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!
Kirsten Fiestan, MD
Hometown: Stevensville, Michigan
Medical school: University of Michigan
“Why Iowa”: On my interview day, the residents, APDs, and Dr. Suneja were all so friendly and kind. I could see that the program was focused on creating a supportive community with a strong culture of learning.
What I like about Iowa City: So many things! The restaurants, FilmScene, boating on Coralville Lake, the farmer’s market, the events that the city hosts—it’s been a blast so far!
Jacob Heath, MD
Hometown: Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Medical school: The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
“Why Iowa”: I was amazed during my interview by the kindness of everyone I met. All of my interviews were memorable and left the impression that the residency program was a tight-knit community and went out of its way to support its residents. I also knew the residency learning environment would offer the depth of clinical experience I wanted in training.
What I like about Iowa City: My wife, daughter, and I love the vibrant atmosphere within the city. Every weekend there’s a new event to partake in within the Iowa City community. The family-oriented culture in the area and program has been a wonderful experience. I’m also excited to check out all the University of Iowa sports later this year.
Jennifer (Jennie) Houser, MD
Hometown: Peoria, Illinois
Medical school: Southern Illinois University
“Why Iowa”: I immediately loved the residents and the culture at UIHC! Throughout interview season, I took notes on each program, and the first thing I wrote down about Iowa was “love the residents.” Faculty were supportive and genuinely invested in my interests for my career during the interview. I could tell how close and supportive everyone was. I came back to visit for second look, and I loved the city as well as the proximity to my hometown/family.
What I like about Iowa City: There is always something to do and a lot of good food! I love the restaurants, grocery stores (Costco, Trader Joe’s), coffee shops, and hiking trails/parks. It is also very conveniently located close to the Quad Cities and Cedar Rapids. When I started, I knew I was in the right place when all of the administrative faculty came by and were genuinely interested in knowing your name and something about you. Dr. Suneja remembered me and details of our conversation during our interview together, which I would never have expected from a PD this early. Each of the residents were kind and easy to talk with. The culture is about helping each other succeed rather than competing against one another. We all have the patients’ best interests at heart and we aim to have fun while taking care of them!
Kyle Luo, MD
Hometown: Lexington, Kentucky
Medical school: University of Kentucky College of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: Despite growing up in Kentucky, I was born in Iowa City and the thought of returning to my birthplace to start my journey as a physician was something that excited me. Then after my interview day, I knew right away that I wanted to join the Iowa Internal Medicine Family. Dr. Suneja and Dr. Bryant made me feel like they had known me for years even though we had just met and the sense of community and collegiality among the residents and faculty was immediately evident.
What I like about Iowa City: I love how easy it is to get around Iowa City as well as the fact that there is a wide variety of food options available.
Thomas D. Meram, MD
Hometown: Sterling Heights, Michigan
Medical school: Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: The University of Iowa Ophthalmology Program has a history of excellent clinical training. My interview introduced me to the incredibly supportive faculty and residents, and I felt that I really fit in!
What I like about Iowa City: The people in Iowa City are welcoming and open. Also, there seems to be endless walking and biking paths to explore!