Third Year

Gillis_k

Kelsey Gillis, DO

Where is your hometown?

Scottsdale, AZ

Where did you attend medical school?

Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

I chose MSU/Sparrow because of how friendly and encouraging the residents/attendings and other staff are. Wherever you go residency will be challenging but at Sparrow I feel like I have a home away from home and a group of co-residents that will be there to help me during the difficult times and challenge me to step outside of my comfort zone. They truly want you to succeed and work together as a team.

I also chose MSU/Sparrow because of the X+Y curriculum. It allows me the opportunity to focus on my current rotation block, without rushing between the floor/elective and clinic. Additionally, it allows me the opportunity to take care of my health by scheduling personal doctor’s appointments or having time to work on research/QI/Advocacy projects.

I chose MSU/Sparrow because of the uplifting environment and the curriculum layout. I am grateful that Sparrow is where I matched!

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

Water and nature have always been something that helps me relax. Growing up in the desert, I really like the how green it is, and all the rivers/lakes you can see/visit. I enjoyed learning how to kayak with one of the other interns! I also really like the different environments you get (all within a few hours drive) such as the big city of Detroit, the city feels but smaller size of Lansing and the smaller town of Charlevoix Michigan.

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

I like how Lansing has a variety of activities to participate in and the big city feel without being as big as Detroit. I like how on one side you get the university environment of Michigan State University and on the other side you get the state capitol. Having grown up in a big city (Scottsdale/Phoenix) I feel like I have all the resources of a big city but the traffic of a smaller town.

What are your hobbies?

My primary hobby is spending time with friends (my co-residents) whether that is grabbing a bite together, going to a movie or kayaking. I also enjoy dancing, baton twirling, swimming, walking, kayaking and catching up with family.

What are your career goals?

I know I like following my patients over time. I am still deciding whether I want general pediatrics or pediatric oncology.

Farwa Khurshid, MD

Where is your hometown?

Abbottabad, Pakistan.

Where did you attend medical school?

Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad, Pakistan

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

Since I’ve been living in Michigan with my husband for some time and we love our life here, I was hoping, and perhaps expecting, to match here. I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of one of the best programs in the state.

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

As a Pakistani when you move to another country, apart from your family and culture, you really miss flavorful food, scenic landscapes, four beautiful seasons, sensational news, generous people and potholes. Well, Michigan totally feels like home, and I love it!

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

Lansing has this unique mix of scholarly, historical and fun vibe. Also, it’s right in the center with an hour drive East to Dearborn/Detroit for food and entertainment, an hour drive South to Ann Arbor for Michigan Stadium and botanical gardens, a two-hour drive West to Mears for sand dunes/beach and a three-hour drive North to Traverse/Mackinaw city for breathtaking views.

What are your hobbies?

Globetrotting, reading (mostly Sufi classics and Urdu poetry), calligraphy, cooking Pakistani delicacies, watching psychological thrillers, playing chess or Topgolf with my husband, and volunteering at an elderly care center.

What are your career goals?

With the ongoing pandemics of obesity, diabetes and digital dementia among children and adolescents, I’ve been really focused on improving ways to promote their physical and mental wellness. I love how General Peds gives you an opportunity to be innovative in primary care and make an impact in society, however, I am very open to discover my interest in different subspecialities.

Farwa_
Anna

Anna Kislik, MD

Where is your hometown?

Moscow, Russia.

Where did you attend medical school?

Russian National Research Medical University, named after NI Pirogov

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

I have heard wonderful things about the program from one of its current residents, and it was an honor to receive an interview invitation.

During the interview, program's friendly and welcoming atmosphere fascinated me! Everyone was genuinely nice, and I am confident that learning in such an environment will be both interesting and productive. This, along with the small class size, diverse patient population, and wide range of electives promises the opportunity for hands-on, comprehensive training, which will help me become a well-rounded and competent pediatrician.

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

Four seasons climate.

Moreover, I am looking forward to exploring Michigan’s cities during the next 3 years as I have not visited any of them (other than Lansing) yet.

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

Wonderful nature, nice people and great public transportation system. Besides that, I am really happy with my apartment, which is located close to the Sparrow Hospital and has a view of the Michigan Capitol.

What are your hobbies?

Reading, walking, taking pictures of city views and study aesthetics.

What are your career goals?

I am currently interested in pediatric immunology and plan to pursue Allergy & Immunology fellowship in the future. However, I keep an open mind regarding my future career and am willing to explore various options in order to find the best fit for me.

Tejal Gapchup, MD

Where is your hometown?

Pune, India.
 

Where did you attend medical school?

MIMER Medical College, Pune, India.
 

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

I’ve always believed that it is extremely important to train in a program that has a supportive work environment. The resident camaraderie and faculty friendliness at Sparrow was clearly evident during the interview process and even the onboarding period. The program has also integrated the X+Y scheduling, which is a step towards resident-well being. Combining this with its comprehensive curriculum, this program can really help me grow into a well-rounded pediatrician.

 

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

I like that I can distinctly enjoy all the seasons. Also the nature is stunning here and would really like to go for some hikes in up north!

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

I love that it is a university town because that allows for a vibrant and diverse city culture.

 

What are your hobbies?

Dancing, fitness, travel, swimming and petting doggos!

What are your career goals?

I am open to exploring all pediatric subspecialties during residency before going for a fellowship.

Tejal
Hend_

Hend Mohamed, MD

Where is your hometown?

Alexandria, Egypt.

Where did you attend medical school?

Alexandria University Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria, Egypt

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

I have been living in Michigan for 2 years. I visited Sparrow multiple times and I fell in love with the community and the level of health care they provide.

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

I love that you get to experience all seasons thoroughly (Fall is my personal favorite). I love nature so you can go hiking, fishing and swimming in any of the Michigan lakes. I absolutely love Grand Haven. I took a ton of pictures there.

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

MSU, for sure

Peter Stephan, DO

Where is your hometown?

Midland, MI.

Where did you attend medical school?

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
 

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

I did a PICU rotation at Sparrow and it was an amazing experience and the interactions with the other residents was only positive and supportive. I also loved the didactics. The education I received was the best out of all of the places I rotated at.

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

What’s not to like? I have lived in Michigan my whole life. I love the different seasons we experience. We have great cities across the whole state with amazing food and nature/scenery is beautiful.

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

I love the food. There are some great places to eat in the area. I also love the nature trails nearby.

What are your hobbies?

I love to cook. I am always trying to find new recipes to try out. I also have a 3d printer and I enjoy printing all sorts of things.

What are your career goals?

Right now, I am between general pediatrics or pediatric hospitalist. I have not had enough experience yet to decide which of those I would like more. I am keeping an open mind coming into residency. 

Peter
Leena

Leena Syed, MD

Where is your hometown?

Lahore, Pakistan

They say home is where the heart is and my last home was London, UK 😊

Where did you attend medical school?

Quaid-e-Azam Medical College, Pakistan

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

The program leadership and faculty as well as the Residents gave a really supportive and welcoming vibe during the interview despite the fact that the interview was virtual, and it seemed to be the right choice for me straight away.

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

I love snow, so I would say the weather!

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

Have just moved to Lansing, so still discovering it, but seems like a nice city with scanty traffic, which is definitely a plus!

What are your hobbies?

Travelling and collecting fridge magnets, spending time with my family.

What are your career goals?

For now, to become a well-rounded Pediatrician.

Dipsal Timila, MD

Where is your hometown?

Pokhara, Nepal.
 

Where did you attend medical school?

Southeast University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
 

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

It provided with the right mix of a community hospital and a university program. I was attracted with the possibility of learning  clinical skills, seeing a variety of cases and having an academic environment at the same time .

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

Being close to the great lakes reminds me of my home town Pokhara in Nepal. The opportunity to explore nature , the nearby trails and scenic beauty excites me .

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

Living in downtown Lansing, the heart of Michigan’s capital city , I get to experience the lively place offering a blend of cultural diversity, vibrant arts, natural beauty, and professional opportunities.

What are your hobbies?

I like listening to all kinds of music, watching professional soccer leagues, reading and partying with friends.

What are your career goals?

Develop a career in academics and get involved in medical education.

Dipsal_

Second Year 

Ali

Dania Ali, MD

Where is your hometown?

Karachi, Pakistan.

Where did you attend medical school?

Ziauddin Medical College

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

I loved how supportive the program leadership was in every aspect and I loved the X+Y schedule.

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

It's one of the most beautiful places in the United States.

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

I think the people here are extremely nice and helpful.

What are your hobbies?

I love to cook and love watching documentaries.

What are your career goals?

I hope to specialize in gastroenterologist right now but you never know what I might end up doing. Ask me again in a year maybe!

Hebah Alzyod, MD

Where is your hometown?

I'm originally from Zarqa, Jordan.

Where did you attend medical school?

I completed my medical education at the Hashemite University in Jordan.

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

I was drawn to the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program because of the incredibly warm and supportive environment. During my interview, I could genuinely feel the strong sense of community - the residents truly seemed like a family. I also appreciated the program's X-Y schedule, which allows for a better balance between work and rest, supporting both professional growth and personal well-being.

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

I love Michigan's natural beauty and the diversity of its communities. There's always something new to explore, whether it's hiking trails, lakes, or vibrant cultural events.

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

Lansing offers a great balance of city life and nature. It's a welcoming, easy-to-navigate city with a strong sense of community. I also enjoy the mix of local events, parks, and the feeling of being close to both nature and great educational institutions.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy drawing and cooking - they're both relaxing and creative outlets for me. I love experimenting with new recipes and sketching in my free time.

What are your career goals?

I'm passionate about pursuing a fellowship after residency. I'm especially interested in further specializing to deepen my knowledge and contribute meaningfully to patient care in my field.

Alzyod
Dedvukaj (2)

Tereza Dedvukaj, MD 

Where is your hometown? 

Troy, MI.

Where did you attend medical school? 

St. George’s University. 

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program? 

The X + Y schedule makes it so you always have a lighter week at least once per month with is AWESOME! Also the location, being in central Mi makes it close to Detroit and Grand Rapids. 

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

Summertime! Beautiful sights to see when the weather is nice. 

What do you like most about living in Lansing? 

Being central in Michigan, I am only an hour fifteen from my hometown near Detroit and 50 min from Grand Rapids which is a fun city to explore. 

What are your hobbies? 

I like vintage or thrift shopping, I love learning about history and going to museums, visiting coffee and book shops. 

What are your career goals? 

My goal is to be the best pediatrician I can be. My plan is to be an outpatient general pediatrician.

Hassan Draz, MD

Draz1
Karsten

Brooklyn Karsten, DO

Where is your hometown?

Rogers City, MI

Where did you attend medical school?

Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

I had a great preview of the program during a rotation on the PICU. The team was kind, involved in my learning, and I felt genuinely welcomed. I feel at home in the area and owning a house here is also a plus!

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

The weather and changing seasons. Beachy summers, cool falls at apple orchards, and white Christmases.

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

I like the size of the city-not too big, not too small. You get the best of both worlds with a good variety of restaurants and activities without the disadvantages of terrible traffic. I also take advantage of the proximity to MSU and being able to attend BIG 10 football and basketball games.

What are your hobbies?

Playing with my 2 pups, Bodhi and Peach, watching documentaries, going to Target.

What are your career goals?

General peds but I'm open to finding if any of the subspecialties are a good fit for me.

Tulasi Kesaraju

Where is your hometown?

Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Where did you attend medical school?

Davao Medical School Foundation, Davao City, Philippines

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

I believe that a friendly and supportive environment can greatly influence your training experience and overall well-being during residency. Additionally, I am interested in the community-based clinic experience and the comprehensive didactic curriculum offered by the program. I am confident that these factors will collectively contribute to my growth as a proficient pediatrician. The residents and attendings have fostered a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, particularly evident during the orientation processes.

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

I love the variety of seasons in Michigan, from the beauty of Up-north Michigan to the Sleeping Bear Dunes and Mackinac Island. There are countless hiking trails and plenty of other fun activities to enjoy. Having my closest family and friends nearby adds to my happiness. Additionally, the proximity to Canada makes it convenient for me to visit my family there whenever I want.

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

Lansing has felt like home to me ever since I arrived. As someone who enjoys exploring different cuisines, I appreciate the abundance of restaurants here. I also love the city's central location, which makes it convenient to travel both east and west across Michigan.

What are your hobbies?

I have a deep love for singing and listening to Indian classical music. In addition, I also enjoy painting, sketching, playing badminton and exploring various cuisines through cooking.

What are your career goals?

I'm currently leaning towards General Pediatrics/NICU, but looking forward to explore other sub-specialties during residency training.

Kesaraju
Sabii

Anastasiia Sabii, MD

Where is your hometown?

I'm originally from Naberezhnye Chelny, Russia - a city known for its industry and beautiful river views.

Where did you attend medical school?

I studied medicine at Pirogov Medical University in Moscow.

Why did you choose the MSU/Sparrow Pediatric Residency Program?

I chose the MSU/Sparrow program because it felt like the right fit for me. The program's values align with my own, and I'm excited about the opportunity to learn and grow alongside a talented group of residents and faculty.

What do you like most about living in Michigan?

Michigan reminds me of home! The lush forests and lakes feel very familiar.

What do you like most about living in Lansing?

Lansing's proximity to nature is a big plus for me. I love having access to so many parks, trails, and green spaces. It's perfect for someone like me who enjoys spending time outdoors.

What are your hobbies?

In my free time, I love to go cycling with my husband. It's a fun way to stay active and see more of our new home.

What are your career goals?

I'm passionate about preventive and integrative medicine. I want to help children stay healthy by focusing on prevention and exploring different approaches to care.

Parinaz Soghrati,DO

Soghrati

First Year