We are proud to present the incoming Intern Class of 2021. We wanted to take the opportunity to go a little past the names and faces and learn a couple things about them. We asked them each to tell us a little bit about why they chose Internal Medicine at Iowa for their residency. And, now that they have been here a couple months, what they like about living in Iowa City or working at University of Iowa Health Care. We will introduce them a few at a time each week for the next couple months. Welcome to Iowa!
Mazen Aiche, MD
Hometown: Chandler, Arizona
Medical school: University of Arizona College of Medicine-Tucson
“Why Iowa”: I really enjoyed my interview, and I heard great things about the program from mentors.
What I like about Iowa City: I have loved walking and exploring the city and trails. The art and music scene are also great, and I was able to attend a fun play at Riverside Theatre.
Marie Finkbeiner, MD, MS
Hometown: Boise, Idaho
Medical school: University of Washington
“Why Iowa”: Even over Zoom, it was the one program that I felt like cared about its residents and people who train here. Everyone seemed to have an ease about them that made me feel like I would fit in on day one. This was the environment I was looking for in a training program.
What I like about Iowa City: I like that the town is so vibrant. There are always events going on and so many places to explore. A few weekends ago, some co-residents and I went to Mount Vernon and stumbled upon a fun little street fair. There are tons of walking/hiking trails within just a few miles of the city, so it is easy to get some time outdoors and enjoying Iowa City.
Luke Morrey, MD
Hometown: Rochester, Minnesota
Medical school: University of Minnesota
“Why Iowa”: I was so excited about this program immediately after my interview – it seemed like it would be so easy to get along with everyone and to make the most of my training here. Iowa City is also close to my family and my wife’s family, which was very important for both of us.
What I like about Iowa City: Iowa City has everything you would want in a bigger city without the challenge of getting there. Everywhere you need to go is less than 10 minutes away.
Michael Sauer, MD
Hometown: Wenatchee, Washington
Medical school: University of Utah
“Why Iowa”: I could sense the authenticity of the faculty and residents on interview day. I knew I would feel like part of a family here.
What I like about Iowa City: I love how green the Midwest is. Iowa City has great access to beautiful pedestrian trails, which caters to my enjoyment of distance running. There’s a small town feel here, but it has more than everything I need. And, no traffic!
Madalyn Walsh, MD
Hometown: Palatine, Illinois
Medical school: University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: Iowa City is my home! I’ve really enjoyed taking care of Iowans throughout undergrad, med school, and now residency. I can’t think of a better place to complete my training.
What I like about Iowa City: There’s always something to do in Iowa City! My husband and I love trying out unique restaurants, going to shows at Hancher, and spending time at Lake McBride.