Our Current Residents
Take a moment to meet our current residents. As you can see, we are a diverse group and are confident you will feel at home with us.
Chief Resident:
Ahmad Assaly, M.D.
- Medical School: University of Toledo College of Medicine
- Undergraduate School: University of Toledo
- Hometown: Sylvania, OH
- Why UToledo Pediatrics: As a student on 3rd and 4th-year rotations in Pediatrics, I made several friends with current and former residents from this program, some of whom I stay connected with currently. This showed me that the program is friendly, inclusive, and family-oriented, which is why I decided to stay. Another reason why I chose this program is the wonderful faculty mentors I made during medical school. I wanted to maintain close relationships with them throughout residency.
- Hobbies: Going to one of Toledo's beautiful Metroparks with my wife and daughter. I'm always willing to share hidden gem restaurant recommendations in Toledo and the surrounding cities!
Omar Abdulrazzaq, M.D.
- Medical School: The University of Jordan
- Hometown: Baghdad, Iraq
- Why UToledo Pediatrics:
- The people I met during my interview were friendly, nice, fun, and most importantly, seemed happy.
- I love teaching, and I believe this program provides a great opportunity to develop and improve in this, by working with and mentoring medical students.
- I like the diversity of the house staff, as it is a way to learn, share experiences, and see the world through different lenses.
- Hobbies: Playing and watching soccer (Chelsea FC all the way), spending time with family, biking, exploring coffee houses, and traveling.
Malaika Dahn, M.D.
- Medical School: Meharry Medical College
- Undergraduate School: North Carolina State University
- Hometown: Raleigh, NC
- Why UToledo Pediatrics: I loved that this program provides ample opportunities for residents to get involved with community and advocacy work. The patient population is diverse, the residents are happy, and the X+Y scheduling is a plus!
- Hobbies: Creating birthday cards for my nieces and nephews, dancing, trying out new restaurants, and volunteering at my church.
Hiba Elkarib, M.D.
- Medical School: University of Khartoum
- Hometown: Khartoum, Sudan
- Why UToledo Pediatrics: Everyone I met on my interview day was extremely welcoming, and it was apparent that they were dedicated to providing residents with a comprehensive education in a supportive environment.
- Hobbies: Reading, traveling, and spending time with my family.
Samuel Hale, M.D.
- Medical School: George's University School of Medicine
- Undergraduate School: University of Utah
- Hometown: Salt Lake City, UT
- Why UToledo Pediatrics: I was drawn to the University of Toledo Pediatric Program for many reasons, one of them being the X+Y schedule. I had heard many positive things about this type of schedule. Not only does it enhance your continuity clinic experience, but it is amazing for resident wellness.
- Hobbies: I enjoy swimming, playing pickle ball, and spending time with my wife and three kids!
Danny Hammoudi, M.D.
- Medical School: University of Queensland Ochsner Clinical school
- Undergraduate School: Dickinson College
- Hometown: Baltimore, MD
- Why UToledo Pediatrics: Throughout my interview, there was a big emphasis on all the residents and staff feeling like one big family, which was quite appealing. The X+Y schedule sounds great to prevent me from burning out and providing good continuity of care. There are many opportunities for me to teach the next generation of doctors. And finally, the lack of fellows means more opportunities for me to be more hands on and do procedures.
- Hobbies: Ballroom dancing, Dungeons & Dragons, reading light novels, photography, playing my ukulele, and the occasional video game.
Jesus Hernandez, M.D.
- Medical School: George's University School of Medicine
- Undergraduate School: California State University Northridge
- Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
- Why UToledo Pediatrics: It has amazing and genuine people that love to work in the same environment.
- Hobbies: Soccer, boxing, and spending time with my wife and son.
Danielle Kays, M.D.
- Medical School: University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences
- Undergraduate School: Liberty University
- Hometown: Wellington, OH
- Why UToledo Pediatrics: I felt that I had been so thoroughly prepared for residency by the faculty and staff at UToledo that I wanted to stay here to continue to receive this caliber of training.
- Hobbies: Camping, cruising, staying up to date on space news, and reading science fiction!
Morufat Olakunbi Kosoko, M.D.
- Medical School: American University of Antigua College of Medicine
- Undergraduate School: University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC)
- Hometown: Chicago, IL
- Why UToledo Pediatrics: There is a sense of community and compassion within the program.
- Hobbies: Watching Netflix, reading romance novels, and cooking.
Eugenie de Ocejo, M.D.
- Medical School: George's University School of Medicine
- Undergraduate School: University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada
- Hometown: Niagara on the Lake, Ontario, Canada
- Why UToledo Pediatrics: I enjoyed the feeling I got when talking with faculty and current residents, and I was hoping for a medium sized program with X+Y scheduling, which is exactly what UToledo offered!
- Hobbies: Spending time outdoors (ideally with my husband and dog), working with stained glass, Dungeons and Dragons, working out, and traveling.
Eric Pam, M.D.
- Medical School: George's University School of Medicine
- Undergraduate School: McGill University
- Hometown: Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Why UToledo Pediatrics: What most appealed to me were the benefits of the 3+1 schedule, the emphasis on teaching and working with students, the diverse patient population, and the opportunities for mentorship and performing procedures.
- Hobbies: Skiing, volleyball, reading, and rugby.
Firzah Abdul Mujeeb, M.D.
- Medical school: Dow Medical College.
- Hometown: Karachi, Pakistan.
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: The X+Y schedule helps us to unwind and relax during the clinic weeks after 3 weeks of a busy yet hectic schedule. The residents and faculty are very warm and always available whenever we need them. We almost feel like a family!
- Future career goals: Neonatology or Outpatient Pediatrics.
- Hobbies - Cooking, crochet.
Tolani Are, M.D.
- Medical School: University of Louisville School of Medicine.
- Undergraduate School: University of Texas at Austin.
- Hometown: Houston, Texas.
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: I got a great vibe from the interview.
- Future Career Goals: Undecided.
- Hobbies: Gardening, judo, working out.
Charmi Dholakia, M.D.
- Medical School: Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI).
- Undergraduate School: University of Calgary (Canada).
- Hometown: Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: On the day of my interview, the faculty and residents showed a lot of interest in learning about how certain life experiences have shaped my personality. To me, this spoke volumes about how important diversity and inclusivity are for everyone in this program, which was very refreshing. Additionally, UToledo Pediatrics offers ample opportunities for research and teaching, which was also a major reason to choose this program given my strong interest in academic medicine. Now as a resident, I am very happy with my choice because I truly feel like a family member who is valued and supported every single day.
- Future Career Goals: Fellowship, Academic Medicine, Global Health.
- Hobbies: Dancing to Bollywood songs (I run a YouTube channel), playing the keyboard and the ukulele, going on long drives.
David Garcia, M.D.
- Medical School: Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health.
- Undergraduate School: Ateneo De Manila University.
- Hometown: Pasig City, Philippines.
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: X + y schedule and the friendly and very capable attendings!
- Future Career Goals: Fellowship, probably in Infectious Disease or Neonatology.
- Hobbies: Running, cooking, and reading fan fiction.
Aaina Gupta, M.D.
- Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine.
- Undergraduate: Ohio Wesleyan University.
- Hometown: Cuyahoga Falls, OH.
- Why Toledo: I wanted to go to a program that has a good balance of outpatient and inpatient pediatrics, which Toledo is really strong because of the 3+1. I enjoyed my interview day because I felt comfortable and could see how close the residents were to each other! Lastly, I wanted to live close to my family and fiancée.
- Future Career Goals: Probably fellowship, but I would like to explore all my options.
- Hobbies: Hiking, baking, fantasy football, watching Cleveland sports, and spending time with my family!
Olla Khalid, M.D.
- Medical school: The University of Khartoum, Sudan.
- Hometown: Khartoum, Sudan.
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: I liked the X + Y schedule. I also liked the direct interaction between the attending doctors and the residents. The faculty, staff, and residents are friendly and welcoming.
- Future Career Goals: I like primary care and outpatient clinic work.
- Hobbies: gardening and spending time with my family.
Batool Khorasanee, M.D.
- Medical School: St. George's University.
- Undergraduate School: University of Toronto.
- Hometown: Mississauga, Ontario.
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: The People! Everyone with whom I interviewed was so warm and welcoming! I knew that for the next three years, I wanted to be with a program that not only provided me with the best resources to succeed in my career but also provided me with a comfort level that would help me through the tougher parts of residency.
- Future Career Goals: General pediatrics, or possible neurology fellowship.
- Hobbies: Adventuring! Exploring new areas, hiking, and trying new cuisines. Crafts - painting, clay work, knitting. Watching K-dramas and anime.
Ahmed Klobocista, M.D.
- Medical School: Medical University of the Americas.
- Undergraduate School: Brooklyn College: City University of New York.
- Hometown: NYC.
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: It’s a family-oriented program and, “You will do better in Toledo.”
- Future Career Goals: Undecided.
- Hobbies: Fencing, fishing, hiking, cooking, and traveling.
Ronitha Madras Kumar, M.D.
- Medical School: St George's University.
- Hometown: Chennai, India.
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: The faculty and residents are very friendly, welcoming, and supportive, It makes for a great positive environment to train in, and the 3+1 schedule is a great bonus for a good work/life balance.
- Future Career Goals: To work inpatient, not sure about subspeciality yet.
- Hobbies: Baking, exploring new food, places, and traveling.
Yousof Mousa, M.D.
- Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine.
- Undergraduate School: Kent State University.
- Hometown: Ramallah, Palestine, and Warren, Ohio.
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: Everyone I met during the interview was very friendly and the program seemed supportive of the residents and their career plans. It's also nice to be close to home so it's easy to visit family.
- Future Career Goals: Cardiology fellowship, and to treat patients globally.
- Hobbies: My favorite thing to do is spend time with family and friends. I also enjoy making coffee, working on cars, and playing soccer.
Zainab Ahmad, M.D.
- Medical school: Dow Medical College
- Hometown: Karachi, Pakistan
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: The people. My interview felt natural, and I like how the program emphasizes balance with an X+Y schedule. Additionally, Toledo is a small town with big city vibes which I find amazing!
- Future career goals: Undecided but I am ready to explore.
- Hobbies: Spending time with family and friends. Food and creative arts.
Kamaljit Braich, M.D.
- Medical School: Midwestern University – Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Undergraduate School: Illinois State University
- Hometown: Palos Hills, Illinois
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: I had a positive interview experience with Dr. Thomas. The residents, attendings, and staff are very welcoming here. They help create a positive learning environment for everyone!
- Future Career Goals: Fellowship in pulmonology or neonatology.
- Hobbies: Pilates, crocheting.
Esraa Eltaraifee, M.D.
- Medical School: University of Khartoum
- Hometown: Khartoum, Sudan, and Madinah, Saudi Arabia
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: The program has a friendly and supportive environment, and you can see how the program puts effort into resident growth. Plus, I liked the X+Y schedule.
- Future Career Goals: Global health, genetics.
- Hobbies: Baking, cooking, reading.
Brian Kistler, M.D.
- Medical School: The University of Toledo College of Medicine
- Undergraduate School: John Carroll University
- Hometown: Monroeville, Ohio
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: Throughout my 3rd and 4th year pediatric rotations, I created several strong friendships with current residents who had amazing things to say about the program. The program has felt like home throughout my time here. I have always felt that attendings here truly have our best interests in mind and are excited to teach. The University of Toledo Pediatrics is filled with positive people who create a great environment for learning and success.
- Future Career Goals: Fellowship is my goal with cardiology as an initial favorite.
- Hobbies: Watching soccer (COYS), playing soccer, pickleball, and volleyball, and biking.
Aisha Mahar, M.D.
- Medical School: Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences
- Hometown: Hyderabad, Pakistan, and Columbus, Ohio
- Why Toledo: Everyone I met during my interview was warm and welcoming. The program seemed to have an overall friendly environment. Also, it is nice to be close to home.
- Hobbies: Cooking, cleaning, and organizing my home/space, and I also enjoy watching documentaries on various social issues.
Pedrum Nazem, M.D.
- Medical school: St. George's University School of Medicine
- Undergraduate School: University of Maryland, College Park
- Hometown: Columbia, Maryland
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: X+Y scheduling, friendly and engaging faculty during interview season, emphasis on resident work-life balance and wellness.
- Future Career Goals: General Pediatrics or Fellowship in Pediatric Emergency Medicine.
- Hobbies: Lifting weights, playing soccer, computer gaming.
Merve Otles, M.D.
- Medical School: American University of Antigua College of Medicine
- Undergraduate School: Montclair State University
- Hometown: Paterson, New Jersey
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: I felt very comfortable during my UToledo interview. I appreciated the X+Y scheduling and the absence of fellows, which meant more hands-on experience for residents.
- Future Career Goals: Peds Emergency Medicine or General Peds.
- Hobbies: Traveling, photography, baking, knitting, reading, exploring new areas.
Reema Punni, M.D.
- Medical School: St George's School of Medicine, Grenada
- Undergraduate School: Dalhousie University, Halifax NS
- Hometown: Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: During my interview, everyone I met was genuinely kind and welcoming, which was essential to me as I wanted to prioritize working in a supportive team environment when picking a program. Additionally, Toledo's proximity to my hometown was an added benefit.
- Future Career Goals: General pediatrics or a Fellowship in Adolescent Medicine or Developmental Medicine.
- Hobbies: Cooking, baking, puzzles, and crocheting.
Martin Varghese, M.D.
- Medical School: Meenakshi Medical College and Research Institute
- Hometown: New Delhi
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: The program is friendly and inclusive with great teaching and hands-on experience. The 3+1 schedule prevents burnout and balances inpatient and outpatient well.
- Future Career Goals: I’m interested in infectious disease-microbes are amazing.
- Hobbies: Books and bookstores, anime, spending time with my wife and our very pampered cat and dog.
Suleman Yousaf, M.D.
- Medical School: Aga Khan University
- Hometown: Rawalpindi, Pakistan
- Why Toledo Pediatrics: Everyone I met in the program was extremely warm and welcoming. It has a very balanced schedule where residents get a lot of exposure and opportunities to learn, do procedures, and thrive in an academic environment while maintaining their non-curricular hobbies and activities. The camaraderie among residents and attendings was a major draw for me.
- Future Career Goals: Possible fellowship. Still exploring my options.
- Hobbies: Cricket, working out, reading books (history/politics).
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