Meet Our Faculty and Residents

Our program consists of both Internal Medicine residents and Internal Medicine/Emergency residents. Each residency class ranges from 7 to 9 residents. Our Residents come from all over the world.

Internal Medicine Residency Program Leadership

Dr. Andy Ogden


Chairman of Medicine 

Dr. Amy Penza


 Program Director Internal Medicine

 

Dr. Olubunmi Olarewaju

 Associate Program Director Internal Medicine and IM/EM

 

Dr. Jessica Schumann

 Clerkship Director Internal Medicine

 

Dr. Scott Plasner

Program Director IM/EM 

Dr. Emily Drechsel

 

 

Dr. Kate Radvansky

 

 

Dr. Nimish Patel

 

 

Dr. Chad Gunsolly

 

 

Dr. Aleksey Shchurin

 

 

Dr.  Mary Clare Parrott

 

 

Dr. Matthew Fallstick

 

 

Internal Medicine
PGY - 1

Azza Abubaker

Hometown: Khartoum, Sudan. Medical School: Omdurman Islamic University

Why Jefferson Northeast: I chose JNE IM residency program because it offers a perfect blend of hands-on clinical experience, supportive mentorship, and a collaborative environment. During my shadowing experience, I appreciated the teamwork spirit and loved the camaraderie. The program’s unwavering commitment to fostering both professional and personal growth of its residents makes it an excellent place to train while enjoying the lovely city of Philadelphia.

Luca Bernabei 

Hometown: Princeton, NJ Med School: PCOM

Why Jefferson Northeast: I chose JNE because its three separate campuses serve different populations providing the opportunity to take care of a diverse group of patients with different socioeconomic backgrounds and a wide range of medical needs. I rotated through JNE as a third-year student and took note of the close camaraderie between residents. JNE does a excellent job of curating a resident class that supports one another and it was readily apparent during my student rotations. title

Ashley Gault 

Hometown: Lumberton, New Jersey Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine

Why Jefferson Northeast: Jefferson NE Internal Medicine program was always my number one choice. I enjoyed the residents, faculty, location, and the program’s emphasis on autonomy. While on my audition rotation, everyone interacted with me and made me feel like I was an integral part of the team. I saw the program created well trained, competent, and confident physicians, and I wanted to be a part of that. Also, I love Philly. I am from the area, and I have always wanted to be back. Not only does Philly have amazing food, but also great sports teams/fans.

 Krishna Kothamasu

Home Town: Downingtown, PA Medical School: Kansas City University 

Why Jefferson Northeast: While rotating at this program as a medical student, I quickly recognized it as the ideal fit for me. The residents and faculty I met fostered a really supportive learning environment, who also helped each other towards their goals. Seeing residents hang out and interact with each other, I knew it was a community I could fit into it. I was also drawn to the program’s emphasis on procedural skills, as well as the diversity offered by the 3 distinct hospitals, which I knew would overall prepare me for any future role. Returning back to Philly, my home city, was also an added bonus! 

Thuy Nguyen 

Hometowns: Da Nang, Vietnam & St. Petersburg, Florida Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine

Why Jefferson Northeast: I did an audition rotation here during the winter holidays and was placed with many different teams, so I got to work with residents from IM/FM/IM&EM. It was a very collegial environment, and I felt welcomed in every team. I specifically remember Dr. Radvansky offering me a few days to rotate with Dr. Jablonski when she found out I wanted to do Infectious Disease. It was such a kind gesture that I still appreciate very much. At rank list time, I remembered every senior and every attending I worked with here at JNE, I saw myself fitting in this space and thriving here. It was my #1 program and I’m very happy I ended up matching here.

Dhara Patel 

Home town: Schaumburg, IL Medical School: PCOM 

Why Jefferson Northeast: I chose JNE because of the culture. Everyone understands that residency is a learning experience, so everyone is here to build one another up and encourage each other. I appreciate an environment like this where not just my co-residents but even my attendings are extremely approachable and always ready to teach and ready to help. JNE has very relatable and fun personalities, so it felt like the perfect place to grow! 

William Simonds 

Hometown: Potomac, Maryland Medical School: VCOM-Virginia 

Why Jefferson Northeast? JNE fosters a warm and supportive culture. I had the chance to rotate at JNE during my last year of med school and I immediately felt welcomed by the residents and faculty I worked with. This sense of camaraderie was further reinforced during my residency interview. JNE also offers a wide range of pathology allowing me to further hone my skill set to become a great physician.

Amanda Sinderovsky 

Hometown: Bucks County, PA Medical school: Technion Israel Institute of Technology

Why Jefferson Northeast: Residency would be a challenge in any program, and the cohort can make or break the experience too. There is a big sense of community and family in this program, and I truly feel comfortable reaching out to any co-intern, senior, or faculty member for help or advice. I'm also so happy to be able to come back home to the Philadelphia area and provide medical care for the community. 

Internal Medicine/Emergency Medicine
PGY - 1

Michael Azat 

Hometown: Frederick, Maryland
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine

 Why Jefferson Northeast? I was attracted to JNE because it offered a combined Emergency and Internal Medicine program, is highly respected, and provides exceptional training

Brooke Chapple 

Hometown: Scranton, PA
Medical School: PCOM

Why Jefferson Northeast? Hi, I’m Brooke! I’m from Scranton, PA (yes, like The Office). I went to Pitt to study Molecular Biology for undergrad, the University of Scranton to study Biochemistry for grad school, and PCOM for medical school. I love to watch reality TV shows, go hiking, practice yoga, and explore new restaurants in the city! I’ve enjoyed my work as an EMT since undergrad and found my equal love of IM while rotating here at JNE! I’m interested in critical care and event medicine so I’m looking forward to getting more exposure to these throughout residency!

Nicholas Spyropoulos 

Hometown: West Chester and Kennett Square, PA
Medical School: PCOM

Why Jefferson Northeast? Hi everyone, my name is Niko, one of the PGY-1 EM/IMs. I grew up in between West Chester and Kennett Square, PA, down the street from Longwood Gardens. I went to PCOM here in Philly for medical school. JNE was the place for me because of the people. Everyone is so down to earth and personable while at the same time so eager to learn, help, and cultivate a great experience for every resident 

Internal Medicine
PGY - 2

Guljinder Chera

Hometown: Riverside, CA
Medical School: America University of Antigua

 Why Jefferson Northeast?
I knew I wanted to be at JNE as soon as I completed my interview. The faculty and residents were kind and welcoming. The program cares about the residents with an emphasis on learning as well as resident wellness. JNE offers the opportunity to care for populations of various demographics which allows for a wide array of learning opportunities. Furthermore, the city is a great place for a foodie such as myself, and there's amazing beaches just a few hours away.

Kelianne Comitalo

Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Medical School: St. George's University 

Why Jefferson Northeast?
I chose JNE not only because I would be able to serve the community I grew up in but also because of the diversity of patient population among the three campuses (Bucks, Torresdale, Frankford). I am interested in PCCM and the program supports these goals with ample ICU exposure. The various residents and faculty I spoke to during the interview showed me the personality and culture of JNE: happy, supportive, and family-like - qualities I think are integral to thrive in residency. Plus there is nothing like Philly sports and our cheesesteaks! :) 

Aaron Freed

Hometown: Bala Cynwyd, PA
Medical School: Rocky Vita University

Why Jefferson NE?
 I chose Jeff Northeast for the wide range of clinical experiences between the 3 distinct campuses. I did not have an opportunity to rotate prior, but my experience during the interview was very welcoming and I got the sense that the residents felt appreciated and had a strong sense of camaraderie. Additionally, after spending more than 10 years away, I wanted to return to my home city to complete my training. I’m thrilled to do my training in the Philly area at Jeff Northeast!

Kaari Hultgren

Hometown: Molt, MT
Medical School: Idaho COM

Why Jefferson NE?
I chose Jefferson NE for the opportunities available through this program and the wide variety of Pathology you are able to see. Philadelphia also is known for its fantastic food!

Kavina Munshi

Hometown: Schaumburg, IL 
Medical School: NYITCOM at Arkansas State

Why Jefferson NE?
I chose Jefferson NE because I loved the culture of the program and wanted to be in Philadelphia close to family and friends!

Jayashwi Ramanathan 

Hometown: Lutz, FL
Medical School: LECOM Bradenton

Why Jefferson NE?
I am so excited to be a part of the JNE family! Growing up in a small community in Florida, my goal was always to be among a close-knit community of residents and faculty, and to care for patients who are underserved. I had the incredible opportunity to audition at Jefferson Health NE as a med student and experienced a family-like atmosphere with faculty and residents who are so welcoming and approachable. In just 4 weeks of being here, I felt like Philly was a home away from home!

Mansi Sheth

Hometown: Bridgewater, NJ
Medical school: LECOM-Seton Hill 

Why Jefferson NE?
I really enjoyed my time as a medical student at Jefferson Northeast and I knew it was the place for me. I loved the community feel between the residents and attendings and the heavily hands-on training the program allows. The residents were provided with lots of support yet still retained autonomy over their patients. Lastly, over the last year I’ve come to enjoy being in Philadelphia and I am excited to continue to explore the city more.

Mohamed Suleiman

Hometown: Djibouti, Africa
Medical School: Kazan State Medical University, Russia

 Why Jefferson NE? There are many reasons to choose JNE, but let me mention a few, JNE serves a very large diverse population with a variety of patient pathology, and as residents we learn much better in such an environment. JNE is a place with happy, friendly attendings and physician residents. Residency is challenging but with the right team at JNE, you won't be left alone.

Internal Medicine/Emergency Medicine
PGY - 2

Taylor Cox IM/EM

Hometown: Gilbert, AZ, NY
Medical School: University of Arizona College of Medicine- Tucson

Why Jefferson NE?
I chose the combined EM/IM program at Jefferson NE because I want to have as wide of an exposure to different diagnostic and procedural experiences as possible. I am hoping to take a broad set of skills with me wherever I go, and this program is equipped to do just that.

Michael Jacunski IM/EM

Hometown: Lancaster, PA
Medical School: LECOM- Seton Hill

Why Jefferson NE?
I chose Jefferson NE because of the sense of family and connection I felt and observed between all of the residents and faculty members. I also love being able to work at and experience three different hospitals throughout my training, allowing me to experience a wider breadth of pathology and practice styles.

Aubrey Kenefick IM/EM

Hometown: Stamford, CT
Medical School: Indiana University School of Medicine

Why Jefferson NE?
I wanted an EM/IM program with strong outreach opportunities, ethics presence, and resident/faculty leadership. JNE has all of these attributes plus an unbeatable location in an historic and animated city! 

Elijah McClellan IM/EM

 Hometown: Texas  
Medical School: University of North Texas

Why Jefferson NE?
Hey y’all! You may guess by the boots I wear every day that I’m from Texas, born and raised. I worked as an ER scribe for two years before medical school which piqued my interest in Emergency medicine. After medical school I moved to Nashville for a transitional year before coming up to Jefferson NE for the combined EM/IM program. My wife Kelsey and I have been married for almost six years, and we have the two most precious daughters! I’m also a bit of an adrenaline junkie and plan to go cage diving with Great Whites someday soon.

Clay McGeehan IM/EM

Hometown: Mt. Zion, Illinois 
Medical School: University of Illinois

Why Jefferson NE?
Jefferson Northeast is awesome! My co-residents are amazing. Building close relationships is important to my success in residency. The acuity and diversity of our patient population excites me everyday, but being surrounded by incredible people is what gets me through the toughest of shifts.  








Internal Medicine
PGY - 3

Sampath Bhavana Choppara

Hometown: Columbus, OH
Medical School: LECOM-SH

 Why Jefferson Northeast?
I had the opportunity to audition at Jefferson Northeast during 4th year and work with the residents and attendings here. Residency is tough anywhere, but the support this program offers to its residents appealed to me. I could see that the learning environment here would allow me to thrive. The emphasis on critical care, variety in patholohy and access to various procedures are additional highlights.

Marriam Khan

Hometown: New York City, NY
Medical School: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine 

Why Jefferson Northeast?
Being able to learn at three different campuses (Torresdale, Frankford and Bucks) drew me in because I knew I would be exposed to a diverse patient population and pathology, allowing me to become the best physician I can be who can practice in any setting in the future. But what confirmed my decision to choose Jefferson Health Northeast was the family bond between the residents, which was clear during interview day despite it being virtual!

Huzaif Taufiq

Hometown: Karachi, Pakistan
Medical School: Ziauddin Medical College 

Why Jefferson NE?
 During my interview, I observed a strong sense of camaraderie among the residents, and they seemed genuinely happy with the program. Working in different hospitals has allowed me to experience a wide variety of patient populations and diseases, which will enable me to become a well-rounded clinician. Moreover, I value the significant autonomy that residents are given which also comes with superb faculty mentorship. Not to forget, Philly is an ideal place to start your residency because of food, sports, history, and numerous medicine related opportunities.

Salman Qureshi

Hometown: Fishers, Indiana
Medical School: Marian University

Why Jefferson NE?
 I chose Jefferson NE for the communities that we get to serve! Being able to serve three campuses in Northeast Philadelphia with a great group of residents, attendings and staff members allows us to provide care to multiple areas throughout my years of training! I've also enjoyed the city of Philadelphia so far-so much history, things to do and great food!

Myriah Magaris

Hometown: Buffalo, NY
Medical School: LECOM-Erie

Why Jefferson NE?
 I chose Jeff Northeast because of its friendly and supportive environment between faculty, residents, and staff members, which I consider a very important part of the training. I also like the great training facilities that provide a wide variety of pathologies and the opportunities for residents to have hands on procedures and clinical experience.

Alexandra Ballard

Hometown: Montpelier, VA
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine 

 Why Jefferson NE?
I chose Jefferson Northeast's IM program because I felt like it would provide a unique opportunity to work and learn across 3 different hospital environments including suburban and urban areas. I valued the patient diversity in the region, which helps create a more dynamic training experience. I also missed all the learning and volunteer opportunities that Philly has to offer after moving away for medical school. Jefferson's service-minded values along with embracing diversity and innovation showcased key tenets that are meaningful to me for residency training. I felt like this program would provide a good amount of support to help me grow to become a more well-rounded physician.

Jenny Liang 

Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine 

Why Jefferson NE?
I had the wonderful opportunity of rotating at JNE as a 4th-year medical student. I was in the ICU and on day 1, I noticed how well-trained, confident, and autonomous the residents were. In addition, everyone was so warm and welcoming. I felt supported and unafraid to ask questions. I was included in the decision-making of my patients and felt part of the team. My attendings were very patient and willing to teach. There was always a high volume of patients with high acuity along with an abundance of hands-on experience, which was what I was looking for in a program. By the end of the rotation, I remember thinking to myself “I want to come here for residency,” and here I am.

Jordan Benz

Hometown: Newtown, PA
Medical school: PCOM- Philadelphia campus 

Why Jefferson NE?
I choose Jefferson Health NE because of the people I would be working with. When I rotated here during my 4th year of medical school, I knew it was the place for me. Everybody was encouraging and supportive, and I felt like I would be able to learn and grow in a safe environment which was really important to me when choosing a residency program. It was also a program that would allow me to stay close to family and stay in the Philadelphia area which was another top priority.

Mason Liu

Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
Medical School: Touro-Middletown, NY

 Why Jefferson NE? I choose Jefferson Northeast because of the people, environment, and training. I am humbled to be a part of an organization and residency institution that has a robust teaching program, considers the work-life balance of residency, and provides a strong foundation for us to become better physicians and community leaders in the future. The residents and attendings here are happy, welcoming, and supportive. I feel confident that I not only will have plenty of opportunities to learn and grow in a supportive and encouraging environment, but I will also make many lifelong friends here along the way

Internal Medicine/Emergency Medicine
PGY - 3

Olivia Mann-Collura  IM/EM

Hometown: Buffalo, NY Medical School: LECOM 

Why Jefferson NE?
I auditioned at Jeff NE as a med student with EM/IM. I felt like I clicked with the people, enjoyed the variety across the 3 hospitals, and realized that Philly would provide me with an excellent learning environment to become a highly skilled physician. I am a proud Buffalo native and diehard Bills fan. I also love weight lifting, baking, and cooking. I moved to Philly with my massive Rottweiler Louie, and “tiny” Lab/Great Dane Titan. Someday I see myself working in the ED, ICU, and with EMS; I am confident that Jeff NE will help me reach my goals!

Michelle Joyner IM/EM

Hometown: Wolfe City, Texas
Medical School: Oklahoma State COM

I grew up in a small town an hour east of Dallas called Wolfe City, TX. After high school, I completed my Bachelors, Masters, and medical degrees in Oklahoma. I met my husband, Jacob, while still in high school, and we now have 2 wonderful boys, Emmitt (6) and Cooper (5 months). My favorite thing to do is travel. I've been all over Europe, Mexico, and the U.S. I love hiking and spending time outdoors. My interest in Medicine started in grade school, and I was drawn to Emergency Medicine early on, that interest quickly grew to encompass Critical Care.

Kevin Liu IM/EM

Hometown: Taiwan Medical School: Boston University School of Medicine

I'm thrilled to be a part of the JNE family! I went to medical school at Boston University and before that studied medical science and economics at BU as well. Despite seven long years in Boston, I remain a die-hard fan of Bay Area sports teams (especially the Warriors) having grown up in both Taiwan and California. In my free time, I enjoy going on boba trips and playing basketball. My interests in medicine include medical education, critical care, and toxicology - with the hopes of practicing as both an ED doc and hospitalist simultaneously.

Geoffrey Kern IM/EM

 Hometown: Erie, Michigan 
Medical School: Michigan State COM

I am thrilled to complete my training in the EM / IM program here at Jefferson Health Northeast. A little bit about me: I grew up in the small town of Erie, Michigan. My interests in medicine include global health, administrative medicine, and wilderness medicine. Outside of work I enjoy traveling, cooking, playing ice hockey, and taking care of my plentiful collection of house plants. I am grateful for the opportunity to join the JNE community and to help build upon its well-established foundation.

Ethan Collins IM/EM

Hometown: Avon, NY
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine

Why Jefferson NE?
I originally looked at JeffNE for their combined program, and loved what I saw when I auditioned. Every resident is given huge independence from day one, even with busy and complex services while being supported by their seniors and attendings.

Internal Medicine/Emergency Medicine
PGY - 4

Kyle Mohney IM/EM

Hometown: Punxsutawney, PA Medical School: LECOM 

Why Jefferson NE? Several factors weighed into my decision to choose Jefferson NE for residency. The three-campus system offers multiple environments to learn to practice medicine and provides exposure to many different patient populations and a rich variety of pathology that I felt would prepare me to confidently practice anywhere after graduation. I had completed several rotations here as a medical student and worked with competent residents at all different years of training, as well as attendings that wanted to teach and foster success. These reasons, in addition to the opportunity to complete a combined program, made it very easy to place Jeff NE at the top of my residency rank list.

Evgenia Nokovich IM/EM

Hometown: Fairhope, AL
Medical school: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine 

Why Jefferson NE? I chose JNE because of the opportunity to dual train in the urban setting. I knew I wanted the experience of learning medicine in a large city, and JNE gave me that. Since I have started, one of the things that has solidified my choice is the strong female representation and leadership.

Zachary Weisner IM/EM

Hometown: Brockway, PA
Medical School: LECOM

Why Jefferson NE? Clinically, my interests involve working with patients in the critical care setting and topics in cardiovascular medicine. My long-term goal is to split my time between the CVICU and the emergency department. As part of the EM/IM residency, we see patients in outpatient settings, emergency departments, hospital floors, and ICUs. It is a great opportunity to understand longitudinal patient care. Academically, we do have opportunities to pursue research through the Jefferson Enterprise. I plan to continue my projects concerning the prehospital cardiac arrest population and methods of prognosticating and treating traumatic brain injury. We have a great group. Check out our program!

    Shaylor Klein   
 IM/EM

Hometown: Karns City, PA
Medical school: LECOM-Erie

Why Jefferson Northeast? I chose Jefferson Northeast because of the wide variety of pathology between the three campuses. The residents that I met with seemed confident in their abilities, loved the autonomy they had with patient care, and acted like one big family in and out of the hospital. Because of these interactions, I could absolutely see myself spending at least 5 years of my life in this location learning all that I could.

PJ Singh IM/EM

Hometown: Queens, NY Medical school: LECOM-Erie

Why Jefferson NE? One of the key reasons I chose JNE was because of how helpful and understanding everyone is. Everyone feels like family and helps each other out. There is a huge focus on mental health and I appreciate that so much. Additionally, I wanted to pursue combined EM & IM training. In the future I want to do a fellowship in critical care. I believe the versatility and dual background will provide excellent training for my future goal. JNE also has a phenomenal crit care fellowship program. There is a tremendous amount of pathology seen at JNE and the residents seem confident, kind and happy. 

Internal Medicine / Emergency Medicine PGY-5

Matt Kening IM/EM

Hometown: Chicago, IL​​Medical School: Marian University

Why Jefferson NE?​Jefferson Northeast offers opportunities that stand out from other residency programs. Having rotated with the EM/IM program, I worked alongside faculty and residents from different services while also rotating through each campus. Training in EM/IM offers endless career opportunities following the diverse experience offered by Jefferson Northeast. The mentorship and leadership of the residents I rotated with helped me feel like I would be a great fit for the program. Few programs can offer the unique patient population and pathology offered by the Jefferson Northeast campus system. When not working, I am excited to enjoy all that the city of Philadelphia and surrounding area has to offer. I look forward to my time exploring a new area of the country only a few hours from the beach and mountains while also having endless things to do in the city.

Kristin Lee IM/EM

Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Medical School: PCOM

Why Jefferson NE? I had the opportunity to do my third-year clinical rotations at Jefferson Northeast and during that time I was impressed by the quality of teaching as well as the diversity of patients and pathology across the 3 campuses. While the quality of my education was incredibly important when choosing my residency program, the most important factor was that I would be able to be a part of a supportive and tight knit group of people. The community at Jefferson Northeast is full of kind, incredibly well-trained, and confident physicians. I have known since my first rotation that Jefferson Northeast would be the right fit for me and I am very lucky that my perfect program is so close to family!

Jacob Steiber IM/EM

Hometown: Chicago, IL Medical School: Rush Medical College

Why Jefferson NE? As someone who is really excited about the idea of working as both a hospitalist and ED doctor within a hospital, I felt both the faculty and residents validated that the EM/IM program here would allow me to do so. The small size of the residency programs will allow me to develop great relationships with both residents, EM and IM faculty, and specialists. I also felt Philadelphia seemed like an ideal transition from Chicago and I like that the residency allows you to rotate in different communities and hospital settings within the Philadelphia metro area. I enjoy volleyball, tacos, comedy, podcasts, cooking, home improvement projects, live music, sitting outside with friends

Samantha Tauscher IM/EM 

Hometown: Detroit, Michigan
Medical School: Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine 

Why Jefferson NE? ​I chose Jefferson because it offered everything I wanted in a program: rural, suburban, and city rotations, a smaller program, cool people, and a great location. Philadelphia is full of history, museums, and plenty of outdoor activities (marathons, biking, and right on the river), which allows me to pursue my hobbies. I chose EM/IM because I want to help bridge the gap between the emergency department and the medical floors, and to help with quality improvement in transitions of care for patients. I am also interested in critical care, and the dual program allows me to get a lot of ICU experience while working towards a fellowship.

Rachel Kern IM/EM

Hometown: Churchville, PA
Medical School: PCOM

Why Jefferson NE: The Jefferson NE IM/EM Residency Program was my top choice. The camaraderie among the resident and attending physicians truly shows. While on my audition rotation I was an integral part of the team. I saw a variety of patient pathology and trauma, created differential diagnoses, discussed patient testing and plans, and I did my very first central line! This program offers a solid educational and clinical curriculum in a nurturing environment, which I experienced first-hand while working alongside the residents. I loved rotating through all three campuses, each with a distinct feel and patient population ranging from urban, to suburban, to a busy level 2 trauma center. I have personally not seen any other program that can offer this much variety and pathology. I was a non-traditional medical student with a family, and the suburbs surrounding Philadelphia are a wonderful place to raise children!