Meet your Interns 2026, part 3
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!
Jennah Johnson, MD
Hometown: Johnston, Iowa
Medical school: University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: While on my internal medicine rotation here in medical school, there wasn’t a single resident, fellow, or attending I didn’t enjoy working with. It was obvious that the people here genuinely cared about each other and that the program had a true family feel. Everyone is invested in helping you succeed, and I knew I would receive excellent training in an environment that was both challenging and supportive.
What I like about Iowa City: Iowa City is the perfect balance of a small city and a college town, with plenty to do while still being an affordable and safe community. It has great restaurants, frequent events and festivals downtown, and tons of parks and trails to explore, making it easy to stay busy and maintain a healthy work-life balance outside the hospital.
Kurt Johnson, MD
Hometown: Waunakee, Wisconsin
Medical school: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
“Why Iowa”: The University of Iowa and in particular, the Department of Neurology at UIHC, has an outstanding reputation for clinical training and patient care. I felt confident that this program will prepare me to become a great neurologist. I was additionally drawn to the department’s collaborative culture and strong commitment to education. I had an away rotation in Iowa during medical school, and I met so many amazing and kind folks that I knew I would find a home here.
What I like about Iowa City: I love being able to get to work without dealing with traffic. I also love how dog-friendly this city is!
Daniel Moe, MD
Hometown: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Medical school: University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: I wanted to stay at Iowa for residency for a number of reasons, but particularly for the opportunity to continue training at an exceptional academic medical center known for its top-notch training that still has a small program feel with a community of co-residents and program leadership who truly know and support one another both in and outside of medicine.
What I like about Iowa City: Iowa City has been a wonderful place to live and start a family with everything you can need all within a short drive or bike ride. My wife and I love spending time on the trails and at the parks with our son and dog, exploring the many excellent restaurants, and of course cheering on the Hawkeyes on game days!
Rachel Schild, MD
Hometown: Tyndall, South Dakota
Medical school: University of South Dakota
“Why Iowa”: The biggest factor that attracted me to residency in Iowa was the kindness of residents and program leadership. In this environment, I felt that I could grow into the best clinician that I can be while making long-lasting friendships within my residency family. I also love to serve the population in the Midwest and being in Iowa City allows me to do this at a large academic center with access to subspecialists and an excellent education. Lastly, we were looking for a safe and vibrant area to raise a family!
What I like about Iowa City: I love all of the activities that there are for families. It seems that there is always a weekend event, farmers market, or new recreational area to discover. So far, my favorites have been Wilson’s Apple Orchard, Blues and BBQ, and the Children’s Museum.
Natalie Schmidt, MD
Hometown: Brookfield, Wisconsin
Medical school: Medical College of Wisconsin
“Why Iowa”: Ever since I visited UIHC, I felt a genuine connection to the people I met. The enduring care for patients and each other made it feel like home. I knew that I would be both challenged and supported here while receiving exceptional training.
What I like about Iowa City: Everyone I’ve met in Iowa City is so friendly, and there’s so much to do! I love the Saturday morning farmer’s market, walking the trails along the Iowa River, and the festivals / events downtown. I’m still exploring all the great restaurants; my favorite so far is St. Burch Tavern!