Current Residents

Hometown: Lubbock, TX
Undergraduate: University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Hematopathology, Transfusion Medicine, Molecular Genetics

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: The genuine social environment and diversity of training experiences.

Fun fact about yourself: I enjoy learning about wildlife, and I spent a month studying primate behavior and ecology in Costa Rica.

Hometown: Poplar Bluff, MO
Undergraduate: Arkansas State
Medical School: University of Missouri - Columbia
Sub-Specialty Interest: dermatopathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: I knew Vandy would offer comprehensive training in both AP and CP. Pathology, like most things, is learned best by doing, and Vandy provides such a wide variety of cases that you will do and see a lot during residency. Nashville is a cool city with a lot of entertainment surrounded by beautiful scenery. Most importantly, the people here are friendly. Nearly everyone I've encountered from residents to senior faculty has been welcoming, humble, and good-natured.

Fun fact about yourself: I am married and we have an Australian shepherd (Carbon) and too many houseplants. I love being outdoors including backcountry camping, canoeing, cycling, and of course disc golf. My greatest accomplishment is watching every episode of Seinfeld at least four times.

Engage with Devin:

Medical School: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College

Hometown: Krasnoyarsk, Russia
Undergraduate: State University of New York – Oneonta
Medical School: University of Michigan Medical School
Sub-specialty interest: gastrointestinal/liver pathology, dermatopathology, hematopathology and informatics.

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: This program presented the strongest combination of the quality of training, variety of fellowships, availability of training with the VA and proximity to family.

Fun fact about yourself: In 2023 for Christmas, I purchased two square feet of land in Blairadam, Scotland. Thus, I was bestowed the title of Lord of Blairadam. My kids, the Master and the Ladies of Blairadam, had a lot of fun with the whole experience.”

Medical School: Southern Illinois University School of Medicine

Hometown: Memphis, TN
Undergraduate: Lee University
Medical School: Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University
Sub-Specialty Interest: molecular genetics, digital and telepathology in general

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: Of course, I wanted a strong program with excellent training, a variety of fellowship opportunities, and a history of excellent post-training job opportunities, but several things set Vanderbilt apart:

1. Location. Nashville is a great city with four milder seasons so you can be outdoors all year—hiking, biking on trails all through the city and suburbs, lake life, and even sandy lakefront beaches. The cost of living is a bit prohibitive and the summers are humid, but overall it was a good fit. The city life is amazing as well from concerts to professional sports to live music on every street corner.
2. Family-friendly program. I was pregnant with my 1st child during residency interviews and during the first year of residency, I had my 2nd child. Many of our residents are married with young children. I love that I can thrive at Vanderbilt at both my jobs—pathology training and parenting.
3. The Vandy family! The residents and faculty have great relationships with each other. Our path techs are knowledgeable, friendly, and superb teachers. It feels like a tight-knit community, and I’m sure we will maintain our relationships for our whole careers.

Fun fact about yourself: I worked as a Navy physician after medical school (HPSP scholarship). I have two kids, aged 2 and 4. I am the resident who lives the farthest away (Spring Hill, 45-minute commute).

Undergraduate: University of North Texas
Medical School: McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Sub-Specialty Interest: Pediatric Pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: The aspects of a residency program that were really important to me were strong academics, a supportive environment, diversity within the program, and a wide range of fellowship options - all within a city where my partner (a creative type) and I would thrive. I really felt like this was a hard ask, but I could not have anticipated how great of a fit Vanderbilt and Nashville ended up being for me. We have a large PGY-1 cohort and we are all from really diverse backgrounds. Most importantly, we all work together really well and we really care about each others’ success. I have felt extremely supported by the upper-level residents and fellows and pathology assistants, who are all really supportive, patient and overall just really excited about teaching and learning from each other. I really do consider myself quite lucky to have been chosen to be a resident at Vandy Path.

Fun fact about yourself: When I am not doing path-related things, I enjoy spending time with my two dogs (Maddox, a whippet, and Ella, my little brown potato) and my partner. Getting to explore Nashville has been so much fun! The food scene is incredible. I enjoy running and there are a lot of really great parks and trails in the area. I love doing artsy/creative things (embroidery/painting/decorating, you name it) and I really love thrifting. I will guiltily admit that I watch too much TV and I tend to watch Bob’s Burgers on repeat.

Engage with Amber:

Hometown: Dalian, China
Sub-Specialty Interest: Neuropathology

Why I Chose VUMC Pathology: After thorough research, I found that VUMC Pathology/Vanderbilt/Nashville embodies the principles of a perfect “HEXAGON” in residency training: “H”igh-level education with diverse case exposure; “E”xtensive cross-disciplinary research opportunities; e“X”ceptional working environment; “A”ctive and vibrant community; “G”rounded and well-organized academic structure; “O”pen and approachable faculties, staffs and residents; “N”urturing and harmonious training environment. This well-balanced “HEXAGON” training program is ideal not only for new recruits but also for fostering stable and fulfilling long-term careers.

Fun fact about yourself: In Chinese, my name means “good at study.” Though my parents didn’t choose it with that intention, I have a regular habit of reading scientific reports and articles across various fields, not just medicine. I also have a passion for high-fidelity audio and have collected over 50 headphones and earphones, which I enjoy using while diving into my reading.

Hometown: Vancouver, BC
Undergraduate: Baylor University 
Medical School: Eastern Virginia Medical School 
Sub-Specialty Interest: Hematopathology, GI Pathology, Cytopathology, Dermatopathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology:  I often find that we more or less become our mentors and teachers, particularly in pathology. There are many excellent pathology training programs out there, however, all my mentors in medical school told me that I’d be insane not to consider Vanderbilt for training. For similar reasons as with many of my co-residents, Vanderbilt Pathology has considerable things to offer: breadth of cases, progressive resident responsibilities, more than adequate resources, genuinely supportive faculty and trainees, etc. What especially intrigued me about Vanderbilt Pathology was its potential for growth. It is not often that one hears about high-power academic institutions having the resources and real-estate to expand (more often one hears about ever-increasing needs to expand but not having enough space to do so). With growth comes opportunity, both tangible and intangible. The new off-site laboratory, not too far from campus, is nothing short of amazing and everything thing here is essentially brand new. Moreover, having new facilities means more diverse case volume and various faculty that are going to be involved with trainees.

Fun fact about yourself: I am an avid anime fan, abstract painter, home-cook, and philosophy nerd (Franz Kafka’s work is my latest obsession).

Medical School: University of South Carolina School of Medicine

Hometown: Sugar Land, Texas
Undergraduate: University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine

Hometown: Greenwich, CT
Undergraduate: Columbia University
Medical School: Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Sub-Specialty Interest: hematopathology, molecular genetics, transfusion medicine

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: As a Vandy med student, I had the privilege to rotate through the department several times. I was able to experience the camaraderie of the residents and the enthusiasm of the attendings for both teaching and mentorship. Plus, I’m not sure you can find another city quite like Nashville! Between the food and activities, there is always something to do and plenty to eat!

Fun fact about yourself: I’m a huge foodie! Always happy to give restaurant recommendations or answer any other questions you may have about Nashville or the program.

Engage with Stephanie:

Hometown: Pensacola, Florida
Undergraduate: University of Florida
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Sub-Specialty Interest: Hematopathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: Large breadth and depth of cases, resident independence, plentiful research opportunities, and excellent attending educators.

Fun fact about yourself:I grew up in a military family and went to high school in Germany!

Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Undergraduate:  University of Texas at Dallas
Medical School: University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Neuropathology and Molecular Genetic Pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: During the interview I felt in addition to being smart and talented the residents and faculty were genuinely kind, caring and collegial. Being able to learn and grow among these colleagues at a strong well balanced academic program with great variety of cases and access to world class research made the choice easy.

Fun fact about yourself:  I am a family man and enjoy doing things with my family. I also like Sci-Fi movies, rock music, fishing, vegetable gardening, and visiting museums.

Hometown:  Manitowoc, Wisconsin 
Undergraduate: Drake University
Medical School: Baylor College of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Pediatric Pathology and Molecular Genetic Pathology 

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: The plentiful fellowship opportunities, balance between AP and CP training, excellent research environment, and city of Nashville are all important reasons I applied to VUMC, but it was ultimately the warmth of the residents and faculty during my interview that made me confident that the program would be a supportive and fun place to train. 

Fun fact about yourself: I’m a huge Green Bay Packers fan. I also love live music so I’m excited to begin exploring all the great concert venues in Nashville. 

Hometown: St. Louis, MO
Undergraduate: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: University of Missouri - Columbia
Sub-Specialty Interest: Undetermined

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: Vanderbilt put a lot of emphasis on training in both anatomic and clinical pathology, and has lots of interesting and complex cases. I had a great experience in my interview which made the decision easy!

Fun fact about yourself: I have many hobbies/interests, of which I have mastered none: violin, guitar, ukulele, tennis, disc golf, cooking/baking, hiking, fishing, painting, target shooting, video gaming, and cat videos.

Hometown: Douglasville, GA
Undergraduate: Mercer University
Medical School: Meharry Medical College
Sub-Specialty Interest: Forensic Pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: I chose Vanderbilt due to the amazing experience I had here during my away rotation. I felt like the environment allowed for me to balance learning and working and without feeling lost. The hospital system is large and I get to see many diverse cases. I think another bonus is the faculty and co-residents who are really helpful and want me to succeed!

Fun fact about yourself: I am a big fan of anime and East Asian cultures. I like to go on YouTube to find new recipes to cook and follow DIY projects. I also follow a lot of True Crime podcasts.

Hometown: Orlando, Florida

Undergraduate: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Medical School: Pritzker Medical School at the University of Chicago

Sub-Specialty Interest: Surgical Pathology and Blood Bank 

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: The residents and attendings are kind, friendly and patient. I wanted to come to a program that centers learning and growth for residents. Senior residents and fellows routinely teach and help others. Nashville has beautiful outdoor spaces and pleasant weather year round. 

Fun fact about yourself: I play the euphonium (tuba-like instrument) in a wind ensemble in Nashville. I sailed up the coast of Maine for a month. 

Hometown: Las Piedras, Puerto Rico
Undergraduate: University of Puerto Rico at Humacao
Medical School: University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Molecular Genetics Pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: Primarily the vibes from the residents and positive environment I was able to perceive during the virtual interview. Furthermore, this is an institution with rich history, research and amazing faculty that is enthusiastic for their field, your education, and most importantly your well-being.

Fun fact about yourself: I like movies (a lot), love to read science fiction, and am always on the lookout for new music to listen to or interesting art of all types.

Engage with Joel:

Click here to catch up with Joel and Madison as they reminisce about their virtual interview experiences! 

Hometown: Coffee Pot, AL

Undergraduate: University of Alabama in Huntsville

Medical School: University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine

Sub-Specialty Interest: Hematopathology, Transfusion Medicine

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: I chose Vandy because of its strong emphasis on personalized training with strong CP rotations, supportive leadership, and friendly peers.

Fun fact about yourself: I have a fascination with foreign languages and taught myself French this year. I also love practicing my Spanish and exploring podcasts in either language.

Medical School: Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

Hometown: Centerville, OH
Undergraduate: Miami University
Medical School: Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Undecided!

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: Everyone here was above and beyond nice. I felt it would be such a great, supportive environment to learn! Nashville is the coolest city, so that was a plus!

Fun fact about yourself: I am obsessed with my dog Penelope and spend most of my free time relaxing with her. Otherwise, you can find me rollerblading while listening to Jimmy Buffett.

Click here to catch up with Madison and Joel as they reminisce about their virtual interview experiences! 

Hometown: Fremont, CA
Undergraduate: Duke University
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Transfusion medicine

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: I felt that the faculty and residents on my interview day were all super friendly and the fellowship programs offered here at Vanderbilt are very strong.

Fun fact about yourself: In my free time, I enjoy practicing calligraphy, watching Chinese dramas, and donating blood. I recently discovered that I really like pickles.

Hometown: Montgomery, Alabama
Undergraduate: Duke University
Medical School: Rush Medical College of Rush University Medical Center

Why did you choose VUMC: During my interview everyone I interacted with was wonderful and I was impressed by the camaraderie amongst residents and fellows. I appreciated the strong educational culture at Vanderbilt and the diversity of cases available to work with. I also love the warm Nashville weather and ease of access to beautiful greenways, parks, and gardens the city offers.

Fun Fact about yourself: I enjoy sewing, cross-stitching, knitting, and playing mostly farming video games during my free time. I also enjoy tending to my aquarium with my betta fish, Dog, and his mystery snail roommates, Agatha and Arthur.