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!
Aiah Alatoum, MBBS
Hometown: Irbid, Jordan; Hajnowka, Poland
Medical school: Yarmouk University
“Why Iowa”: During my two years of research at UIHC, I developed a deep appreciation for this institute. I admire how everyone is dedicated to excellence. It became clear to me that this is the ideal place to do my training!
What I like about Iowa City: I love how family-friendly it is and the summer activities it offers. As a food lover, I also really enjoy the restaurants. My favorites are Maggie’s Pizza and Monica’s!
Hailey Briseno, MD
Hometown: Post Falls, Idaho
Medical school: University of Washington School of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: I feel so blessed to have matched here! Iowa has one of the very best Med-Psych programs in the country with so many unique and specialized training opportunities. I am continually blown away by my peers, mentors, and faculty—from their deep-rooted sense of kindness to their top-notch clinical knowledge.
What I like about Iowa City: What’s not to like? I love the arts/culture and restaurant scenes as well as the recreational opportunities. The cost of living also affords my boys space to run and play. I’m looking forward to putting down roots and becoming more involved in all that Iowa City has to offer throughout my years of training.
Shane Hursh, MD
Hometown: Leawood, KS
Medical school: University of Kansas School of Medicine — Wichita
“Why Iowa”: Extensive program with exceptional diversity of clinical coverage, but still has that midwestern sense of friendliness and familiarity
What I like about Iowa City: Great mix of the comfort of a suburban town, the excitement of a college town, and the medical coverage of a major healthcare center like what would usually be found in a much larger city
Diego Eleazar Luevano MD
Hometown: Guadalupe, Zacatecas, Mexico
Medical school: University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine in Tulsa
“Why Iowa”: I wanted to be part of a large academic center within a small city.
What I like about Iowa City: The people are so incredibly nice. My favorite part of the day are my patient interactions; they’re just incredibly kind and approachable! People here are great!
Grant Ozaki, MD
Hometown: Lincoln, Nebraska
Medical school: University of Nebraska Medical Center
“Why Iowa”: I was interested in the University of Iowa because it would provide me with great training and prepare me to care for future patients. After my interview day, I knew this program was a great fit because of the welcoming environment and the kindness and genuine care shown by each person I met. I’m very thankful I matched at Iowa!
What I like about Iowa City: Iowa City has a small-town feel with big-city things to do. There are so many great restaurants and outdoor activities. Being a Nebraska fan, I’m still getting used to all the yellow and black. I can’t wait to continue to explore the city with my wife and newborn son!