We are proud to present the incoming Intern Class of 2024. 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 will introduce them a few at a time each week for the next couple months. Welcome to Iowa!
Noor-Us-Sabah Ahmad, MD
Hometown: Lahore, Pakistan
Medical school: King Edward Medical University
“Why Iowa”: I did a research year with the Iowa Ophthalmology Department before applying for residency, and it was awesome! I loved the supportive culture at the University of Iowa, the way my mentors were invested in my success, the countless opportunities to excel, and how everyone was genuinely kind and approachable. As someone who’s moved around a lot growing up—from Canada to Kuwait to Pakistan to the US—Iowa is where I felt at home the quickest! I knew I wanted to train at this amazing place that values people for who they are, challenges them to be better while advocating for their goals, and celebrates their uniqueness. One of my mentors once told me that Iowa is a gold mine if you’re committed to giving your best, and I agree. Definitely a great place to “harvest your potential”!
What I like about Iowa City: Everyone’s friendly and welcoming! For a small city, it’s surprisingly diverse, and I enjoy the multi-cultural events—whether it’s Eid, Diwali, or the 4th of July, the community always comes together!
Mohad Awan, MD, MPH
Hometown: Des Moines, Iowa
Medical school: UI Carver College of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: I love the collaborative atmosphere here, and all of the staff here are invested in teaching and your growth as a clinician here! All of the residents I spoke to support each other and create a wonderful environment. I also think the quality of training and education here is outstanding.
What I like about Iowa City: Iowa City is still close to family for me and the amenities here such as great eats, disc golf courses, and summer events series are a great way to unwind and enjoy my free time. You also can’t beat how little traffic there is for any commute around town. It’s just big enough without being overwhelming!
Zachary Bracken, MD
Hometown: Maple Grove, Minnesota
Medical school: Medical College of Wisconsin – Green Bay
“Why Iowa”: I was attracted to Iowa IM for a multitude of reasons, but the main three were:
- Gave me the opportunity to train at a well-known academic program with in-house fellowships in all the fields I am interested in
- Allowed me to stay in the Midwest – close to my family, friends, and loved ones
- Everyone on interview day was soooo welcoming. It was the greenest of green flags
What I like about Iowa City: I have been enjoying the college sports culture and the variety of food options!
Trey Krupp, MD
Hometown: Iowa City, Iowa
Medical school: UI Carver College of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: The people, the program, family and friends
What I like about Iowa City: The people, the arts, and the nature around. Recently I have been really enjoying mountain biking on the Sugar Bottom trails.
Michaela Norbury, MD
Hometown: Rich Hill, Missouri
Medical school: University of Kansas
“Why Iowa”: The Neurology program here has a great reputation, it’s not too far from home, and Iowa City was highly recommended by friends.
What I like about Iowa City: Lots of scenic walks/bike rides, even within city limits, with beautiful wildflowers and baby deer.