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Teresa Crow
Hometown: Clovis, CA
College: University of California, Davis
Medical school: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Why you chose CMC: I felt so at home at CMC during my AL! Everyone was so welcoming, I learned a ton, and I really enjoyed hanging out with the residents. It was obvious during the interview process that the faculty were supportive and that the residents enjoyed spending time with each other. I wanted to attend a program where I would be regularly challenged to fulfill my potential. CMC easily fulfills this with its high acuity, rigorous training and supportive environment.
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: Charlotte is really a great city overall. There are endless restaurants, breweries and bars to check out. There is also nice weather the majority of the year so it is usually really easy to take advantage of all of the greenspaces in town. My favorite is the Sugar Creek Greenway (it goes all the way to South Carolina and they are still expanding it!). It is also nice to live a couple of hours away from Asheville and a few hours away from the beach. Finally, I love the people I have met while living here! Everyone has been very welcoming.
What you see yourself doing in 10 years: This is a hard one - I have so many interests in Emergency Medicine. I could see myself doing a fellowship in sports medicine or critical care, but you will have to ask me again in a year and a half! I also enjoy teaching and will consider working in an academic setting if given the opportunity. In a decade I also aspire to have put down roots with my husband and our family in the mountains or somewhere equally beautiful. We love running outside, hiking and skiing/snowboarding, so it would be awesome to live where those activities are easily accessible. I am also a former competitive equestrian, so I would love to own a horse again and get back into that world.
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Chloe Doris
Hometown: Long Island, NY
College: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Medical school: SUNY Upstate Medical School
Why you chose CMC: As cheesy as it sounds I had a gut feeling during my AI rotation as a 4th year medical student that this was it. I felt so welcomed, appreciated and at home here. This place is special in ways that are hard to describe. CMC attracts an incredible group of people at all levels of the residency. The faculty continue to amaze me everyday with their broad expertise and dedication to teaching. I feel so lucky to be surrounded by such amazing residents who have quickly become family to me. I was fortunate enough to have remained friends with the students I rotated here with and now get to call them co-residents. My interview experience here was also the most relaxed and natural conversations I had throughout the trail. In addition, I was hoping to escape the cold weather of upstate New York and return to North Carolina for residency and to plant my roots down south.
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: Charlotte is an amazing city to live in. It has everything you would want in a big city without the chaos of a big city. I live in the south end neighborhood and there are a ton of amazing restaurants, bars and shops within walking distance of my apartment. I live in the same building as 2 of my college friends. It feels like being in a dorm again just walking down the hallway to watch TV together. I love that the weather here is gorgeous almost year round and am looking forward to very few snow days during my time here.
What you see yourself doing in 10 years: That's a big question mark for me. I have considered every fellowship at some point which probably means I will end up doing none. I would love to be at a place that allows me to do a mix of academics and community medicine. I am not sure where in the world I want to end up but would love to stay around here in Charlotte if I am able. Outside of work I am hoping to have a fur baby dog by then.
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Omar El-Hely
Hometown: Union, New Jersey
College: Yale
Medical school: Wake Forest
Why you chose CMC: Great training, people and autonomy
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: Welcoming and affordable city with many desirable amenities
What you see yourself doing in 10 years: TBD but potentially back home in the Northeast in a position that integrates some component of academia
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Aaron Fox
Hometown: Hickory, North Carolina
College: University of South Carolina (Go ‘Cocks!)
Medical school: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Why you chose CMC: I grew up in a smaller town about an hour from Charlotte, and my mother (a CMC CRNA grad) worked at our local hospital. Any time there was a patient who needed more intense, involved, or specialized care, they would always “take ‘em to Charlotte.” That, of course, meant CMC. From a young age, I knew that CMC was a place where things weren’t just talked about; it was a place where things were done. I remember running outside as a kid to see the medical helicopter fly directly over my house, airlifting sick patients from Hickory to Charlotte. As I neared the end of medical school and entered the Match, I knew there was one place I wanted to be most. My away rotation and interview day solidified what I already knew: Carolinas Medical Center will train you to be a tremendous clinician and leader by pushing you to reach the edge of your comfort zone and maximize your potential. It’s a place full of interesting characters who are friendly, supportive, quirky and extremely passionate about what we do and why we do it.
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: I’m just excited to be back home. There’s no place like western North Carolina. No matter where I’ve traveled, as beautiful as it was, it never felt quite as comfortable or as calming. When you come here and get a peek of the red clay soil, dogwoods and pines, white-tailed deer and cardinals and then sit down for some vinegar-based barbecue and coleslaw, you’ll know how it feels to be home. Charlotte is a city that is growing and changing quickly, and it feels like the culture is always in flux, but that gives it a lot of life.
What you see yourself doing in 10 years: I want to be in the thick of it. I’m heavily interested in disaster response and operational logistics, but it is way too soon to know what doors will open or where I will end up. I love to teach, to learn and to travel. My wife is a veterinarian, so I could easily see a small farm with some animals (and kids) running around in our future. North Carolina has and will always be home to me, so I’m hoping not to stray too far permanently. Until then, you can find me hiking a mountain pass, visiting the in-laws in Argentina, or teeing up a Rolling Stones album on the record player.
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Andres Gil-Bustamante
Hometown: Medellín, Colombia
College: Winthrop University (Major: Music)
Medical school: The Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University
Why you chose CMC: I arrived at CMC in 2011 to work as an interpreter while I pursued my career as a violinist. Little did I know, this was where I would be inspired to take a leap of faith and switch careers from music to medicine. The residents and faculty have this desire to learn and educate that is so incredibly infectious. More importantly, this place welcomes every person in the department with open arms, no matter what. Were it not for the academic milieu and the exceptional people at CMC, I don’t know that I would have otherwise gone to medical school to pursue this residency as my ultimate goal. This is truly a special place.
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: I love Charlotte because it is always growing. There is something for everyone, from those who want a delectable dining scene to those who want to go down the rapids at the White Water Center. Also, the arts scene here is outstanding, we have a top-notch symphony orchestra, a ballet, Broadway shows and large performance arenas.
What you see yourself doing in 10 years I am currently deciding between Community and Academics but I would be lying if I didn’t say that I would love to be back at CMC as faculty with an emphasis on Medical Education.
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Samuel Kerans
Hometown: Belmont, MA
College: The Johns Hopkins University
Medical school: University of Maryland School of Medicine
Why you chose CMC: CMC offered a unique opportunity to learn from excellent faculty and become a clinically superior EM physician while also enjoying the ride as part of a close-knit, supportive and fun community. As a rotating medical student, all of these aspects were readily apparent and it was clear that it was a very special program that I am fortunate to now be a part of.
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: Charlotte has so many outdoor activities, ranging from hiking and watersports to breweries and restaurants, and has a climate that enables their enjoyment for most of the year. The city is beautiful, relatively modern and easy to travel around. It's been an easy adjustment and a pleasure to live here so far!
What you see yourself doing in 10 years: Practicing emergency medicine in a community somewhere along the east coast and raising a family with my (future) wife, Alex.
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Nabihah Kumte
Hometown: Columbia, SC
College: University of South Carolina
Medical school: University of South Carolina SOM Greenville
Why you chose CMC: I initially wanted to get out of the southeast but mentors encouraged me to accept the offer for an Away rotation here. I am so grateful for them because I fell in love on Day 1 of my AI. I loved the variety of acuity, pathology and population that I got to care for. Most importantly, I felt welcomed and like I was a part of the team. Everyone was so, so kind to me during my Away, from consults to ancillary staff around the hospital. It was here that I finally got over my fear of making phone calls to people I don't know, because everyone was so nice and helped me even when I made mistakes. It was clear that the residents worked hard but were happy and supported. Additionally, I get to learn from some of the best leaders and innovators in emergency medicine here. What more could I ask for?!
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: Charlotte has a big city-ish feel but not necessarily the same cost as other big cities. I love the variety in the food scene and limitless places to explore on those rare days off. It's also a very easily drivable city and doesn't take too terribly long to get across Uptown in traffic.
What you see yourself doing in 10 years: Ideally community practice but also part-time teaching at an associated medical school as a small-group leader or guest lecturer.
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Kendrick Lim
Hometown: Sugar Land, Texas
College: Texas A&M University
Medical school: Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why you chose CMC: I honestly still cannot believe I get to train at CMC, THE Carolinas Medical Center!! This is a dream come true for me, and every single day, I am so so grateful that CMC chose me. From the pre-interview social to interview day to second look, everything was perfect and CMC checked off every box that I was looking for in my dream program.
- The PEOPLE: At the pre-interview social, the residents were so warm and welcoming. On top of that, many of the residents' significant others were at the social answering questions, and it was a really fun time! During the second look, all of the faculty, residents and significant others I met were SO friendly and humble with a true "work hard, play hard" mentality. The idea of moving across the country was daunting, but I knew I found my people and the perfect fit!
- "Tribrid" Model: CMC is an academic program with community resources that serves a varied, county population, and it all happens at the same hospital - the ONLY Level I trauma center in Charlotte too!! This makes getting to know off-service residents, attendings and ancillary staff very easy. We also get free food and free garage parking <-- ultra high yield!!
- Longitudinal PEM: Sick kids are SCARY!! I knew I wanted to finish residency ready to care for sick kids. The robust, longitudinal PEM exposure and opportunity to work with fantastic PEM faculty regularly was exactly what I was looking for.
- Insane volume/acuity/complexity: The CMC ED NEVER sleeps. EVER. You will see so many patients that are more complex and sicker than you could ever imagine. You will 100% leave CMC ready to take on anything and everything!!
- The endless opportunities at CMC: Every single faculty member is welcoming, friendly and prioritizes teaching. On top of that, many of them are experts in their EM niche, but they are so humble, you would never know that until one of your co-residents let you know. No matter what your professional passions are, CMC has the faculty, resources and opportunities to get you there!!
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: Getting literally ANYWHERE in Charlotte is so so easy! Even though Charlotte is a major city, you can get pretty much anywhere in less than 15 minutes at any time! Like WHAT! Commutes to the hospital, to see my co-rezzies, to the gym/bars/restaurants/coffee shops - 15 minutes tops!! You can also make easy days trips to the National Whitewater Center, Asheville, the mountains and the beach! Coming from Texas, I'm extremely excited to truly experience the four seasons. All this Texas boy knows is 100+ degree summers and 80 degree fall/winter/spring! The other thing that I love about Charlotte is the vast amount of green space within the city. There are tons of parks and trails. Most of the parks even have volleyball, pickleball, tennis and basketball courts! The best part is everyone's significant others are so involved in social activities that at any time, whether it be residents or significant others, someone is down to hang and do something fun!!
What you see yourself doing in 10 years: I would LOVE to practice at an academic institution where I get to work with residents and medical students!! <-- THIS IS THE DREAM! Maybe some day I could be a clerkship director, APD......or maybe even a PD!! Stay tuned! And of course, in true EM fashion, I hope to travel the world, explore the great outdoors and embrace my foodie lifestyle!
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Ahmed Mashal
Hometown: Cary, NC
College: American University of Beirut and North Carolina State University
Medical school: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Why you chose CMC: For a lot of reasons! I had an exceptional experience during my away AI at CMC. I really appreciated the autonomy I had as a medical student, loved the culture of the program and the hospital overall, and was very impressed by the residents and faculty here. I knew I could pursue whatever interests I would develop during residency here and would be able to find the mentoring I needed. Also, Charlotte is a family-friendly city, which was a priority for me, my wife and our toddler!
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: Many family-friendly outings. Easy commute and parking. And it's close to my and my wife's hometowns, so the rest of the family is a short drive from here!
What you see yourself doing in 10 years: My interests are broad now, and I look forward to having it become more nuanced and focused as I advance in my residency! However, in general, I hope to be practicing clinically while being involved in academic and/or administrative/operational responsibilities.
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Christopher McCullers
Hometown: Birmingham, AL
College: The University of Alabama
Medical school: University of Alabama at Birmingham Heersink School of Medicine
Why you chose CMC: There were a number of criteria I looked for when considering residency programs. This included a high volume of patients with diverse pathologies, nationwide renowned faculty invested in teaching and resident development, hands-on learning, a reputation that can open doors across the country (and world), longitudinal pediatrics experience, extensive ultrasound training (with dictation), robust ICU experience, fellowship opportunities and a 3-year program with plenty of autonomy. Additionally, I looked for a program in a big (but not too big) city, ample support with meal points and free/close parking, and fair compensation. CMC had everything and much more than anticipated. When I got here, I found a family. Not just with faculty, administration and co-residents, but also with other staff. Consultants, techs, and nurses are very friendly, highly knowledgeable, helpful and have even bought birthday gifts for me. One even surprised me with a Whopper on shift! But it was an unanticipated personal event that really hit home for me. CMC offers a generous 6-week paternity leave that I scheduled, but due to a last-minute change in my wife's pregnancy status, I had to take my leave earlier than expected. My co-residents stepped up to cover my shifts and did so with joy. I feel honored and blessed to be with such people.
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: Charlotte is a great city! My wife and I are from Birmingham, AL, and wanted to experience a bigger city that wasn't overwhelming. Charlotte was just right. Also, this city attracts people from all over so there's many different cultures here. The food is great, and my wife and I found our first house that we love.
What you see yourself doing in 10 years: No clue! Hopefully working alongside peers as awesome as the people at CMC!
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Natalie Rall
Hometown: Kansas City
College: Tulane University (New Orleans)
Medical school: University of Kansas Medical Center
Why you chose CMC: The people. I was lucky enough to rotate here and work with some brilliant residents and faculty. What I didn’t realize is how quickly CMC would become family. Work is a place I learn and grow every single day but also a place where I genuinely laugh and enjoy (almost) every single day!
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: The food!! My husband and I are huge foodies and we love being able to explore a new food scene here! Also being from Kansas it amazes me how close we are to mountains and the beach! Will never get over seeing the mountains come into view!
What you see yourself doing in 10 years: I am very very undecided. Split between a nice community practice on the beach somewhere and going onto a fellowship in EMS/Disaster Medicine and working at a big academic center!
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Andrew Scott
Hometown: Fredericksburg, VA
College: UNC- Chapel Hill
Medical school: UNC School of Medicine
Why you chose CMC: On my rotation, I was amazed by the people here. Faculty would go out of their way to grab me for an interesting case or just to teach and the residents were rockstars at running traumas and moving the department. I could tell that everyone here really enjoyed what they did; and it was easy to feel right at home. Right now I'm undecided about what's next for me, but I know after leaving here, I will have the skills and training to thrive wherever it is.
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: Charlotte is great! It's small enough I can get anywhere fast and big enough that there is always something to do. I live in the South End district where walking to top notch bars and restaurants is easy especially with the railtrail. Plus, the town is incredibly dog friendly so I am able to bring my pup along with me to most places.
What you see yourself doing in 10 years: By then, I hope I'll be using my business degree to improve patient care in between flying some tiny plane out to remote sites for locum gigs.
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John Sherman
Hometown: Chandler, AZ
College: Arizona State University
Medical school: University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix
Why you chose CMC: CMC had everything I was looking for in a residency at the absolute highest level. We have unbelievable pathology, robust didactic opportunities, a solid toxicology presence and a longitudinal pediatrics experience. Additionally, the faculty here are incredibly supportive and the EM residents are obviously highly regarded within the hospital. But of course, the cliché is absolutely true that I chose CMC for the people. When I visited Charlotte after my interview, I had dinner with some of the residents and knew I'd be happy to spend the next 3 years with everyone here.
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: Charlotte has been a fantastic place to live even in the short time we've been here! Plenty of outdoor activities, breweries and restaurants. My wife and I have had so much fun exploring new parts of the city, parks and places to eat. Still looking for a good carne asada burrito though...
What you see yourself doing in 10 years:= With luck, I'll be teaching, riding my bike and playing music again! There are a few fellowships that I'm considering after residency, but I definitely want to work with residents and medical students once I finish training.
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Jessica Zavadak
Hometown: Lebanon, PA
College: Juniata College
Medical school: Drexel University College of Medicine
Why you chose CMC: So many reasons! There is so much diverse pathology here as well as a ton of opportunity to become more involved in the various sub-specialties of EM. The people are amazing, and I was so impressed by the incredible women, both attendings and residents, that I interacted with while on my AI!
What you love about living in/moving to Charlotte: Charlotte is a young city with lots of things to do! There are great restaurants and breweries, tons of events such as concerts or sports games to enjoy, and the White-Water Center is always a blast. Plus, the beach and mountains are both just short drives away, making them easily accessible on days off.
What you see yourself doing in 10 years: I haven't decided yet but there are a few areas I could see myself doing a fellowship in such as global health, critical care or ultrasound. I also enjoy teaching and mentoring so I'm hoping to stay in an academic setting. Beyond that, I hope to be traveling and hiking with my husband and reading lots of books on my days off!
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