Meet your Interns 2026, part 8
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 couple months, what they like about living in Iowa City or working at University of Iowa Health Care. Welcome to Iowa!
Ankita Chabra, MD
Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
Medical school: Saint Louis University School of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: Iowa Neurology stood out to me for its excellence in clinical training and its strong reputation in stroke care. I was especially excited at the opportunity to train at such a large, high-volume stroke center. Just as importantly, even through virtual interviews, the program’s culture felt genuinely kind, collegial, and supportive of each resident’s individual goals.
What I like about Iowa City: I like the college town feel of Iowa City; events around town are fun and easy to get to. Another thing I can’t wait to explore is all the hiking, especially at Lake MacBride!
Jade Samanta, MD
Hometown: Saint Louis, Missouri
Medical school: Saint Louis University School of Medicine
“Why Iowa”: I wanted a residency program that emphasized medical education at all stages of training, and had a culture of fraternity between students, residents, and faculty. UIowa is also known in the Midwest for its strong research and medical education resources.
What I like about Iowa City: Growing up in a college town makes me feel right at home in Iowa. I love the liveliness and excitement that the various festivals, football games, and the University bring to the town.
Regina Scott, MD
Hometown: Tulsa, Oklahoma
Medical school: University of Missouri-Kansas City
“Why Iowa”: Iowa stood out from the start with its unmatched kindness and emphasis on community. Everyone is incredibly welcoming and supportive, which is balanced with excellent clinical training and resident education. Training here not only fosters strong physicians, but also supports residents to grow as people and maintain balance outside medicine.
What I like about Iowa City: There are so many gorgeous parks and running trails to explore! You can also find me at the Coralville public library or in a local coffee shop reading, crocheting, or working on an embroidery project!