Sinan Hanna, MD
Medical school: Baghdad University, College of Medicine, Iraq
Why I chose Geisinger: “The most vital feature is that the program is deeply committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment that fosters resident wellness in their professional and personal lives, plus the friendly environment, and the supportive faculty.”
Muzna Hussain, MD
Medical school: Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
Why I chose Geisinger: “Geisinger has the perfect balance of academic excellence, clinical training and research opportunities. The support and mentorship in combination with outstanding leadership and teaching faculty provide truly superb training. Residency anywhere is challenging, but choosing to come and joining the Geisinger family has been the best decision.”
Abdelfatah Abou Issa, MD
Medical school: University of Tripoli, Libya
Why I chose Geisinger: “I like northeast PA because it is a very beautiful suburban area close to all big cities. It was a dream come true working in Geisinger, which serves as a giant health system that covers all specialties and provides excellent service to NEPA.”
Ayla Karca, MD
Medical school: Saint Christopher's IMD College of Medicine
Why I chose Geisinger: “Geisinger Northeast offers comprehensive medical care to a diverse population, and I knew residency here would be a well-rounded experience, from continuity clinics to inpatient floors to critical care. Northeastern Pennsylvania is home for me, and I'm so happy to train where I plan to practice.”
Lefulesele Kholoane, MD
Medical school: Norman Bethune College of Medicine, Jilin University
Why I chose Geisinger: “The culture of kindness truly stands out about the program. I recall how excited I felt after my interview to have met such kind people — this has remained true as I’ve gotten to know them — and work with everybody. I was also drawn to the program because it’s still new which gives room for endless growth possibilities. The program to me is not only a place where I’ll get the best training, but a home I’ll be proud to have been a part of building.”
Vrunda Mangaroliya, MD
Medical school: GCS Medical College – Gujarat University, Ahmedabad, India
Why I chose Geisinger: “I chose Geisinger because of the welcoming and positive work environment. As a resident physician here, rotation in three campuses provides me exposure to a wide population. Diversity in clinical pathophysiology, the complexity of cases, and the exposure to all aspects of medicine during rotations with hospitalists and subspecialty physicians provide excellent opportunities to learn and develop myself. Not to mention, the chance to live at the beautiful location of northeastern Pennsylvania with abundant natural beauty is relaxing.”
Rohit Sharma, MD
Medical school: JMC, Rajasthan University of Health Science
Why I chose Geisinger: “It’s the perfect program with the most hospitable faculty and residents you could ever find. Phenomenal benefits of a big health system and you get to live in NEPA, which is a great blend of a small community and strategic location in the tri-state close to all major cities. We have an incredible opportunity to take part in advancements & development of this program under a high-spirited leadership.“
Queeneth Uwandu, MD
Medical school: Kharkov National Medical University, Ukraine
Why I chose Geisinger: “I wanted a residency program that offers a great learning experience in a diverse patient population with a wide array of pathology, and Geisinger Northeast was a great fit. I love that the program promotes autonomy with patient care while providing a supportive environment for residents to pursue personal interests and professional growth.”
Ishtiaq Ahmad, MD
Education: Khyber Medical College
Why Geisinger?: “I feel honored to be a part of a program where residents are mentored by a highly experienced clinician using the latest in medical technology and simulations. The program has a strong focus on resident learning with a resident-friendly environment.”
Interests: Spending time with family and friends, hiking and badminton.
Ahmet Ahmetbeg, MD
Education: Ross University School of Medicine
Why Geisinger?: “Living in this area for 15+ years, I’ve witnessed how much the Geisinger system has grown and helped the local population. I want to be part of this growth and become a competent internal medicine physician within the community that I intend to serve after residency. Geisinger Northeast Internal Medicine has everything that I am looking for in a residency program. The appealing components consist of engaging didactics, a diverse patient population, research/teaching and many networking opportunities. These essential components will allow me to learn and become a well-rounded physician.”
Interests: Playing and watching sports (Soccer, UFC), hiking, fishing, traveling and learning about cultures.
Tyler Avery, DO
Education: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Virginia Campus
Why Geisinger?: “I choose Geisinger because of its mission of serving rural populations in central and northeastern Pennsylvania. Returning to this service area and my hometown after medical school has always been a dream for me. I hope to stay with the Geisinger system as a practicing physician in the future.”
Radhika Bahadur, MD
Education: St. George's University, Grenada, West Indies
Why Geisinger?: “It was the ideal program for me as I felt that the environment created by faculty and residents is where I would grow as a competent and caring physician, due to the immense diversity that Geisinger provides not just as a huge healthcare system giving you endless opportunities, but also its nurturing environment. It's a positive learning environment flexible to your needs yet knows exactly where to push you. Also, I love nature, and what better place to be in than in northeastern Pennsylvania. Now that I am here, I can say with full confidence that looking back I would make this decision again.”
Fedor Cabrera, MD
Education: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
Why Geisinger?: “After graduating from Geisinger Commonwealth, I considered continuing my education in the same institution that helped me to realize my dreams of becoming a physician. Knowing the system, many of the physicians and some of the residents made the selection process and decision to stay intrinsically natural. Geisinger offers many educational and professional opportunities, I just can’t wait to see what the future holds next.”
Interests: Cooking, exploring nature, hiking and stock market investing.
Phillip Croce, DO
Education: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
Why Geisinger?: “I began my interest in medicine at Johns Hopkins University studying neuroscience. After working several years in ultrasound and bioprinting research, I was accepted to the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, where I became interested in community-based healthcare and clinical research. As a new resident, I am eager to continue growing my clinical acumen and further take advantage of all the resources Geisinger has to offer. My early interests are hematology/oncology and the application of osteopathic manipulation in the inpatient setting.”
J. Anne Nicole Del Rosario, MD
Education: St. Luke’s Medical Center College of Medicine - William H. Quasha Memorial
Why Geisinger?: “I firmly believe learning is most effective in a positive environment. This is precisely why I chose Geisinger. It provides not only a friendly and nurturing atmosphere but also opportunities to have a work-life balance. The program is comprehensive in that it comprises a balanced mix of in-patient and out-patient clinical experiences.”
Maryam Fatima, MD
Education: King Edward Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
Why Geisinger?: “Nowhere is the desire to excel more profound and the commitment to be of use to others more relevant than in medicine where lives hang on the line with literally every decision. During my search for a residency program, I knew that I would fit well in a place that places value on a person’s dignity and respect while keeping in mind their potential and limitations and I found the perfect sweet spot in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center’s Internal Medicine Residency program. The program has nurtured a kind, nontoxic environment and a culture of humanity, diversity, transparency and teamwork and I have already made lasting memories and friendships here. I feel driven to show up as my best self while encouraging my peers to do the same and receiving the same encouragement from them, too. Surrounded by nature in the beautiful Wyoming Valley and having plenty of wellness days to help them focus on their own well-being, the residents here are truly living their best lives.”
Sara Humayun, MD
Education: Central Park Medical College, Lahore
Why Geisinger?: “I was set on Geisinger as soon as I was done with my interview. The camaraderie and friendly atmosphere were evident even on the virtual interview. Everyone — faculty and the residents — were extremely friendly and welcoming. It is an overall excellent program with excellent clinical training and great fellowship opportunities right in the middle of an amazing landscape! The program provides an amazing opportunity for professional and personal growth.”
Anila Mahesh, MD
Education: Ziauddin University, Karachi, Pakistan
Why Geisinger?: “I was drawn to Geisinger due to its diverse patient population and excellent curriculum, which provides a good balance of clinical training and research opportunities. Being close to family and friends is an added benefit. Lastly, the opportunity to develop myself professionally in a supportive environment fostered by kind faculty members has been integral to my journey of residency training at Geisinger.”
Tristan Nguyen-Luu, MD
Education: St. George's University School of Medicine, Grenada
Why Geisinger?: “The Geisinger Northeast Internal Medicine Residency program was not just a place to train to be an excellent resident, but a place where I could see myself in the future, make lasting friendships; a place I could call home. My first impression of the program was how kind both fellow residents and faculty were, everyone was extremely supportive and kind, with a strong emphasis on a non-toxic work environment and teamwork. This has also been an incredible opportunity to also get in tune with the surrounding area, with no shortage of outdoor activities but with the flexibility of being so close to surrounding big cities.”
Jenna Rabadi, MD
Education: Xavier University School of Medicine
Why Geisinger?: “Geisinger provides the perfect balance between cultivating great physicians and well-rounded professionals. The emphasis that Geisinger puts on this balance is what drew me to the program from the beginning. I am a firm believer that physicians are people outside of the hospital, and Geisinger provides all its residents with the resources to grow into cultured and dynamic individuals. All the residents and teaching faculty are kind, welcoming and always willing to help — kindness and effort that’s rarely replicated amongst residency programs. As a bonus, northeastern Pennsylvania is a beautiful place to live. It is close enough from my hometown to be able to get much-needed support from family and friends!”
Greg Simonetti, MD
Education: The University of Scranton and St. George’s University, School of Medicine
Why Geisinger?: “Right from the start, I knew that this program would be a great fit for me. Both my interview experience and site tour of the facilities left me feeling nothing short of welcomed and encouraged. Geisinger’s northeast program promotes ample opportunity for interactive learning, community involvement and team-based leadership. There is excellent access and unique exposure to all areas of specialization, while maintaining commitment to foundational medicine and providing quality patient care. The program offers a supportive environment dedicated to fostering a balance between overall well-being and personal growth of one’s education and skill set as a physician.”
Interests: Anything outdoors, sports, exercise, good music, quality food, meeting new people and spending as much time as possible with family and friends.
John Appiah, MD
Hometown: Accra, Ghana
Medical school: Ryazan State Medical University, Russia
Why I chose Geisinger: I chose Geisinger because it is a formidable health system known in the US. The faculty and residents I encountered during my interviews made me feel welcome and gave me a glimpse of the healthy work environment in the hospital. I am convinced that the next few years with Geisinger will be fulfilling.
My interests: Music, soccer, running, movies and video games.
Karna Desai, MD
Hometown: Surat, India
Medical school: Government Medical College, Surat
Why I chose Geisinger: My memorable rotation at one of Geisinger's facilities was the key factor in my decision. I was deeply inspired by the dedicated faculty, the vibrant academic environment, and the amazing residents who quickly became more than colleagues, they felt like a community.
Geisinger's program offers an ideal balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, which I find vital for my career aspirations. The opportunity to grow professionally under outstanding leadership makes this a perfect fit for my path in medicine. Furthermore, the welcoming community and scenic beauty of Northeast Pennsylvania make it a beautiful place to call home.
My interests: I have a deep-rooted passion for sports, especially cricket, which I actively play. My leisure time is often spent following Formula 1 racing and soccer. If you are a FC Barcelona fan, then we are friends already. Beyond sports, I am captivated by history and find great joy in Bollywood and Sufi music.
Zenab Farooq, MD
Hometown: Toronto, Canada & Lahore, Pakistan
Medical school: Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi
Why I chose Geisinger: I chose Geisinger because not only is it an excellent health system serving the state of Pennsylvania, but it also strongly promotes community and well-being. During the interview, I felt the sense of camaraderie and close-knit community amongst the faculty and residents. Residency training is hard, and it is important to be in a program that advocates for its residents and promotes a healthy learning environment. Geisinger, I believe, strikes the perfect balance between academic rigor and well-being. The gorgeous hilly landscape across which the hospitals sit just adds an additional layer of happiness to the program.
My interests: In my free time, I love reading, exploring new places and trying new foods! I also enjoy journaling and vlogging!
Hevanshi Fernando, MD
Hometown: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Medical school: International Medical University, Malaysia; All Saints University College of Medicine, St Vincent, and the Grenadines
Why I chose Geisinger: My interview experience with Geisinger was solidified when I visited the program for a second look. I felt accepted, welcomed and supported by the residents, faculty and staff alike. Considering the program is a newer one, hearing that our seniors’ feedback and suggestions were valued, has given me a great appreciation of the leadership of the program. Geisinger’s excellent resident retention rate is inspiring and there is no shortage of cutting-edge research opportunities. The Geisinger NE IM program strives to offer an environment that fosters academic and personal growth, which aligned perfectly with my vision. Coming into Geisinger feels very much like entering a warm family. Geisinger ultimately became my top choice, and I am ecstatic I get to be a part of this great initiative!
My interests: I love my family, serving in the community, learning about new cultures, people and food.
Umar Hayat, MD, MPH
Hometown: Lahore, Pakistan
Medical school: Allama Iqbal Medical College
Why I chose Geisinger: Geisinger offers a great friendly and collegial working environment, which I steered during my rotations and research work. Moreover, it strongly encourages a teaching atmosphere to shape and nurture an internal medicine career with promising work-life integration. Lastly, being local further swayed my decision to stay here. I look forward to working with a fine group of people and am excited to acquire and enhance my skills.
My interests: Running, playing cricket and reading books.
Soniya Koirala, MD
Hometown: Kathmandu, Nepal
Medical school: Kathmandu University School of Medicine, Nepal
Why I chose Geisinger: I chose Geisinger because of my experience here during my observership. The residents seemed content with the learning opportunities, supportive and healthy working environment. I also liked that the program really cared about the resident's wellness. I am very grateful to be a part of the Geisinger family.
My interests: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.
Srujana Konka, MD
Hometown: Siddipet, Telangana, India.
Medical school: Prathima Institute of Medical Sciences, Telangana, India.
Why I chose Geisinger: Geisinger is a well-known health system in the United States, providing comprehensive healthcare to a diverse patient population in Pennsylvania. I chose Geisinger because I had rotated in one of the Geisinger facilities and had a tremendous experience working with the faculty and residents. They are warm, amicable, and extremely supportive; the program leadership and faculty provide a positive, friendly learning atmosphere, advanced research opportunities, and an excellent academic experience conducive for professional and personal growth. I have lived in Northeast PA for the last seven years; it is a serene and beautiful area to raise a family. Geisinger's emphasis on wellness is apparent in its innovative approach to scheduling, permitting ample time for work-life integration.
Interests: I love to spend quality time with my family, and I enjoy cooking.
Faustin Mambulu, MD
Hometown: Kinshasa, DRC
Medical school: Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou-China.
Why I chose Geisinger: I chose Geisinger IM because the hospitality and team spirit found here among the staff and peers are simply amazing. The countless opportunities to grow in my career as an Internal medicine doctor and having proper guidance toward my fellowship is among the primary reasons why I picked this program.
My interests: I am enthusiastic about new beginnings, and I always seek opportunities to learn from others and bring help wherever it is needed.
Victoria Manyele, MD
Hometown: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and London-Ontario, Canada.
Medical school: Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou-China
Why I chose Geisinger: I chose Geisinger Northeast IM because the people in the program make it feel like home. Not only is it surrounded by amazing sceneries and lots of nature (lots and lots of trees!), but if you ever need to go to a big city for a day, you can hop on the highway and drive there. I believe Geisinger will equip me with the experiences and knowledge I need to become the best doctor I ever thought I could be, but at the same time, shape me into a doctor that makes long-lasting differences in people’s lives. I was so impressed by the way the program is structured, and how everyone is always willing to help, it made the process not feel so overwhelming and yet enjoyable. I cannot wait to see who I become!
My interests: I enjoy photography, traveling the globe, tasting different foods and spending time with friends. If someone is ever having a bad day, I’ll cheer them up in seconds!
Sana Shahzad Memon, MD
Hometown: Karachi, Pakistan
Medical school: Sir Syed College of Medical Sciences for Girls, Pakistan
Why I chose Geisinger: I chose Geisinger because of its friendly environment and well-rounded approach towards medicine. The institution offers excellent clinical training and research opportunities that will enable me to move closer to my goal of becoming a holistic physician. Geisinger's strong connection to the community, especially its service to the NEPA community at multiple sites, will allow me to diversify my training and provide me with an opportunity to give back. Additionally, Geisinger-NE incorporates an innovative curriculum that includes physician well-being and humanities as part of the core curriculum, which deeply intrigued me. I am proud to be a part of the Geisinger family.
My interests: Road trips, travel, hiking and a newfound love for cooking.
Noormah Nasir, MD
Hometown: Lahore, Pakistan
Medical school: King Edward Medical University, Pakistan
Why I chose Geisinger: The program places utmost importance on creating a healthy learning environment for us to become the best version of ourselves, not just as physicians but also as human beings. This in my opinion, inevitably translates into excellence in patient care and advancement in medicine. I was able to pick up a positive friendly energy amongst the residents too during the virtual meet and greet session, which reinforced the idea that the administration would have my back. That is exactly the confidence that I needed to start my training in the U.S.
My interests: I love to travel so I am already looking forward to endless road trips, exploring the beautiful landscape that Northeast PA has to offer.
Thae Aient Aient Oo, MD, MPH
Hometown: Mandalay, Myanmar
Medical school: University of Medicine, Mandalay, Myanmar
Why I chose Geisinger: I appreciate the welcoming and caring work environment that the faculty and residents created. I am attracted to the unique rotations offered by the program that will train me to become a well-rounded physician. I believe the Geisinger Northeast Internal Medicine program will help me grow as a physician who will in turn serve the community.
My Interests: Dungeons & Dragons role-playing game and reading fantasy novels.
Muhammad Asad Raza, MD
Hometown: Lahore, Pakistan
Medical school: King Edward Medical University, Pakistan
Why I chose Geisinger: I desired to spend the next three years working somewhere that would allow me to advance professionally and strike a balance between work and personal life. Meeting new individuals and developing relationships that will last a lifetime makes me happy. Geisinger caught my attention because of how welcoming, considerate, and empathetic the people seemed to be. A non-toxic environment is something that both residents and faculty strongly value. Northeastern Pennsylvania is a wonderful location to stay close to nature because it is surrounded by beautiful scenery.
My interests: Sports, particularly cricket, and hiking are things I like to do.
Chukwunonso Basil Ubanatu, MD
Hometown: Onitsha, Nigeria
Medical School: Guangxi Medical University, China.
Why I chose Geisinger: I chose Geisinger because of the particularly high stance it takes on the residents’ holistic wellbeing and the possibility of enormous growth I sensed during the application and interview process. The program clearly stood out as a beacon of endless opportunities and one where my inputs could truly count. I am looking forward to the next three years as they would be challenging as well as life changing and exciting, as I would be working with one of the best minds in medicine.
My interests: I love challenges, hiking and community.
Alumni
Class of 2023
- Sayeda Abbas, MD – Sleep Medicine Fellowship – Wilkes-Barre, PA
- Oleg Dvulit, MD – Hospital Medicine – Geisinger Wyoming Valley
- Ayesha Khan, MD – Primary Care, Illinois
- William Lai, DO – Endocrinology Fellowship, Cooper University Hospital, NJ
- Noor Mualla, MD, MPH – Innova Hospital System, VA
- Shiva Naidoo, MD – Chief Resident, Geisinger Wyoming Valley
- Jesse Raposa, DO – Infectious Diseases Fellowship, University of Georgia
- Belinda Sibanda, MD – Primary Care Physician (FQHC), California
- Muhammad Sabih Saleem, MD – Cardiology Fellowship, The Wright Center, PA
- Steven Suastegui, MD – Addiction Medicine Fellowship, University of Florida
- Kristena Yossef, MD – Hospital Medicine – Geisinger Wyoming Valley
- Dipen Zalavadia, MD – Cardiology Fellowship, The Wright Center, PA
- Lihua Zou, MD – Hospital Medicine – Geisinger Wyoming Valley