We are proud to present the incoming Intern Class of 2023. 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 about why they chose Internal Medicine at Iowa for their residency. And, now that they have been here a month or so, what they like about living in Iowa City or working at University of Iowa Health Care. We are pleased to announce the final group of interns below. Welcome to Iowa!
Aaron Brake, MDHometown: Wichita, Kansas
Medical school: University of Kansas Medical School (Kansas City)
“Why Iowa”: There are few Neurology departments that incorporate Neuro-interventional into their residency program, and this is one of the best. Not only that, but they are an academic powerhouse, with strong collaboration between departments and lots of active and high-level research. The faculty in every department are supportive and ready to help residents achieve their goals.
What I like about Iowa City: It’s a young, vibrant city. The city itself is very walkable / bikeable. Being a college town, there seems to be always something going on and opportunities to catch a concert or one of the semi-frequent festivals. Outside of the city, there are outdoor activities. I like to trail-run around the nearby lakes. Plus you’re never more than a stone’s throw away from a cornfield if you just need to get away for a while. (Mostly joking)
Usamah ELBakkush, MD
Hometown: Spokane, Washington
Medical school: University of Washington School of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: 1000% the people. The lifelong friendships. On interviews, I immediately felt a sincere and human connection that went straight to my heart. I FELT IT. We’re like a family at a small community program, and I love that.
What I like about Iowa City: Being so close to the river / Amazon rainforest is freaking awesome and it’s full of monster-sized fish and deer. The beautiful, safe, small college town vibes make it feel straight out of a movie. Also, “Iowa nice” is 100% real, can confirm.
Mash Haque, MD
Hometown: Raleigh, North Carolina
Medical school: Saint Louis University
“Why Iowa”: My biggest reason to come to Iowa was the diversity of activities Iowa City has to offer. Coming from a “college town” in Raleigh, I was attracted to this area for its similar range of experiences, from numerous restaurants to nearby nature trails.
What I like about Iowa City: My favorite part of Iowa City has been living in Iowa River Landing with close access to restaurants, Trader Joe’s, and so many of my co-interns!
Paige Noble, MD
Hometown: Sioux City, Iowa
Medical school: University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: As a home student, I was honored to have the opportunity to stay at a program with such excellent training and such a kind, collaborative culture!
What I like about Iowa City: I really enjoy visiting the Iowa City Public Library and exploring local bookstores such as Prairie Lights and the Haunted Bookshop.