Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Santa Cruz – Bolivia.

Undergrad: Universidad Autonoma Gabriel Rene Moreno

Medical School: Universidad Autonoma Gabriel Rene Moreno

Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?

It was in Kentucky at the GMHC where I first encountered the Cahaba Family Medicine team. From that initial meeting to my last interaction during the event, I felt a deep conviction in my heart—this was where I wanted to pursue my residency. The opportunity to grow both professionally and spiritually, in an environment that fosters a relationship with God and supports mission trips, is truly a blessing. Another reason I was drawn to the Cahaba family is the authenticity and exceptional clinical competence its residents demonstrate. Through my interactions during the conference and beyond, I witnessed genuine compassion, passion for service, and strong clinical skills. It is truly a dream come true to embark on this journey with the Cahaba Highlands track.

What does your life outside of medicine look like?

Outside of medicine, I enjoy going to church, attending small groups, practicing yoga and spending time with my cats. Back home in Bolivia, I was actively involved in rescuing and fostering stray dogs and cats. Although I’ve faced some limitations since moving to the U.S., I’ve continued to support animal welfare by assisting with rescues and volunteering at local shelters.

What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?

A destination on my bucket list is Kenya, where I hope to go on a safari and experience its incredible wildlife and landscapes.

What drives you?

My faith and my parents are the driving forces in my life. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their unwavering support and sacrifices. They motivate me every single day, and I am deeply grateful to God that I still have both of them in my life.

What is your (current) post residency plan?

As for my plans after residency, I currently intend to pursue a fellowship in Geriatrics.

Where are you from?

Birmingham

Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?

As a Birmingham native, I was drawn to the Cahaba-UAB Family Medicine Residency Program for its unique combination of academic training, community engagement, and strong support network. My career goal is to reduce health disparities by improving access to quality care, and I knew this program would equip me to do so through its robust opportunities in community service, research, and teaching. What stood out most were the people—every individual I met during interviews shared a deep commitment to serving Alabama and fostering the personal and professional growth of residents. With its comprehensive training and collaborative environment, I knew this was a place where I could thrive.

Undergrad: The University of Alabama at Birmingham 

Medical School: UAB Heersink School of Medicine

What does your life outside of medicine look like?

Outside of medicine, I am usually spending time with my friends and family (including my dog). I enjoy exploring new places, gardening, hiking, cooking, and playing games of all kinds. 

What is your favorite food to cook?

I love trying new recipes, but a classic favorite is macaroni & cheese

What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?

Everywhere - but Japan, Italy, and Greece are currently at the top of my list

What drives you?

My family and my personal lived experiences have instilled in me a passion for serving the community and advocating for justice and equity. 

What is your (current) post residency plan?

I am interested in OB fellowship 

Where are you from?
Arlington, Texas

Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?
I chose Cahaba UAB Family Medicine Residency because it truly felt like a hidden gem. From the moment I learned about the program, I was drawn to its commitment to serving both urban and underserved populations, as well as its unique blend of academic partnership with UAB and community engagement. The opportunity to participate in international mission trips, train in a top-tier academic environment with renowned specialists, and gain early exposure to sports medicine through work with high school, college, and even minor league professional teams was especially appealing. What stood out most, though, was the culture—everyone here is incredibly welcoming and supportive, and the atmosphere reflects the best of Southern hospitality. It felt like the perfect place to grow not just as a physician, but as a person committed to compassionate, community-centered care. I felt this was the right environment to build a strong foundation and be part of shaping something truly special.

Undergrad: University of Texas at Arlington

Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Auburn Campus

What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Outside of medicine, I enjoy living life to the fullest. I love traveling, hiking, cooking, going to concerts and festivals, and exploring new culinary experiences. Spending time with family and friends is very important to me, and I make a point to stay connected with the people I care about. These moments help keep me grounded and energized.

What is your favorite food to cook?
Texas barbecue and anything on the grill. There’s something special about slow-cooked meats and grilling over an open fire that brings me a lot of joy.

What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
I’ve always wanted to visit New Zealand and explore Hobbiton, which is on the bucket list. But for someone who loves food, anywhere in the world where I can experience amazing diversity of foods and flavorful dishes. 

What drives you?
I’ve always carried an underdog mentality especially from my upbringing of growing up playing sports and working hard to find success. That internal drive and mindset has shaped my work ethic and perseverance to other avenues of life. Growing up as a first-generation Vietnamese American, I also watched my parents make sacrifices and work incredibly hard to create a better life for our family. Their example taught me humility, determination, and the value of resilience. That upbringing, along with my passion for medicine, sports, and the opportunity to help others, continues to motivate me to pursue excellence in everything I do.

What is your (current) post-residency plan?
My goal is to pursue a sports medicine fellowship and eventually work with both collegiate and professional athletes. I want to combine my passion for medicine and athletics to provide care at the highest level while continuing to serve my community.

Where are you from?

 I was born and raised in Nigeria, but I relocated to Birmingham from Maryland.

Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?

 I truly feel that being at Cahaba is part of God’s plan. Cahaba UAB FMR appealed to me in so many ways, including its strong commitment to compassionate care, full-spectrum training, a longitudinal curriculum, and a deep focus on serving underserved communities. From the very beginning, it felt like a close-knit, mission-driven family, exactly the kind of environment I was seeking to grow both personally and professionally.

Undergrad: Windsor University School of Medicine

Medical School: Windsor University School of Medicine

What does your life outside of medicine look like?

Outside of medicine I enjoy running, exploring different places, listening  to worship songs, cooking and spending time with family and friends. 

What is your favorite food to cook?

 My favorite food to cook is spicy Nigerian chicken stew with rice. 

What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?

Paris

What drives you?

I’m driven by a deep commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others while honoring my faith and values.

What is your (current) post residency plan?

My current post-residency plan is to pursue a fellowship in Obstetrics while continuing to practice primary care, focusing on serving underserved populations.

Where are you from?

From Baltimore, Maryland. Born in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.

Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?

My being here without a doubt is God orchestrated. Cahaba Medical Care’s overall mission that affirms that the whole point of it all is to love God and show His glory by walking in the steps of Jesus and ministering the love of Christ even in practice aligns perfectly with my vision. I wanted to be a part of the Cahaba family and God surpassed my imagination by giving me an opportunity to be a part of the Cahaba UAB Highlands program. It checked all the boxes for me. I am indeed here to fulfill purpose by serving underserved populations while training to be a competent and compassionate Primary Care Physician.

Undergrad:

University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.

Med school:

University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.

What does your life outside of medicine look like?

Spending time with my husband and two kids both at home and traveling, calling/seeing loved ones and watching movies or shows (life is different now!).

What is your favorite food to cook?

Absolutely depends on the mood and what the ask is, but I like cooking Nigerian Jollof rice with Chicken or baked salmon.

What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?

Paris.

What drives you?

A passion to fulfill God’s divine mandate for my life knowing that I am here for a purpose. Also, the will to succeed and exemplify it for my kids and the younger generation.

What is your (current) post residency plan?

Where are you from?

I am originally from Nigeria and relocated to Birmingham from Delaware.

Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?

For me, Cahaba UAB Family Medicine Residency sets a clear picture of healthcare delivery at its finest. Its comprehensive approach and commitment to patient care align with my values and professional aspirations. It was an easy decision for me to choose this program knowing I will get formidable training and be well-equipped to foster its tradition of excellence in healthcare delivery. In addition, the geographic terrain, environmental appeal, and sense of community rightly position me for a dynamically unique experience which I am super excited about.

Undergrad/Med School:

I did my undergrad and medical school training in Nigeria where I attended the College of Medicine Ambrose Alli University (undergrad and medical school education) in Edo-state Nigeria.

What does your life outside of medicine look like?

My life outside of medicine is mostly family centered in which I get to wear my other “hats”. I cherish spending time with my husband and children and embracing my roles as a wife and mother. I also value my alone moments during which I enjoy reading books, particularly the “Bible” and watching comedy shows.

What is your favorite food to cook?

My favorite food to cook is Nigerian goat meat pepper soup with yam, which is quite yummy for those who have a taste for spicy food. For those who can’t handle spicy food, it can be “trouble”!

What is a destination you'd like to visit or live in?

With the world being so vast, there are several places I’d like to visit. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, France, England, Norway, Sweden, and Italy are top of my list.

What Drives You?

My faith in God, love of family, and passion for patient care; the meaningful impact I can make day by day, time after time.

What is your post-residency plan?

I plan to practice full scope family medicine, be involved in academia to help train aspiring physicians, and also pursue healthcare advocacy projects for medically underserved communities.

Where are you from?

Houston, TX

Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?

If you know anything about the Couples Match process, then you know that it is truly in God's hands to go wherever we end up going. With that being said, Cahaba UAB FMR has been the perfect landing spot for my partner and I (Family Medicine for myself, and General Surgery for her). I was notably impressed by the leadership of Cahaba UAB FMR, and with Dr. Salser's personal touch on interview day, and am more than thrilled to have joined a program so dedicated to its faith-based mission and provision of passionate healthcare for all. My goals of both becoming a full-spectrum primary care physician and of having the opportunity to pursue post-residency fellowship are clearly aligned with the Cahaba UAB FMR goals of training exemplary servant leader Family Medicine physicians.

Undergrad:

Duke University

Med school:

McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston

What does your life outside of medicine look like?

Outside of medicine, I spend my time with my partner trying new restaurants and catching up on our TV shows. I also enjoy working out, playing basketball, and watching most sports.

What is your favorite food to cook?

Garlic cumin lamb chops

What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?

Greece

What drives you?

My family and faith are what keep me grounded to ultimately pursue my goals of becoming the best version of myself and to pay forward the sacrifices made from all those who have poured into my life.

What is your (current) post residency plan?

Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellowship

Where are you from?

I was born and raised in Vicksburg, MS

Why did you come to Cahaba UAB FMR?

I decided to join the Cahaba + UAB FM Residency program largely because of the patient population and geographical location. My motivation behind pursuing a career in medicine was to show the many patients who look and act like myself, that we too can obtain powerful positions in healthcare, and provide care to our critically underserved communities. Training in Alabama for me is like being home, and I believe that I have a duty to serve the patients from all walks of life to ensure that their health and medical needs are met. I have no doubts that the patient population that Cahaba serves is robust and well diverse to train me for an ever evolving career in Family Medicine.

Undergrad:

University of Texas at San Antonio

Med school:

Pacific Northwest University Health Science Center

What does your life outside of medicine look like?

When I'm not learning/practicing medicine, I am shopping, taking road trips, exploring life and planning the next Game Night w/ food. 

What is your favorite food to cook?

I love to eat Pasta, Chicken, Fish and Sausage. 

What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?

My ideal home would be on the outskirts of a city like Colorado Springs, CO. 

What drives you?

I am driven by my passion to pursue a life with few limitations. #Always in pursuit of my next goal.    

What is your (current) post residency plan?

Post Residency, I plan to pursue further training in High Risk Obstetrics & Procedures.

Where are you from?
I was born in Chicago but grew up in the Philippines. I came back to the United States after completing my education.

Why did you come to Cahaba FMR?
Family Medicine is a field where I truly feel I can make a great impact in a patient’s life. I was drawn to the Cahaba-FMR because it offers the opportunity to develop both professionally and personally. This program focuses on a full scope of medicine with holistic patient care, strong clinical training, involvement in the community and faith-driven global medical missions. The Longitudinal Integrated Curriculum also caught my attention. Finally, I am excited about relocating to Birmingham. I have had the opportunity to meet some great people and I am enthusiastic to explore the area and become part of the community!

Undergrad: Makati Medical Center College of Nursing

Med school: University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center College of Medicine

What does your life outside of medicine look like?
During my days off, I spend most of the time with my family and friends. I love to cook and take my dog, Teddy on walks. I also love going to the beach and hiking.

What is your favorite food to cook?
I love to cook different cuisines especially Asian food like Japanese and Korean.

What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
I want to travel to different countries with rich cultures and histories.

What drives you? Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

What is your post residency plan?
I want to be a Primary Care Physician with all the skills that I would need to be successful in any environment. Also, I am considering a fellowship in Emergency Medicine in the future.

Where are you from?

I was born in China and relocated to the United States in 2010.

Why did you come to Cahaba FMR?
I chose Cahaba FMR because the people I met in the clinic were kind, down to earth, and love to teach. It is a local community-based health organization that aims to be an incarnation of love, peace, and justice. This program provides rigorous training which gives me confidence that I will be well-prepared to handle anything wherever I end up practicing. At the same time, I really think this program is full of some of the best people in medicine, and that includes both faculty and co-residents.

Med school: Tianjin Medical University (Tianjin, China)

What does your life outside of medicine look like?
I love to spend time with my family and friends. My other interests are traveling, watching movies, and gardening.

What is your favorite food to cook?
BBQ and cake

What is a destination you'd like to visit or live in?
I prefer to travel to places that have large lakes, sandy sea beaches, mountains, and vast open fields. Significant historic places and museums are also on my favorite list.

What drives you?
Try something new and gain new skills.

What is your post-residency plan?
I am currently interested in pursuing a fellowship.

Where are you from?
I am originally from western Nigeria, but moved to Cleveland, Ohio about 7 years ago.

Why did you come to Cahaba FMR?
I have passion for underserved communities and have involved myself throughout my career, caring for patients similar to the demographic served by Cahaba FMR. The program’s faith-based mission and its commitment to ‘transformational’ primary care aligns with my own goals. Its unique curriculum, dedicated faculty and residents create a work and teaching environment that I look forward to being a part of. I am eager to get on board to join this wonderful vision of ministry and service.

Undergrad: University of Benin

Med school: University of Benin

What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Outside of medicine I’m running around caring for my family. I love to sing karaoke, attend worship services, engage in outdoor activities when I can (which is almost never) and thinking up the next new innovative idea.

What is your favorite food to cook?
I cook a lot but I’m not exactly passionate about it, so I don’t have a favorite thing I like to cook.

What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
Visit Thailand and live in rural France!

What drives you?
I want to please God in all I do and lay treasure where it does not rot. The personality I was given is motivated by the desire to do things well and be successful at it.

What is your post residency plan?
Pursing a fellowship in a women’s health related specialty and involvement in global health medicine.

Where are you from?
Bangladesh / Auburn, AL

Why did you come to Cahaba FMR?

An important aspect of Cahaba-UAB for me was the opportunity for training in global health and full-scope family medicine, with its international rotations and experienced faculty. My childhood in Bangladesh and my faith heavily influenced how I want to serve society. My goal is to improve health care access through policy and capacity building wherever needed. I wanted a program where I could integrate my public health and medicine backgrounds in a global health setting. It was important for me to be part of a program that believes that learning about our community and about social determinants of health are just as important as understanding the medicine for proper patient care. I also wanted a program that values their residents and patients as people, not just their role in the health care setting.

I have been in Birmingham for over a decade and have come appreciate what it offers and look forward to its growth; it's also nice to remain in the same state as my parents.

Undergrad: University of Alabama at Birmingham

Med school: UAB Heersink School of Medicine

What does your life outside of medicine look like?
Outside of medicine, I like to try new things from art to food to outdoor activities, I also enjoy unwinding with a book or TV. Being able to have time with family and friends is also important to me.                

What is your favorite food to cook?
Pasta! not a great cook but i do like to try making new foods

What is a destination you'd like to visit or live?
Japan or Greece or Iceland (really, I want to travel to as many places as I can on this amazing, diverse planet)

What drives you?
My family, faith, and life experiences have guided and shaped how I see the world and how I want to serve it. I believe that we all have a responsibility to each other, for our individual and collective wellbeing... in what ever capacity we are able contribute to it.

What is your post residency plan?
Global health and/or OB fellowship. An opportunity to work with Doctors Without Borders is one of my goals; wherever I end up, I want to regularly and intentionally engage in international medicine and capacity building.