Current Residents

Hometown: Cleveland, OH
Medical School: Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: hematopathology and surgical pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: Vandy has solid training in both anatomic and clinical pathology in a collegial environment with tons of professional opportunities.

Fun fact about yourself: My husband and I have two beautiful babies. For less obvious fun facts, I managed a prolific Edible Arrangements store for three years in college and used to Irish dance competitively as a kid.

Engage with Megan: 

Hometown: Lubbock, TX
Undergraduate: University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Hematopathology, Transfusion Medicine, Molecular Genetics

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: The genuine social environment and diversity of training experiences.

Fun fact about yourself: I enjoy learning about wildlife, and I spent a month studying primate behavior and ecology in Costa Rica.

Hometown: Poplar Bluff, MO
Undergraduate: Arkansas State
Medical School: University of Missouri - Columbia
Sub-Specialty Interest: dermatopathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: I knew Vandy would offer comprehensive training in both AP and CP. Pathology, like most things, is learned best by doing, and Vandy provides such a wide variety of cases that you will do and see a lot during residency. Nashville is a cool city with a lot of entertainment surrounded by beautiful scenery. Most importantly, the people here are friendly. Nearly everyone I've encountered from residents to senior faculty has been welcoming, humble, and good-natured.

Fun fact about yourself: I am married and we have an Australian shepherd (Carbon) and too many houseplants. I love being outdoors including backcountry camping, canoeing, cycling, and of course disc golf. My greatest accomplishment is watching every episode of Seinfeld at least four times.

Engage with Devin: 

Hometown: Memphis, TN
Undergraduate: Lee University
Medical School: Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University
Sub-Specialty Interest: molecular genetics, digital and telepathology in general

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: Of course, I wanted a strong program with excellent training, a variety of fellowship opportunities, and a history of excellent post-training job opportunities, but several things set Vanderbilt apart:

1. Location. Nashville is a great city with four milder seasons so you can be outdoors all year—hiking, biking on trails all through the city and suburbs, lake life, and even sandy lakefront beaches. The cost of living is a bit prohibitive and the summers are humid, but overall it was a good fit. The city life is amazing as well from concerts to professional sports to live music on every street corner.
2. Family-friendly program. I was pregnant with my 1st child during residency interviews and during the first year of residency, I had my 2nd child. Many of our residents are married with young children. I love that I can thrive at Vanderbilt at both my jobs—pathology training and parenting.
3. The Vandy family! The residents and faculty have great relationships with each other. Our path techs are knowledgeable, friendly, and superb teachers. It feels like a tight-knit community, and I’m sure we will maintain our relationships for our whole careers.

Fun fact about yourself: I worked as a Navy physician after medical school (HPSP scholarship). I have two kids, aged 2 and 4. I am the resident who lives the farthest away (Spring Hill, 45-minute commute).

Hometown: Sylva, NC
Undergraduate: University of Montana
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Blood Bank/Transfusion Medicine

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: The people! Also, the reputation of the program, Diagnostic Management Teams, and Nashville is a great city to live in.

Fun fact about yourself: Outside of work, I like being outdoors, hanging out with my cat, reading mystery novels, traveling, and hanging out with my fellow residents! I have lived in 6 different states already and hope to keep adding to the list after residency/fellowship. I will be the blood bank/transfusion medicine fellow here at Vanderbilt during the 2025-2026 academic year.

Undergraduate: University of North Texas
Medical School: McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Sub-Specialty Interest: Pediatric Pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: The aspects of a residency program that were really important to me were strong academics, a supportive environment, diversity within the program, and a wide range of fellowship options - all within a city where my partner (a creative type) and I would thrive. I really felt like this was a hard ask, but I could not have anticipated how great of a fit Vanderbilt and Nashville ended up being for me. We have a large PGY-1 cohort and we are all from really diverse backgrounds. Most importantly, we all work together really well and we really care about each others’ success. I have felt extremely supported by the upper-level residents and fellows and pathology assistants, who are all really supportive, patient and overall just really excited about teaching and learning from each other. I really do consider myself quite lucky to have been chosen to be a resident at Vandy Path.

Fun fact about yourself: When I am not doing path-related things, I enjoy spending time with my two dogs (Maddox, a whippet, and Ella, my little brown potato) and my partner. Getting to explore Nashville has been so much fun! The food scene is incredible. I enjoy running and there are a lot of really great parks and trails in the area. I love doing artsy/creative things (embroidery/painting/decorating, you name it) and I really love thrifting. I will guiltily admit that I watch too much TV and I tend to watch Bob’s Burgers on repeat.

Engage with Amber: 

Hometown: Riverton, UT
Undergraduate: Utah Valley University
Medical School: University of Utah School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Unsure

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: The people.

Fun fact about yourself: I love to bake sourdough bread.

Hometown: Osceola, MO
Undergraduate: Missouri State University
Medical School: Vanderbilt University School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: pediatric pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: I knew Vandy path pretty well prior to residency because I was able to rotate through as a medical student. It felt like home and I just couldn't see myself leaving, we have an awesome group of residents that I know will be friends for life!

Fun fact about yourself: I'm a mom, a wife, and a dog lover. Spending time with my family (and my dogs) is what keeps me going! When I do get an actual free moment to myself I enjoy sculpting, wine, and thrift-shopping!

Hometown: Sugar Land, Texas
Undergraduate: University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine

Hometown: Woodbridge, VA
Undergraduate: George Mason University
Medical School: Howard Medical School
Sub-Specialty Interest: Transfusion Medicine

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: I choose Vandy Path because I wanted to be at a place with strong AP and CP components where I could learn and find out what subspeciality would interest me. I also wanted to be at a welcoming institution in which teamwork was an important aspect of the environment and the faculty were devoted to teaching.

Fun fact about yourself: I am an avid reader of sci-fi/fantasy novels, museum explorer, and film buff.

Hometown: Greenwich, CT
Undergraduate: Columbia University
Medical School: Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Sub-Specialty Interest: hematopathology, molecular genetics, transfusion medicine

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: As a Vandy med student, I had the privilege to rotate through the department several times. I was able to experience the camaraderie of the residents and the enthusiasm of the attendings for both teaching and mentorship. Plus, I’m not sure you can find another city quite like Nashville! Between the food and activities, there is always something to do and plenty to eat!

Fun fact about yourself: I’m a huge foodie! Always happy to give restaurant recommendations or answer any other questions you may have about Nashville or the program.

Engage with Stephanie: 

Hometown: Pensacola, Florida
Undergraduate: University of Florida
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Sub-Specialty Interest: Hematopathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: Large breadth and depth of cases, resident independence, plentiful research opportunities, and excellent attending educators.

Fun fact about yourself:I grew up in a military family and went to high school in Germany!

Medical School: USF Health Morsani College of Medicine

Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Undergraduate:  University of Texas at Dallas
Medical School: University of Texas Medical Branch John Sealy School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Neuropathology and Molecular Genetic Pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: During the interview I felt in addition to being smart and talented the residents and faculty were genuinely kind, caring and collegial. Being able to learn and grow among these colleagues at a strong well balanced academic program with great variety of cases and access to world class research made the choice easy.

Fun fact about yourself:  I am a family man and enjoy doing things with my family. I also like Sci-Fi movies, rock music, fishing, vegetable gardening, and visiting museums.

Hometown: London, KY
Undergraduate: University of Kentucky
Medical School: University of Louisville School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Hematopathology and Surgical Pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: I wanted to experience a medium-to-large program at a new location that was well-supported at an institutional level, strong and balanced between AP and CP, and was in close proximity to family.

Fun fact about yourself: My wife and I have 2 dogs and 1 kiddo!

Hometown:  Manitowoc, Wisconsin 
Undergraduate: Drake University
Medical School: Baylor College of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Pediatric Pathology and Molecular Genetic Pathology 

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: The plentiful fellowship opportunities, balance between AP and CP training, excellent research environment, and city of Nashville are all important reasons I applied to VUMC, but it was ultimately the warmth of the residents and faculty during my interview that made me confident that the program would be a supportive and fun place to train. 

Fun fact about yourself: I’m a huge Green Bay Packers fan. I also love live music so I’m excited to begin exploring all the great concert venues in Nashville. 

Hometown: St. Louis, MO
Undergraduate: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: University of Missouri - Columbia
Sub-Specialty Interest: Undetermined

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: Vanderbilt put a lot of emphasis on training in both anatomic and clinical pathology, and has lots of interesting and complex cases. I had a great experience in my interview which made the decision easy!

Fun fact about yourself: I have many hobbies/interests, of which I have mastered none: violin, guitar, ukulele, tennis, disc golf, cooking/baking, hiking, fishing, painting, target shooting, video gaming, and cat videos.

Hometown: Douglasville, GA
Undergraduate: Mercer University
Medical School: Meharry Medical College
Sub-Specialty Interest: Forensic Pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: I chose Vanderbilt due to the amazing experience I had here during my away rotation. I felt like the environment allowed for me to balance learning and working and without feeling lost. The hospital system is large and I get to see many diverse cases. I think another bonus is the faculty and co-residents who are really helpful and want me to succeed!

Fun fact about yourself: I am a big fan of anime and East Asian cultures. I like to go on YouTube to find new recipes to cook and follow DIY projects. I also follow a lot of True Crime podcasts.

Hometown: Las Piedras, Puerto Rico
Undergraduate: University of Puerto Rico at Humacao
Medical School: University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Molecular Genetics Pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: Primarily the vibes from the residents and positive environment I was able to perceive during the virtual interview. Furthermore, this is an institution with rich history, research and amazing faculty that is enthusiastic for their field, your education, and most importantly your well-being.

Fun fact about yourself: I like movies (a lot), love to read science fiction, and am always on the lookout for new music to listen to or interesting art of all types.

Engage with Joel: 

Click here to catch up with Joel and Madison as they reminisce about their virtual interview experiences! 

Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Undergraduate: University of Georgia
Medical School: Emory University School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Neuropathology/Forensic Pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: I chose Vanderbilt because it is a strong, well-balanced academic program situated in a fun city! I was also drawn to the ample flexibility in training tracks (AP only, CP only, AP/CP, and AP/NP), which enables me to tailor the program to suit my desired career path. Additionally, the faculty and residents were extremely kind and demonstrated a fervor for teaching on interview day!

Fun fact about yourself: In my free time, I love to play soccer, go dancing and read/write poetry!

Hometown: Oviedo, FL
Undergraduate: Florida State University
Medical School: University of South Florida Health Morsani College of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Bone and Soft Tissue Pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: The environment here at VUMC is a great blend of southern collegiality with reasonably high expectations. I feel like there is the appropriate amount of pressure to succeed with ample support from faculty and colleagues. The breadth of anatomic pathology material is amazing due to the wide catchment area that we cover and subspecialty experts who practice here.

Fun fact about yourself: I am an avid lacrosse player and PC gamer.

Engage with Alex: 

Click here to watch Alex and Chelsea chat about their favorite memories at VUMC PMI so far!

Hometown: Louisville, KY
Undergraduate: Rice University
Medical School: University of Louisville School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Hematopathology, Blood Banking/Transfusion Medicine

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: Great people and a great city.

Fun fact about yourself: I love Broadway musicals, bad movies, and Sunday crosswords.

Hometown: Centerville, OH
Undergraduate: Miami University
Medical School: Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Undecided!

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: Everyone here was above and beyond nice. I felt it would be such a great, supportive environment to learn! Nashville is the coolest city, so that was a plus!

Fun fact about yourself: I am obsessed with my dog Penelope and spend most of my free time relaxing with her. Otherwise, you can find me rollerblading while listening to Jimmy Buffett.

Click here to catch up with Madison and Joel as they reminisce about their virtual interview experiences! 

Hometown: Fremont, CA
Undergraduate: Duke University
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Sub-Specialty Interest: Transfusion medicine

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: I felt that the faculty and residents on my interview day were all super friendly and the fellowship programs offered here at Vanderbilt are very strong.

Fun fact about yourself: In my free time, I enjoy practicing calligraphy, watching Chinese dramas, and donating blood. I recently discovered that I really like pickles.

Hometown: Alpharetta, GA
Undergraduate: University of Georgia
Medical School: Medical College of Georgia
Sub-Specialty Interest: Surgical Pathology

Why did you choose VUMC Pathology: I chose Vandy Path mainly because of the people! I saw that the residents were high-achieving, relatable, and most importantly friendly people that I would enjoy working with and hanging out with in my free time. I love my co-residents! The faculty was welcoming, engaging, and excited about the direction of the program. It was clear that they took resident feedback seriously and would make major changes to the program based on such feedback. During my interviews at other programs, I took note that they were proud when their residents would get fellowships at Vanderbilt. It was evident that Vanderbilt's reputation was strong. I also took note that Vanderbilt was attracting great new faculty that were passionate about teaching. It was clear that the program was on an upward trajectory. I thought it bode well that there was a mix of new talent in the faculty as well as senior faculty with institutional knowledge and high long-term job satisfaction. It was also important to me that the program had a healthy volume and variety of cases from which to learn. I also thought that my family and I would love to live in Nashville. It is a safe, vibrant city with friendly people and something for everyone. Not too big, not too small, not too cold, and relatively close to our family back in Georgia. These and many more reasons are why I chose and am very thankful to be at Vandy Path!

Fun fact about yourself: I have too many hobbies: photography, gardening, painting/drawing, woodworking, fishing, metal detecting, etc. I am suspicious of cat people.