Residents

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2028

Raj Bala, MD

2028

Medical School

St. George's University

Hometown

Chennai

Professional Interests

I’m interested in clinical research and medical education, aiming to combine patient care with teaching and evidence-based practice.

Undergraduate

University of Tasmania

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I was drawn to the program’s focus on patient-centered care and its collaborative, resident-friendly culture.

Hobbies/interests outside of work

I enjoy daily workouts, weekend football games, and practicing meditation for mindfulness and focus.

Farhana Ikmal Hisham, MD

2028

Medical School

Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University

Hometown

Shah Alam, Malaysia

Professional Interests

Primary Care, Women's Health, Global and Community Health

Undergraduate

Western Michigan University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

Firstly, I was mainly looking for a close-knit program that would prepare me well for both inpatient and outpatient medicine. During my interviews, I got the impression that faculty were very approachable and all the residents I met had such interesting stories. The program's residents seem well-taken care of and I was encouraged to see how they felt safe bringing their concerns up to leadership.

Secondly, the hospital itself is beautifully designed, with lots of attention to detail and plenty of spots to rest and think about life. I especially love their rooftop garden with all the lush greenery. Lastly, the city of Grand Rapids is the perfect blend of family-friendly and metropolitan, making it an ideal place to raise my young child. We're especially excited to explore the lake and all the green spaces in the summer and hit the slopes in the winter!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I love outdoor activities where I can just meander, so hiking/walking and foraging bring me peace. I also love to cook, with a focus on Malaysian dishes so I can reminisce while also introducing my son to my cultural heritage. For stress relief, you can usually find me at the gym or playing sports, and I'll often pick up a book when I have snippets of free time.

Lindsey Lin, MD

University of Virginia School of Medicine

Lindsey Lin, MD

2028

Medical School

University of Virginia School of Medicine

Hometown

Grand Rapids, Mich.

Professional Interests

Full Spectrum Outpatient Family Medicine, Preventive Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine, Street Medicine, Underserved Healthcare

Undergraduate

University of Michigan

Why I chose this program/location for my training

Having grown up in Grand Rapids, I know and love the energy and vibrance of this city. It is a city full of people, variety, and things to do. Grand Rapids is also extremely family-friendly and what better place to train in Family Medicine than somewhere that values and encourages family growth. The quality of clinical training, both inpatient and outpatient, at Trinity Health Grand Rapids really stood out to me as well as the camaraderie and tight-knit community of the residents.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I love being around people so hanging out with family and friends as well as being involved with my church family and community are top of my list! Being outside brings me the lots of joy so running/hiking/walking are regular activities for me. In my free time I also enjoy baking, jigsaw puzzles, playing the piano, and listening to audiobooks.

Benjamin Ly, DO

Midwestern University - Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine

Benjamin Ly, DO

2028

Medical School

Midwestern University - Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown

Grand Rapids, Mich.

Professional Interests

Addiction Medicine, Ambulatory Medicine, Behavioral Health, Medical Education

Undergraduate

Aquinas College

Why I chose this program/location for my training

Being from Grand Rapids, the opportunity to be close to family is invaluable to me. As well as having close mentors who highly recommended Trinity Health for comprehensive training, I was drawn by Trinity Health's many fellowship opportunities.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy slaying bosses in video games, head-banging to EDM, shoulder pressing kettlebells, contemplating modern art and reading Yelp reviews.

2027

Asiyah Abdul, MD

Saint James School of Medicine

Asiyah Abdul, MD

2027

Medical School

Saint James School of Medicine

Hometown

Lakeshore, Ontario

Professional Interests

Family Medicine, Sports Medicine

Undergraduate

University of Toronto

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose this program because of its well-organized structure and emphasis on physician well-being. During the interview process and at the closer look, I felt a sense of camaraderie among the faculty and residents. I knew at that point this program would provide me with a supportive environment that would facilitate my personal and professional growth.

Additionally, the location is very convenient, making trips home to Canada quite easy. I am excited about serving the community of Grand Rapids.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I have a broad range of interests and a willingness to embrace challenges. I enjoy staying fit through HIIT workouts, yoga/pilates, baking and reading. Once in a while, I like to keep up with the latest fashion trends and travel.

Christian Boze, MD

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Christian Boze, MD

2027

Medical School

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Hometown

Delton, Mich.

Professional Interests

Full-scope family medicine with a particular interest in preventative medicine, procedures, geriatrics, community health and health education.

Undergraduate

Grand Valley State University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

Grand Rapids is a city I've cherished throughout my college and medical school years. I opted for this program because it offered me the chance to collaborate with organizations I've previously volunteered with, not just as an undergraduate or medical student, but now as a resident.

The sense of camaraderie among residents and staff members truly captivated me when I first encountered it, and I knew instantly that this was the ideal place for me. Additionally, being close to home adds to my happiness.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I have many hobbies! In my spare time, I love being outdoors, whether it's hiking and camping during the warmer months or downhill skiing in the winter. I also enjoy cozying up with a good book on the couch and indulging in freshly baked treats straight from the oven. But what truly brings me joy is sharing these moments with friends and family who indulge my passion for bringing a new board game to every gathering.

Ellen Davidek, MD

Central Michigan University College of Medicine

Ellen Davidek, MD

2027

Medical School

Central Michigan University College of Medicine

Hometown

East Jordan, Mich.

Professional Interests

Women's Health, Outpatient Procedures, Pediatrics, Preventative Medicine

Undergraduate

Central Michigan University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

Trinity Health Grand Rapids was incredibly open and genuine throughout the interview season. As I learned more about the program, I felt more at home and knew I wanted to be a part of it. This is a program I wanted to be both challenged and supported by.

Additionally, I love the City of Grand Rapids and am excited to be back on the West side of the state!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Reading, trying new restaurants, cooking, hosting game nights with friends, traveling and hiking. Any day out on a lake is a good day in my book! My husband and I love to golf and disc golf (although we are not any good at either).

Rucha Desai, MD

St. George's University

Rucha Desai, MD

2027

Medical School

St. George's University

Hometown

Richmond Hill, Ontario

Professional Interests

Outpatient Family Medicine, Inpatient Medicine, Women's Health, Geriatrics

Undergraduate

McMaster University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

Trinity Health Grand Rapids stood out to me because it was the program I knew would allow me to explore my different interests within Family Medicine in inpatient and outpatient settings while providing a supportive environment for my personal and professional growth. The faculty and residents were incredibly warm and welcoming at every opportunity I had to interact with them during the interview, theme and alumni nights, and in-person visit. This program offers the best of both an academic and community program in a great medical city.

The program's strong training environment and faculty mentorship will prepare me for any setting I choose to practice in. I am excited to have the next chapter in my medical education take place at Trinity Health Grand Rapids!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, you can find me travelling, exploring the outdoors, enjoying long scenic walks and watching movies. I love spending time with family and friends and enjoy any opportunity to try a new brunch place or coffee shop.

Nathaniel Gipe, MD

Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine

Nathaniel Gipe, MD

2027

Medical School

Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine

Hometown

Clarkston, Mich.

Professional Interests

Outpatient Family Medicine, Preventative Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine, Procedures, Medical Education

Undergraduate

Hillsdale College

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I grew up in Michigan on the east side of the state but spent many summers camping at state parks on the west side with my family. I have fond memories of visiting my siblings in Grand Rapids while they went to school at Grand Valley or Aquinas College. While going through medical school in Minnesota, I always knew I wanted to return to the west side of Michigan for my residency training. I am very excited to be joining this community and having the privilege of serving the people of Grand Rapids as a family medicine physician!

I was also drawn to this program by the wonderful residents and staff I met during my fourth year away rotation. I was so impressed by the positivity and perseverance of the interns, the leadership of the second and third-year residents, and the knowledge and commitment to learning of the faculty.

More than anything, I was impressed by the care and encouragement the residents demonstrated for each other during the sometimes-difficult moments of residency. I also believe that this program's strong inpatient service, lifestyle medicine curriculum, and robust ultrasound experiences will prepare me well for wherever family practice takes me.

I look forward to being a part of the amazing community here at Trinity Health Grand Rapids!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy camping, hiking and star-gazing, especially near the Great Lakes and in Michigan state parks; P.J. Hoffmaster is one of my favorites. I also am an avid gardener, jigsaw-puzzler, movie-goer and baker. I love getting together with family and friends to share a meal and play board games. More recently I've been getting into pickleball!

Caolán Keenan, DO

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Caolán Keenan, DO

2027

Medical School

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown

Dimondale, Mich.

Professional Interests

Preventative Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine, OMT, Sports Medicine, Musculoskeletal, Procedures, Rural Medicine

Undergraduate

Grand Valley State University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose Trinity Health Grand Rapids for their location in a great medical city, which will help me to see diverse pathology and learn to be a great doctor in whatever community I end up working in.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, I enjoy working out, hunting, cooking, working with my hands, camping, spending time with my family and bonfires.

Emily Schneider, MD

Central Michigan University

Emily Schneider, MD

2027

Medical School

Central Michigan University

Hometown

Perry, Mich.

Professional Interests

Women's Health, Rural Medicine, Palliative Care and Hospice Medicine

Undergraduate

Michigan State University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose Trinity Health Grand Rapids, not only because Grand Rapids is an amazing city with a lot to offer, but when I had the opportunity to audition with the residency program it felt like home. Everyone was welcoming and I had a wonderful experience. I knew it was the place where I wanted to continue my medical education!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, I love knitting, reading, sewing and baking! In particular, I love to bake cookies and breads and my favorite thing to knit is sweaters. My husband and I have three cats who keep us very entertained with their antics.

Jasleen Singh, MD

University of Medicine and Health Sciences

Jasleen Singh, MD

2027

Medical School

University of Medicine and Health Sciences

Hometown

Truro, Nova Scotia

Professional Interests

Inpatient Medicine, Procedures, Rural Medicine, Obstetrics, Hospice & Palliative Medicine

Undergraduate

Mount Allison University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I first became interested in Trinity Health Grand Rapids because of its location. Coming from a small town and rotating throughout medical school in some big cities, I knew I wanted to train in a place that fell somewhere in the middle. Grand Rapids offered the amenities of a big city without the overwhelming hustle and bustle, and during my in-person visit I knew it was a city I would have no problem calling home. It also provides a proximity to water that was hard to pass up as a Nova Scotian, and I’m excited to explore the lakeside communities!

What first impressed me about this program in particular was the comprehensive approach to training and the emphasis on resident wellness. I wanted a place where I could fully explore all facets of Family Medicine and feel valued in the process. During the interview season, what sold me on the program was the unique addition of their “Theme Nights” and the people. I had the opportunity to meet the majority of the faculty and residents, as well as some graduates. The love that everyone had for their program, the city, and each other was evident and I felt a genuine sense of welcome in all of my interactions. I can’t wait to contribute in my own way to this program’s family!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I love sharing meals with my family and friends, volleyball, board games, watching cooking shows, video games, reading and museums. I’ve recently taken up crochet, and I am in the early stages of learning Spanish. I would consider myself a budding plant mom (pun intended) and would love to grow my own sunflowers one day!

Luke Tilma, DO

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Luke Tilma, DO

2027

Medical School

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown

Grand Rapids, Mich.

Professional Interests

Outpatient Primary Care, Direct Primary Care, Procedures, Hospice/Palliative Medicine

Undergraduate

Calvin University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I was born and raised in Grand Rapids, as was my wife, so we are so excited to be moving back to GR, closer to family and friends and all the great things the city has to offer. And it just so happens that there’s an excellent Family Medicine program located right in the heart of the city!

After spending some time with the program as a medical student, it was clear the program’s reputation is well-deserved. I was so impressed by the residents and faculty, and the quality of training that was being provided. I knew I wanted a program that was going to push me to learn, but do so within a welcoming culture and with a true sense of camaraderie.

Trinity Health Grand Rapids was exactly that, and I’m excited to be a part of the team.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, I enjoy playing the cello, cooking, baking, seeing live music and playing video games. When we get the chance, my wife and I love spending time on the lakeshore or going up north for a long weekend. Long term life goals include learning to play the pipe organ and becoming a skilled gardener.

Matthew Welch, MD

Central Michigan University College of Medicine

Matthew Welch, MD

2027

Medical School

Central Michigan University College of Medicine

Hometown

Lansing, Mich.

Professional Interests

Preventative/Lifestyle Medicine, Behavioral Health, POCUS

Undergraduate

Michigan State University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I have always loved Grand Rapids and knew that if I was going to stay in Michigan, I would want to be in West Michigan.

Additionally, the interview and second look days showed me what a welcoming and collaborative environment this program provides. It is important to me that the faculty and peers I surround myself with feel like a family, and it was apparent from day one that I would get that here!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy any activities that get me outside, especially disc golfing! Additionally, I love podcasts, good books, cooking and spending time with my wife.

2026

Mitchel Allard, MD

The American University of the Caribbean

Mitchel Allard, MD

2026

Medical School

The American University of the Caribbean

Hometown

Cottam, Ontario, Canada

Professional Interests

Full Spectrum Family Medicine

Undergraduate

The University of Windsor

Why I chose this program/location for my training

Growing up on the border of Michigan I visited often, and I really enjoyed the state and its people. During the interview process Grand Rapids was very friendly, their staff and residents openly praising the program and its community. I was quite impressed with the interview process, during the theme nights you could explore each specialty and learn how the program operated.

I found the program to be very educational with modern facilities and teachings. I was looking for a program to be my family for the next three years, with the capacity to teach me modern Family Medicine as a foundation to carry me for years to come. I was happy to find that I matched with Trinity Health Grand Rapids as my number one choice, and I am appreciative for this opportunity.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

While not at work you will find me BBQing for my friends and family. You will also see me enjoying Michigan's many parks and lakes, fishing, hiking and ATVing.

Anna Bruins, MD

Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

Anna Bruins, MD

2026

Medical School

Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

Hometown

Holland, Mich.

Professional Interests

Full-cope Family Medicine, Preventative/Lifestyle Medicine, Women's Health, Underserved Care

Undergraduate

Central Michigan University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

While searching for a "perfect-fit" residency program, I knew I wanted to train in environment that would offer full-spectrum training, support my professional goals and interests, and challenge me to fulfill my highest potential as a family physician. I immediately knew that Trinity Health Grand Rapids would be that program after finishing my sub-internship here in the fall of my fourth year of medical school.

I was incredibly impressed with the quality of training I encountered and found faculty, residents and staff to be overwhelmingly supportive and kind! I truly felt like I found a perfect blend of rigor, opportunity, and family feel with colleagues I aspired to be like.

Being from West Michigan, I also wanted to stay close to my support system and absolutely love the city of Grand Rapids!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

When summer comes around, I love spending time at the beach and camping around the Great Lakes state. I also enjoy singing, attending concerts, reading, (novice) running and thrifting/estate sale shopping!

Koby Buth, MD

Western Michigan Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine

Koby Buth, MD

2026

Medical School

Western Michigan Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine

Hometown

Coopersville, Mich.

Professional Interests

Preventative Medicine, Outpatient Family Medicine, Full-Scope Practice

Undergraduate

Indiana Wesleyan University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

Trinity Health Michigan stood out due to its wide scope of training, rigorous program, opportunities for procedural experience, and supportive faculty and residents.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, I like to cook, hike, read, and play chess. I also love to garden and compost as well!

Ilinca Caluser, DO

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Ilinca Caluser, DO

2026

Medical School

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown

Clinton Township, Mich.

Professional Interests

Inpatient Medicine, Women's Health, Mental Health, Lifestyle Medicine, OMM

Undergraduate

University of Michigan

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose Trinity Health Grand Rapids' Family Medicine program because of the warmth and immense support of the attendings, residents, and staff that was evident from the start. I felt like their comprehensive, full-spectrum approach to FM training would allow me to explore all of my areas of interest and support my development into an empathetic, competent family medicine physician that can provide exceptional patient-centered care to my patients.

Their emphasis on physician wellness and connection was also very impressive and important and truly exemplified how much they value their residents as part of the team.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I am Romanian and came to America when I was 6 years old. I still love partaking in my Romanian heritage and traditions. I started and run a nonprofit called Crowns Against Cancer (and other childhood illnesses) where we bring magic to pediatric patients and special needs children as their favorite fairytale characters.

I enjoy music, playing guitar and attending concerts. I love traveling and exploring new places with my husband. You can usually find me at the beach – it is my happy place. I am an avid fan of coffee and love to try new coffee shops.

I also enjoy painting, doing yoga and pilates, and spending time with my husband, our dog Finn, and my family and friends.

Jessica Eisma, MD

St. George's University

Jessica Eisma, MD

2026

Medical School

St. George's University

Hometown

Ann Arbor

Professional Interests

Obstetrics, Reproductive Health, Community Medicine, Underserved Care, Social Disparities, Preventative Medicine, Academic Medicine

Undergraduate

University of Michigan

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I was certain that I wanted to join a residency program where the people genuinely cared about my growth, both as a clinician and as an individual. Trinity Health Grand Rapids immediately caught my attention because of the way people showed up for each other. From the various Theme Nights during the interview season, the virtual resident meet and greet, to the interview process itself, I could sense that the culture here is built on a strong foundation of mutual respect and care.

I am excited for the comprehensive and wide breadth of training that will equip us with the skills to practice full-scope Family Medicine anywhere. I was also impressed by the abundant opportunities for community outreach, an Obstetrics/Women's Health track, and the emphasis placed on resident wellness. I feel very fortunate to be part of this amazing team!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of medicine, I love spending time with my partner, family and friends over a shared meal. You'll usually find me exploring new restaurants, visiting old favorites and trying to perfect my mother's Filipino recipes! I also enjoy caring for my growing collection of houseplants, exploring skincare and makeup artistry, weightlifting, perusing thrift stores and bookstores, and more recently have discovered the adventures of geocaching.

Aishat Oredegbe, MD

Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Medical University of Bahrain

Aishat Oredegbe, MD

2026

Medical School

Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Medical University of Bahrain

Hometown

Medicine Hat

Professional Interests

Obstetrics, HIV Medicine, Full-scope Family Medicine

Undergraduate

University of Saskatchewan

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose this residency program because of its strong emphasis on providing mentorship to interns. Throughout my interview at Trinity Health Michigan, I felt incredibly welcomed and I was immediately put at ease. I was surprised by the shared commonalities I had with some of the interests despite being Canadian, I immediately knew that this was the place for me.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

During my days off I enjoy pilates, yoga, traveling to a new city/country and spending time with family and friends.

Anika Risden, MD

Saint James School of Medicine

Anika Risden, MD

2026

Medical School

Saint James School of Medicine

Hometown

Mississauga, Ontario

Professional Interests

Women's Health and Sports Medicine

Undergraduate

University of Windsor

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose family medicine at Trinity Health Grand Rapids because the environment is focused on learning as well as professional and personal growth. I am excited to learn more about the people of Grand Rapids and explore the area.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, I enjoy playing sports, specifically soccer and ultimate frisbee. I also enjoy baking.

Camryn Romph, DO

University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine

Camryn Romph, DO

2026

Medical School

University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown

Kalamazoo, Mich.

Professional Interests

Primary Care, obstetrics, full-scope reproductive healthcare, sports medicine and skin procedures, addiction medicine, pediatrics and adolescent medicine

Undergraduate

Kalamazoo College

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I chose Trinity Health Grand Rapids because of the supportive faculty and residents, focus on full-spectrum family medicine and primary care, and the opportunity to live in Grand Rapids!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of medicine, I love to do pottery, exercise, go hiking and camping, take care of my indoor plants and spend time with my family.

Mackenzie Sproull, MD

Central Michigan University College of Medicine

Mackenzie Sproull, MD

2026

Medical School

Central Michigan University College of Medicine

Hometown

Muskegon, Mich.

Professional Interests

Full-Spectrum Family Medicine, Women's Health, Outpatient Procedures

Undergraduate

Ferris State University

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

It was incredibly easy for me to choose Trinity Health Grand Rapids. I was born and raised in West Michigan and have always loved this area. Much of my family still lives here, and I am grateful to continue my education surrounded by loved ones.

Among the many wonderful features of this program, I particularly appreciated the strong emphasis on prioritizing education through protected didactics, the focused ultrasound curriculum, and diverse procedural training. I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention the warm and inclusive culture.

A genuine sense of family and community extends throughout the Trinity Health Grand Rapids Family Medicine Residency Program.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband as well as with family and friends. I particularly enjoy hiking, camping, and really anything outdoors. When Michigan weather strikes, I enjoy indoor hobbies such as puzzles, reading books, and binge-watching The Office reruns.

Jeremiah Vroegindewey, DO

Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Jeremiah Vroegindewey, DO

2026

Medical School

Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hometown

Grand Rapids, Mich.

Professional Interests

Inpatient medicine, outpatient medicine, private practice, mission work, POCUS, vasectomies, cardiology

Undergraduate

Grand Valley State University

Why I chose this program/location for my training

I am a Grand Rapids native (actually, I was born in this hospital) and after attending medical school out of state, am very excited to be back home for residency! My wife and I love this city and are enjoying being close to family again. Aside from its location, I chose this program because of its great reputation, the strong inpatient training and the awesome faculty/residents. I am honored to be part of the team and to be able to serve my community!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I love soccer, skateboarding, snowboarding, hiking, fishing, and swimming. In the summer, beach days at Lake Michigan are the best. Recently, I have been trying to get into golf and hunting.

2025

Sarah Bell, DO

A.T. Still University - Kirksville College of Osteopathic

Sarah Bell, DO

2025

Medical School

A.T. Still University - Kirksville College of Osteopathic

Hometown

Milford, MI

Professional Interests

Outpatient Family Medicine, Women's Health, and Hospice/Palliative Care

Undergraduate

University of Michigan

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

The program at Mercy Health Grand Rapids really stood out to me among the programs I interviewed with throughout the virtual interview experience. This program hosted Faculty Theme Nights, as well as an Alumni Night and a Second Look Event. These virtual activities helped me grasp how excellent this program is without having the opportunity for an in-person option. I was very drawn to the strong sense of fellowship I observed among the current residents during my interview process. I was also made aware of the opportunities available to residents to obtain strong OBGYN, outpatient medicine, and inpatient medicine training. Additionally, doing rotations in a hospital system as large and diverse as Mercy Health Grand Rapids greatly appealed to me for the vast range of experiences that I know it will bestow. I am so excited to be part of this welcoming community!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy playing volleyball, horseback riding, hiking, personal fitness workouts, spending time with my family and friends, playing board games, and pretty much anything outdoors that keeps me active!

Leah Burkovsky, MD

Saba University School of Medicine

Leah Burkovsky, MD

2025

Medical School

Saba University School of Medicine

Hometown

Toronto, Ontario

Professional Interests

Full scope family medicine, women’s health, preventative medicine, and addiction medicine

Undergraduate

University of Ottawa

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

I chose Mercy Health Grand Rapids because of the people and the program. It seems like a great, close-knit group of residents with a wonderful faculty and a supportive environment to learn and grow in. The program has a strong, comprehensive curriculum that will prepare you to practice family medicine the way you want to. The program also includes a free clinic, street medicine, LGBTQ curriculum, and POCUS curriculum.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I love spending time with my friends and family, running, hiking, and doing Spartan races. I also enjoy a good board game, and geeking out over things like Lord of the Rings or the Mandalorian.

Riley Kaiser, MD

Wayne State University School of Medicine

Riley Kaiser, MD

2025

Medical School

Wayne State University School of Medicine

Hometown

Frankenmuth, MI

Professional Interests

Primary Care

Undergraduate

University of Michigan

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

This is a great program that offers excellent training so I will be very prepared for post-residency. The culture here is very welcoming and supportive, and I liked everyone I interacted with. Additionally, Grand Rapids is a great area and is close to family.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Spending time with family Soccer

Ryan Maziarz, MD

Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine

Ryan Maziarz, MD

2025

Medical School

Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine

Hometown

Phoenix, AZ

Professional Interests

Full spectrum family medicine, point of care ultrasound, health care policy

Undergraduate

The University of Arizona, Arizona State University

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

Trinity Health Grand Rapids immediately stood out during my interview. The residents and faculty were so warm and welcoming and I just felt like I truly belonged at this program. I'm so happy they felt the same way about me! As a community program located within a major city, I'll be getting the best of both worlds here for my training. I'm so excited to be moving to Grand Rapids, a vibrant and growing city I know I can thrive in.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I've been a guitarist since I was a young child and continue to play, write, and record music in my free time. I also enjoy digital photography, traveling, and have a strong interest in aviation and intend to pursue a private pilot license in the future.

Bushra Sajjad, MD

National University of Ireland

Bushra Sajjad, MD

2025

Medical School

National University of Ireland

Hometown

Toronto

Professional Interests

Full- scope Family Medicine, Underserved Medicine, Education and Academic Medicine

Undergraduate

National University of Ireland

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

During the interview process, this program stood out to me due to its robust training in inpatient and outpatient family medicine. The program has a strong emphasis on teaching and mentorship which was something I was looking for in my training. The faculty truly cared about helping residents in exploring their career goals and meeting their true potential. Although interviews were virtual, the Faculty Theme Nights gave me everything I needed to know about the program and the people. The Alumni Night was particularly eye-opening as I witnessed previous residents sharing fond memories of their time as residents and the close ties they had built with one another. Last but not least, I was drawn to Grand Rapids as it is such a diverse and vibrant city with lots to offer!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, I like to spend time with family and travel. I also enjoy playing volleyball and taking part in outdoor activities such as camping and canoeing with friends.

Claire Schaar, MD

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Claire Schaar, MD

2025

Medical School

Michigan State University College of Human Medicine

Hometown

Fremont, MI

Professional Interests

Outpatient family medicine, women's health, pediatrics, hospice/palliative care

Undergraduate

Hope College

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

My partner and I have called Grand Rapids home for the last four years while I was in medical school, we absolutely fell in love with the city and are so happy to continue living here! I interacted with many residents during my medical school rotations and was always so impressed by their compassion, intelligence, and skill at teaching, and I knew that was exactly the kind of physician I wanted to be. During my rotation with them, I felt so welcomed and learned so much that I knew Mercy would be a great place for me to grow as a physician and a person.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work, I enjoy playing the viola, hiking, watercolor painting, reading, playing board games, and spending time with my wonderful partner and soon-to-be dog.

William Schaefer, MD

St. George's University

William Schaefer, MD

2025

Medical School

St. George's University

Hometown

Grand Rapids, MI

Professional Interests

Full scope family medicine, sports medicine

Undergraduate

Elmhurst College

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

I chose this program because of the people and the great community feel. Being born and raised in Grand Rapids, I wanted to be able to give back to the community here. During the interview process, I was looking for a program that would have great training in both inpatient and outpatient medicine. This program has a great reputation for both, which aided in my final decision. I also enjoyed being able to take part in all of the theme nights, which truly gave me a great insight into the program. Finally, I chose this program because the residents were so welcoming and helpful.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I also like to spend time golfing when the weather is warmer and watching sports.

Jesse Schwartz, MD

Central Michigan University College of Medicine

Jesse Schwartz, MD

2025

Medical School

Central Michigan University College of Medicine

Hometown

Centreville, MI

Professional Interests

Full-scope family medicine with specific interests in geriatrics, outpatient procedures, and medical education.

Undergraduate

Grand Valley State University

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

I fell in love with the city of Grand Rapids during my undergrad years and was drawn to the opportunity to return to the area for residency. I knew I wanted to train in a program that both challenged and supported me and found exactly that during my time at Mercy Health Grand Rapids in my fourth year. From the first day of my rotation, I was instantly impressed with the residents’ breadth of skills and knowledge and was in awe of the camaraderie among everyone on the team. I am thrilled to be able to return and serve the incredible community of Grand Rapids at a program that will best prepare me to do so!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I enjoy spending time with my wife, exercising and staying active, playing sports, and discovering new restaurants and breweries - especially in Beer City, USA!

Abigail Styck, MD

Penn State College of Medicine

Abigail Styck, MD

2025

Medical School

Penn State College of Medicine

Hometown

Grand Haven, MI

Professional Interests

Full-scope family medicine with particular interest in palliative care, geriatrics, women's health, and LGBTQ+ care

Undergraduate

Valparaiso University

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

So many reasons! The faculty and residents are all so kind, and this program has great opportunities in my areas of interest including palliative care, geriatrics, and women's health. On top of that, I grew up in Grand Haven (about 45 minutes west of Grand Rapids) and have always loved West Michigan, my family lives close-by, and my partner couples-matched into Mary Free Bed's PM&R program right next-door.

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

I love reading (typically a lot of classical literature), gardening, antiquing, cooking (and eating), and spending time with my wonderful family, partner, and friends!

Laura Thompson, MD

University of Illinois College of Medicine - Peoria

Laura Thompson, MD

2025

Medical School

University of Illinois College of Medicine - Peoria

Hometown

Batavia, Illinois

Professional Interests

Improving access to patient centered, preventative medicine. Adolescent medicine. Addiction medicine.

Undergraduate

Knox College

Why I chose this program/Grand Rapids for my training

I knew I was looking for a community-based program that was strong academically and would provide excellent training in both inpatient and outpatient medicine. After meeting the people at Mercy Health Grand Rapids, I was so impressed by their genuine enthusiasm and warmth. Faculty, staff, and residents seemed happy, grounded, and bright. On top of that, I am so excited to work and live in beautiful Grand Rapids!

Hobbies/what I do outside of work

Outside of medicine, I love to make/eat delicious food, hike/camp when the weather is nice, read books and watch movies, and spend time with friends and family. I also enjoy taking care of my house plants and hope to level up to gardening during residency.