Explore UAB

Nicholas Andrews, M.D.

Nicholas Andrews, M.D.

Hometown: Titusville, Florida
Undergraduate: University of Florida
Medical School: University of Central Florida

Why I Chose UAB: UAB offers the outstanding clinical volume, research infrastructure, and collegial resident culture that I sought in a residency program. I quickly noticed that the faculty here fostered deep bonds with their residents and truly invested in their development as future leaders in orthopaedics.

Austin Atkins, M.D.

Austin Atkins, M.D.

Hometown: Tuscaloosa, AL
Undergraduate: The University of Alabama
Medical School: The University of South Alabama College of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: When looking for the right residency program, I wanted a place that offered excellent clinical opportunities, a high-volume operative experience, and a great sense of camaraderie amongst the residents and faculty. UAB certainly meets all of these criteria, making it an excellent place to train.

Henry Bonner, M.D.

Henry Bonner, M.D.

Hometown: Roanoke, AL
Undergraduate: Auburn University
Medical School: UAB Heersink School of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: I wanted a program to give me the confidence to go out in practice at the end of these five years and take care of any case that may come my way. I'm confident that the high volume of cases here will prepare me for any situation after residency. Also, the mentorship and camaraderie here are second to none. You can be in the trenches with your co-residents in the hospital, but still be super close and have a good time outside of work.

Callie Bridges, M.D.

Callie Bridges, M.D.

Hometown: Crossett, AR
Undergraduate: University of Arkansas
Medical School: Baylor College of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: Simply put, UAB offers a great operative experience and even better people. The residents’ knowledge, skills, and comfortability with complex orthopedic problems was impressive. Additionally, the level of friendship between all classes creates a culture where its easy to ask questions, learn from one another, and feel supported. After rotating here, I had no doubt that I would finish this program as a confident surgeon and have fun along the way. 

Reed Butler, M.D.

Reed Butler, M.D.

Hometown: Chattanooga, TN
Undergraduate: Birmingham-Southern College
Medical School: University of Tennessee Health Science Center

Why I Chose UAB: I chose UAB primarily because I had such a great experience as an away rotator. It was immediately obvious that the program produces well-trained orthopaedic surgeons in an environment that prioritizes teamwork and camaraderie. I felt at home and found myself getting along well with all the residents, attending, nurses and staff.

Collier Campbell, M.D.

Collier Campbell, M.D.

Hometown: Shreveport, LA
Undergraduate: Louisiana State University
Medical School: Emory University

Why I Chose UAB: UAB has a universal reputation for producing confident and outstanding orthopaedic surgeons, and I found this to hold true on my away rotation. The residents that I worked alongside while rotating at UAB were among the most knowledgeable and surgically skilled, in addition to being an extremely cohesive group.

Kelly Chandler, M.D.

Kelly Chandler, M.D.

Hometown: Huntsville, AL
Undergraduate: The University of Alabama at Birmingham
Medical School: UAB Heersink School of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: As a UAB alumnus, I got to know the program well over my four years in medical school. I was consistently impressed by the camaraderie and surgical skills of the residents. UAB offers a well-rounded, high-volume surgical experience that prepares residents well for practice. I knew that I’d be well-trained here and get to work with great people, so UAB was an easy choice for me!

Addison Cimino, M.D.

Addison Cimino, M.D.

Hometown: Huntsville, AL
Undergraduate: Auburn University
Medical School: UAB Heersink School of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: I chose UAB for residency because I was fortunate enough to be a medical student here and got to see and work with the finished product in the fifth-year residents.

Allison Desforges, M.D.

Allison Desforges, M.D.

Hometown: Covington, LA
Undergraduate: Louisiana State University
Medical School: LSU School of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: My biggest draw to this program was how welcomed I felt and how well I got along with the residents as a rotating medical student. Now, I love how often we get together as a program whether that be for journal club, social hour after conference, or monthly bible study. In addition, I was very impressed with the case volume and how well-developed each subspecialty rotation is. Most importantly, this gave me confidence that I will leave this program extremely well-trained in all areas of the field and prepared to enter practice. 

Devan Devkumar, M.D.

Devan Devkumar, M.D.

Hometown: Dallas, TX
Medical School: UT-Houston McGovern

Why I Chose UAB: I chose UAB for the outstanding experience I had as an away rotator. The operative experience coupled with the camaraderie between residents and faculty truly stood out to me. I wanted to train at a program where I could become an excellent surgeon but also continue to develop as a leader and teacher. UAB cultivates a collegial environment that I felt would allow me to achieve my career goals while also making long-lasting bonds with co-residents and faculty. Birmingham is a great place to live in as well. I’ve enjoyed the restaurants and outdoor activities that are all well within the area. The city has a lot to offer and I’m looking forward to exploring it even more.

Patrick Elliott, M.D.

Patrick Elliott, M.D.

Hometown: Lee's Summit, MO
Medical School: University of Missouri School of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: When looking at different residency programs, UAB stood out for its diverse patient population, pathology, and resident autonomy. During my interview, it was apparent that the residents were a tight knit group and willing to help each other out when needed.

Farzam Farahani, M.D.

Farzam Farahani, M.D.

Hometown: Houston, TX
Undergraduate: The University of Texas
Medical School: The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School

Why I Chose UAB: The overall structure, with a comprehensive clinical experience and high operative volume really attracted me to the program. The faculty and residents here are undoubtedly hard workers, friendly, and very supportive of each other.

 

Margaret Fisher, M.D.

Margaret Fisher, M.D.

Hometown: Whitehall, PA
Medical School: University of North Carolina School of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: UAB was at the top of my list even before rotating here. I knew I wanted to train somewhere with a high clinical volume, opportunities of a large academic center, and ideally, proximity to family. My rotation sealed the deal. Nowhere else did I encounter residents who worked as hard, were as skilled, and who had as much fun.

Travis Fortin, M.D.

Travis Fortin, M.D.

Hometown: Pass Christian, MS
Undergraduate: University of Mississippi
Medical School: University of Mississippi Medical Center

Why I Chose UAB: UAB stood out as my first choice for residency due to the fellowship matches, operative volume and balanced training, and the program’s culture. UAB consistently matched residents into top fellowships with many of the same fellowships matching residents again from subsequent classes.

Katie Frith, M.D.

Katie Frith, M.D.

Hometown: Kaplan, LA
Undergraduate: University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Medical School: LSU Health Sciences- Shreveport

Why I Chose UAB: I could see how close the residents were and how much they genuinely enjoyed working with each other, as well as with faculty & staff. I also love the Birmingham area and the amount of places there are to eat and explore.

Jared Halstrom, M.D.

Jared Halstrom, M.D.

Hometown: Bellmore, NY
Undergraduate: The University of Alabama
Medical School: UAB Heersink School of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: As a medical student, UAB provided my first exposure to orthopedics. As I started to learn about other programs, I quickly realized how unique UAB is. We have an extremely high volume of orthopedic cases and hardworking faculty who are passionate about teaching.

Jun Kit He, M.D.

Jun Kit He, M.D.

Hometown: Manhasset, NY
Undergraduate:
 Brown University
Medical School: Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University

Why I Chose UAB: During my year as a research fellow at UAB, I witnessed an unwavering passion for patient care and innovation as well as strong bonds between residents that fostered a supportive and enjoyable environment. This is a program that will bring out the full potential of any resident and sustain excitement for the field.

Alex Heatherly, M.D.

Alex Heatherly, M.D.

Hometown: Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Undergraduate: The University of Alabama
Medical School: UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: I chose UAB Orthopedics because of my memorable experience during my medical school rotation. The group of residents in this program shared a great deal of comradery while working, and their enjoyment in the work provided an unmatched work environment.

Rush Jones, M.D.

Rush Jones, M.D.

Hometown: Dothan, AL
Undergraduate: Auburn University
Medical School: UAB Heersink School of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: After my first rotation with the orthopedic team at UAB, I knew that I wanted to stay here for several reasons. First, the residents and faculty are all extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and hard-working people that consistently inspired me to be both a better person and physician.

Jeffrey 'Clay' Krout, M.D.

Jeffrey 'Clay' Krout, M.D.

Hometown: Cullman, AL
Undergraduate: University of Alabama
Medical School: South Alabama College of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: I wanted a well-rounded program where all subspecialties were well represented and where there was a high volume of orthopedic trauma. After rotating at UAB as a medical student it was clear that UAB Ortho excelled in these areas. My choice was made even easier after getting to know the residents and seeing firsthand how competent they were at understanding and managing orthopedic pathology. The residents at UAB were some of the most tight-knit, friendly, and hardworking residents I had seen anywhere. Birmingham also makes for a great place to live, work, and play. I believed and continue to believe that UAB provides me with the tools I need to excel as a surgeon, and surrounds me with some of the best co-residents in the country.

Pearce Lane, M.D.

Pearce Lane, M.D.

Hometown: Marietta, GA
Undergraduate: University of Georgia
Medical School: Medical College of Georgia

Why I Chose UAB: When asking residents and attendings from my home program about which programs they regarded most highly, UAB was always on their lists.

Mark McClure, M.D.

Mark McClure, M.D.

Hometown: Birmingham, AL
Medical School: UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: I chose UAB for its comprehensive orthopedic training and unmatched camaraderie among its residents. Witnessing the residents' interactions both inside and outside the hospital showed me that UAB fosters a supportive community I want to be a part of. Having grown up in Birmingham, I know it is an ideal city for training, raising a family, and enjoying both urban and outdoor activities. As a UAB student, I have experienced firsthand the volume and depth of education that UAB orthopedic residents receive. I am confident that when I graduate from this program, I will be fully prepared to excel in any field of orthopedics I choose.

Decorian North, M.D

Decorian North, M.D

Hometown: Port Saint Joe, FL
Undergraduate: Florida State University
Medical School: Florida State University College of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: I chose UAB because I immediately felt a strong sense of camaraderie on both my interview day and my second look. UAB's strong academic reputation, high operative volume and great fellowship placement makes it an ideal residency to at train and an easy choice for me.

David Patch, M.D.

David Patch, M.D.

Hometown: Macon, GA
Undergraduate: Georgia College
Medical School: St. George’s University

Why I Chose UAB: UAB was my top choice for residency due to the programs cohesive culture, exceptional leadership, and access to top notch academic opportunities. After completing a research fellowship with UAB, I witnessed the work ethic of the program and believe it ensures the highest level of training among mentors, and colleagues, who are committed to the future of orthopaedic surgery.

Mihir Patel, M.D.

Mihir Patel, M.D.

Hometown: Augusta, GA
Undergraduate: University of Georgia
Medical School: Medical College of Georgia

Why I Chose UAB: I chose UAB because the people here, both residents and faculty, are committed not only to the field of orthopaedics but to each other. The sense of community within the program provides an unparalleled environment in which we can help and learn from our patients.

Matthew 'Turner' Sankey, M.D.

Matthew 'Turner' Sankey, M.D.

Hometown: Mobile, AL
Undergraduate: The University of Alabama
Medical School: South Alabama College of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: UAB offers an excellent, well-rounded training program where you are surrounded by faculty and co-residents who are invested in your growth. I know after graduating, I will be able to handle any situation I may encounter in my own practice. To top it off, Birmingham is a great city. It hosts numerous events, live music, and activities that will keep you entertained during your free time. There is always something to do, regardless of what you are interested in. 

Ellie Starnes, M.D.

Ellie Starnes, M.D.

Hometown: Monroe, LA
Undergraduate: University of Louisiana at Monroe
Medical School: LSU Health Shreveport

Why I Chose UAB: I was very impressed with how well rounded each subspecialty of orthopedics is represented here. I also loved how well the residents got along not only amongst themselves, but also with the faculty. The city of Birmingham also has so much to offer in terms of places to eat, hangout, and explore.

Ellyn Strother, M.D.

Ellyn Strother, M.D.

Hometown: North Augusta, SC
Undergraduate: University of South Carolina
Medical School: Medical College of Georgia

Why I Chose UAB: When I rotated here as a student, I was impressed by the camaraderie and teamwork among the residents. In addition, UAB has a diverse caseload, providing a well-rounded training experience. I have no doubt that UAB will lay a solid foundation for my career in orthopedic surgery!

Sterling Tran, M.D.

Sterling Tran, M.D.

Hometown: Augusta, GA
Undergraduate: University of Georgia
Medical School: University of Virginia

Why I Chose UAB: I chose UAB because of its strong camaraderie and operative experience. The residents are a close-knit group that support one another and enjoy hanging out together. The faculty here are extremely approachable and passionate about resident education.

Anthony Wilson, M.D.

Anthony Wilson, M.D.

Hometown: Long Island, New York
Undergraduate: Stony Brook University
Medical School: UAB Heersink School of Medicine

Why I Chose UAB: UAB Orthopedics stood out not only for its academic excellence but also for the remarkable camaraderie among co-residents and staff. The supportive and collaborative environment here fosters growth not just as a physician but as a team member. This sense of community was a compelling factor in my choice to join the UAB family for my residency.