We are proud to present this year’s incoming interns. 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!
Matthew Hillock, MD
Hometown: Willowbrook, Illinois
Medical school: University of Illinois College of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: I was initially drawn to the University of Iowa because of its strong reputation in neurology, but what truly solidified my interest was the sense of genuine community I felt on interview day. The faculty and residents were welcoming, down-to-earth, and eager to support one another—a tone that spoke volumes about the culture of the program.
What I like about Iowa City: Scenic walks, an affordable cost of living, friendly people, and the energy of a Big Ten university nearby.
Laura Nelson, MD
Hometown: Mission Hill, South Dakota
Medical School: University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: The Iowa IM Residency embodies something that is tangible, authentic, and real. The program nurtures a love of lifelong learning and fosters curiosity in an academic environment surrounded by genuine, caring individuals. The culture and collegiality here is not happenstance. It is the result of years of legacy, intentionality, and belief in the program’s mission. I can already say with full confidence that Iowa is the real deal, and I would not want to train anywhere else. I am honored and grateful to be a part of the Hawkeye family.
What I like about Iowa City: The people, outdoor activities, and excellent, reasonably priced coffee. It feels like home.
Matthew Welter, MD
Hometown: Jordan, Minnesota
Medical school: Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: Iowa was actually my first interview, and right away it just felt like the right place for me. The program itself is a well-known academic program in a smaller city which was something I was seeking. What really stood out on interview day was how welcoming everyone was. The program leadership and interviewers were genuine and easy to talk to, and the residents all seemed to know each other well and enjoy spending time together. That sense of community really stuck with me.
What I like about Iowa City: It blends a small-town feel while still having plenty to do. Everything’s close and easy to get to, and the cost of living is super reasonable. I’ve found a great balance here, whether it’s playing pickleball, checking out new breweries, or just going for walks around town.
Margriet Wilson, MD
Hometown: Brainerd, Minnesota
Medical school: Albany Medical College
“Why Iowa”: I loved the University of Iowa for its strong academic medicine program, its supportive environment, and the wide diversity of patients and pathologies encountered from across many states. After visiting on second look day, I was amazed by how kind and supportive all the residents, leadership, and program staff were. I cried so many happy tears when I read the word “Iowa” on Match Day and still cannot believe that I get to train at this awesome program!
What I like about Iowa City: Iowa City is the perfect blend of a small, close-knit midwestern city with all the benefits of being a college town. My husband and I have loved exploring local places like the farmers market, the shops downtown, and our new favorite pub called Shakespeare’s. Also, one of my childhood best friends is an intern with the urology program at UIHC, so being together in the same city again and working as residents is so surreal!
Devin Winkler, MD
Hometown: New London, Wisconsin
Medical School: Drexel University
“Why Iowa”: I was drawn to UI Health Care because of the combination of great clinical training, patient population, and amazing people in a close-knit community. My experience here so far has echoed all of this and has also brought me back home to the Midwest!
What I like about Iowa City: My wife and I like the small town feel of Iowa City, while still providing many things to do. There are plenty of options for restaurants, hiking, biking, and many other local events frequently going on.