Our Current Residents
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Class of 2026
Tajala Aman, MD
Hometown: Quetta, PakistanMedical School: Bolan Medical College
Future Goals: I plan to pursue Cardiology Fellowship
Interesting Fact: I am fascinated by heights and wanted to become a pilot much before I wanted to be a doctor, someday but certainly before I turn 50 I want a private pilot license!
Why did you choose ASVIM: Ascension is very particular about the wellness of their physicians and encourages academic learning alongside clinical learning, something I was looking for in a residency program primarily. Also I just loved the vibe of our Program Director when she interviewed me. I believe I will be able to thrive as a physician here in the coming years.
Mehmet Emir Arman, MD
Hometown: Sakarya, TürkiyeMedical School: Ankara Yıldırım Beyazıt University, Türkiye
Future Goals: Pursuing a fellowship in cardiology
Interesting Fact: Before coming to the United States for my residency, I lived in Japan, Türkiye, and the U.A.E.
Why did you choose ASVIM: I chose STV because of the amazing experience I had back in 2019 when I was a sub-intern here. The entire team was very supportive and welcoming, and I really enjoyed the family-like atmosphere. The program provides a phenomenal learning environment where one can get exposed to a vast variety of complex cases and receive great teaching from both the staff and the residents. Having also witnessed the sense of camaraderie and compassion among the residents and the faculty, I decided that STV was the right place for my training. Here I am years later, back to this magnificent place as a new member of the FAMILY!
Lindsey Bernard, DO
Hometown: Chandler, AZMedical School: Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Currently thinking hospitalist, but keeping an open mind!
Why did you choose ASVIM: As an Arizona native, I was eager to escape the heat, and Indy is a great city to live in! Ascension St. Vincent itself has all of the perks of a strong academic institution (large tertiary care center, transplant, burn, fellowship opportunities) but with a community feel. In the era of virtual interviews, it should've felt daunting to commit to a program site unseen, but I knew after my interview and social events that the people here have built a strong sense of community. It was easy to see that people really knew each other, and the faculty truly cares about resident well being.
Michaela Castleman, DO
Hometown: Centerville, INMedical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Pulm Crit with a residency program
Interesting Fact: I showed horses at the national level while growing up and continued to compete for Grand Valley State while in undergrad.
Why did you choose ASVIM: The community and the people. The overall atmosphere of the program is so conducive to learning and being challenged to be a great physician.
Ray Christian, MD
Medical School: Indiana University School of Medicine
Ben Dowden, DO
Hometown: Fishers, INMedical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Undecided
Interesting Fact: I moved around a lot as a child, attending 5 different elementary schools, inlcuding spending my second grade year in Singapore.
Why did you choose ASVIM: The culture is what sold me. The people - from support staff, all the way up to attendings are kind, intelligent and approachable. And because Dr. Fick is the bomb.
Amelia Georgas, DO
Hometown: Munster, INMedical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: I plan to pursue primary care.
Interesting Fact: My biggest travel goal is to hike all of the national parks. I have only checked off 9, so I still have a long way to go!
Why did you choose ASVIM: I grew up in Northwest Indiana and have always loved this state. I wanted to come back for residency to be closer to my family, but also to serve the communities that have helped form me into who I am today. Ascension had a lot of professional and educational opportunities that I knew would help me achieve my future career goals. The people here are so kind and truly care about us becoming great doctors and growing as individuals.
Folake Ishola, MD, M.Sc.
Hometown: Lagos, NigeriaMedical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Future Goals: I am currently interested in Global Health and Cardiology with the goal of integrating them both in the future.
Interesting Fact: I love binge watching Korean TV shows in my free time.
Why did you choose ASVIM: I chose Ascension St. Vincent because of the interactions I had with leadership and residents on interview day. I felt that the leadership really saw me for who I am as an individual, with similar core values present in the program and loved the camaraderie among residents. The emphasis on physician wellness, commitment to the success of its residents, and opportunities to pursue my future career goals are some of the many reasons I chose this program.
Victoria Jacuk, DO
Hometown: Greenwood, INMedical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Rheumatology
Interesting Fact: My goal is to one day become fluent in Russian so I can have full conversations with my grandmother.
Why did you choose ASVIM: After my first rotation at St. Vincent as a medical student, I knew this was where I wanted to continue my training in medicine. The faculty and residents were always kind, patient, and very eager to teach. Not to mention, resident wellness was an obvious priority. I could not imagine going anywhere else!
Shunmughapriya Kannan, MD
Hometown: Tirunelveli,Tamil nadu, IndiaMedical School: Tirunelveli Medical College, Tamil Nadu, India
Future Goals: Primary Care!
Interesting Fact: I love pets and back home had a few like rabbits, budgies, parrots, dogs and chickens. Hoping to get one here as well.
Why did you choose ASVIM: I love STV for the most supportive faculty I met during my interview day. People here are very friendly and welcoming, and I feel so fortunate to be a part of this team which serves the vulnerable community.
Simran Kooner, MD
Hometown: St. Louis, MOMedical School: St. George's University School of Medicine
Future Goals: Hospitalist vs Fellowship - currently undecided and keeping an open mind!
Interesting Fact: My mom's entire side of the family lives in St. Louis, so I grew up living in the same neighborhood as 20+ members of my extended family.
Why did you choose ASVIM: I chose St. Vincent for its location, supportive learning environment, and the program's emphasis on not only the growth and success of its residents, but also their wellness and well-being while they train.
Michael Loke, DO
Hometown: Cary, ILMedical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Undecided. I have a broad array of interests including Cardiology, Endocrinology and Pulm/Crit Care.
Interesting Fact: Due to COVID, my wife and I got married on the top of a parking garage at Butler University.
Why did you choose ASVIM: The people, location and education.
Chad McDugle, MD
Hometown: Danville, INMedical School: Indiana University School of Medicine
Future Goals: Primary Care
Interesting Fact: I want to go skydiving.
Why did you choose ASVIM: I really liked all the residents and faculty, and I resonated with the mission of the hospital system. I also really liked that this program emphasizes primary care.
Summer Samuels, MD
Hometown: Indianapolis, INMedical School: Indiana University School of Medicine
Future Goals: Cardiology Fellowship
Interesting Fact: I review all the new Oreo flavors for my friends. You could say I am a micro-influencer.
Why did you choose ASVIM: I chose Ascension for the community and the scholarship. They emphasize your experience and you as a human being. We are all here to become great doctors. They also provide you with plenty of resources to pursue your passions. I felt supported to take on projects of my choosing.
Vivek Tatineni, DO
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Samantha Whitcomb, DO
Hometown: Delano, MNMedical School: Lincoln Memorial University - Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Hospitalist
Interesting Fact: I have climbed the Great Wall of China.
Why did you choose ASVIM: St. Vincent has a very welcoming community of faculty, residents and staff. I also have family and freinds who have said that Indianapolis is a very fun city to live in, with more mild winter than Minnesota.
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Class of 2027
Rabiah Amjad, MD
Hometown: Lawrence, IN
Medical School: Indiana University School of Medicine
Future Goals: Pulmonary/Critical Care or Hospitalist
Interesting Fact: I love trying new restaurants and I am a Yelp elite!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: The culture and community at ASV is ideal for training new physicians, and I knew that I would be both supported and challenged as a resident in this program.
Bryce Bridgewater, DO
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Undecided as of right now! Currently leaning to doing a fellowship!
Interesting Fact: I've been to around 20 Indianapolis 500s!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: Growing up in Indianapolis, I always wanted to serve the community that I grew up in. St. Vincent treated me very well as a medical student while rotating here, and it was a perfect match for me!
Griffin Caudell, DO
Hometown: Dearborn Heights, MI
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Hoping to do a fellowship in Allergy/Immunology or Rheumatology but haven’t decided for sure yet.
Interesting Fact: One of my goals is to visit all of the National Parks. So far I have only gone to 10, but I’m hoping to check more off the list soon.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: The first thing I noticed about St. Vincent on my clinical rotations was the excellent culture that they foster. They truly care about the wellness of their residents and faculty.
Arielle M. Coy, DO, MS
Hometown: Miami, FL/Indianapolis, IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine
Interesting Fact: I am a domestic-professional cyclist racing for LA Sweat Racing.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: Ascension St. Vincent is the place that turned my interest towards internal medicine as a 3rd year medical student. The volume of clinically interesting cases grabbed my attention initially, but the education, the residents, and the faculty are what sold me.
Megan Easley, DO
Hometown: Richmond, IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Hospitalist
Interesting Fact: I am a very proud aunt of 6 nieces/nephews under the age of 5!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: As a medical student, my very first rotation was IM at Ascension. I felt so at home, comfortable, and supported by the kind, hardworking, dedicated residents and faculty. They shared with me their love for internal medicine which helped me discover mine, so when I went through the residency application/interview process, I knew Ascension was the perfect place for me!
David Ellis, DO
Hometown: Tampa, FL
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Undecided, possibly cardiology or endocrinology
Interesting Fact: I spent almost every summer in Colombia when I was younger.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: Ascension was extremely friendly and welcoming from the beginning. They showed they cared about their residents. Ascension has lots of learning opportunities and tracks to help focus on your interests. Indianapolis is a great place to live.
Mary Grace Ertel, MD
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Medical School: Indiana University School of Medicine
Future Goals: Primary Care
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I did multiple rotations and St. Vincent during my third and fourth year of medical school and immediately fell in love with the supportive environment. It felt like each resident was set up for success and was clear that faculty, staff, and residents all treated each other with respect. The Primary Care Track is the only one of its kind in Indiana, allowing for strong outpatient care experience along with the inpatient experience necessary for IM.
Michael Laurendine, DO
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Not sure if I will specialize yet, but I enjoy everything from Hospitalist to outpatient clinic so I know I will find my spot.
Interesting Fact: I love doing anything outdoors, and this past year was able to catch all of the native species of trout in Colorado while fly fishing in the Rocky Mountains.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I had rotations here during medical school and was impressed with the friendliness of everyone you come across in the hospital and the constant focus on teaching from faculty to residents and to medical students!
Mitchell Mehringer, DO
Hometown: Jasper, IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Hospitalist vs. Cardiology
Interesting Fact: I am trying to learn Spanish and hope to be fluent one day.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I chose Ascension St Vincent after getting to know the attendings and residents. Everyone was fun to work with, and very invested in our education and well-being. It was great to learn in a close-knit, supportive culture while still having all the resources and opportunities a large hospital can provide.
Mike Pate, DO
Hometown: Wilsonville, AL
Medical School: VCOM-Auburn
Future Goals: Interested in pursuing a Cardiology or Pulmonary/Critical Care fellowship
Interesting Fact: I played football in college at the United States Air Force Academy before deciding I wanted to be a doctor
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I was genuinely impressed with how generous and supportive everyone was during my interview. I felt that Ascension St. Vincent would be an incredible educational environment to help me achieve my goals by becoming the best possible Internal Medicine Physician!
Priti Patel, DO
Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Currently considering a fellowship, possibly GI or Nephrology, but keeping an open mind!
Interesting Fact: I love to bake! Favorite item so far is cheesecake :)
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I love the midwest! Returning to the area was very appealing to me. Additionally, the residents and faculty were so kind and welcoming during my interview day. I knew the strong sense of community would be very conducive to learning, which made Ascension feel like a great fit!
Charles Price, MD
Hometown: Carmel, IN
Medical School: Indiana University School of Medicine
Future Goals: Hospitalist
Interesting Fact: Spending the summer months on Morse and Adams Lake is my favorite activity.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I chose this program for the collegial/family environment and the focus on both professional development and personal wellbeing. Additionally, this program provides care to a diverse and high acuity patient population.
Monica Schultz, DO
Hometown: Kokomo, IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Interested in Pulmonology/Critical Care
Interesting Fact: I lived in 4 states before I turned 5 (MI, ND, OK, IN) because my dad was in the Air Force. We eventually settled in IN just prior to me turning 5 so I still consider myself an honorary Hoosier.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: Rotating at Ascension as a 3rd year medical student is when I realized I wanted to pursue IM as a residency. I absolutely love the supportive and kind environment at ASV that is so conducive to learning both as a medical student and as a resident physician. I also wanted to stay close to family and love living in Indy so ASV was the perfect fit!
Shivani Suravarjjala, DO
Hometown: Fishers, IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Hospitalist or Endocrinologist
Interesting Fact: I love to sing! I still take lessons in my free time. Also, I recently became a dog mom!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I thoroughly enjoyed my rotations at St. Vincent during medical school training! When it came to picking a residency training program, StVs was an easy choice because of the emphasis on an engaging learning environment, personalized medicine tracks, positive culture and wellness among the residents, and close proximity to home.
Eamaan Turk, MD
Hometown: Carmel, IN
Medical School: Dow Medical College
Future Goals: Likely Primary Care or Hospitalist. But keeping an open mind
Interesting Fact: I traveled to Australia this year and got to pet a koala!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I wanted to be close to family during residency and the supportive culture of STV was exactly what I wanted in a program. The faculty and residents care about one another and being the best physicians they can for their patients.
Natalie Wolfe, DO
Hometown: Fremont, NE
Medical School: Des Moines University
Future Goals: Hospitalist or Critical Care fellowship - time will tell!
Interesting Fact: I recently got married in Las Vegas by an Elvis impersonator.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I wanted to stay in the Midwest, and I knew that Indianapolis would be an exciting change as well as a great place to live. Even through the virtual interview, I could tell that St. V's has a welcoming culture and would help me to reach all of my future career goals! -
Class of 2028
Sebastian Abad, MD
Hometown: Cuenca, Ecuador
Medical School: Universidad del Azuay Faculty of Medicine
Future Goals: Gastroenterology and Hepatology, but keeping an open mind as I explore other fields in internal medicine.
Interesting Fact: I love hiking and motorcycles! During the COVID-19 pandemic, I combined both passions by dirt biking and hiking for several hours to vaccinate and care for a remote village in the Ecuadorian Andes.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I consider the Midwest my second home after going to college in Indiana, and I feel deeply connected to Ascension’s core values of service to the poor, reverence, and integrity. I was drawn to the strong sense of camaraderie and professionalism at St. Vincent, and knew it was the ideal place to continue growing both personally and professionally.
Ali Anwar, DO
Hometown: Elk Grove, CA
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: In the future I hope to pursue a career in either hospitalist medicine or specialize into pulmonary and critical care.
Interesting Fact: I know the flags of every recognized country in the world.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I chose Ascension due to how welcoming and kind everyone was during my interview. In addition to all the great things I heard about the program from family that live in the area.
Sthefany Chavez Loor, MD
Hometown: Santa Ana, Ecuador / St. Louis, MO
Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine
Future Goals: Interested in pursuing a fellowship in Cardiology, Gastroenterology, or Pulmonary-Critical Care.
Interesting Fact: My adventurous spirit led me to move to the U.S. for college at 16, explore 15 countries, live in 5 states while advancing my career, and even jump out of a perfectly good airplane to skydive!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I chose Ascension St. Vincent for its mission-driven approach to healthcare, which aligns with my passion for public health, community service, and continuous growth. What truly set this program apart, however, was its people's genuine commitment to its mission and values. Throughout my interview, both leadership and residents demonstrated a deep investment in each other’s success, reaffirming that this program provides the collaborative and supportive learning environment I was seeking.
Annabelle Farmer, DO
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Medical School: Marian University COM
Future Goals: Interested in Cardiology
Interesting Fact: I play tennis!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: During my rotations as a med student at St V, I felt welcomed and encouraged to learn and ask questions by everyone here! I chose St V because of the positive culture and the opportunities for professional growth.
Marian Garrity, MD
Hometown: Quito, Ecuador / Madison, IN
Medical School: Indiana University School of Medicine
Future Goals: Primary Care
Interesting Fact: My husband and I got engaged 3 months after our first date - when you know, you know!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: The culture of the program exuded support and academic excellence. Residents here are supported to become great physicians AND supported as human beings. I knew I wanted to be part of a program which prioritized great medical training and well-being. It was also the only program I felt would fully prepare me for a career in primary care with the Primary Care Track that is offered.
Hania Khan, DO
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Medical School: Marian University Wood College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: I'm interested in either practicing as a hospitalist or pursuing pulmonary/critical care!
Interesting Fact: I'm obsessed with trying out new coffee recipes and am an amateur barista on the side :)
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I chose ASV because my experiences with the residents, faculty and staff during my medical school rotations were unmatched! I was confident I would be able to learn and grow in the welcoming environment here and be well supported because everyone wants you to succeed just as much as you want to!
Nadia Khan, DO
Hometown: Sayre, PA
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Keeping an open mind as I enter intern year! Looking forward to exploring where my passion lies.
Interesting Fact: My husband and I love trying new foods and have explored dozens of restaurants throughout Indianapolis!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: St Vincent already feels like home to me as I had a great experience working here as a medical student! The culture, camaraderie, and people truly are unmatched!
Maggie Kovalan, MD
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Medical School: Indiana University School of Medicine
Future Goals: Still deciding! Right now I'm interested in cardiology or palliative care.
Interesting Fact: I have two cats named Lucy and Biscuit!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: While on a rotation at St. Vincent as a medical student, I found the staff and fellow residents to be very supportive and collaborative! I knew that I would love to continue my medical training as a resident at a place like St. Vincent with such a strong sense of community.
Taylor Kowalski, DO
Hometown: South Bend, IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Hospitalist or Pulmonary Critical Care
Interesting Fact: One of my bucket list items is to go skiing in the Swiss Alps.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: Throughout my third and fourth year rotations, Ascension St. Vincent felt like home! The residents and faculty are all kind, helpful and compassionate, both to other members of the team and to patients. Everyone wants each other to grow, learn and succeed!
Muhammad Malik, DO
Hometown: Crown Point, IN
Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Hospitalist vs Pulmonology and Critical Care Medicine
Interesting Fact: One of my goals is to visit all five of the Great Lakes. So far, I've been to three, but I'm hoping to check off the remaining ones this year.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I was drawn to Ascension St. Vincent by its strong sense of community, supportive faculty and residents, and welcoming environment during my interview day. The combination of a kind, collaborative culture and a high volume of clinically interesting cases made it clear that this program would provide the ideal educational setting to help me grow into the best Internal Medicine physician I can be.
Alex Martinez, DO
Hometown: Buchanan, Michigan
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: I am interested in pursuing cardiology fellowship following residency.
Interesting Fact: My wife and I are trying to hike all of the national parks. We have been to 8 together so far!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I chose Ascension because this program will provide me with both the rigor and welcoming feeling I need to thrive in residency. I rotated here as a medical student and saw progress during even my short time and I know this will continue during my time as a resident. I believe the faculty and my co-residents will be extremely encouraging as I pursue my career goals and I am excited to see what I can offer during my time here..jpg?h=321&iar=0&w=211&hash=38A1650F694FDC0B606F0FCF740F6934)
Ced McAree, DO
Hometown: Fishers, IN
Medical School: VCOM-Carolinas
Future Goals: Fellowship training in Pulm/Critical Care
Interesting Fact: My twin sister and I represent one of the two sets of twins in my family!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: Although a variety of factors could account for why I chose Ascension St. Vincent as my top pick for residency, the authentic culture of camaraderie and exceptional quality of training I experienced during my audition rotation as well as noticing an intentional willingness to support career goals and aspirations were the leading reasons I chose to train at ASTV!
Shrina Patel, MD
Hometown: Fort Wayne, IN
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean
Future Goals: Undecided at this time.
Interesting Fact: I binge watched all 26 seasons of Law and Order in 4 months.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: During my interview and social event with Ascension, I had a great time talking to everyone. I felt completely at ease, and it was clear that the program has a really supportive culture and a strong focus on teaching. I also loved how friendly and close-knit everyone seemed - it made the environment feel even more welcoming!
Navraj Sahi, DO
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Medical School: Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: I'm excited to explore all avenues of medicine with an open mind!
Interesting Fact: If I wasn't pursuing medicine I would want to be writing and directing films. I don't write as much as I used to, but storytelling is a passion of mine.
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I chose St. Vincent because of the friendly atmosphere during my interview and because my wife and I wanted to come back to Indy. I could sense the positive culture even through the virtual environment. Additionally, there are great opportunities to reach your individual clinician goals while being exposed to diverse pathology and experiences. I knew that being able to further my medical journey in my hometown was the best choice for us!
Bret Schreckenghaust, DO
Hometown: Kokomo, IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: I'm keeping an open mind as I begin my training, but I am leaning towards pursuing a fellowship. I am particularly interested in pulmonary/critical care due to my experiences in medical school.
Interesting Fact: I'm very interested in history of all sorts and often read books, watch documentaries, or listen to podcasts about anything that catches my attention. I'll often drag my family along to check out old buildings or museums whenever we are vacationing in a new area!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: The vast majority of my experiences in medical school were through St. Vincent, and I came to love the culture and relationships I was developing with current residents and attendings. I also know I'd be supported in my journey no matter what path I chose and would have the opportunity to grow into the excellent physician I want to be. Lastly, my wife and I have lived in the area for our entire lives and now want to raise our son in the same place. We couldn't be more blessed that I can get such excellent training while also raising our son right where we intended..jpg?h=543&iar=0&w=392&hash=E72BAE8DE164508D782D3D1C021FE401)
Parker Williams, DO
Hometown: Indianapolis, IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Future Goals: Primary Care or Hospital Medicine. However, I am keeping an open mind!
Interesting Fact: I love trying new restaurants, and I am always looking for new recommendations here in Indy!
Why you chose ASVIM for Residency: I completed my first two clinical rotations as a medical student at St. Vincent, and throughout the rest of my third year, I often found myself thinking back to that experience. When I returned as a fourth-year, it became clear that St. Vincent was where I wanted to take the next step in my career. I'm also excited about the opportunity to stay in Indianapolis, close to family and friends.