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Our Residents
Diversity. Quality. Dedication.
Our residents hail from across the country — from Washington, DC to California, from Minnesota to Texas. With diverse backgrounds and interests, each one brings a unique quality to Peoria MedPeds. As one of the largest MedPeds programs in the country, we are home to 33 residents over the four classes.
Chief Resident
|
Class of 2025
Class of 2026
John Fawbush, MD |
Jeannette Gardner, MD |
Javier Hernandez, DO |
Ahmed Jalloh, Jr, MD |
Leo Jennetten, MD |
Oladoyin Jolaoye, MD, DO |
Hunter Pool, MD |
Andrew Powell, DO |
 Alexander Tran, MD |
Brianna Bobber, DO
Medical SchoolLiberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine, DO, 2019
Undergraduate
Marquette University, BS, 2014
About Me
I was born and raised in Wisconsin and I enjoy a Friday night fish fry, watching Packers and Brewers games, eating cheese curds and frozen custard, and going to country music concerts and festivals. I also love to travel, play piano, hunt, fish, read, and play board games, but my favorite thing is spending time with friends and family, especially my nieces and nephews! As of right now, I see myself doing a mix of outpatient and inpatient medicine in a rural setting, and I am also interested in medical missions as well!
Why I Chose Peoria
After my interview day I knew this was the place I wanted to be! There was a friendly and down-to-earth feel to the day that put me at ease. The residents seemed happy and felt supported, which was very important to me. Peoria also is a great size city for training- large enough to have everything I need (Target, churches, restaurants, coffee shops, concerts) but small enough to have very little traffic and commute times. The fact that it is close to home for me was a bonus!
Jordan Cascante, DO
Medical SchoolOklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, DO, 2019
Undergraduate
University of Oklahoma, BA, 2011
About Me
Its nothin’ a little music can’t help. Rockin’, rockin’ and rollin’–down to the beach, I’m strollin’ but the seagulls poke at my head; not fun! I said, “Seagulls, mmm! Stop it now!” Everyone told me not to stroll on that beach, said, “Seagulls gonna come, poke me in the coconut, ” and they did, and they did. Nothin’ I could do but yell when these birds attacked me. When I tried to run I fell, and then these kids start laughin’. And then, hmm, got hit in the neck with a hacky-sack. Where’d it come from? Run, run, run, jump! I can be a backpack while you run. Run, run, run, jump, now stop! Put me down. I love to groove and boogie, yeah! Show you some dance moves! Mmmmm! If I had your giant feet out there on the beach, could’ve outrun those birds! Let me grab my beater! Just hold your breath and see, when the time is right, birds will bite your face. Run, run, run, jump! I can be a backpack while you run. Swing from a hairy vine.
I can be your backpack while you climb! Stand on one hand and lift rocks with your special gift.
Run, run, run, jump, now breathe! That’s good.
Yeah, like that. Like that. One day I was walkin’ and I found this big log and I rolled the log over and underneath was a tiny little stick, and I was like, “That log had a child.” Listen boy, someday when you are older, you could get hit by a boulder. While you’re lyin’ there screamin’,”Come help me please, ” the seagulls poke your knees!
Why I Chose Peoria
For my ally is the Force, and a powerful ally it is. Life creates it, makes it grow. Its energy surrounds us and binds us. Luminous beings are we, not this crude matter. You must feel the Force around you; here, between you, me, the tree, the rock, everywhere, yes. Even between the land and the ship. Strong in Peoria, the force is. Hmmmmmm.
Kevin M. Downard, MD
Medical SchoolIndiana University School of Medicine, MD, 2019
Undergraduate
Miami University (Ohio), BS in Zoology, 2015
About Me
My wife, daughter, and I make up our three person family along with our cat Lumi! I grew up on a cattle farm in eastern Indiana and with that comes a love of anything outdoors. When stuck inside, I have recently gotten into mobile app development. I also collect all things Lego Star Wars. Following residency I will be practicing combined adult/pediatric rural outpatient medicine somewhere in the Midwest!
Why I Chose Peoria
My wife and I have never been city people, so we liked that Peoria was one of the smaller areas for a great MedPeds experience. There are plenty of surrounding rural areas that I knew would provide me with the experiences I wanted and needed for a career in rural medicine. I also liked that this program offered a full day clinic so that I would get more outpatient time.
Jackson C. Graves, MD
Medical SchoolSouthern Illinois University School of Medicine, MD, 2019
Undergraduate
Millikin University (Decatur, IL), BS, 2014
About Me
I enjoy all sports (specially soccer and golf), hunting, cooking and eating food, listening to and playing all types of music, mixology, running outdoors, and cinema! If I can do any of those with my friends, then I’m more than happy. My wife and I are very social people and love entertaining guests. Right now, MedPeds hospital medicine is at the forefront of my mind. Teaching is paramount to me, so I must include that.
Why I Chose Peoria
Peoria was my first introduction to MedPeds! I did not even know it was a specialty until I met some of the residents here. It was one fortuitous encounter! They are truly my tribe – curious, compassionate, and driven physicians. As a central IL boy, this was a win-win. I am happy to be a part of a wonderful residency while staying true to my roots in every way.
Joanna Hrabia, MD
Medical SchoolJagiellonian University Medical College, MD, 2019
Undergraduate
UCLA, BS in Bioengineering, 2015
About Me
I’m originally from LA and lived there up until I moved to Poland for med school. I love traveling (so being in Europe for 4 years was quite perfect for that), dabble in photography, and enjoy being active and spending time outdoors. Career-wise, I am interested in endocrinology, so I’m thinking about pursuing a combined fellowship. I also enjoy hospital medicine and medical education.
Why I Chose Peoria
I liked that the program has a strong MedPeds presence within the hospital, but at the same time is well integrated with the categorical programs. Location wise, I liked that OSF serves a large catchment area. Also, Peoria seemed like a perfect sized city in which I wouldn’t have to worry about traffic (which is unheard of in LA) and could live very close to the hospital. Most of all, the program leadership and residents I met while interviewing were all so nice and friendly, and felt like a group of people I would enjoy working with for the next four years.
Mojolaoluwa Mabayoje, MD
Medical SchoolUniversity of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago, MD, 2019
Undergraduate
Tufts University (Medford), BS, 2012
About Me
From Bronx NY via Nigeria, moved to the Midwest for Medical school and staying on for residency. I enjoy watching and playing soccer, following major leagues and tournaments. I’m still in the process of figuring out my post-residency plans but so far I’m interested in hospital medicine.
Why I Chose Peoria
I enjoyed my interview experience here, all the residents and attendings were very nice and friendly. It was a very supportive atmosphere. There’s also a very good balance in terms of learning opportunities in both the Medicine and Pediatrics departments.
Vivian Wrenn, DO
Medical SchoolUniversity of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, DO, 2019
Graduate
University of North Texas Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, MS, 2015
Undergraduate
University of Texas at Arlington, BS in Biology
Baylor University, BA in Psychology
About Me
At various stages of my life, I have been a politician, revolutionary, and Knight. The daughter of Anakin and Padmé, I am one of a set: I have a twin brother, Luke. An accomplished Senator, I am most famous for my strong leadership during the Galactic Civil War and other subsequent galactic conflicts. I’m married to a wonderful and lovable scoundrel (Han) and became the mother to one child (who prefers his stage name to his given name): Ben. While I love my family, I also like to be Solo.
I devoted much of my adult life to the Rebel Alliance–before turning to medicine.
As my brother always used to say: “Live long and prosper.”
Why I Chose Peoria
Peoria really reminds me of Alderaan.
Shannon Brougher, MD
Medical SchoolUniversity of Texas School of Medicine at San Antonio, MD, 2018
Undergraduate
Washington and Lee University, BS, 2013
About Me
I love to hike and spend time outdoors (with sunscreen of course!) but I also love to watch Netflix at home with my cat. I pride myself on vocal advocacy for women’s health and LGBTQIA* health. My career interests include Academic Medicine, Adolescent Medicine, and Critical Care.
Why I Chose Peoria
I couples-matched into this program and was very pleased that Peoria welcomed us both with open arms. I was very attracted to the service-oriented nature of OSF and the OSF community’s commitment to the underserved populations in our large catchment area. I hope to spend my career providing the highest quality of medical care to all patients regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay—as such, OSF is a great place to train with physicians who share those values.
Matthew R. Gaffney, MD
Medical SchoolThe University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, MD, 2018
Graduate
The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences, MS, 2013
Undergraduate
Miami University (Oxford), BA, 2010
About Me
I was born in Ohio and lived there most all of my life until moving to Peoria. During medical school, I went on mission trips to La Esperanza, Honduras and volunteered in our community free clinics as often as I could. In my spare time, I like doing circus arts performance, crafting, and playing with my cat, Gary. For my career, I am interested in pediatric critical care medicine, providing healthcare to undeserved areas, and remaining involved in global health.
Why I Chose Peoria
The hospital system serves a huge area and there is a very strong MedPeds presence here. Most importantly though, I really liked the people I met here while interviewing and it really just felt like this was a group of people I would be happy to train with.
Kelsey S. Loden, MD
Medical SchoolIndiana University School of Medicine, MD, 2018
Undergraduate
Valparaiso University, BA, 2014
About Me
I grew up in Palatine, IL–a northwest suburb of Chicago. In my free time, I enjoy playing the saxophone and played in a funk brass band during medical school. Hopefully, I’ll find people to play music with in Peoria too! I’m a slow but determined long distance runner and ran a few half marathons. I am a big hockey fan and especially love the Chicago Blackhawks, but I also love attending minor league sports games for all sports. I also enjoy reading books, listening to NPR podcasts, and traveling; before residency started, I went on a trip with my friends to China and Thailand! (I’ve always been a person with many different interests, which is why MedPeds is the perfect specialty for me!) I’m not sure what career path I want to pursue after residency, but I’m excited to be here and to explore different options!
Why I Chose Peoria
I liked that the MedPeds program has a large presence within the hospital system and also liked that there were so many MedPeds faculty members throughout the community. MedPeds seemed very well integrated with categorical medicine and categorical pediatrics. I also liked meeting the residents and program leadership and could tell that resident wellness was a priority. I also liked that the residents were close and enjoyed spending time with each other outside of work (and especially liked hearing about their cleverly named rec sports teams).
Farrah Malik, MD
Medical SchoolUniversity of Missouri School of Medicine, MD, 2018
Alpha Omega Alpha, Gold Humanism Honor Society
Undergraduate
Saint Louis University, BA, 2014
About Me
I’m the youngest of 3 and was born and raised in the great state of Missouri (Cape Girardeau to St. Louis to Columbia) before calling Peoria home. I love playing any and all sports but my current favorites are soccer and spikeball! I also enjoy baking and playing board games
My career goals are to find a happy balance between hospital medicine and a MedPeds clinic where I can serve underserved populations. I have an interest in global health and medical education.
Why I Chose Peoria
My first draw to the program was my husband (also a resident) who had so many great things to say about the MedPeds program. When I visited myself, I found there to be a very strong MedPeds presence in terms of faculty, support, and resident reputation in the hospital. I found that I could find MedPeds physicians in the inpatient and outpatient setting, specialties, as well as in various leadership roles so I knew finding mentors would not be an issue. There is a clear focus on resident wellness and the residents here seemed like a great group to work with but also to go play softball with after work!
Tim Roos, MD
Medical SchoolUniversity of Minnesota School of Medicine (Duluth), MD, 2018
Gold Humanism Honor Society
Undergraduate
University of Minnesota, BA in Physiology and Spanish Studies, 2012
About Me
For hobbies, I like a little bit of everything, that’s why I’m in MedPeds! I do everything from wood-working, to playing the ukulele to kayaking to travel to cooking (mostly breakfast food) to biking to playing hockey to even stand-up comedy. I’ll try anything once; I was the kid you could always dare to do something and for sure end up doing it. I am very passionate about patient care, healthcare systems, and advocacy work. I’ve met with multiple members of Congress, and given a few talks on it. During my first 2 years of medical school, I did international research on healthcare systems in Canada, Ireland, Scotland, England, and the U.S. Come find me if you want to learn more!
Why I Chose Peoria
Free food – duh! But in reality…free food. Ok, OKAY! I am originally from Minne-snow-ta and wanted to branch out elsewhere, but the east coast seemed a little too brash for me, the south was too hot (like changing shirts all the time hot), and the west had only a few programs. I like the Midwest – this is home for me. So, I tried to curtail my search there. I found that Peoria’s program had a great diversity of patients, has great supports systems for its residents, offers international opportunities, is a perfect-sized city, has many surrounding attractions, I liked the size of the program, free parking, and did I mention free food?
Kelsey Shean, MD
Medical SchoolIndiana University School of Medicine, MD, 2018
Undergraduate
Indiana University, BS, 2013
About Me
I’m originally from a small town in central Indiana and have spent most of my life as a Hoosier. Outside of the hospital, I enjoy jogging, cooking, board games, spending time with my husband, and attempting to start a vegetable garden. At this point, I’m most interested in pursuing a career in MedPeds primary care.
Why I Chose Peoria
I was looking for a program with excellent primary care training, a strong MedPeds presence, and friendly people – and I think the Peoria program has all of those in spades. The OSF system serves a large area of the state and includes a major children’s hospital, which also contribute to a strong training experience.
Justin Steele, MD
Medical SchoolUniversity of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria, MD, 2018
Alpha Omega Alpha, Gold Humanism Honor Society
Undergraduate
Knox College, BA in Chemistry and Physics, 2013
About Me
Born in the grand confines of this historic institution, Justin returned after 20 years to the beautiful river valley of Peoria to pursue his dream of becoming a MedPeds physician. In his spare time, he dabbles in Ultimate Frisbee, working out, and narrating biographies in the third-person. He has visited 8 countries in Central and South America, and hopes to nurture this love for travelling by pursuing a career in Global Health. Surrounded by an extremely talented intern class, he takes solace in the fact that he joins their ranks through his extraordinary spit bubble blowing.
Why I Chose Peoria
Having gone to UICOMP, I knew and respected the residents and leadership of our program as some of the best physicians and mentors in the hospital. Throughout the interview trail, OSF was the Gold Standard for comparing residencies. Our residents and program leadership are some of the most caring, fun, and intelligent physicians that I’ve met. The size of the hospital also had a more intimate feel than some of the larger academic institutions at which I interviewed. It was important to me to be someplace that allowed opportunities for residents to get involved and feel supported in those endeavors. Basically, the sense of family this program fosters sold me.
Jennifer Van Swol, MD, MA
Medical SchoolLoyola University Chicago, MD, 2018
Global Health Fellow
Graduate
Loyola University Chicago, Master’s in Bioethics and Health Policy, 2018
Undergraduate
Valparaiso University, BS in Chemistry and Biology, 2013
About Me
I grew up in a Chicago suburb as the youngest of four. In my free time I enjoy reading, spending time with family and traveling. I have been fortunate to be able to travel to eight Spanish-speaking countries through various global health opportunities. Between my third and fourth years of medical school at Stritch School of Medicine, I completed a global health fellowship in Bolivia. While in Bolivia I worked in a clinic on the edge of the rainforest providing free medical care to the surrounding communities. I was able to develop a sex education curriculum with one of my co-coordinators and taught this curriculum in the local middle and high schools. I am interested in pursuing a career in global health and underserved medicine.
Why I Chose Peoria
I was drawn to the Med-Peds family at OSF because of their enthusiasm and how warmly they welcomed me during my interview day. The residents spoke highly of program leadership and the way that resident wellness is prioritized. I came from a medical school with a heavy Med-Peds presence, and I appreciate how well integrated the Categorical Internal Medicine and Pediatrics programs are at OSF. Of course, coming from Chicago, you can’t beat the traffic!
John Fawbush, MD
Medical SchoolUniversity of Louisville
Undergraduate
Hanover College
About Me
Coming from Shelbyville, KY (outside of Louisville), growing up with a congenital heart condition inspired me to head into medicine. Outside of note writing and rounding, you can find me doing anything sports related or lifting heavy things, while also trying to remain a gamer as well.
Why I Chose Peoria
I have always been a big fan of the Midwest culture, and with Peoria providing opportunity for both bread and butter medicine as well unique pathologies that we can in our radius is what made the decision for me.
Javier Hernandez, DO
Medical SchoolMarian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate
Southern Illinois University- Carbondale
About Me
I am a first-generation college graduate, born to parents who immigrated from Mexico. When I’m not at the hospital or clinic, you can find me either watching soccer (Premier League, Champions League, or the Mexican soccer league), playing soccer, or officiating around the Peoria area. As of now, I am interested in becoming a combined Med-Peds hospitalist, with some outpatient and teaching intertwined throughout. I am passionate about serving the underserved, particularly those who face or have faced language barriers to receive healthcare.
Why I Chose Peoria
I rotated here during my fourth year of medical school, and I loved how friendly everyone was. From the attendings to the residents on both the Peds and IM side. I knew coming here would provide not only a supportive learning environment, but also that a large medical center would provide me with a wide-array of pathologies.
Ahmed Jalloh, Jr., MD
Medical SchoolWayne State School of Medicine
Undergraduate
Oakwood University, BS in Biology
About Me
I am from Brooklyn, NY. I enjoy connecting with friends, meeting new people, and spending time with family on zoom, by phone, etc. I seem to always end up going somewhere new, whether it’s just a short hike with people or travel out of the country. I love connecting with people over food (especially if it’s plant-based AND tastes great), working with churches to impact communities, doing something fun like bowling or board games just for laughs, or discussions/reading about science, history, or philosophy. After residency, I want to spend the majority of my time in primary care with some inpatient work. I also plan on using the management and health policy skills from my MPH and some things I’ve learned through history to work/partner with others to enhance/(re)introduce innovations in healthcare delivery in the USA and a couple countries, all while still staying sane.
Why I Chose Peoria
Peoria’s MedPeds program kept surprising me both on and after the interview day. I had good vibes from the program director. Also, every (really every!) question regarding the clinical experiences I would have here resulted in answers that were reassuring. I also felt I would be well supported regarding some things that mattered to me. There were a few things that I wanted and found here. The pathology/complexity/range of severity was diverse and there were good features in place for teaching and progressive autonomy. I was confident I would be able to learn any procedure I thought I would need for domestic or global health. Also, people in the program really seemed to have each others’ back. Since I’ve been here I’ve also been surprised by what is actually in Peoria (most things I want I can find in a few minutes without the NY traffic)!
Doyin Jolaoye, MD, DO
Medical Schools
West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, DO, 2022
Spartan Health Sciences University, MD, 2014
Undergraduate
Illinois State University, B.S Biological Sciences and Chemistry, 2009
About Me
I grew up in Northside Chicago. A wife to an amazing husband and a mother. I enjoy cooking Nigerian meals, running, and traveling.
Why I chose Peoria
After my interview and second look visit to Peoria, I knew Peoria is where I needed to be. The staff and residents were very welcoming and gave honest and good information about the program. I was also impressed with what the program has to offer: a well laid-out curriculum, opportunities for international health, and the camaraderie between the residents and staff.
Andrew Powell, DO
Medical School
Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate
Wabash College
About Me
I love all things sports, especially basketball and golf. I am originally from Indianapolis and love to watch Colts and Pacers games. My favorite thing to do is to spend time with my wife and friends when I’m not working, and I also love working on projects around the house and hosting people for bonfires and cook-outs. Right now, I am probably leaning toward hospital medicine or primary care with an emphasis on leadership and teaching!
Why I Chose Peoria
My wife and I chose Peoria because we loved the family friendly vibe of the program and the city. I mean there’s a Costco, Chick Fil A, and Target within 10 minutes from our house. What’s not to love!? But seriously, the residents here are great and have a way of teaching you that feels empowering rather than belittling, and there is so much support for Med-Peds within the categorical programs too!
Alex Tran, MD
Medical SchoolUniversity of Utah School of Medicine
Undergraduate
University of Utah
About Me
I’m from the streets of suburban Westminster, California. I grew up mostly splitting my time between swimming and school. My family owns a donut shop back home and I have a deep appreciation and passion for eating donuts. I also enjoy eating all different types of food and trying new foods whenever I can. When I am not eating, I like to hike, bike, run, ski when I can, and swim. Or just watch TV and movies for hours on end.
Why I Chose Peoria
I chose the University of Illinois-Peoria primarily because of the people. During my interview, I felt very welcomed by the faculty during interviews and Jo and Erin were super fun to hang out with in the waiting rooms. At the resident social, everybody was very friendly and genuinely seemed to like being around each other and get along well. There was a good turnout as well, so I felt like I got a good representation of the current residents despite the virtual nature of it all. Beyond the people, the medicine and pediatrics departments are both individually very strong and provide an incredible training experience to develop excellent clinicians. It was a program where I felt I would be surrounded by positive people, and receive the training I will need to provide high-quality care for patients in the future.
Leo Jennetten, MD
Medical SchoolUniversity of Illinois College of Medicine – Peoria, M.D., 2022
Undergraduate
Bradley University, B.S. Biochemistry, 2017
About Me
I am a fifth-or-something-like that generation Peorian and grew up on the West Bluff. I enjoy trivia nights, antiques, and working in my yard (which you could call gardening if the result was pretty). There was a time when I thought I wanted to be an architect, but ultimately I took a bit of a different route and went into medicine. I hope to work as a combined adult and pediatric hospitalist after residency, but I’m still considering other pathways.
Why I Chose Peoria
I went to medical school here and had come to know many of the residents and faculty I would be working with well before the match process. UICOMP has a very large and well-established med-peds program. Needless to say, it made a positive impression, and I wanted to continue my career here.
Kait Brown, DO
Medical School
Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate
Xavier University, B.S. Biology
About Me
I am from Yorktown, Indiana. My favorite color is orange and my favorite ice cream is Graeter’s black raspberry chip. I have a yellow lab named Finch, who is the best part of every day! My hobbies outside of medicine include: growing succulents in little pots, being an active member of the Peleton #BooCrew + #BeersAfter, shuffling Taylor Swift, and cooking/baking/eating. Fun fact, I had a very dangerous experience of vertigo in Yellowstone National Park.
Why I Chose Peoria
It chose me (us)! I am lucky to have couples matched to UICOM Peoria. An unexpected bonus is that the desserts in the cafeteria are DELICIOUS.
Ellen Cealey, MD
Medical SchoolUniversity of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria
Undergraduate
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, BS Neuroscience
About Me
I was born and raised in Peoria, left for a short time to Michigan for undergrad, and came back for Medical School. I am lucky to call both Ann Arbor and Peoria home while my significant other lives in Ann Arbor. In my free time, I like to travel, cook, and bake. During quarantine, I taught myself to sew and I love finding little sewing projects around the house, like a new headboard cover and dresses.
Why I Chose Peoria
Choosing Peoria wasn’t a difficult choice for me, as I had got to experience what the MedPeds family is like in Peoria during my time in Medical School. The program’s atmosphere is unique and welcoming and the variety of case presentations and clinical learning is outstanding.
Jillian Costello, DO
Medical SchoolLiberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate
University of Virginia; Biology BA, Psychology BA
About Me
I’m from Virginia Beach, and stayed in Virginia for school until coming to the Midwest for residency. In my free time I love to travel and try new restaurants. My hobbies include hanging out with friends, cooking, and catching up on Netflix shows. I’m still not sure what my future in Med-Peds will look like, but I’m currently leaning towards being a Med-Peds hospitalist.
Why I Chose Peoria
During the application process, I was looking for a program that was well-established with a strong Med-Peds presence. I was impressed with the strength of both the Internal Medicine and Pediatrics programs, and the approachability of the residents and faculty. Peoria has been a great place to live, with everything you need complete with a small-city kind-of-feel. I could not be happier that I matched here!
Brady Floyd, DO
Medical School
Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, DO, 2021
Undergraduate
Missouri State University, BS, 2017
About Me
I grew up in a small town called Salem, Missouri. I attended Missouri State University where I obtained a BS in Cell and Molecular Biology. I went on to attend Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Smith, Arkansas. My hobbies include running, listening to music, watching classic movies, gardening and spending time with my family. As for my current career goals, I plan on pursuing rural primary care. I chose MedPeds due to the many opportunities afforded by such a specialty.
Why I Chose Peoria
I chose Peoria for many reasons. It is a large hospital with a well-established MedPeds community. What really convinced me though was interview day. The residents, faculty, and staff were all extremely friendly and genuinely cared for the well-being of those around them.
Farrah Gaston, DO
Medical SchoolEdward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Auburn Campus, DO, 2021
Undergraduate
Troy University, BA, 2017
About Me
I am originally from an extremely small town in Alabama called Camden and have lived in Alabama my whole life until residency. In my spare time, I love to play fetch with my dogs, read, and cycle on my Peloton and also occasionally craft, dabble in photography, and play my piano when time allows. I especially love decorating for holidays (Christmas is my favorite!); there’s not a holiday I don’t decorate for. My faith is very important to me and I am extremely passionate about all things missions and global health. I have no idea what I want to do with my life anymore, but I am interested in infectious disease and hematology/oncology and would love to be able to do both hospital medicine and primary care, with teaching medical students and residents involved.
Why I Chose Peoria
I chose Peoria because I wanted to participate in the GRow Local track that is geared towards global, rural, and local health and community service; going somewhere where I could travel abroad to do mission work each year of residency (besides intern year of course) was really important to me. The opportunity to participate in this track, in addition to the amazing people I met on interview day and at the faculty meet and greet, solidified my decision to come here.
Ryan Smith, MD
Medical School
Indiana University School of Medicine
Undergraduate
Indiana Wesleyan University – Humanities and Biology degree BA
About Me
I am a Midwestern boy from Indiana with a love of medicine, spikeball, and Thai food. Some career goals include global health, treating underserved/underinsured populations, and medical education. I am unsure of subspecialties or primary care, but I am excited to explore more things in residency. In my free time, I love cooking, playing tennis, hanging out with friends, and volunteering with my church.
Why I Chose Peoria
Peoria has such an encouraging and positive culture. I was drawn in by their relaxed/chill nature that did not seem to sacrifice devotion, education, or compassion. The staff seemed wonderful and have proven to be as kind and intentional as they were on Zoom screens. Peoria seemed like a great setting to have enough diversity of patient demographics and pathologies, and diversity of things to do and restaurants to eat at, without being too overwhelming of a program size or a huge city with an hour of traffic. It was the perfect sweet spot. Additionally, their global health and health disparity programs seemed robust enough to prepare me well. I have loved my choice!
Kayla Thomas, DO
Medical SchoolPhiladelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine – GA campus
Undergraduate
Indiana Wesleyan University, Bachelors of Science
About Me
Hi I’m Kayla! I’m originally from the Midwest, relocated south for med school and decided to come back closer to my family for residency and beyond. I enjoy baking, music, coffee, Netflix, reading, and spending time with my family and two new puppies! I chose Med Peds because of the versatility and the application to topics such as social justice, social determinants of health, underserved medicine, and transitional care.
Why I Chose Peoria
Peoria was the best of all things for me. The location was close to home, the program size of 8 gives a bigger peer cohort for support, and the leadership structure provides a 5th year chief for resident support and guidance. The city of Peoria feels like you live just outside a major city– it has everything you need (except Trader Joe’s – we’re still advocating for that one). After the conclusion of interview season, I felt like I had one of the best connections with the leadership of this program. All of my individual interviews here were fun and I felt like the faculty and I connected on a personal level. Erin and Jo are amazing, I spent all of my Zoom breaks laughing with them! 10/10 do not regret my decision to join the Peoria family!
Courtney Thrower, DO
Medical School
Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate
Southern Methodist University, BS in Biology
About Me
I am from Houston, TX. I enjoy running, working out, hiking, anything outdoors, trying new restaurants, reading, and watching movies. I hope to practice as a Med-Peds Hospitalist. I also love serving underserved populations locally and abroad through community medicine and global health. However, the future is bright so I am still keeping my options open.
Why I Chose Peoria
I loved the welcoming and transparent energy I felt from the residents and faculty during my interview. I could see the sense of comradery even through the virtual platform. I also couples matched. Everyone accepted my significant other and me with open arms and were very supportive. The best part of Peoria is the people. Being from the South, I thought I would miss the Southern hospitality. However, the hospital staff and patients help create an embracive learning environment. The community members have been great at sharing the Midwest spirit. I also love the yummy food, the big city feel (with close proximity to Chicago and St. Louis), and that there is no traffic!
Kody Dormire, DO
Medical School
Oklahoma State University COM, DO, 2020
Undergraduate
Oklahoma Wesleyan University (Bartlesville, OK), BS, 2014
About Me
I was born and raised in rural Oklahoma. I attended Oklahoma Wesleyan University where I participated in collegiate athletics and managed to obtain a BS in Biology. I went on to attended Oklahoma State University COM in Tulsa, OK.
My hobbies include more things than I can list but here are a few: running, cycling, hiking, 3D printing, serving in my church, technology. I chose med-peds due to the many opportunities afforded by such a specialty and my affinity for most things medicine. And of course, I couldn’t make up my mind. Isn’t that the case for most med/peds?? I just enjoyed it all.
At this time I am unsure of my terminal career path but currently, I am entertaining dual hospitalist, critical care, maybe a classic medical practice model? That being said, I am open to exploring all avenues in order to find a niche where I can best serve others.
Why I Chose Peoria
I chose Peoria for many different reasons. It has a large hospital and catchment area, a great children’s hospital that addresses advanced care needs, and the Jump Simulation center opportunities for medical innovation and skill refinement. All that being said, it was ultimately my interactions with the residents and the faculty on interview day that solidified my decision. Everyone was very personable and the residents felt supported by the faculty and it truly showed.
Zita A. Erbowor-Becksen, MD
Medical SchoolIndiana University School of Medicine, MD, 2020
Undergraduate
Indiana University (Bloomington), BA, 2012
About Me
I enjoy traveling, trying new foods with friends and family, and teaching Sunday School at my church. I spend my spare time interior designing and looking at Pinterest boards. I’m not sure what my career in med-peds will look like yet, but I’m definitely interested in global health.
Why I Chose Peoria
I loved the strong Med-Peds presence and family-like feel of the program. I remember feeling very comfortable with everyone I spoke with on the interview day and I could picture myself going to Peoria. I’m also very passionate about global health and was drawn to the robust global health opportunities offered.
Andrea Escobar, MD
Medical SchoolLoyola University Chicago, MD, 2020
Global Health Honors Program
Graduate
Boston University School of Medicine, MS, 2015
Undergraduate
Johns Hopkins University, BA, 2012
About Me
I’m originally from Southern California, but have enjoyed living in the Midwest since I started medical school. Outside of medicine, I like to get outdoors, hang out at coffee shops, and try different restaurants.
Why I Chose Peoria
I picked Peoria because I really enjoyed my interview day and felt like this was a program where I would be well-supported as a person and that I could follow my career interests. Also, I love the area, the countryside is beautiful and I enjoy getting to explore the different trails, and Peoria has all the stuff I like about living in a city like food, coffee, sports, music, theatre, and I’m sure much more that I have not discovered yet.
Natalie Huynh, DO
Medical SchoolMarian University College of Osteopathic Medicine, DO, 2020
Graduate
Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis, MS, 2015
Undergraduate
Indiana University (Bloomington), BS, 2014
About Me
I was born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana as the youngest of four. I love hanging out with friends, playing board games, and traveling. In my spare time, I like to start crafts and projects, and hope to someday finish them. My current goal is to be a Med-Peds hospitalist, but I’m open to exploring the options!
Why I Chose Peoria
It’s cliche, but I chose Peoria because of the people! I was pleasantly surprised by the turnout at my interview dinner and how truly happy everyone was to be there. The entire interview day was chill and after meeting the amazing program leadership, it essentially sealed the deal.
Rachel Samuel, MD
Medical School
University of Tennessee Health Science Center, MD, 2020
Undergraduate
Loyola University Chicago 2016
About Me
I’m from a rural town in West TN. Currently, I see myself as a combined hospitalist, but also see a possibility of sub-specializing. I am excited to explore Resident as Teacher opportunities during my time here. Outside of medicine, I love all things cinema, cosmetology, and crocheting! I also enjoy my gym time and baking the occasional good.
Why I Chose Peoria
I love the program here because it has such a wide encatchment area-basically everything IL outside of Chicago which translates to more exposure to various stages of disease on both the medicine and peds side. You will get to see all of the horses and the zebras here. The faculty and staff are absolutely amazing and treat you like family. As a city, Peoria is extremely convenient and there is something to do for everyone. It’s simply a great place to be.
Courtney Swantek, MD
Medical SchoolThe University of Washington School of Medicine-WWAMI, MD, 2020
Undergraduate
The College of Idaho, BS in Biology and Psychology, 2012
About Me
I was raised in Boise with my 2 brothers and many exchange (student) siblings and am a proud Idahoan. Throughout my youth and college I was a competitive cheerleader but I’ve hung up the pom poms and now enjoy spending my free time doing Krav Maga Martial Arts, woodworking, DIYing, and hiking. I have a very close knit family and love our family game nights, FaceTime calls and walks and cuddles with my sweet dog, Chester. I also have an adventurous side-I love traveling and meeting new people. I lived in Spain and Peru where I studied Spanish, learned about a different healthcare system and now enjoy having extended family and lifelong friends in both countries. As for my future career, I am interested in global health in addition to doing a mix of inpatient and outpatient MedPeds.
Why I Chose Peoria
After my interview day I knew Peoria would be the perfect place for me! The staff and residents were all so welcoming and happy, and I knew it had the supportive environment to help me thrive in residency. I was impressed by how well integrated MedPeds is in the hospital and love that the program is strong in both Medicine and Pediatrics. I also love that Peoria is big enough to have everything I need but small enough to not feel like a big city-it reminds me of growing up in Boise!
Hasanki Warnakula, MD
Medical SchoolUniversity of Kentucky College of Medicine, MD, 2020
Undergraduate
University of Kentucky, BS, 2016
About Me
I grew up in Lexington, Kentucky where I also stayed for both college and medical school. I’m an avid UK men’s basketball team fan (Go Cats!) and enjoy following college basketball in general. In my free time, I love cooking, trying new baking recipes, and reading books. I also enjoy jogging and recently started doing yoga. For my career, I am currently interested in primary care as I enjoy patient continuity and building long-term patient relationships, but I have not ruled out pursuing a fellowship. I hope to also incorporate teaching and working with the underserved in my career.
Why I Chose Peoria
On the interview trail, I was looking for a program with a combined Med-Peds continuity clinic with a well-established Med-Peds presence within the hospital and strong camaraderie both between residents and residents and faculty. I discovered that the the program at Peoria met all of these criteria, and all the residents and faculty I met were incredibly warm and friendly. I knew I found a group of people I could see myself working with and becoming friends with over the next four years.
Contact Us
- Combined Internal Medicine-Pediatrics Residency
- 530 NE Glen Oak Avenue
- 5th Floor OSF North Building
- Peoria, IL 61637
- 309-655-4940
- [email protected]
- Hours: M-F: 8:30am – 4pm