Trainee Spotlights
The Next Generation
Our Vascular Trainee Spotlights celebrate the inspiring individuals training to become the next generation of vascular surgeons. Each spotlight highlights why they chose the field of vascular surgery, what they value most about their residency or fellowship programs and how they maintain balance through their favorite hobbies and downtime activities. These stories offer a glimpse into the passion, dedication and personality behind the scrubs—showcasing not only their clinical journeys but also the vibrant, human side of life in training.
Please click + below to view the trainee spotlights
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Arad Abadi, PGY-7 at the University of Oklahoma-Tulsa. I am happy to answer frequent questions about our Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I was attracted to this specialty because of the way it lends itself to new and innovative ideas continuously especially in the endovascular domain. The open procedures all include exquisite anatomical dissection, which is another attraction to this specialty. Ultimately, the fact that I can care for patients medically, endovascularly, and surgically was very enticing.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Spending time with my family, out cycling, swimming or running.
Most residents in my program live…
Rent an apartment.
I picked my training program because…
Personal relationship that I was able to make with my faculty during my interview.
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
How much I appreciated vascular surgery. I would have applied to an integrated program if I knew what I know now.
School/Program
University of Oklahoma-Tulsa
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Joe, PGY-1 at Geisinger Medical Center I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our Integrated Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I grew up in Miami, graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in Economics. I worked for a few years before pursuing medical school. Discovered vascular surgery during my surgery rotation in medical school. The ability to perform open and endovascular surgery throughout the body drew me to Vascular Surgery. I also enjoy the long-term care that we provide patients.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Working out, running or riding my bike on the many trails around, hiking, skiing and snowboarding during winter, weekend trips to nearby cities.
In a few words, our call schedule…
Is pretty good. In the first 2 years we are part of the general surgery call pool, will have a call shift every other weekend. For Vascular, its q4-5, home call.
If you visit my city, you have to…
Try some of the hiking or mountain biking trails right behind the hospital!
I picked my training program because…
The people, the programs long history in training Vascular surgeons, the high volume of open aortic and complex endovascular cases and knowing that I will graduate comfortable in all aspects of vascular surgery.
School/Program
Geisinger Medical Center
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Jordan, PGY-1 at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our Integrated Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I went into medical school wanting to be an orthopedic surgeon. Coincidentally found vascular my third year of medical school and was captivated by degree of anatomical exposure, variety of procedures (open and endo), and longitudinal care with the patient population.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
You can catch me playing guitar or piano, listening to Dave Matthews Band or Coldplay, watching Georgia football or the Atlanta Braves, playing video games, and going on walks/hikes with my wife and Australian Shepherd!
In a few words, our call schedule…
As an intern, you have to do 24 hours in house call every other Sunday when on the vascular service. You cover vascular, VA, and thoracic patients. Your back up seniors are always available, and our program encourages no hesitation to call your back up in the middle of the night regardless of the question. Plus, there’s always trauma seniors in house always willing to help you out!
If you visit my city, you have to…
Go kayaking or paddleboarding on the lakes during the summertime and explore the multitude of breweries throughout the city!
I picked my training program because…
The UW Vascular Surgery culture is truly unique. We are a small program and everyone is extremely close with each other, which fosters an amazing learning environment. We have unmatched open aortic volume and graduated autonomy is standard practice throughout the program.
School/Program
University of Wisconsin
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Tiffany Bellomo, PGY-4 in research at Massachusetts General Hospital. I will be happy to answer questions about our Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
The first vascular surgery I ever performed was on the carotid artery of a mouse at the NIH during my summer research position after my undergraduate degrees. I initially imagined a future in anesthesiology, but as I became immersed in vascular surgery through hands-on research and strong mentorship, I realized I needed to be the one holding the scalpel. It is never too late to switch specialties, even in your 4th year like me!
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Watching Bollywood movies. Weightlifting with friends. Traveling the globe. Playing competitive card games.
In a few words, our call schedule…
Is equitable and allows opportunities for rest and learning. Expect every 3 to 4 days and every other weekend!
If you visit my city, you have to…
Go to the Tatte café, order a hot latte and shakshuka to-go, and head to the esplanade to watch the sunset. Buy a ticket for a Duck Boat tour and ask the driver to let you steer the boat.
I picked my training program because…
The flexibility in academic development has been exceptional. Faculty have empowered me to pursue meaningful goals: master’s degree, genetics research, an education fellowship, and more. Their support through letters of recommendation and application guidance has made these opportunities possible.
School/Program
Massachusetts General Hospital
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Noah Dargy, PGY-4 at Charleston Area Medical Center. I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our (0+5 vs 5+2) Vascular Surgery program!
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I was born in Hawaii and raised in Shellsberg, Iowa. I obtained my bachelor’s in engineering in Greenville, SC and worked for a few years as an engineer back in Iowa before applying to medical school. I enrolled at the Universty of South Carolina – Columbia SOM in 2017.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Usually binge-watching reruns of Survivor or Friends or hanging out with my wife and our three cats.
In a few words, our call schedule…
Intern & PGY-2 years: in-house night float x2 months, 24h q2 weekends. PGY 3-5 & Fellows: q4 home call nights and weekends.
If you visit my city, you have to…
Grab pizza at Short Story, gelato at Caffe Romeo, and beef Bolognese at 1010. Hike the New River Gorge trails and enjoy Live on the Levee during the summer months.
I picked my training program because…
The connections between residents and attendings felt like genuine friendships. High operative volume and autonomy stood out amongst other residency programs.
School/Program
Charleston Area Medical Center
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Jack Doenges, PGY-5 at the University of Minnesota. I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our 0+5 and 5+2 training programs.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I studied chemistry at the University of Minnesota and worked in health IT for three years before returning to the U of MN for medical school. I was lucky to find the field of vascular surgery early on and had excellent mentors that led me to continuing my training in Minneapolis as our program’s first integrated vascular surgery resident.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Riding my bike to a neighborhood park, pulling a trailer with two toddlers in the back.
In a few words, our call schedule…
Call is every 2-3 nights/weekends covering two of the four main hospitals.
If you visit my city, you have to…
Explore the lakes and parks, regardless of the season! Mountain biking, ice skating, cross-country skiing. There’s no bad weather, only bad clothing.
I picked my training program because…
There were very few programs that had the breadth of open and endovascular cases, the variety of practice settings of a University, VA, and community practice, and only one program with those qualities close to family.
School/Program
University of Minnesota
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Caitlin, PGY-2 at Northwell North Shore-LIJ. I am happy to answer frequent questions about our integrated Vascular Surgery program!
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
The wide spectrum between elective and emergent surgeries, operating all over the body, and long-term patient relationships caught my attention early, and the daily development of new tools and techniques means always learning something new.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Hiking, running, board games, playing saxophone, reading mystery novels, watching horror movies, trying new recipes.
Most residents in my program live…
In rental apartments in the suburbs near work, but some live in Queens closer to the city. There are a lot of different types of neighborhoods within a reasonable commute.
I picked my training program because…
We get experience with every surgery done and every device available, and being close to NYC means treating diverse patients and experiencing both urban and suburban life.
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
All the different services available that can make day-to-day life easier and let me spend more of my time off relaxing.
School/Program
Northwell Health
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Brianna Elys Whithorn, DO, PGY6/Fellow at Houston Methodist Hospital. I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our (0+5 vs 5+2) Vascular Surgery program!
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I started my general surgery training with an interest in cardiac surgery. During those 5 years, I worked closely with the vascular surgery group and found mentors in many of them. Between the relationships formed, my exposure to the field, as well as the vascular trauma that I encountered (which I loved), I found I loved the variety of cases and the constantly developing nature of the field.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
My dogs and cat, stand-up comedy, Oregon Pinot Noirs, and Rugby.
Most residents in my program live…
In various type of homes, but most importantly, they live near the Texas Medical Center.
I picked my training program because…
First and foremost, the opportunities. The unique and complex caseload is abundant which calls for critical thinking and problem solving. I also was drawn to the people. This is a group of people who love what they do and work well together. There is a culture of mutual respect amongst the trainees, attendings, and staff.
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
Take all that you can from every call shift, every case, every rotation you can. The days/nights are long, but the years fly by.
School/Program
Houston Methodist
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Who Am I?
Hi – I’m Dr. Nisha Gill-Jones, A vascular surgery resident at Albany Med Health System. I’m happy to answer questions about my Vascular Surgery residency.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I chose to become a vascular surgeon because it offers a unique combination of long-term patient relationships, allowing me to build strong, ongoing connections with patients as we navigate their care together. I’m drawn to the versatility of the field—being able to tailor treatment using minimally invasive endovascular techniques or traditional open surgery based on what’s best for each patient.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
At the gym, going for a run, at our local cidery with friends, or hanging out with my husband and new puppy, Disco. I feel like I have an adequate balance between my work and my personal life, and I cherish every second with my friends and family!
If you visit my city, you have to…
Go skiing and/or hiking in the Adirondack State Park, spend a day at the Saratoga horse races, and attend the annual Tulip Festival!
I picked my training program because…
There’s a rich balance between open and endovascular procedures. As a result, I know I will become a competent and well-rounded vascular surgeon.
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
How important it is that your time is spent with those you enjoy. The residency vibe is everything! I also wish I knew how taxing it would be on my loved ones. Having a strong support system is everything during this time.
School/Program
Albany Med Health System
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Leah, PGY-3 at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our Integrated Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I grew up in the Appalachian foothills and after getting an engineering degree, I returned to my roots at a primary care focused medical school, thinking I would choose a community-focused specialty practice. And though I found vascular serendipitously, I chose vascular because of the patients. They are an unpredictable and complex population with unpredictable and complex physiology — and I can’t think of anyone else I want to spend my career with.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
With my dog, walking along or swimming in Lake Mendota. Reading a good non-fiction biography. Getting outside as much as possible – girl-walks in the arboretum, paddleboarding Lake Monona, running the lake loop, skate skiing in the North woods.
In a few words, our call schedule…
Is such a great opportunity to get to learn from our attendings.
If you visit my city, you have to…
Go visit the arboretum! Go to a concert or join the flock for a Flamingo’s game at Breese-Stevens! Bike around Lake Mendota on the Lake Loop!
I picked my training program because…
Hands down: the people. You can feel the dedication our attendings have toward training excellent clinicians and surgeons. We are treated as colleagues from day 1 of intern year and the APPs, nurses, OR staff and administrative staff are just wonderful teachers, co-learners and supporters. And a close second: the University. UW-Madison is a top-notch research institution, which innately brings resources to the table you didn’t know you were missing.
School/Program
University of Wisconsin
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Alexis, PGY-7 at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. I am happy to answer frequent questions about our Independent Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I originally thought I would be an academic and studied philosophy at University of Chicago, but ultimately decided I wanted something more active and impactful on people’s lives. I did a short stint at the NIH before doing my medical school and general surgery training at Johns Hopkins Hospital. During residency I also got my masters in Bioengineering, Innovation, and Design. My interest in devices was part of why I chose vascular surgery. I appreciate how vascular incorporates devices and encourages innovation not only in their design but in their application. The wide variety of problems and cases requires a unique plan for each patient. It’s a field that is constantly evolving and never boring.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Cooking or visiting the bars or Restaurants around Madison.
In a few words, our call schedule…
Allows for an incredible work life balance. 1 in 4 call for weekdays and weekends creates a very manageable schedule. It is frequent enough to get all the learning benefits that come with call but infrequent enough that you won’t be constantly exhausted. I really feel like I have time to study and am rested enough to retain what I am learning, while also having time to spend with family and friends.
If you visit my city, you have to…
Get a drink at the Terrace or go wake boarding on the lake.
I picked my training program because…
It had a broad variety of cases, excellent exposure to open cases including complex aorta, autonomy in cases and clinical management, and one of the healthiest trainee and departmental cultures I’ve encountered. I would choose this program again in a heartbeat.
School/Program
University of Wisconsin
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Ali Johnson, PGY-7/Fellow at University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine in Knoxville. I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our (5+2) Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I am originally from the NYC area but grew up ski racing which ultimately took me all over the North-East (and the world!). I went to Colby College in where I studied chemistry and initially pursued a graduate degree in the subject. I quickly learned it wasn’t for me and ultimately found myself in medical school at Creighton University. I did my general surgery training at the University of Vermont where I initially enjoyed vascular surgery as a PGY-1 but ultimately fell in love with the specialty as a PGY-3. I chose vascular due to its patient population, complexity and required finesse.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
I am an avid outdoor person and fitness enthusiast. In my free time you can find me lifting weights, running/hiking/swimming and wrangling my two young children. I also enjoy cooking and baking – especially with my daughter!
In a few words, our call schedule…
We are on a true q-4 call schedule so on average we take call 1 day per week and 1 weekend per month. We work together and cover each other whenever issues arise. We have in house resident coverage as night which is immensely helpful.
If you visit my city, you have to…
Knoxville is great for young families. We go to either the MUSE (children’s museum) or Zoo most weekends. There are also multiple beautiful parks to frequent. We love Creekside which is an outdoor restaurant with rotating food trucks and a small playground.
I picked my training program because…
I picked UT-Knoxville due to the amazing, supportive people, breadth of cases and case volume. It was clear to me (even in a virtual interview) that our faculty and support staff would be top notch. I have not been disappointed!
School/Program
University of Tennessee-Knoxville Graduate School of Medicine
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Who am I?
Hi! I’m Varun, PGY-2 vascular surgery resident at MedStar Washington Hospital Center. I am happy to answer frequent questions about our (0+5) Vascular Surgery Residency program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
Vascular Surgery is the coolest specialty in medicine! I love the ability to perform open, endovascular, or hybrid interventions. Vascular Surgery allows you to be creative and tackle problems in many different ways. You can build long- term relationships with patients–something that isn’t always possible in surgical fields.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
When I’m not in the OR, I enjoy walking my dog with my wife. My wife and I are both foodies and love to try different restaurants in DC. I also love anything related to Boston sports.
Most residents in my program live…
Most of our program live in and around the Shaw area of DC. There are some of us also in areas such as Petworth and Foggy Bottom.
I picked my training program because…
MedStar’s program stood out to me for multiple reasons. I could tell during interviews that the trainees are a tight knit team. It is a high-volume program that exposes trainees to many niches in Vascular Surgery. We also are exposed to different practice environments ranging from a Level 1 Trauma center to the VA Medical Center.
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
How amazing the textbook Anatomic Exposures in Vascular Surgery is. It is an amazing textbook that I study multiple times per week rom. It would have been very helpful during away rotations as a 4th year medical student.
School/Program
Georgetown University/MedStar Health
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Dr. Martinique Lamb, PGY-6 at the University of Maryland Medical Center. I am happy to answer frequent questions about our Vascular Surgery Fellowship program!
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I originally matched an MIS fellowship and decided to switch to Vascular late into my residency. I appreciated the problem solving and thought process in Vascular. So, I completed the MIS Fellowship and then pursued the Vascular Fellowship.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
With my dog. We love to do outdoor activities together such as hiking, paddleboarding, and kayaking. We can do all of the activities in and around the city, just a short drive away.
Most residents in my program live…
In townhomes that they rent nearby. There are a lot of options for apartments, townhomes, and single family to rent/buy near our campus and in the city of Baltimore.
I picked my training program because…
Of the high case volume, complexity of cases, and overall supportiveness of attendings to advance my education.
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
The importance of having work-life balance early on. It is easier when you form a bond with other trainees in the program for support, even if it is just for emotional support as you have similar experiences.
School/Program
University of Maryland School of Medicine
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Amber, a PGY-1 with the University at Buffalo Vascular Surgery. I will be happy to answer questions about our (0+5) Vascular Surgery program
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
Was a long one! I previously had a 10-year career in healthcare analytics and consulting. My childhood dream was to become a surgeon and I started taking night classes. I got into med school and fell in love with the complexity and diversity of vascular surgery. I met some great mentors that fostered that interest, and the rest is history.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
At home with my husband, 1 ½ year old (Noah), and dogs. Now that it’s warming up, hopefully getting outside more and more.
In a few words, our call schedule…
Depends on the rotation, but during intern year you are protected and do not take any call!
If you visit my city, you have to…
Visit Niagara Falls and eat wings obviously! I am still learning the city and finding new cool places all the time.
I picked my training program because…
Dr. Linda Harris is a leader in the field and a huge inspiration as a powerful woman in surgery. Diversity of training sites + case volume/complexity. Buffalo is a smaller, livable city for a family.
School/Program
University at Buffalo
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Bianca Mulaney-Topkar, PGY-2 at MGH. I’m happy to answer questions about our 5+2 Vascular Surgery program!
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
Hometown: Lakeland, FLI thought I was going to do primary care or internal medicine entering medical school given my background in economics and policy. I spent half of my 3rd general surgery rotation on vascular at the county hospital and loved it—the challenges both in and out of the OR, the cases, the continuity of care, the people—and made a last-minute switch when applying for residency!
In a few words, our call schedule…
As a junior, 4 days off plus 2 post-call days a month – you have at least 2 full weekends which allows for short trips when working. In addition to that, 4-5 weeks per year for vacation.
If you visit my city, you have to…
Eat Italian food in the North End Run. Walk along the Charles River Visit the Boston Public Library Shop on Newbury St.
I picked my training program because…
Exceptional both open and
endovascular surgical training with dedicated faculty and an amazing crew of residents. Paired with outstanding training from one of the top general surgery programs in the country. Access to Harvard’s research resources. Not to mention an amazing program director and coordinator who will advocate for you!School/Program
Massachusetts General Hospital
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Allie Olmstead, PGY-6 at EVMS at ODU. I am happy to answer frequent questions about our Fellowship & Residency Vascular Surgery program.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Watching reality TV – Reading – Hanging with my cats – Outdoors
Most residents in my program live…
Near the hospital in Ghent or Downtown – We have a good mix of renting & buying
I picked my training program because…
High volume & a lot of exposure – Known for complex aortic work – You work with attendings of different backgrounds.
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
Cherish your time before starting, no amount of studying will make you ready for the practical side of being a resident – Lean on your family and friends.
School/Program
Eastern Virginia Medical School at Old Dominion University
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Raj Patel, PGY-3 at MedStar Health. I am happy to answer frequent questions about our Integrated Vascular Surgery program
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
My path to vascular surgery was shaped by early exposure and excellent mentors. During medical school, I was drawn to the unique blend of technical skill, clinical complexity, and long-term patient relationships that define vascular surgery. Both high acuity situations and managing chronic diseases spoke to both my analytical mindset and my desire to be a consistent presence in patients’ journeys. Finally, the innovative nature of the field is very appealing.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Planning my next vacation—or at least daydreaming about it. I love to travel and believe few things beat the thrill of exploring a new city, culture, or cuisine. Closer to home, I’m on a mission to eat my way through D.C.’s fantastic food scene.
Most residents in my program live…
Washington DC offers a dynamic mix of history, vibrancy, and livability. Most residents rent apartments with popular areas including Shaw, Mount Vernon, Logan Circle, or Columbia Heights. Many of us value proximity to the hospital and access to green space.
I picked my training program because…
I felt the strength of our program’s culture—one grounded in camaraderie, clinical rigor, and a shared commitment to excellence. The high volume and complexity of cases, including open and cutting-edge endovascular procedures, allow for accelerated hands-on learning. Faculty are not only world-class surgeons but also dedicated mentors. The program’s emphasis on independence, early operative exposure, and academic growth made it a top choice for me
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
Come prepared to grow—not just as a surgeon, but as a leader and team member. Ask questions relentlessly, own your growth, and recognize that the moments that challenge you most will shape you the most. Trust your team, lift each other up, and know that r
School/Program
Georgetown University/MedStar Health
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Max PGY-6 at MGH. I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our 0+5 Vascular Surgery program
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
Born in California, grew up in South East Asia, and have been an East coast transplant since high school. Vascular surgery was the only specialty that allowed me to be on the cutting edge with endovascular advancements but also be able to offer patients traditional surgery.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Somewhere sunny golfing with my wife, Natalie – specifically I’m in the rough searching for my ball and she’s in the middle of the fairway waiting for me.
In a few words, our call schedule…
On average it is q5 call, with true post call days (round in the AM and then head out unless you want to stay for interesting cases). Golden weekends at least every other week.
If you visit my city, you have to…
Check out Italian food in the North End, the numerous running/biking trails in around town and weekend trips to the Cape/Nantucket/Martha’s Vineyard.
I picked my training program because…
MGH has dedicated academic development time that is fully funded- and the resources devoted to research (both human and monetary) are unparalleled. I was able to get NIH funding, design and execute my own randomized clinical trial as a resident!
School/Program
Massachusetts General Hospital
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Maggie Reilly, PGY-5 at Northwestern. I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our (0+5) Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I rotated on vascular surgery as a third-year medical student and loved it! I liked the creativity and ability to really get to know your patients and advocate for them. The vascular surgeons I saw weren’t flustered by anything, and that’s the kind of surgeon I wanted to be!
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
My vascular research interests – patient knowledge and education about PAD, sustainability in healthcare My hobbies – running along Lake Michigan and trying new restaurants.
Most residents in my program live…
Most of us live near the hospital, in Streeterville, Gold Coast, or River North in apartments we rent! We’re all about 10 minutes away from each other – super convenient for our nights out!
I picked my training program because…
I loved the variety of cases – there’s a near equal mix of open and endo, and the cases are complex! I really like having a residency and a fellowship. We learn a lot from our fellows and enjoy teaching them too!
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
How much I would love it! I was really nervous to start residency, but I love this job and have met my best friends in my program.
School/Program
Northwestern University
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Paula Pinto Rodriguez, PGY-1 at Loyola University Medical Center. I am happy to answer frequent questions about our Integrated Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
My path to vascular surgery has been shaped by the mentors who inspired and guided me from early on. I was first drawn to the field through research, beginning in Colombia, where my mentor introduced me to the complexity and innovation of vascular care. That initial interest deepened as I expanded my work into clinical outcomes research in the U.S. Through this exposure, I became fascinated by the continuous advancements in the specialty, the variety of complex procedures, and the unique opportunity to care for critically ill patients in both elective and emergent settings. Vascular surgery combines innovation, technical skill, and meaningful patient care.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
At the gym or out walking with my dog, whether it’s hiking a trail or just exploring the neighborhood.
Most residents in my program live…
Most of the vascular surgery residents in my program own their homes, while I currently rent an apartment. Popular neighborhoods include Oak Park and West Loop.
I picked my training program because…
My co-residents stood out immediately—they were kind, welcoming, and balanced clinical work demands with active research involvement. I was also impressed by the faculty’s enthusiasm and commitment to teaching and mentorship. Lastly, the program provided a well-rounded training experience, offering exposure to university hospitals, the VA, and community settings.
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
How crucial time management would be, and how important it is to stay close to your support system. With little free time, it becomes essential to prioritize what matters most to you.
School/Program
Loyola Medicine
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Meiyi Shi, PGY-6/Fellow at The Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our 5 + 2 Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I was drawn towards vascular surgery for its ability to draw upon a variety of techniques to treat very complex pathologies, as well as the opportunity to build life-long relationships with my patients. Besides that, some of the best attendings I worked with during residency happen to be vascular surgeons; their commitment and passion inspired me to pursue this specialty.
Most residents in my program live…
I live in an apartment by ECU medical center. Easy commute to work/ downtown/ nearby parks etc. Great amenities. Coming from a metropolitan city, it’s nice to be at a place with so much nature and zero traffic for a change.
I picked my training program because…
The complexity and variety of vascular pathologies we see here at ECU is amazing. One thing that is beyond my expectation and I’m grateful for is the amount of autonomy my attendings gave me in the OR and on the floor as a first-year fellow. My attendings have let me take the lead even for cases like an open repair for contained ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm. Moments like this are what make this fellowship fulfilling and exceptional.
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
It’s ok to feel rusty and out of your comfort zone going into fellowship. Just bring your passion and curiosity. You will get there step by step.
School/Program
East Carolina University
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Vivek Sreeram, PGY 7/Fellow at East Carolina University. I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our (5+2) Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I grew up in Houston, Texas and made my way around the US through the years. I completed my general surgery training at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, where my love of Vascular started. Having almost completed fellowship here at ECU, I have confidence in my ability to treat both bread-and-butter and complex vascular pathology – both operatively and nonoperatively.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Exploring a new coffee or pastry shop, spending time outside, reading fiction.
In a few words, our call schedule…
Is q2 home call and q2 weekend call. Sounds intimidating, but very doable for the kind of vascular pathology in eastern North Carolina.
If you visit my city, you have to…
Visit local breweries and restaurants. Easy driving distance to larger cities like Raleigh going west as well as the beaches going east.
I picked my training program because…
The faculty was what sold me. There’s a combination of mid to late career staff who have seen the full gamut of open and endovascular surgery. I knew that I would be more than prepared tackling both everyday as well as complex vascular pathology after my training is done.
School/Program
East Carolina University
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Richard, PGY-5 at Northwell in Northshore/LIJ. I am happy to answer frequent questions about our Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I chose vascular surgery because of the breadth of treatment options we can offer patients, the opportunity to work with new technology, and the privilege to treat the most complex patients and pathologies.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
I try to work out as much as possible in my spare time. I enjoy cooking and going to different restaurants.
Most residents in my program live…
Most people here rent. It’s quite expensive to live around this area. There is also subsidized housing available which is great if you can get it.
I picked my training program because…
This program has had a fellowship program for a long time. There is a big faculty all from different backgrounds which gives us the opportunity to learn a multitude of different techniques and approaches.
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
Surgical residency is very demanding. Do not forget to take time to take care of your own health, only then can you provide the best care for your patients!
School/Program
Northwell Health
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Raquel Vicario-Feliciano, PGY-4 at Penn State Health. I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our (0+5) Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
Medical School: University of Puerto Rico Undergrad: University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Post-baccalaureate research at NIH between Undergrad and Medical School.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Spending time with my dog Playing soccer Trying new restaurants Doing research Home DIY projects.
In a few words, our call schedule…
PGY1: Night Float schedule (with GS) PGY2: Senior “buddy” call PGY3-5: Home call q3d.
If you visit my city, you have to…
Visit local food markets. Visit Hershey Park/Chocolate world.
I picked my training program because…
High operative volume (open + endo) Values of the program/representation and diversity of the team Graduates were strongly prepared for either academic or private practice.
School/Program
PennState Health
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Karissa Wang PGY1 at the University of Washington. I will be happy to answer frequent questions about our (0+5 vs 5+2) Vascular Surgery program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
Once I knew I wanted to be a surgeon, it did take some time for me to explore the specialties! To me, a huge draw about vascular surgery is that since there are blood vessels all over the body, we operate on and study various parts of the body rather than working on the same anatomy each day. I also like that even as a surgical specialty, there is some medical management, like determining anticoagulation plans and counseling patients on lifestyle changes.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Being active! I focused on martial arts while in medical school and now I’m looking forward to exploring more of the great Seattle outdoors.
Most residents in my program live…
The majority of surgical trainees at UW rent, but it really depends on everyone’s individual situations! I like living close to one of our main hospitals to shorten my commute, but other people prefer living in more neighborhood-y areas or being closer to food and bars. But living in different parts of town doesn’t prevent us from meeting up regularly.
I picked my training program because…
I did an away sub-I at UW before I interviewed, which was extremely helpful to get a sense of the program and meet everyone. I was drawn UW because of the emphasis on education, with multiple didactic sessions each week as well as on-the-job teaching from faculty and seniors. It was also important to me to choose a program which would expose me to all types of vascular surgery, and I feel that UW practices the full breadth, from veins to aortic to PAD to more niche things like popliteal artery entrapment and median arcuate ligament release.
Before I started residency, I wish I knew…
How essential it is to have an accessible support system during residency, especially if you won’t be geographically near family. You will definitely make friends with other residents! But especially at the beginning when you’re adjusting to the hours and
School/Program
University of Washington
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Who Am I?
Hi! I’m Logan, PGY7 Fellow at OU. I will be happy to answer questions about our 5+2 Vascular Surgery Fellowship program.
My Path to Becoming a Vascular Surgeon…
I grew up in South Texas around my grandfather who was a rural surgeon in Eagle Pass which inspired me to pursue a medical Career. I decided to follow in his footsteps during medical school in Ft. Worth. While in General Surgery residency at Texas Tech I elected to pursue subspecialty training in Vascular surgery.
When I’m not in the OR, you can find me…
Fishing, scuba diving, or dove hunting.
In a few words, our call schedule…
Alternates bi-weekly with private practice staff at Saint Francis hospital in Tulsa.
If you visit my city, you have to…
Visit the gathering place.
I picked my training program because…
Tulsa has an easy access airport, is cheap to live, and has excellent Vascular surgery training
School/Program
University of Oklahoma-Tulsa