Lydia BruffeyUndergrad: Clarkson University
Graduate: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
About Me: I grew up in a small town near Corning, NY, and have always been drawn to the outdoors, whether I’m hiking, running, skiing, or just spending time by the lake. Lately, I’ve found a creative outlet in pottery, and having a wheel and kiln at home has let me craft pieces for friends and even a local coffee shop. Beyond the studio, I also have a green thumb and love keeping my living space filled with lush greenery. When I’m not working or creating, you’ll usually find me relaxing on the porch with my dog, Beau, soaking up the sunshine whenever we can. My background as a medical assistant and health coach, combined with my experiences in leadership and volunteering at Bampa’s House, has grounded me in the importance of community and patient-centered care, which I am excited to bring into my residency.
Why Family Medicine? I chose family medicine because I love the variety that each day brings. The opportunity to care for patients of all ages, build long-term relationships, and treat a wide range of conditions is exactly what I was looking for in a career. I enjoy getting to know patients over time and serving as a trusted part of their healthcare journey. For me, family medicine offers the perfect balance of continuity, diversity, and meaningful connection, making it the ideal fit for my future practice.
Why Williamsport? After spending time with the program, it was hard to imagine myself doing residency anywhere else. From day one, I was welcomed by the attendings, residents, and staff who were genuinely kind, supportive, and invested in teaching. Their passion for family medicine and dedication to both their patients and learners made a lasting impression on me. I knew I wanted to train in an environment where I would be challenged, encouraged, and surrounded by people who truly care, and I found exactly that in Williamsport. While I know that residency can be demanding, I am confident that here, even when my body is tired, my heart will be full.
Joshua Moree, M.D., D.C.Undergrad: University of South Carolina
Graduate School: Life University
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
About Me: I was born in South Carolina, but have lived up and down the East Coast over the years. I attended the University of South Carolina for my undergraduate degree, where I studied exercise science. I then earned my Doctor of Chiropractic at Life University in Georgia. As a chiropractor, I focused on helping people overcome barriers to living active lives by empowering them to manage chronic pain and adapt activities so they could continue doing what they love. Years later, I transitioned into medicine and completed my training at Ross University School of Medicine. My journey through different health professions has given me a unique perspective on patient care. Outside of medicine, I enjoy staying active through resistance training, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and getting outside for a walk whenever I can.
Why Family Medicine? I chose Family Medicine because I felt it allows me to best take care of people in all areas of their health. Whether that is treating physical illness, providing emotional support, helping patients stay active, or being an advocate for them throughout different stages of life, this field gives me the opportunity to show up for patients in a meaningful and well-rounded way.
Why Williamsport? When I was looking for residency programs, I knew I wanted a small town feel with a strong sense of support. I was looking for a place where I could develop the autonomy to care for patients in the way they need, while still having a team around me that I could rely on. From my very first interaction with UPMC Williamsport, I felt that balance right away. It genuinely felt like a place where I could be myself, feel at home, and continue to grow into the kind of physician I want to become.
Alivia Roberts
Undergrad: State University of New York at Binghamton
Medical School: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
About Me: I’m from Hazleton, PA – forever a Farmer’s Iced Tea and a 3rd Base Hoagie lover. In college I found my niche in emergency medicine as an EMT, which jump started my patient-care journey. I wanted to move back home after college and spent the next 3 years gaining a lot of hands-on experience as a medical scribe, medical assistant, nursing assistant, and then furthered my education at Geisinger, earning a Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBS) degree. I not only love to learn but I love to teach so I became a teaching assistant for the MBS program. During my time in medical school, I found my love for running and completed 8 half marathons and 1 marathon during this time! Other hobbies I am obsessed with are pickleball, volleyball, hiking, yoga, and my pets (which I will happily tell you all about when asked!)
Why Family Medicine? During the time I spent navigating different roles prior to medical school, and even during medical school rotations, I always found myself wanting to know more and be more involved. I love building long-term connections, actively participating in numerous life milestones, providing a sense of ease to patients fearful of diagnoses, and witnessing the impact on patient outcomes. It is an honor and a privilege to be the pillar of the foundation of health and wellbeing as a primary care physician; it is the perfect blend of everything. I am grateful for this future career, which allows me to mold my past, present, and future, to help patients improve their quality of life, while I, too, navigate this life and focus on my wellbeing through my passions. Like my parents did for me, I will instill compassion, courage, and confidence in my patients, with my unwavering support and guidance along the way.
Why Williamsport? I attended the AAFP Future Conference as a medical student where I was able to explore hands-on learning, lectures, and speak with residency programs. Ironically, I remember entering the massive venue, and UPMC Williamsport was the first booth I chatted with. The energy and friendliness were contagious. I knew I wanted to learn more and was eager to apply for their program. The interview process was FUN; I felt like I could be my authentic self and everything felt natural. Weekend in Williamsport (the second look) put the cherry on top – I was buzzing with excitement and knew that I not only wanted to come here, but I felt like I belonged. I love the fun social media presence, organization, lifestyle medicine curriculum, and the Little League World Series for my sports medicine aspirations!
Joanly SanchezUndergrad: Barnard College
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
About Me: While originally born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, I grew up in the Bronx, NY with my parents and younger sister. My interest in medicine began in high school, where AP bio and a passionate teacher introduced me to the health sciences. I pursued a degree in Molecular Biology at Barnard, a liberal arts women’s college in NYC, where I met some of my closest friends I get to do life with. Living in a city most of my life has fueled my independence and love for adventure- anywhere I go, you can find me either finding the nearest vintage shop, enjoying a meal while delving deep into a book, or getting lost while looking for the next attraction on my list. I love to travel, experiencing different cultures, and I plan to any chance I get. If I am not at work, shopping, or with loved ones, you can surely find me at my nearest airport. At home, you can find me watching TV and sewing bowl cozies.
Why Family Medicine? I am passionate about people, their stories, and what shapes them. I believe community is one of the strongest entities we can build and family medicine fit right in with my values and academic interests. I enjoy the flexibility and room for growth that family medicine has to offer. Family medicine is relational, longitudinal, and allows me to practice in a variety of settings.
Why Williamsport? After moving to Philadelphia for medical school, I came to appreciate the wide variety of landscapes the city had to offer. I found myself gravitating more towards nature and a slower pace of life. Williamsport offers me the serenity I desire with the rigor of a program that is thorough and produces excellent physicians. From interview day to second look, I felt seen and valued by the program. It was natural to be myself and residents seemed genuinely happy, which spoke volumes to me. I look forward to growing with my peers and being a part of the Williamsport FMR family!
Olivia SlotmanUndergrad: University at Buffalo
Medical School: UB Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
About Me: I grew up in Angola, NY a small town on the shore of Lake Erie near Buffalo, NY with my parents and younger brother. Growing up, I spent my summers lifeguarding on the beach, helping with my dad’s landscaping business, and camping with my family often. This inspired my love for the outdoors and my passion for rural family medicine! In my free time you can find me spending time with my family and friends, playing card games (Euchre, for those that know!), needlepointing, thrifting, camping, canoeing, and hiking. Oh and cheering on every Buffalo sports team… Go Bills! Go Sabres!
Why Family Medicine? While trying to decide on a specialty I reflected on my medical training, and realized my favorite moments were spent talking with patients in the community and listening to their stories. This is when I knew that family medicine was where I belong. Family medicine allows me to really connect with my community and its needs. Additionally, I really enjoy the variety that the specialty provides because I like so many parts of medicine and I am excited to see patients of all ages and needs whether that’s pediatrics, geriatrics, women’s health, obstetrics, and rural family medicine.
Why Williamsport? What stood out to me about this program was that it is a well-established full spectrum family medicine program. This was important to me as someone who wants to practice rural family medicine after training. But what ultimately sold me was the people. When I attended the second look event, I truly felt so welcomed and supported by everyone I met and I left feeling so excited. That’s when I knew I wanted to train here!
Hannah Terz, DO
Undergrad: Bryn Mawr College
Medical School: Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine
About Me: I was born and raised in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. Growing up as the daughter of a family physician, I developed an early fascination with medicine and the human body. That curiosity led me to major in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, where I discovered a passion for synthetic organic chemistry and began my first career as a chemist in pharmaceutical and biotechnology research. While I enjoyed the scientific challenges of research, I realized I wanted to make a more direct and personal impact on people's lives, which ultimately led me to medical school at Kansas City University. Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, hiking, antiquing, gardening, and relaxing at home with my cat.
Why Family Medicine? As I began my third year of medical school, I found something to appreciate in every specialty because I genuinely enjoy all aspects of medicine. Family medicine stood out because it offers incredible variety - from caring for patients of all ages to managing a broad range of medical conditions. Most importantly, I was drawn to the opportunity to build meaningful, long-term relationships with patients and their families while providing continuity of care throughout every stage of life.
Why Williamsport? After spending four years in Kansas City, I knew I wanted to return to Pennsylvania to continue my training closer to family. Williamsport immediately stood out as a full-spectrum, unopposed Family Medicine residency with osteopathic recognition and an outstanding reputation. My interview and second-look visit confirmed that it was the right fit. From the very beginning, I felt genuinely welcomed and valued, even as an applicant. It was clear that the faculty and residents have cultivated a supportive, collaborative culture where residents are encouraged to grow both professionally and personally.
Apongnwu N.F. Tete
Undergrad: University of Maryland College Park
Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
About Me: I was born and raised in Cameroon before immigrating to Maryland, where I completed high school, undergraduate studies, and eventually pursued my dream of becoming a physician. My passion for medicine was shaped by my upbringing and by witnessing firsthand the healthcare disparities faced by underserved communities with limited medical resources. Since childhood, I have wanted to become what I used to call a “magician of the human body” — someone capable of healing, comforting, and restoring hope through medicine.
My journey has always been grounded in compassion and service, particularly for underserved communities. I am committed to delivering patient-centered care that values dignity, trust, and meaningful human connection. Outside of medicine, I cherish spending time with my husband and children, and I enjoy preparing homemade Cameroonian meals. Join us for dinner, sometime!
Why Family Medicine? Family Medicine felt like a natural calling because it reflects the type of physician I aspire to be — versatile, compassionate, and deeply connected to my patients throughout every stage of life. I enjoy the broad scope of the specialty and the opportunity to care for patients across generations while continuing to grow in areas that interest me most. Most importantly, I treasure building long-term therapeutic relationships and being a trusted ‘first- responder’ in my patients’ healthcare journeys. It was meant to be!
Why Williamsport? Williamsport immediately stood out to me as a welcoming and community-centered place to train. I appreciate the balance of a close-knit community with the opportunities and resources of a strong healthcare system. What especially drew me to UPMC Williamsport was the intentionality and hospitality of faculty, staff, and residents. I was also drawn by the nature and “small town” vibe that gave me some undertones of where I come from in Cameroon! It is a genuine sense of community that aligns closely with my personal and professional values, making it a great place to continue my training.
Laura Christman, MDUndergrad: King’s College, Wilkes-Barre
Graduate: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
Medical School: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
About Me: I was born and raised in Eastern Pennsylvania in a small town called Roseto tucked between the Poconos and the Lehigh Valley. I’m very close with my parents and older sister, so I’ve been very fortunate to stay nearby while pursuing my education and including medical school. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and my partner doing activities like gaming, crocheting, or checking out new restaurants or breweries!
Why Family Medicine? While in college, I had several experiences while studying abroad in Peru and while working in the emergency department that demonstrated the importance of preventative medicine and primary care. The area where I grew up is rather rural, so access to reliable transportation or affordable medication was a problem at times for some of my family members. Family medicine is focused on accessibility, devoted to holistic and compassionate care, and is meant to create long-lasting relationships with people of all ages – that is exactly what I want to provide to my patients.
Why Williamsport? I love spending time outdoors, whether I’m hiking, camping, or kayaking! There are so many different parks and trails nearby that my partner and I are looking forward to exploring. I’m looking forward to serving a close-knit community that is a short drive away from so many options to enjoy the outdoors.
Mikayla Heid Strackbein, MDUndergrad: Ithaca College
Medical School: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
About Me: I’m from Archbald, Pennsylvania. I knew I wanted to be a physician from a young age and grew up with the goal of becoming a doctor. I also grew up taking dance classes every day and even danced for two companies in college. I earned my undergraduate degree in biochemistry at Ithaca College while also working as a nurse’s aide and doing some microbiology research in Puerto Rico. I returned to the Scranton area for medical school - my school was located just a block away from where I was born! In my free time I enjoy reading, cooking, exercising, and spending time with my dog Clark W Griswold Jr.
Why Family Medicine? I grew up wanting to be a family physician. When I began my third year rotations in medical school, I found myself wanting to pursue every specialty I experienced because I loved every aspect of medicine. I always found myself coming back to the idea of family medicine because of the ability to develop long-term relationships with my patients and the wide variety the specialty offers.
Why Williamsport? I rotated with this program at the beginning of my fourth year of medical school and instantly fell in love. I had so much fun while also learning and growing my skills each day - I was so sad to leave when the rotation ended! The atmosphere of support and family between everyone in the program - residents, attendings, staff members - create such a robust and positive learning environment.
Noah Hoffman, MD
Undergrad: Washington & Jefferson College (W&J)
Medical School: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine (GCSOM)
About Me: I grew up in Muncy, PA where I enjoyed playing soccer and attending Boy Scouts. After high school, I majored in Biology and Spanish at Washington & Jefferson College. Then, I attended GCSOM and participated in clubs such as Walk with a Future Doc and the Hiking club. In my free time, I enjoy weightlifting, being outdoors, gaming with friends, and playing the piano.
Why Family Medicine? Growing up, my own family physician played a focal role in caring for me and my family. I knew that I wanted to practice medicine in a way that allowed me to develop long term relationships with my patients. I also enjoyed the breadth of knowledge and diverse responsibilities of being a family physician. I feel that family medicine is where I can have fulfilment and make a meaningful impact on my patients.
Why Williamsport? Growing up in North-Central PA, I knew that I wanted to stay close to family. Many alumni that I worked with spoke very highly of the program, and my experience rotating here as a medical student was very positive. I enjoyed working with the residents and faculty here, and the hospital was very welcoming. Moreover, I like the fact that Williamsport is an unopposed program with a well-established residency. I’m very excited to be here for my training.
Alexandria Pagana, MDUndergrad: Pennsylvania State University
Medical School: St. George’s University
About Me: I was born and raised in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and have spent my life immersed in the heart of central PA. Growing up, I played soccer, softball, and basketball, which sparked a lifelong passion for sports. I went on to earn my Bachelor’s degree in Bio-Behavioral Health from Penn State University, where I also played club softball throughout all four years. After graduating, I joined Penn State as a Teaching Assistant in Organic Chemistry before moving to Pittsburgh for a year to pursue research. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, I embraced the opportunity to start medical school at St. George’s University. Outside of medicine, I enjoy seasonal activities such as softball, pickleball, water skiing, and snowboarding. On weekends, you’ll often find me cheering on Penn State or Notre Dame, or spending time with college friends in NYC/NJ or relaxing at the river lot.
Why Family Medicine? I’ve wanted to become a Family Medicine physician for as long as I can remember. Growing up in my father’s practice, I saw the power of meaningful, long-term relationships between doctor and patient. I watched people walk in anxious and leave reassured—thanks to a physician who knew their story, not just their symptoms. I’ve always valued deep connections, and Family Medicine naturally aligns with that. It’s a field where I can care for the whole person while building relationships that truly make a difference. Throughout medical school, I made a conscious effort to explore a variety of specialties, keeping an open mind. Yet, no matter which path I explored, I kept coming back to Family Medicine—for its versatility, comprehensive scope, and the meaningful connections it fosters with patients.
Why Williamsport? Growing up here, I came to understand just how vital a Family Medicine physician is to this community. UPMC Williamsport stands out for its unopposed, well-rounded training that emphasizes close, one-on-one mentorship with both physicians and residents. Some of the most skilled and compassionate doctors I know are alumni of this program, which speaks volumes about its quality. What impressed me most is the program’s commitment to developing well-rounded physicians while offering personalized training tailored to individual interests. During my interview, it was clear that the residents and faculty genuinely love this area—a sentiment I deeply share and value.
Willard Wilkinson, MDUndergrad: Pennsylvania State University
Medical School: Drexel University College of Medicine
About Me: I grew up in Cresson, a small town nestled in the mountains of central Pennsylvania, alongside my two sisters, our cat, and our two dogs. It’s also where I met my wife, Kayla. I left home to study biomedical engineering at Penn State, where I quickly learned that being good at math didn’t necessarily mean I enjoyed it. What I did discover, was a passion for physiology, teaching, and health, which ultimately led me to pursue medicine at Drexel.
Outside of my career, I enjoy being active and spending time with Kayla, especially when good food or a movie is involved. I’m particularly into weightlifting, distance running, climbing, and backpacking. We’re excited to explore everything the Williamsport area has to offer!
Why Family Medicine? Coming from a rural background and having interests across the spectrum of medicine, I knew early on in medical school that Family Medicine was the specialty for me. I look forward to forming trusted, long-term relationships with my patients, and to helping them avoid health complications before specialty care is needed. My particular interests are in rural, lifestyle, and preventative medicine.
Why Williamsport? I applied to Williamsport knowing it was unopposed, had a great reputation, and was in a region near home that appealed to my hobbies and lifestyle. The interview and second look completely blew me away, because even as an applicant, I felt valued and welcomed. It was abundantly clear that the residents felt the same way, and that they were very satisfied with their training.
Lauren Womer, MD
Undergrad: Temple University
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
About Me: I grew up in Pottsville, PA with my parents, brother and sister. I knew I wanted to move to a big city for college, so I attended Temple University in Philadelphia, where I majored in Biology. Afterwards, I stayed in Philly for medical school at Temple where I discovered my passion for family medicine and my goal of practicing closer to home. While Philadelphia has been my home for nearly 9 years, I’m looking forward to moving to central PA (where the parking will surely be easier!). In my free time, you can find me thrifting for vintage treasures, embroidering, going on long walks, and listening to true crime podcasts.
Why Family Medicine? I chose family medicine because of the endless opportunities within the field, the personal relationships that can be created with patients, and the need for family doctors, especially in rural communities. During my medical school rotations, I was exposed to a few incredible family medicine physicians. I saw the impact these doctors had on their patients’ lives and knew I wanted to be that source of comfort and safety for my future patients.
Why Williamsport? I was initially drawn to Williamsport for its suburban-meets-rural setting, unopposed program structure, and diverse patient population, but it was the people who ultimately made me want to stay. Every resident, faculty member, and staff member I met during my interview and second look made the experience welcoming, genuine, and exciting — and I knew I could find my place here.
Seif Butt, DO, MPH
Undergrad: Drexel University
Graduate: Thomas Jefferson University
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
About me: I grew up in Pottsville, PA with my two older siblings. I’ve always been interested in the life sciences and technology, so I majored in Biology and minored in Computer Science for undergrad. Afterwards I got my MPH and continue to be interested in the various socioeconomic and geographic factors that affect health. I wrapped up my years of education in Philadelphia at PCOM. In my free time I enjoy gaming, binge-watching TV shows, sketching, and hanging out with cats.
Why Family Medicine? Family Medicine speaks to my variety of interests in preventative care, lifestyle medicine, population health, and the opportunity to form long-lasting relationships with patients and be active in the community. I am looking forward to being able to improve and follow patients’ health with long-term continuity.
Why Williamsport? Williamsport provides a full-spectrum, unopposed program in a vibrant community close to my hometown and family. During medical school I met multiple alumni from this program who told me that it’d prepare me for anything I choose going forward. I know that I will be able to receive a broad-spectrum training that will prepare me for my future career.
Ayesha Khan, DOUndergrad: University at Buffalo (UB)
Medical School: Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine (KCU - COM)
About me: I was born and raised in Amherst, New York. I decided to stay at home for undergrad and attended UB, where I majored in Biomedical Sciences. At the start of the pandemic, I moved to Joplin, a small town in Missouri, to attend medical school at KCU. It was quite an experience living outside of Amherst for the first time in my life, and it made me realize what I had been missing out on in the world. I am excited to move to Williamsport, Pennsylvania, to experience a new town and state! Some of my hobbies are embroidery, specifically cross stitching, and watching movies and TV shows, with comedy being my favorite genre.
Why Family Medicine? I knew since I was an undergraduate student that I wanted to pursue family medicine, and I had many experiences in the field from my family members. Family medicine is one of the few specialties where you can build long-term relationships with patients and get to know your patients as a person. With family medicine, I will have the flexibility with how and where I want to practice and be able to see patients of all ages and various clinical diseases. I cannot wait to continue my family legacy by becoming a third-generation Family Medicine physician!
Why Williamsport? Being from Amherst and spending the last four years in Joplin, I wanted to return to the northeast to be closer to my family, all while continuing to live in a small town. Williamsport was a perfect fit for what I was looking for. Also, UMPC at Williamsport is a well-established program that is full-spectrum, unopposed, and has osteopathic recognition. During the virtual meet and greet and interview day, I felt the close relationship that the faculty and residents possessed with each other. Also, the program's flexibility will allow me to pursue my specific interests in Family Medicine. I knew I would become the family medicine physician I always wanted to be at Williamsport, and I cannot wait to start!
Michael Kovalick, MDUndergrad: Wilkes University
Medical School: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
About me: I was born in Northeastern Pennsylvania, and have lived most of my life in Dallas, which is a small town on the outskirts of Wilkes-Barre. I am the son of two family physicians, and I live with my brother and my two dogs (Gronk and Mookie). I completed my undergraduate education at Wilkes University with a degree in Biology. My time at Wilkes was crucial in convincing me to pursue a career as a physician because of the faculty, advising and activities I was able to participate in. I then completed my undergraduate medical education at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine in Scranton, PA. In my free time, you will often find me playing guitar, fishing, or just reading a good book! I also love to collect historical memorabilia.
Why Family Medicine? For me, family medicine is such a versatile and rewarding area of medicine to practice in. The fact that I can learn about and practice so many aspects of medicine is truly exciting and makes every day fresh. As a family physician, you are also on the front lines of medicine. You are often the first contact for your patients, and they will come to you with any questions and concerns. It is one of the only specialties where you can take care of generations of families. This allows you to build patient-physician relationships that are truly robust and that can help change a patient’s life for the better.
Why Williamsport? When I was looking for family medicine residencies, I always had the long-term goal of staying in Pennsylvania to serve the communities that have given so much to me. Therefore, I specifically looked for an unopposed program in Pennsylvania that was centered in a small city environment. For me, UPMC Williamsport offered me this and more. To be able to practice in Williamsport with all of the resources that UPMC provides was a true best of both worlds for me. The curriculum is very robust, and I especially appreciated this program’s emphasis on obstetric education. What really stood out to me though was the people. Everyone that I talked to was incredibly friendly and helpful, and it made me feel like I belonged.
Kayla Lee, MDUndergrad: Saint Leo University
Medical School: St. Matthew’s University School of Medicine
About me: I was born in Florida and raised in a small community in The Bahamas as an only child. After graduating from high school, I returned to Florida for college and have called it home ever since. During undergrad, I discovered my passion for research and tutoring. I worked in education during my gap years prior to medical school. In my leisure time I enjoy quality time with family and friends, reading, biking and trying new cuisine. Despite my newly found mild aerophobia, I look forward to traveling whether by plane, ship or car-road trips whenever my schedule allows.
Why Family Medicine? Throughout my clinical rotations, the specialties that were most attractive were ones that allowed me to advocate for my patients on multiple levels. I chose Family Medicine because I can advocate for my patients throughout their lifetime. I can establish relationships to provide effective care in the ways that matter most to patients and that is important to me. Some of my interests in Family Medicine include women’s health and adolescent medicine.
Why Williamsport? On interview day I felt valued. I appreciated learning about the full spectrum training the program had to offer while being actively involved in the community. The program is unopposed with great mentors in women’s health. I look forward to becoming well versed in taking care of all patient populations with the training this program provides. During undergrad, I had a research project for 2 months in central PA. It was a picturesque town that felt oddly familiar in size and affection to the one I grew up in in the Bahamas. I am thrilled for the opportunity to train here.
Emily Snell, DO
Undergrad: The Pennsylvania State University
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
About me: I grew up in Pittsburgh, PA with my younger sister and have loved the city ever since. After high school I went to Penn State and then up to Erie, PA for medical school and haven’t left the state yet! My undergraduate degree was in Microbiology and Biochemistry where I fell in love with the integration of medicine and research and bringing bench to bedside. In my spare time I enjoy learning new recipes, growing my plant family, and going out with my friends. You can find me on a Saturday afternoon in a coffee shop chatting with friends about our plans to check out a new restaurant or a new hiking trail for later.
Why Family Medicine? I went to medical school with family medicine as a specialty in the back of my mind. Throughout third year clinical rotations, I truly loved each and every one of my specialty blocks and had a difficult time choosing just one of them. During my family medicine rotation, I figured out that you genuinely do not have to give up any facet or population of medicine which is why I figured it was the perfect specialty for me! One of my greatest influences and mentors is my father who is a family medicine physician in Pittsburgh. I grew up watching him love his career and couldn’t be happier with my decision as well.
Why Williamsport? When I first arrived in Williamsport, I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging as soon as I stepped in the door of the hospital. All the residents and faculty were so welcoming and truly felt like family. Coming from State College for undergrad, I love the feeling of a small town with the availability to function as a big city and the familiarity it brings is unmatched. I cannot wait to explore!
Morgan Thomas, MDUndergrad: University of Jamestown
Medical School: University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences
About me: I grew up in Pingree, ND where I spent most of my time with my ten siblings – yes, ten! Needless to say, family has always been a central part of my life. After completing my undergraduate degree in biology, I was excited to begin medical school at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine (UND). My time at UND has reinforced my passion for medicine, however I continue to maintain my passions outside of medicine as well! I enjoy spending time with my husband Dakota and dog Lilly, collecting plants, exercising, making homemade pasta, and camping.
Why Family Medicine? Growing up in a rural area meant that I had two families – first, my parents, siblings, and relatives and second, my neighbors and fellow community members. Family has always been, and continues to be, an integral part of my life. When my passion for medicine blossomed, I knew family medicine was the right choice as community, flexibility, and lifelong meaningful relationships are at the forefront of this specialty. Not only is family medicine fulfilling, but it will also allow for the opportunity to give back to small communities like my own, which has given so much to me.
Why Williamsport? As a future family medicine physician, my interests are broad and I desire to learn a wide variety of skills. Williamsport has an unopposed program, faculty with a passion for educating, and a hospital system that provides ample learning opportunities for residents. Furthermore, Williamsport strives to give each resident the education they desire by personalizing our experiences as much as possible. I am confident that by attending UMPC Williamsport, I will learn the skills and techniques needed to pursue a lifelong career as a rural family medicine physician.
