Meet Our IM Residents

Vaibhav Ahluwalia, MD

Medical School: Manipal College of Medical Sciences
Hobbies/Interests: I like adventure sports, travel, and cricket.

I graduated from Manipal, and was offered a medical officer position at a tertiary care hospital in New Delhi. I loved working with nurses and doctors and growing my knowledge, but the healthcare system we were in just wasn’t very appealing to me. After that, I stayed a full year post-doctoral research fellow at Mayo Clinic, Rochester and I ended up becoming a top performer in my group before leaving. I left at the 1-year-mark to pursue my IM residency at Nazareth Hospital.

Ahmad Al Homaid, MD

Medical School: Alfaisal University, Saudi Arabia, Riyadh 
Hobbies/Interests: Soccer, history, and travelling

I was born in Iraq and then moved to Saudi Arabia where I lived most of my life and graduated from medical school. Camping in the desert and playing soccer with my friends were my favorite activities there. In my free time I like watching sports and keeping up with the news.

My goal during residency is to improve my clinical skills and to leave a positive impact. I am pursuing a fellowship in GI but all of medicine is interesting to me.

Madiha Bari, MD

Medical School: Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre 
Hobbies/Interests: Traveling, movies/tv shows, cooking/baking, reading, cycling and volunteering with high-risk youth.

Hunain Khan, MD

Medical School: Windsor University School of Medicine, St. Kitts and Nevis
Hobbies/Interests: Fitness, team sports, motorcycles, and travelling

Mary Atef Mishriky, MD

Medical School: Cairo University Medical School
Hobbies/Interests: Reading, gardening, family time

I am Mary Atef Mishriky, I was born and lived in Egypt most of my life. A beautiful country indeed! I’ve wanted to become a doctor since as long as I can remember! I started medical school in 2007 and graduated in 2015 with honors. I studied medicine at Kasr Alainy, Cairo University, one of the top universities in Middle East and Africa.

A new chapter began when I started a cardiology residency and later fellowship at Cairo University hospital. The experience was very enriching, fulfilling and educational on so many levels.

Along the way I started a family with my husband and our precious beloved boy ‘Amir’. We felt we wanted to grow more professionally and personally so we sought to start practicing medicine in the States. Luckily for us, we are both starting at Nazareth Hospital as a resident and a fellow. In our free time, we enjoy spending time together as a family, you will find us always hanging around kid places—museums, zoos!

I like reading novels, short story writing and I enjoy gardening with Amir! We are very excited to start living in Philadelphia and looking forward to this new chapter in our lives!

Avilash Mondal, MD

Medical School: Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata
Hobbies/Interests: PC gaming, photography and sleeping

I am originally from the eastern Indian city of Kolkata. I graduated from Calcutta Medical College and practiced for one and a half years before upgrading to Philadelphia. The variety of patients you get to care for is the best thing about this hospital. Internal Medicine’s bread and butter cases will be found here. Then there’s the cuisine and the unexpectedly lovely sites in Philadelphia. It's only a few hours from New Jersey and New York, and you may visit them with friends you'll make here during the following three years.

In my spare time, I enjoy playing video games and listening to a wide range of music. I’ve also taken up indoor gardening as a passion and intend to add a few more peyotes and succulents to my space. While here, I'm discovering and learning new things about myself, and it's been a fantastic experience so far.

Julia Muhametaj, MD

Medical School: University of Medicine, Tirana, Albania
Hobbies/Interests: Traveling, photography, and creating memes

I was born and raised in Albania and graduated from University of Medicine in Tirana. Later on, I completed a residency in Infectious Diseases.

Four years ago, I decided to take a major step towards a greater future. Moving to the United States. Philadelphia is the second home to thousands of Albanians, therefore I envision myself helping my community and hopefully make their lives easier by building stronger patient- physician relationships and overcome barriers that affect their care. My ambition is to pursue a fellowship in Infectious Diseases.

In my free time, I dedicate myself to my little family, especially my daughter, by not missing any opportunities on traveling, exploring, and building memories together.

Ujala Nasr, MD

Medical School: Dow Medical College, Pakistan, Karachi
Hobbies/Interests: Travelling, cooking, kayaking, and hiking

I completed my medical school in Karachi, Pakistan where I was also born. Coming from a metropolitan city, I was definitely looking for diversity and inclusion along with the hustle of a city life. It was one of the many reasons for choosing Nazareth Hospital and Philadelphia. I am quite passionate about Internal Medicine and would like to practice Hospital medicine in the future. Apart from work, I mostly go out with friends/colleagues to explore the city and food. I also enjoy hiking, kayaking and cooking.

The most likeable part about being a resident at Nazareth Hospital so far has been the program culture, its inclusivity, great seniors and faculty that gives importance to feedback. Philadelphia is a great city, with endless places to explore and the variety of food this city has to offer has surprised me even more. There is not a day that goes by dull in this city.

Muhammad Saad Siddique, MD

Medical School: Services Institute of Medical Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
Hobbies/Interests: Road trips, photography, foodie

I was born and brought up in Lahore, Pakistan and coming from a family of doctors I had a pretty conventional journey until I decided to move to US. Having seen my dad as a pediatrician working in his hometown for 25 years, I wanted to see what else life had to offer. I am excited to call Philadelphia my home now. The place perfectly aligns with my interests and hobbies.

Camping, road trips, lakes, photography, you name it! Nazareth Hospital has been extremely kind to me. The administration, faculty, senior residents and fellow interns have created an environment that not only addresses my academic goals but also makes life more pleasurable.

Gayathri Samudrala, MD

Medical School: Guntur Medical College, Guntur
Hobbies/Interests: I read books and I spend time with my kids during my free time.

I went to medical school and completed OBGYN residency in India. I moved to U.S. and lived in Ohio with my husband and two boys before joining Nazareth Internal Medicine residency program. I am an artist and like to draw pencil sketches.

Danial Tahir, MD

Medical School: Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad, Pakistan 
Hobbies/Interests: Cricket, cooking, traveling, music and TV shows

I grew up in Peshawar, Pakistan. I received my M.B.B.S. degree from Ayub Medical College, located in a beautiful hill station. I am passionate about Internal Medicine training, and providing high-quality healthcare. When I’m not at the hospital, you’ll find me indulging in my hobbies, which include following cricket, attempting to cook recipes from the YouTube, catching up on latest movies, enjoying latest comedy or Broadway shows, and singing along (badly) to Taylor Swift’s songs. 

Shravya Uppari, MD

Medical School: Kasturba Medical College, Mangalore, India
Hobbies/Interests: Yoga, badminton, and Netflix

Pretty relaxed and friendly person and I like exploring new places, food and cultures. I am currently enjoying my residency and exploring Philly.

Syed Muhammad Usama, MD

Medical School: Jinnah Sindh Medical University
Hobbies/Interests: Traveling, cooking, pet care (I love cats), reading (if I get time)

I was born in Karachi, ever since I was a kid, I wanted to be a doctor to follow my father’s footsteps. I did my medical school training in my home city. I like traveling, given I have money to travel. My favorite color is blue. I am a very down to earth person. I always strive to make myself better without comparing myself with others. I like socializing and meeting new people. My future career goal is cardiology. I always strive to serve the underserved communities and it is one of my life goals to start a small community based hospital in my city.

Vibhor Ahluwalia, MD

Medical School: Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, India
Hobbies/Interests: Gym, cooking, reading philosophy

Having grown up in India and pursued my medical education in the vibrant town of Manipal, I am deeply rooted in my cultural heritage. The love I have for my alma mater is unparalleled, as it not only equipped me with knowledge but also shaped me into the person I am today.

As an avid gym goer, I believe in the power of a healthy body and mind. The exhilarating feeling of pushing my limits and seeing progress is what keeps me motivated. But my passions extend beyond the gym. I have a contagious zest for life, always seeking new adventures and experiences. Whether it’s engaging in thought-provoking conversations or simply enjoying a good laugh, I find immense joy in building meaningful relationships.

Yasir Ali, MD

Medical School: Khyber Medical College Peshawar 
Hobbies/Interests: Playing and watching cricket, cooking, hiking and socializing with friends

I was born and raised in a beautiful hilly area that is famous for its hospitality, Lower Dir. I grew the passion of medicine in very early age. In the pursuit of excellence, I moved from my small town to the nearby city of Peshawar, where I completed medical school. Internal Medicine is my passion and I want to pursue a cardiology fellowship in the future.

I like playing and watching cricket, cooking different foods, and socializing with friends. Philadelphia has a special place in my heart as I was welcomed with same warmth and hospitality during my first visit that I used to feel back home. Nazareth is my new home and I hope I can grow to be the best version of myself under the guidance of esteemed physicians here.

Giorgi Chilingarahvili, MD

Medical School: Tbilisi State Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
Hobbies/Interests: Ski, TV shows and movies, outdoor activities/sports, and board games are an actual therapy for me. 

I was born and grew up in Tbilisi, Georgia, with my brothers. I graduated with faculty of medicine at Tbilisi State Medical University and a master’s degree from Ilia State University; soon after that, I got an offer to be an education advisor and visiting lecturer from the local medical universities. I visited Philadelphia in 2019, fascinated by how beautiful and green it was. I am honored to now call this place my second home.

I am eager to implement my research skills and motivation to improve healthcare. In my spare time, I spend time with my family and gardening.

Migena Dervishi, MD

Medical School: Faculty of Medicine, University of Pristina, Kosovo
Hobbies/Interests: Traveling, long walks and swimming

I was born and raised in Kukes Albania and graduated from the Faculty of Medicine University of Pristina in Kosovo.

After graduating, I decided to continue my medical education in the U.S. After living in the music city, Nashville, for a few years, I am happy to call Philadelphia my new hometown. I am very passionate about serving and advocating for the underserved community and my career goals after residency are to practice Hospital Medicine.

In my free time, I like to travel and create memories with my son and my husband.

Noor Fatima, MD

Medical School: Khyber Girls Medical College, Peshawar, Pakistan
Hobbies/Interests: Photography, hiking, baking, spending time with my cat, and taking a stroll in nature

I was born and raised in Pakistan. I went to medical school in the hustling and bustling city of Peshawar, Pakistan. I am excited to call Philadelphia my home for the next three years. I am eager to learn from the esteemed faculty at Nazareth Hospital and contribute to the healthcare field with my knowledge and dedication.

FNU Hamidullah, MD

Medical School: Ayub Medical College 
Hobbies/Interests: Travelling, reading, music and Netflix 

I was born and raised in Peshawar, Pakistan. I attended my medical college in Abbottabad which is one of the most beautiful and nostalgic cities. Also, I am thrilled to be able to name Philadelphia my new home. I believe the most vital qualities of a physician are kindness, consideration, patience, and honesty. During residency, my goal is to strengthen my clinical skills and make a good impact. Even though I enjoy all aspects of clinical medicine, my ultimate goal is to obtain a fellowship in cardiology.

Elias Helal, MD

Medical School: University of Aleppo Faculty of Medicine Syrian Arab Republic 
Hobbies/Interests: Cooking, playing the trumpet, playing and watching soccer and basketball.

Rumael Jawed, MD

Medical School: Liaquat National Medical Hospital and Medical College 
Hobbies/Interests: Cricket, football and classical music 

I was born in Karachi. Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to be a doctor to follow my mother’s footsteps. I completed my medical school training in my home city. Being a Pakistani, cricket is in my blood! My favorite Football club is Manchester United and I live and die by the results of my beloved team. I am a very down to earth person. I always strive to make myself better without comparing myself with others. I like socializing and meeting new people but I love my solo company even more, eating biryani and listening to classical music is my jam.

My future career goal is cardiology. I always strive to serve the underserved communities and it is one of my life goals to improve health care for all humans irrespective of their differences.

Kamalnath Sankaran Rajagopalan, MD

Medical School: Saveetha Medical College Hospital
Hobbies/Interests: Soccer, hiking, cooking

I am from Chennai, a city on the east coast of South India. My journey through medical school to working as a postdoc in Mayo Clinic has been nothing short of amazing. I am looking forward to seeing what life has to offer me, and I am hoping my experience with residency will pave the way for my future goals. It is a great honor to work at Nazareth Hospital Internal Medicine Residency Program to learn different aspects of acute and chronic conditions.

I grew up watching a lot of sports and I am an avid follower of soccer. In my free time I like to cook, go on a walk, and watch/play soccer. Also, I like to annoy my cat only because she lives rent free in my head and home.

Osama Salam, MD

Medical School: Jinnah Sindh Medical University 
Hobbies/Interests: Music, cricket, badminton, movies and exploring 

I was born and raised in Karachi, Pakistan. I was exposed to medicine in my early teenage years as my parents were physicians and that’s one of the reasons why I selected medicine as my field because it just fascinated me. Taking care of patients through a holistic approach, advocating for them, and building a strong physician-patient relationship is what I like the most about medicine. I strongly believe in hard work and consistency. I believe every day is an opportunity to make ourselves better and I continuously strive for perfection. Failure is nothing but a one step closer to success and that’s what motivates me to move forward and be relentless.

Access to the healthcare system is a necessity of life and in the future, I wish to provide healthcare services to the communities that are deprived of it. I enjoy teaching and mentoring. Shaping those that look to you for guidance is a privilege indeed and I wish to guide and mentor my fellow students.

I am a music enthusiast. My hobbies are playing guitar, playing cricket and badminton. I enjoy outdoor activities, exploring and water sports.

Cauvery Balhara Taank, MD

Medical School: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar College, Bengaluru, India
Hobbies: Traveling, hiking, camping, cooking and movies

I grew up in the beautiful city of Chandigarh, India, near the Himalayan foothills. Growing up, my parents would take me to the Himalayan foothills for vacations. I enjoyed meeting local people and trying local food. Since then, I have developed an interest in traveling and food. My aunt and uncle are doctors, and they were the inspiration for me to join medicine. In my childhood, I watched them help and treat their patients relentlessly, which made me realize how rewarding it is to be in a position to help and treat people. It was the start of my interest in medicine. Later, I moved into the medical field and graduated with an M.B.B.S. degree from Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College in Bengaluru, India, a bustling metropolis known as the Silicon Valley of India.

I am well-traveled, and my favorite tourist destination is Cappadocia, Turkey. I have also had the opportunity to live in Penang, Malaysia, for a year. It allowed me to explore Malaysia’s beautiful nature and delectable cuisine and led me to explore many other Southeast Asian countries. I love exploring the outdoors. I enjoy hiking and camping. My favorite trip so far has been a ten-day RV trip in the Utah area, exploring all of the major national parks in Utah and Arizona. I am excited to move to Philadelphia and look forward to exploring Pennsylvania and the surrounding east coast. I would love to hike a few sections of the Appalachian trail that pass through Pennsylvania.

In my residency, I look forward to learning from our leaders and experts at Nazareth Hospital and collaborating with my colleagues to gain clinical knowledge and provide high-quality patient care. Through the residency experience, I aim to provide care in my community and worldwide as I aspire to partner with nonprofits providing medical services in developing nations.

Zarmeena Aftab, MD

Medical School: Ayub Medical College, Pakistan
Hobbies: Hiking and Baking

I was born and raised in Northern Pakistan. After graduating from Ayub Medical College, I joined my husband in Canada where I finished my USMLE journey. After finishing my internal medicine training at Nazareth, my main aim is to work in an outpatient setting. I've noticed how medicine is evolving, with more emphasis on care outside the hospital.

Having experience in Canada, I’ve seen firsthand the effectiveness of primary care, particularly through telemedicine.

Outside of academics, I love spending time outdoors, going on hikes and exploring different beaches in summer. I also specialize in making chocolate chip cookies and cinnamon rolls.

Hamna Ashraf, MD

Medical School: Rawalpindi Medical University, Pakistan
Hobbies: Reading books, travelling, and hiking

Born and raised in Pakistan, I completed my medical education at Rawalpindi Medical University. I am very passionate about Internal Medicine because of its comprehensive approach and the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients. Nazareth Hospitals’ commitment to compassionate, patient centered care and its supportive environment are exactly what I was looking for, making it the ideal place for my residency. Plus, I love the Philadelphia region with its diverse culture and historic sites, which match my love for travel and exploration.

I am thrilled to be a part of Nazareth Hospital, where I can expand my medical knowledge, refine my clinical skills and learn from a talented team. I look forward to an exciting journey ahead, filled with growth and meaningful experiences.

Franco Damian, Campoli

Medical School: Universidad Popular Autonoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla, Mexico
Hobbies: Woodworking, fixing cars/motorcycles, repairing electronics, playing guitar, video games, cooking, rugby

I am originally from Comodoro Rivadavia, a small city in the Patagonian region of Argentina. Later in life, I moved to Mexico, where I graduated from the Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla. I worked as a general physician in Mexico for five years, gaining diverse experience in various clinics and hospitals, including medical offices, emergency rooms, and even COVID-19 ICUs during the pandemic.

For me, internal medicine represents the opportunity to treat patients comprehensively, enabling me to diagnose complex pathologies while also building personal relationships with my patients. Joining Nazareth provides me with the chance to encounter a wide range of common pathologies, helping me develop into an excellent attending physician committed to providing high-quality care.

In my spare time, I enjoy a variety of hobbies, including woodworking, fixing cars and motorcycles, repairing electronics, playing guitar, and playing video games. I enjoy spending time with my dog Tango and cooking Argentinian food. I occasionally play rugby with friends whenever possible.

Oindrila Deb, MD

Medical School: Sylhet Women’s Medical College and Hospital, Bangladesh.
Hobbies/Interests: Baking, Travelling, Prioritizing health and wellness, watching fashion blogs

I grew up in the Sylhet Division of Bangladesh, known for its tea gardens and tropical forests. While growing up in a small town, I ventured out independently for over a decade to chase my educational and career aspirations. I thoroughly enjoyed experiencing the diversity that came with my travels, which motivated me immensely to pursue internal medicine training at Nazareth Hospital and Philadelphia.

My residency in Nazareth will be the foundation of my medical career in the US, and I look forward to becoming a skilled and compassionate physician. I enjoy fast-paced city life, so I am eager to explore the city, make lifelong friends, try delicious food, and learn new skills beyond medicine during my free time.

Motto of life: Hope, gratitude and embracing failure.

Kinnera Jalagam, MD

Medical School: Chalmeda Anand Rao Institute of Medical Sciences, Telangana, India
Hobbies/Interests: Acrylic painting, bird watching, watching movies

I was born and raised in the vibrant city of Hyderabad, Telangana, known for its rich culinary traditions and a culture that celebrates diversity and inclusivity. As the first-generation doctor in my family, studying and practicing medicine has profoundly impacted me.

My path to residency has been an incredible journey of personal and professional growth, filled with opportunities to learn from and connect with like-minded individuals. The inclusive and diverse work culture at Nazareth Hospital resonated with me and was crucial in my decision to join this program. The comprehensive training offered here promises a robust foundation in Internal Medicine, and I am eager to immerse myself in such a dynamic learning environment.

In my spare time, I indulge in acrylic painting, capturing the vibrant hues of nature from my photos or completely going abstract to reflect the subtleties of my emotions on canvas. Birdwatching transcends a simple pastime and has become a reflection of my approach to life and medicine, underscoring the importance of being present, attentive, and attuned to intricate details. Watching movies provides a delightful escape into different worlds and stories.

Philadelphia, with its rich history and cultural tapestry, is an exciting new chapter in my life. I look forward to exploring its landmarks, savoring its diverse cuisine, and building lasting connections with my fellow residents. This residency is not just a professional milestone but also a journey of self-discovery and enrichment, and I am thrilled to see where it will lead.

Abeera Kali, MD

Medical School: Allama Iqbal Medical College, Lahore, Pakistan
Hobbies: Photography, cooking, travelling, playing board games and badminton

Born and raised in the vibrant culture of Pakistan, I discovered my passion for medicine at an early age. Growing up, I was captivated by the intricacies of the human body and found myself immersed in doctor role-play, eagerly embracing the idea of one day becoming a healer.

Today, as I embark on my journey in medicine, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to pursue my childhood dream as a resident physician at Nazareth Hospital. I am eager to contribute to the field of internal medicine and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those I serve.

Beyond the realm of medicine, I am a devoted family person who finds joy in spending quality time with loved ones. Whether it’s hosting gatherings, indulging in culinary adventures to refine my cooking skills, or capturing moments through the lens of my camera. I cherish every opportunity to create lasting memories with those closest to me.
In my leisure time, I find solace in the simplicity of board games, with Ludo holding a special place as an all-time favorite. Additionally, I stay active and energized by indulging in the thrill of badminton matches.

As I embark on this enriching journey at Nazareth Hospital, I am excited to merge my passion for medicine with my love for family, culinary arts, photography, and recreational activities, fostering a holistic approach to life and medicine. My aspiration is to become a primary care physician, providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my patients.

Muhammad Zubair Khan, MD

Medical School: Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad, Pakistan
Hobbies/Interests: Cricket, current affairs, travelling, documentaries

I belong to the beautiful valleys of Mansehra and Abbottabad, where I completed my undergrad and medical school education. My time during these years was marked by wonderful memories and lasting friendships. Coming from a family of physicians, medicine always felt like it’s in my DNA. I chose Internal Medicine because it fulfills my passion for treating patients with diverse medical conditions and forming long-term physician-patient relationships.

I selected Nazareth Hospital for my residency for several reasons. The program’s familial atmosphere amongst residents and faculty, its open-door policy for resident feedback, and the fine balance of resident autonomy and supervision are just a few to mention. Additionally, the program's location and the vibrant city life are definite bonuses. I am very excited to start my residency training here.

My future goal is to maximize my clinical skillsets and knowledge to become a competent physician and serve the community effectively. I aspire to look life beyond myself and aim to contribute to the well-being of others in both my professional and everyday life.

Tejaswee Mallela, MD

Medical School: Soochow University Medical College, Suzhou
Hobbies/Interests: Yoga, cooking, long walks, puzzles, and travelling

I grew up in a rural part of south India. After completing medical school, I worked in Jeevika hospitals (Bangalore) for 2 years and volunteered in my hometown for 1 year. These work experiences helped me realize my passion for Internal Medicine. I moved to New Jersey after my marriage. I have 2 kids. I love to spend all my free time with kids, love gardening, and I like to read motivational and inspiring stories, like to watch animated movies and feel-good movies.

Sai Priyanka Mellacheruvu, MD, MPH

Medical School: Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Ongole, India
Hobbies: Reading and cooking

Born and raised in Hyderabad, India, a vibrant city renowned for its rich history, world-famous Hyderabadi Biryani, and the warmth of its people, I was surrounded by a family that instilled in me a deep love for learning and a profound desire to serve others. Their kindness towards others showed me the importance of helping people, which led me to healthcare. I attended medical school in Ongole, AP, India, gaining invaluable experience at one of busiest hospitals in the state. This early exposure to a high-pressure medical environment solidified my commitment to providing excellent patient care.

This foundation led me to pursue a master’s in public health in the United States, further strengthening my desire to serve the community. Nazareth Hospitals’ dedication to patient care and community service deeply resonated with my values, making it the perfect place to continue my journey. I'm eager to learn from the esteemed physicians here and collaborate with my colleagues to provide exceptional, patient-centered care. In my free time, I enjoy curling up with a good book or experimenting in the kitchen - perhaps I'll even recreate a taste of Hyderabad for my new colleagues!

Daniya Muhammad Haroon, MD

Medical School: Bahria University Medical and Dental College, Karachi, Pakistan
Hobbies: Travelling, cooking, baking and dancing

I am Daniya Muhammad Haroon, born and raised in Saudi Arabia. I pursued my medical education in Pakistan. I am deeply fascinated by internal medicine, especially the process of diagnosing and managing diverse pathologies.

Nazareth Hospital is the ideal place for my residency training. The hospital's outstanding faculty, supportive residents, and staff create an excellent learning environment. The city’s diversity makes it easy for someone like me, with a multicultural background, to blend in. I enjoy travelling, cooking, baking and trying different type of foods so the proximity to New York and New Jersey, along with the variety of cuisines, enhances the appeal. Nazareth Hospital is the place where I can learn and grow to become a skilled physician while enjoying all the perks of life.

Rabia Nazir, MD

Medical School: Lahore Medical & Dental College, Pakistan
Interests/Hobbies: Traveling, exploring, dancing, interior designing

Born and raised in the culturally rich and vibrant city Lahore, Pakistan, I was naturally drawn to the dynamic urban life. Philadelphia, which I now proudly call my second home, allows me to revel in its bustling environment, brimming with endless possibilities.

I was specifically captivated by Nazareth Hospital due to its familial atmosphere among residents and faculty, an open-door policy for feedback, and a fine balance between autonomy and supervision. The hospital's supportive and collaborative environment reinforces its exceptional reputation. My choice of Internal Medicine was driven by the unique challenges and the mysteries each patient presents—I thrive on the intricacies of their stories.

As I embark on my residency, I am committed to immersing myself in the diverse opportunities available. My aim is to evolve into a knowledgeable and empathetic physician who significantly impacts patients’ lives. Beyond professional growth, I'm excited to explore new aspects of myself, learn from my experiences, and strive to become the best version of myself. I look forward to making unforgettable memories, discovering culinary delights, possibly mastering salsa dancing, and exploring Philadelphia with friends and fellow residents. My goal is to fully leverage these three years, ensuring they are as enriching personally as they are professionally, while building lasting relationships with my peers and mentors.

Zarak Sarwar, MD

Medical School: Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad, Pakistan
Hobbies/Interests: Tennis, Cricket, animals, spending time in nature

I was born and raised in the small city of Nowshera. Growing up on farmland meant that I spent much of my time outdoors, caring for various farm animals. This experience fostered my love for dogs and other animals. From a young age, I enjoyed playing and running around in our fields with my cousins, which sparked my interest in sports. Over the years, I have played a variety of sports including soccer, cricket, tennis, badminton, table tennis and golf.

Additionally, I have cared for all types of farm animals and currently have six dogs, chickens, cows, parrots and pigeons.

For medical school, I moved to Islamabad, our capital city, renowned for its greenery and its scenic location at the foothills of the Himalayas.

I chose internal medicine because it encompasses almost every aspect of medicine. In internal medicine, you don't just focus on one organ system; you can expect to encounter a wide variety of cases, which makes it incredibly exciting. The process of reaching a diagnosis is equally thrilling.

During my residency, I look forward to making meaningful connections, seeing myself grow each day, and contributing to the program’s goals.