Nikki always had a love for sciences and studied neuroscience as an undergraduate. She has several great physician mentors in her life that have encouraged her to pursue medicine as it combined her love of health sciences with her strong desire to help people, especially underserved populations. After college, she worked as a scribe in the Emergency Department in Miami, FL and was further convinced that medicine was what she wanted to study. She went to medical school in Spartanburg, SC and did her clinical years in Asheville and fell in love with the city so she was thrilled when she was able to attend MAHEC for residency.

Asheville has been a great place to complete my residency because there are opportunities for so many outdoor hobbies. I have found so many great trails for running and have been able to take in some beautiful sights. In the summer months, I also enjoy being by the water and getting friends together to go tubing. When I am not doing something outside, I enjoy painting, reading, or listening to music. I also love food and trying the many different wonderful restaurants we have in town. I have loved the friends I have made during residency and am grateful to call Asheville my home.

Becca was always interested in medicine, surrounded by it growing up with her father’s extensive heart disease history. Being in the hospital environment, she saw the passion and care the providers brought to make a scary situation seem just a little less scary. She knew she wanted to be in a field that stemmed from this profound connection with patients and their stories, particularly in understanding the complexities of their struggles and triumphs. She knew internal medicine would bring these pieces together offering a continuing learning journey. Prior to the start of medical school, she picked up a substitute teaching job to help make some extra money before moving. Little did she know this would spark a passion for teaching she hopes to continue as a senior resident and throughout the rest of her career.

I love MAHEC for the camaraderie and friendships I have built over the past two years, and I felt this during interview season right away chatting with the current residents. I was lucky enough to couples match here with my fiancé who is in the general surgery residency. I try and spend most of my free time with my fiancé and our co-residents, going on walks, hikes, and out to all the breweries downtown. I love to watch basketball, coming from UConn, this is a big passion of mine. I also like my fair share of reading fiction and reality tv.

Having enjoyed most of his clerkships in medical school, Justin felt extremely conflicted for what path his career should take. This eventually led him to choosing internal medicine. Justin relished the opportunity to learn how to manage patients with many a wide variety of medical conditions. Furthermore, the flexibility of career options available is an added bonus in the event his interests or priorities change later on.

MAHEC was always on my radar during interview season but it was not until my interview day when I realized how perfect of a fit it was. I left the day extremely impressed by what Dr. Call and the rest of the faculty have already achieved with a new Internal Medicine program as well as their future vision moving forward. I wanted to be a part of what they were building. As a bonus, the program is in an incredible city near my family and friends. When I am not working, I can be found out hiking, on the tennis court, at a local restaurant/brewery, home playing video games on my custom PC, or most importantly, catching up on sleep.

Elizabeth wanted to pursue medicine from a young age. She fell in love with internal medicine during medical school - the diversity of adult medicine and complexity of patient care created the perfectly challenging field. MAHEC specifically fit all of her boxes: new and evolving program, strong female leadership, and large community based program with an academic emphasis. Asheville is also a wonderful city with yummy food and beers (sour summer anyone?!). She will be joining Kayleigh as Chief Resident for the 2025-2026 year.

Interest outside of medicine include enjoying the fun aisle at Aldi, Peloton work-outs, house plants, my sweet baby pitbull Kylo, and creating travel itineraries focused on fun new experiences and outstanding food. I live in Hendersonville with my husband, who is an emergency medicine physician. If needing any good recommendations for Hendy, hit me up!

Angela went to college at the College of William and Mary where she received a B.S. in Biology. She then moved up to Philadelphia to earn her M.D. at Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson. She was drawn to internal medicine because she loves every aspect of patient care and strongly believes in taking care of the patient as a whole. Her interest in geriatrics grew during residency as she enjoys working with older adults and learning from their life experiences. She wishes to become a geriatrician and help advocate for the care of older adults.

After spending a few years in the bustling city, I was ready to make the move to the peaceful mountains of Asheville, North Carolina. My favorite part about working at MAHEC are the people. MAHEC has provided me with a supportive community that pushes me to grow as a physician and a person. When I am not taking care of patients, you can find me reading historical fiction, binging reality television, or playing with my adorable cat Rocky.

Katherine has wanted to be a doctor for as long as she can remember. She could even show you the 4th grade essay she wrote about how she wanted to be a Pediatric Oncologist. However, some things have changed as she discovered her love for Rheumatology along the way. Even with her childhood dream, her path to medicine was not straightforward. After college, she was on the management track at a grocery store, when her passion for medicine literally drove her to New York City where she started in a new role as an urgent care scribe. She returned to Georgia after 3 years to obtain her master’s degree. During this time, she worked for a Rheumatologist, which sparked her interest in this subspecialty of internal medicine.

I am a homebody at heart. Some of my favorite years growing up were in the foothills of the Appalachians, which is what influenced me to first consider MAHEC – of course, I subsequently fell in love with the program and people. In my free time, I love hanging out with my 16-year-old dog at home while I read or complete puzzles. Although I am a homebody at heart, I enjoy the occasional hike or escapade to take in the wonderful views Asheville has to offer.

Dr. Kollross grew up in a rural community in Central Wisconsin. This upbringing is what drove his interest in rural medicine. He attended the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire with a focus on biology. After graduation he worked as a histology technician for the University of Wisconsin Department of Pathology before being accepted into the University of Wisconsin’s rural medicine program. The Wisconsin Academy of Rural Medicine allowed Dr. Kollross to grow his focus on medical education and public health in rural underserved areas of Wisconsin. While in medical school, Dr. Kollross completed the University of Wisconsin Department of Pathology Angevine Fellowship. He also served as a board member and president of the Healthy Classrooms Foundation, a non-profit organization founded by the medical students at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health to advance public health initiatives in K – 12 classrooms across the state of Wisconsin. After graduation from medical school Dr. Kollross started internal medicine residency in Western North Carolina with MAHEC Internal Medicine. He has an interest in serving the rural and underserved populations of this region. His professional interests include pulmonary medicine, and critical care medicine.

I am excited to learn and practice medicine in Western North Carolina as part of MAHEC Internal Medicine. I was drawn to MAHEC by their focus on increasing health care to rural and underserved populations. In my free time I enjoy the wide variety of outdoor activities that Western North Carolina has to offer. This includes hiking, trail running, downhill skiing, and fishing. I am also caretaker for a large range of houseplants both within the MAHEC Internal Medicine office and at home.

Hi, friends! Mike here. I’m a Yankee transplant originally from Vermont, but Asheville has been my home away from home for about ten years, so I’m thrilled to be living here while I complete my residency training. I studied philosophy at Davidson College before returning to Vermont to attend medical school at UVM’s Larner College of Medicine. Prior to starting residency, I completed a one year post-doc in diabetes clinical research right here in Asheville.

In my spare time, you can find me shredding some sick riffs on my axe, mountaineering on the most dangerous peaks in the world, or wearing a cardigan and doing a crossword puzzle…awesomely. I also love sports, especially football and baseball, and I’m working towards my black belt in homemade pizza making.

Kayleigh Lewis grew up in South Florida and earned her bachelor’s degree in biology with minors in biomedical physics, chemistry, and Spanish from Florida State University in 2017. Following this, she attended medical school at Florida International University in Miami, FL, and completed a Transitional Year Internship in Tampa, FL, before moving to North Carolina to start her residency in Internal Medicine.

The allure of Asheville, North Carolina, with its seasonal weather and peaceful tranquility of the mountains, proved irresistible to me, offering a refreshing departure from the hustle and bustle of city life in Miami and Tampa. My interests lie in medical education, teaching, quality improvement and patient safety. I can always count on a fun time playing pickleball and visiting local dining spots and bars with my co-residents. Outside of medicine, I enjoy traveling, watching documentaries, paddle boarding, hiking, indulging in true crime podcasts, and spending time with my family.

Sharidan knew she wanted to pursue medicine at an early age, and this was confirmed during her high school years when she started taking advanced biology and anatomy courses and really enjoyed those subjects. During her undergraduate education, she loved her microbiology, medical microbiology, and even her zoology courses where she was first exposed to studying parasitology. When starting medical school she had already decided to pursue the field of internal medicine as she was intrigued by the investigational nature of the field, and that it would further promote her interest in studying and training in infectious disease. Throughout her childhood, undergraduate, and medical education she fell in love with North Carolina and wanted to continue her training in the state to help serve the population in which she grew up, and wanted to continue this in her residency training.

I have lived in North Carolina for over 20 years and wanted to continue my education and training in a place where I could continue to serve a community in the state in which I grew up. Out of all the wonderful programs in state, I was initially drawn to MAHEC as Asheville’s reputation for beautiful mountain scenery, good food, and great culture. I have enjoyed getting to the know the area with my dog, as the city is very dog friendly!

Dr. Murphy grew up in a rural community without immediate access to healthcare, so she appreciates the importance of comprehensive and accessible medical care. This upbringing, in addition to her experience as a transitions of care manager, influences her holistic approach to medicine which considers both the medical and social factors that shape a patient's well-being. Training to be a general internist is exciting and fulfilling to her as it affords her the opportunity to delve deeply into complex conditions to care for her patients. Her goal is to work as a general hospitalist once she completes residency.

Outside of the hospital, I am an avid traveler and love to explore as I find solace and inspiration being outdoors. Some of my favorite trips to date include hiking through the Garden of the Gods, snorkeling in Roatan, swimming with horses on the beaches of Punta Cana, traveling through Europe, and embarking on spontaneous road trips. Equally important to me is my family. They continually remind me that life's true richness lies in the cherished moments shared with loved ones.

Krystie is a dedicated upcoming hospitalist, propelled by her deep-rooted passion for Internal Medicine. Her journey into this field was sparked by a profound fascination with the intricate complexities of the human body and the unique opportunity it provides to delve into a diverse array of medical specialties and acuities. Along her educational and professional path, she has consistently pursued a deeper understanding of internal medicine, acknowledging its role in continuously challenging her to grasp the nuances of various medical specialties, thereby enhancing her collaborative abilities with colleagues.

In my quest for the ideal residency, I sought programs prioritizing a comprehensive curriculum, aiming to mold well-rounded physicians adept at caring for patients across a spectrum of complexity and acuity levels. MAHEC was a perfect match for these criteria, offering training at the region's only dedicated Level II trauma center under the guidance of attendings committed to evidence-based medicine. Additionally, discovering Asheville's abundant opportunities for both adventure and relaxation was a pleasant surprise! The city's diverse array of attractions, including hiking trails, botanical gardens, farmer’s markets, music venues, and an eclectic culinary scene, provided the perfect respite following demanding shifts. Further, Asheville's convenient proximity to major cities like Nashville, Knoxville, and Greenville ensured weekends were never dull. Ultimately, the combination of MAHEC's exceptional training environment and Asheville's vibrant offerings not only fostered my professional growth but also enriched my life in countless ways. If given the choice again, I would unquestionably select MAHEC and Asheville again!

Dr. Jeffrey ‘Tyler’ Ramsey is a North Carolina native from the suburbs of Charlotte. He graduated from Appalachian State University in Boone with a degree in chemistry before he was selected for a 2-year post-baccalaureate research training fellowship with the National Institutes of Health. During his time at NIH, he headed several projects, one of which gained world-wide media attention and was featured on BBC, Time Magazine, Forbes, and Healthline. His primary research involved essential oils and how they may contribute to breast growth in adolescents. He was recognized by the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) as a Top National Student Researcher of the Year. He went on to complete his medical school at Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine (CUSOM) in Buies Creek, NC. While at CUSOM, he was elected Vice-President by his peers and became involved with the Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents within the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). He served as a member of the Legislative Affairs committee which oversaw several advocacy initiatives involving public health and medical education. His passion for advocacy continued when he launched CUSOM’s first LGBTQI+ association, which anchored a support group for the medical school for sexual and gender minorities in concert with education to the providers and the community around the medical intricacies of this population.

Dr. Ramsey is currently a PGY-3 Internal Medicine resident physician at Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC) in Asheville, North Carolina. During his residency, he has been appointed by the AOA as a member of the Committee on AOA Governance and Organization Structure and its subsequent subcommittees. He also has been a part of training faculty in conjunction with the ACGME on feedback to learners in medical education during the co-conference led by ACGME and MAHEC entitled Developing Faculty Competencies in Assessment. In addition, he serves on his Program Evaluation Committee at his residency program which oversees evaluating the program regularly and initiating department-wide changes. His passion for education has also led him to contribute several articles to Medscape involving well-being, education, and The Match in his free time as a resident.

Dr. Ramsey has interests in medical hematology and oncology, and he aspires to become a physician scientist in the future. He plans to apply for fellowship after finishing his internal medicine training, which he feels will marry his passion for research, clinical studies, and his strong value of advocacy for his patients. Outside of medicine, he is a proud dog dad of a golden retriever named Boone. He has an enormous exotic plant collection and travels abroad any opportunity he can get with his partner, who is an OB/GYN faculty physician at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He also enjoys skiing in the winter and was a competitive member of the Appalachian State Ski Team.

Hello, y’all! I’m Kacey and I am so glad to be at MAHEC for residency. As a lifelong North Carolinian living almost exclusively in WNC since 2007, I could not be more excited to be living and working in our beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. I completed my undergrad degree in Spanish at UNC-Asheville and a Master’s in Library Science from UNC-Greensboro. After that, I worked as a medical librarian for 5 years before pursuing medical school at UNC School of Medicine. I returned home to Asheville for my 3rd and 4th year rotations and knew right away that I wanted to stay at MAHEC for my residency training--the faculty and curriculum are spectacular, and the residents are so welcoming and friendly.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Josh, our two dogs (Dobby and Ruth), and cat (Lily). We frequently take advantage of the gorgeous outdoors by canoeing, gardening, hiking, and grilling out. Whether you’re an avid hiker, lover of live music, or beer connoisseur, WNC has something for you to explore, making it a wonderful place to live and play!

Taylor’s journey toward medicine started with a college job as an alpine ski patroller in Montana. He always loved science and was thrilled to be able to combine his love of skiing and the outdoors with hands-on medical training. This experience led him to obtain his certified nurse aide (CNA) and a job in inpatient oncology. In medical school, he knew he had found his calling while rotating at a rural hospital in southwest Colorado. He found he enjoyed the cognitive work of turning symptoms into a diagnosis. Furthermore, he liked the procedural opportunities available to rural hospitalists. At MAHEC, he has loved the opportunity to continue exploring rural practice at Transylvania Regional Hospital in the community of Brevard, NC.

I had the opportunity to visit Asheville during my 4th year of medical school and fell in love with the community and surrounding area. In my free time, I’ll most likely be mountain biking, rock climbing, or trail running in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Outside of the vast amount of outdoor opportunities Asheville has to offer, I love to explore the local food scene and often frequent Nine Mile, Laughing Seed, and Early Girl Eatery. My partner and I have two cats, Sirius and Bellatrix, who are constantly getting into mischief. I feel so incredibly grateful to have been able to spend my time in training in such a beautiful, vibrant community!

Bri graduated from an osteopathic medical school and is grateful for the holistic approach to medicine that her education provided. She first discovered her passion for internal medicine during a 3rd year clinical rotation at a rural hospital in Indiana. She enjoyed learning about the various pathologies that patients presented with in the hospital and found for the first time she did not mind waking up at 5 AM to go to work. Her favorite thing about working in the hospital is connecting with patients who are going through very difficult and oftentimes very scary situations. Providing compassionate care and focusing on keeping humanism in medicine are her goals with every patient she meets. She hopes to work as a hospitalist when finishing residency.

I chose MAHEC because of the focus on resident wellbeing, dedication to the community and providing care for everyone, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status, and its location in the beautiful city of Asheville, NC. I enjoy traveling when I’m able and have a goal to visit every US National Park. I got married before residency to my amazing husband, and our house is full with our two cats and two dogs. I wind down by rewatching New Girl, taking the dogs for a walk, sewing, or scream-singing Fall Out Boy in my car.

What’s up everyone? I grew up in Southeast Tennessee, where I attended UT-Chattanooga for a B.S. in Molecular Biology and Chemistry then continued my studies for graduate school at Georgetown University, studying physiology. After being wheelchair-bound for a few months due to a climbing accident in California, I decided to pursue medicine and completed my medical education at ETSU Quillen College of Medicine, right down the road from Asheville. I chose internal medicine because it has the perfect combination of treating a diverse array of chronic conditions while diagnosing complex pathology. I also love the many options you have available after completing the three years of residency. My interests include rural medicine, wilderness medicine, and international health. Having grown up around the mountains of East Tennessee, I feel like Asheville is already home and look forward to practicing here for residency.

Outside of work, I love many outdoor hobbies including mountain biking, hiking, soccer, golf, and camping. I’m also a big fan of concerts, music festivals, and playing music. I’ve played guitar on and off for many years and recently bought a drum set (slowly learning). I also love playing chess, so you might find me at the outdoor tables downtown!

Hi everybody! My name is Jake. I moved around quite a bit growing up, so I can say I have lived in Colorado, Alabama, California, Montana, Washington, and now I am happy to add North Carolina to that list. Even though I haven’t lived in North Carolina personally, my mother was born in Asheville, so I’m happy to be returning to some family roots! I was raised on stories of beautiful mountains and trees as far as you can see, so I’m excited to be able to explore that more when coming to MAHEC.

As I said previously, I’ve gotten to explore a lot of the US. From living in massive cities on the west coast to small towns in Montana, I’ve come to appreciate the great variety of individuals out there. In medical school, I found that I enjoyed the communication and teamwork aspect when working with patients and healthcare professionals which lead me to ultimately choose Internal Medicine. When I interviewed with MAHEC, I was excited to find very like-minded individuals which is why I am looking forward to the new experiences I will encounter as I broaden my geographic palette on the east coast.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy many other active hobbies including tennis, basketball, and hiking. However, that doesn’t stop me from also spending my fair share of time binge-watching a tv show, rewatching a favorite movie, or reading a good book.

Dana completed medical school in rural portions of the country which drove her passion toward community medicine rather than academic institutions. She previously completed a medical mission trip in Honduras, and would like to practice international medicine at some point in her career. She takes interest in the variety that internal medicine has to offer, although she has a special interest in cirrhosis and liver pathology. During her intern year, she worked on the recruitment committee to encourage others to join the community that is MAHEC.

I chose MAHEC and Asheville for the scenery and kindness. Asheville itself has a diverse population with plenty of opportunities to practice individualized medicine. The area offers great food and activities. The city provides just enough to do without being overwhelming. I enjoy playing tennis and still go back to my hometown occasionally to teach dance and choreograph routines on the weekends. I have a passion for making medicine feel attainable and comfortable for anyone that walks through the doors of the clinics or hospitals, despite background, language, or prior experiences.

Beth has always been fascinated by learning and its application to serving the people around her; from literature, history, and science, she has wanted to absorb every tidbit of information with the intention of being a conduit of growth in her community. The integration of science, service work, and innovation attracted her to medicine, and eventually internal medicine for its unique breadth and depth. In particular, she has had a focus on public health, which culminated in her being recognized with a global and public health distinction at her medical school.

I have always loved experiencing a variety of locales, so I ensured my medical journey has taken me all over the United States. When it came time to apply for residency, I remembered the lovely impression Asheville made when I visited, and upon discovering MAHEC I was delighted with how the program shared my values. I also love gardening and cooking, and I’ve had a variety of past jobs, including making my way from being a barista to financial manager of a café. In my spare time, you can find me curling up with tea and a good book/podcast or endlessly pampering my two troublemaking cats.

Michael explored a career in medicine during college with his interest in science, completing his degree in Biochemistry. He also studied Spanish in college, studying abroad in Mexico, Peru, and Spain in efforts to better understand the language and care for Spanish-speaking patients. During medical school, he found he was most fulfilled by being a part of a person’s health journey and guiding them through the obstacles that arose. He was drawn to Internal Medicine, specifically in the hospital setting, as he can work alongside a multidisciplinary team to support a patient in a holistic way during a difficult point in their health journey.

I spent time before medical school working as a backpacking guide in the Adirondack mountains of New York, so I have been excited to spend my training in the beautiful mountains around Asheville. I love woodworking and making things for others, playing tennis, video games, antiquing/thrifting, and hiking/backpacking to continue spending time in nature. The MAHEC community has quickly become family this past year, and I am thankful to be a part of it with how much I’ve learned from everyone and how enjoyable it is to work alongside them.

Dr. Kareem Goldson completed his undergraduate studies in Biology with a Chemistry minor at Florida A&M University, earning his B.S. in December 2017. He then pursued his medical degree at Florida State University College of Medicine - Daytona Beach Campus, graduating in May 2023. Throughout his medical education, Dr. Goldson has been actively involved in several professional societies, including the American College of Physicians and the North Carolina Medical Society. His volunteer experiences range from local community service to international medical missions, reflecting his dedication to serving diverse populations. Dr. Goldson's interest in Internal Medicine stems from his passion for comprehensive patient care and his fascination with the complex interplay of various bodily systems. His involvement in numerous research projects, such as investigating pediatric vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic and exploring colorectal cancer screening among cancer survivors, showcases his dedication to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient outcomes. Dr. Goldson has also been recognized for his academic contributions, with multiple poster presentations at esteemed conferences.

I chose Asheville and MAHEC for my residency because of the program's emphasis on community-focused healthcare and its supportive learning environment. The opportunity to work in a diverse community and the program's strong commitment to underserved populations align with my professional goals and personal values. Outside of medicine, I enjoy playing the trumpet, running, swimming, and cooking. These activities help me maintain a balanced lifestyle and keep me grounded. I am excited to contribute to the Asheville community and grow both personally and professionally through my residency at MAHEC.

Emma is originally from central Kentucky and has lived there her whole life. She had the opportunity to train in the Rural Physician Leadership Program in Morehead KY which allowed her to work with rural populations of eastern Kentucky and begin understanding the challenges that occur in much of the Appalachian population. It was important for her to train at a program which serves this population and continue to learn how to support the disparities of these communities. Internal medicine provides a way to explore all aspects of medicine and maintain a broad range knowledge with patient care and interaction at the center. She has a particular interest in primary care, preventive medicine, and lifestyle medicine.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy cooking /baking and sharing said food with others! I tried to bring in a baked treat at least once a month to share with everyone. Part of the reason I was excited to move to Asheville is the art here. The plethora of events and stores with local artist are a strong attraction for me. Once in a blue moon, I also like to create crafts or paint. I enjoy being around others and frequently host watch parties for old favorites or new airing shows. When I have some time alone you can find me reading, playing video games, or browsing thrift stores/antique stores/estate sales.

Born in a small town in South India, Binil had the privilege of growing up globally across Chengannur, Riyadh, Bucharest, Dubai, Ujung Pandang, Casablanca, Lagos, Kodaikanal, St Louis, Nice, Baku, and Beersheva. While his grandfather’s cardiac health was the initial spark into medicine for the young elementary-aged Binil, his unique upbringing inevitably exposed him to significant inequalities in access and delivery of healthcare across a range of sociocultural contexts. This became one of his driving principles: how to provide the best possible care while simultaneously honoring the humanity of the patient and optimizing costs in an increasingly bloated system. While ObGyn (specifically UroGyn) was a one-time interest, he realized that Internal Medicine had everything he needed in terms of complex pathologies (especially interesting when there’s a whiff of a nephron involved), care for an aging population, and navigation through social and structural determinants of health. It’s probably the mix of biochemistry (of course through the Chemistry department!), agony over Arsenal being perpetual also-rans, and exposure to medicine in Ghana, India, and Israel that has molded this strange man into what may become a good transplant nephrologist.

My free time is spent reflecting on Gooner storylines, writing poetry, honing languages, pining for bouldering, and exploring all things indoors and outdoors that Asheville has to offer. I will inevitably be found biking along Hendersonville Road – unless pet-sitting, in which case I will begrudgingly drive. While Asheville’s size and eccentricities threw me off when I first arrived, my heart has since been won over. I am excited to be at MAHEC Internal Medicine, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, learning from national leaders, and serving marginalized communities of Western North Carolina.

Kristen has always had wide-ranging interests, from physical activities like Ultimate Frisbee, powerlifting, and hiking to more sedentary pursuits like video games (huge Legend of Zelda nerd), science, music, and art. She even majored in Classics (Ancient Greek and Latin) during her undergraduate studies at Denison University, and while it was fulfilling intellectually, Kristen discovered she was thoroughly unemployable upon graduation. So she worked as a medical scribe for several years which fueled an interest in medicine, and she eventually obtained her D.O. at Rocky Vista University. Her interests in medicine remained rather varied and she could not stand to narrow her career into any one specialty, so she pursued Internal Medicine, and she has not regretted it one bit! She specifically loves hospital medicine because she enjoys the microcosm of an interconnected, walkable community inside the hospital along with the dynamic day-to-day activities.

I really do love learning a little bit about everything. If you’re into something obscure, chances are I’ve fallen into a Wikipedia hole on that topic for at least an evening. And if not, I’d love for you to tell me all about it. The weirder, the better! In my spare time I like to hike, run, and lift to stay well. But I also make sure to enjoy all the awesome cuisine, music, and art Asheville has to offer!

Hello! My name is Carson and I am a lifelong North Carolinian, with the exception of four years spent in Washington, DC while going to college at American University. After college, I moved back to North Carolina and worked for three years in the Infectious Diseases division at UNC Chapel Hill, and then attended the UNC School of Medicine for my medical degree. I loved UNC so much that I chose to stay for an extra year to obtain my Master’s in Public Health degree. My master’s research focused on the intersections of social determinants of health and utilization of the emergency department for non-emergent care. I was also a member of the health sciences a cappella group.

My number one goal when working with patients is to gain a deep understanding of their needs, and I strive to make shared decisions that align with patients’ healthcare goals and values. I have clinical interests in LGBTQ health (I’m a proud part of the LGBT community myself!), underserved populations, substance use treatment, mental health, patient education, and quality improvement.

When not working, I enjoy gardening, engaging with the local Jewish community, spending time with family, and enjoying the outdoors.

David entered the field of internal medicine due to its wide breadth of pathophysiology, ability to coordinate care and work with subspecialists, and his love for cardiology. He loves working with people from all walks of life and values serving underprivileged communities. He was initially drawn to internal medicine during his fourth year of medical school when he rotated in general cardiology. He likes that it involves making time-critical decisions while being able to reassure and empower patients.

I grew up in Fort Lauderdale, Florida and love the beach but have really enjoyed getting to hike and explore the mountains. I am a big Florida gator fan and chose MAHEC due to its devoted faculty, supportive environment, and location in the heart of Asheville. In my free time, you can find me hiking, kayaking, traveling, working out, or watching a good movie!

I love academic internal medicine and seeing a variety of chief complaints and pathologies, so I am excited to start my career as a hospitalist. As a native North Carolinian, I have always cherished our mountainous region, but my love of travel took me to many different environments while completing my studies. At this stage of the journey, it is an honor to return home to serve the lovely people of North Carolina! When not working, I enjoy hikes with my dog and painting.

Ethan first became involved in medicine while working in an acute care psychiatric treatment center after college, giving him an up-close view of healthcare disparities in vulnerable populations. During medical school, he found that making personal connections with patients brought meaning and substance to the work of medicine and helped build therapeutic alliances that led to improved health outcomes. His goal has always been to help turn medical data into actionable information for patients, and internal medicine is the ideal meeting place of data-driving shared decision making and therapeutic rapport.

I love exploring the wide range of cuisine available in Asheville, but when I’m not working you may also find me exploring Asheville's arts scenes, going to trivia nights, or hitting the trails with my husband and our dog to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Of course, you may also find me watering my extensive collection of houseplants, watching Netflix on the couch with my cats, or playing board games or working on puzzles at the dining room table.

Hello everyone! My name is Joslin Stanton, and I am beyond thrilled to be a part of the MAHEC family. I’m originally from Florida, and I went to FSU (Go Noles!!) to obtain my undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences. Once it became clear to me that I wanted to pursue a career in medicine, I ventured to Tampa, FL to get my Master’s degree in Medical Sciences. My journey to medical school eventually landed me in Alabama. I feel so fortunate to have landed in the beautiful area of Asheville, NC for residency.

I was invested in the MAHEC IM program pretty much from the moment I got the invite to interview. From the interactions with the faculty and residents to hearing just how much MAHEC values the support and well-being of its residents, these were just a few of the things that hooked me from the beginning. MAHEC simply just had that extra something that spoke to me, and I knew without a doubt that this program was the perfect fit for me. In addition to internal medicine being a wonderful area of medicine in & of itself, I am excited to learn more about the hematology/oncology specialty.

My interests outside of medicine include journaling, cooking, hiking, spending time with family, friends, my two little fur babies Flex and Fuchsia, and continuing to nurture the part of me that likes to try anything at least once.

Emily is a native to western North Carolina, growing up in the town of Sylva. She received her B.S. in 2016 and her M.S. in 2019 from Western Carolina University (WCU). Emily’s M.S. thesis addressed how the human oral microbiome changes during decomposition in the Southern Appalachian biome. She has served as an adjunct professor at WCU and is passionate about education and serving her community. In 2020, Emily began attending medical school at Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee. Her love for microbiology sparked her interest in pursuing a career in Infectious Diseases, which is the specialty she plans to enter following her training in Internal Medicine. Emily loves the collaborative atmosphere and diagnostic challenges of Internal Medicine and is most at home in the inpatient hospital setting where she applies her inquisitive nature and strives to help her patients understand their care.

From the beginning of my journey in medicine, my goal was to apply what I learned to serving the habitually underserved communities back home in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. This meant I always knew I wanted to become a member of the amazing group of residents here at MAHEC, and I am so grateful to have that opportunity. In my free time I enjoy a wide variety of hobbies, including board games, dungeons and dragons, painting and drawing, reading, baking, and hunting for salamanders, all accompanied by my husband and best friend, Dr. Matthew Hooks. As luck would have it, Matt will also be joining the MAHEC family as a first-year resident in the Psychiatry program. We grew up in the same hometown and have been fortunate to have one another (and our two wonderful cats!) to look to for support throughout our medical training. I can’t wait to start my journey as a resident at MAHEC and continue serving those that call the mountains home!

Sara has been interested in medicine since she donned her first pair of glasses and marveled at the way her optometrist was able to correct her medical concern with a tool that relied on simple applications of science. She began shadowing other doctors and quickly realized a career in healthcare where she, too, could help others by using the principles of science was her calling. She scribed and shadowed throughout her grade school and college years and decided to apply to medical school. It was not until her second to last rotation where she worked with MAHEC residents in her internal medicine rotation where she felt she could best apply the knowledge she had gained in medical school. Internal medicine has the breadth and variety to keep her always engaged, and it allows her to maintain much of the medical knowledge she fell in love with.

I enjoy cooking and baking, and love trying new foods. During my time spent in Asheville, I got to enjoy many of the different cuisines offered at the restaurants in the city. I also love interior decorating and organizing, and frequently spent my time in Asheville perusing the home décor stores in the area. My husband and I have two cats that help us decompress and keep us company when we are home. Lastly, I love biking, hiking, and going on hikes, and the hikes I went on during my time in Asheville have topped my list of “most beautiful trails.”

As a young kid, Sarah had only two career paths that ever came to mind that she wanted to pursue: either to sell toothpicks or to be a doctor. As a few years went by, the former choice quickly became a thought of the past, but the latter never went away. Before medical school, she thought about either becoming an orthopedic surgeon or a cardiologist. However, during her medical education, Sarah found herself particularly interested in every body system and rotation. It got to the point where she was unsure of what specialty she should choose for residency; therefore, she decided to pursue internal medicine since it encompassed everything she enjoyed.

When I have some down time, I love doing outdoor activities; I enjoy fishing in the pond behind my house, caring for my wildflowers, and ripping my dirtbike through the woods. I also have 3 wonderful dogs who love to play and have endless fun. Sometimes, however, I prefer to stay in the house cuddling with them while reading a good horror book. I chose MAHEC for residency because I knew it was the perfect place for me. It is located in the middle of a vast array of beautiful mountains that will provide a wonderful and peaceful view while working. I am excited to start my new chapter in healthcare in such an amazing setting.

Hello everyone! My name is Alyssa DeMutis, and I am so excited to join the MAHEC team. I grew up in Pennsylvania and lived there until I finished college. I completed my bachelor’s degree in biology at York College of Pennsylvania. I then had the opportunity to move to South Carolina to attend Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine and there I fell in love with the Carolinas. I had the pleasure of moving to the western North Carolina area for my clinical rotations and developed a passion for working with rural populations. During my clinical rotations, I realized that internal medicine was the career path for me due to its challenging and rewarding qualities. I enjoy the mystery that often comes with internal medicine and the variety of cases that will be seen. My career interests include hospitalist medicine or hematology/oncology.

I became invested in the MAHEC internal medicine program when I was able to work with their residents at the Charles George VA in Asheville. The residents I worked with were passionate about providing quality care for their patients and they spoke very highly of their program. MAHEC seemed to offer a compassionate group of individuals whom I could see myself spending years with. I also knew the area was perfect for me with its beautiful scenery and ample opportunity for outdoor activities. My interests outside of medicine include hiking with my dog and husband, mountain biking, trying new restaurants, and spending time with family/friends. I love to try new things and can't wait to see where the next three years take me!

Elliott always gravitated toward the sciences throughout school and was inspired to pursue healthcare at an early age while sitting in the back of his mom’s classroom watching her paramedic students train. He acquired diverse and rich clinical experiences prior to medical school but ultimately chose to pursue Internal Medicine during his clerkship rotations. He was drawn to IM by a fascination with multi-system physiology, pathology, and pharmacology, but also its heavy emphasis on empathy, compassion, and the ability to level oneself with a patient to comfort and inform them about their health. He discovered that he thrived in the inpatient setting of the hospital and, aligning with his interests, realized that Hospitalist Medicine was his calling.

As a native of The Foothills of North Carolina, the Appalachian region is my home. Outside of medicine, I enjoy the outdoors, hiking, traveling, reading, and trying new cuisines with friends and family. I have frequented Asheville many times over the years and found it to be an exciting place with plenty of good hikes, restaurants, breweries, and places to explore. So naturally, when I found MAHEC, it was an immediate fit for me. After learning about MAHEC’s program and meeting many of its staff and residents, I was drawn to the prospect of navigating the complexities of Internal Medicine in a setting that offers both academic rigor and a supportive, close-knit community environment. I am thankful for the opportunity to train here and live in an area I love.

Mariana became interested in medicine through a fascination with biology and chemistry; however, she really found her passion in health disparities and systemic issues in health care. She started medical school excited to learn which specialty most appealed to her. Quickly, Mariana learned she enjoyed learning about her patient’s complex social needs in relation to all their medical needs and how physicians can be advocates. This is why Mariana fell in love with Internal Medicine; it allows for her to see a patient as a whole person and not just focus on one organ system.

I grew up near the Blue Ridge Mountains in Greenville, SC which is just an hour south of Asheville. Growing up in this area taught me to love hiking and being in the outdoors. Now, I really enjoy gardening and grow zucchini, tomatoes, pumpkins, corn, sugar snap peas (my favorite), and lots of leafy greens each summer. I also really enjoy spending time with animals. I have several dogs and cats, a cockatiel, a chameleon, and until recently, chickens. I am a bit of a home body, so in addition to being with my animals and gardening, I enjoy painting and reading. Asheville has always had an extensive outdoor life with a good balance of the arts and culture. I can’t wait to live and work in Asheville.

Sam first sparked an interest in medicine through a volunteer position at a clinic for the economically disadvantaged while attending the University of Central Florida. A few years later, he graduated cum laude with a degree in Biomedical Sciences and an acceptance to the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine. There, he grew an appreciation for complex pathologies and decided to pursue a career in Internal Medicine. He realized that training at MAHEC would enable him to continue making a difference in the lives of others throughout his career.

Hi, I'm Sam and I grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina before I took a hiatus in Florida for graduate studies. I'm excited to return home, where the leaves change and the rafting is white-water. I enjoy biking and rock climbing to stay active, but otherwise you can usually find me frequenting coffee shops, going to concerts, or playing video games with my friends. I'm looking forward to exploring Asheville's music scene and all the natural attractions of the mountains and the French Broad.

Growing up, Paige was surrounded by family members that all had something to do with the healthcare field. It wasn’t surprising when in high school she decided she wanted to be a doctor. When she started medical school, Paige thought that she would become a psychiatrist. She spent her time in medical school heavily involved in healthcare advocacy and was recognized for her commitment by being inducted into a Omega Beta Iota, a national osteopathic political honor society. It wasn’t until Paige’s third year of medical school that she recognized her real passion was in Internal Medicine – she loved the diversity of cases and the relationships she could form with patients. She also realized that having a close relationship with her grandparents had inspired her affinity for the geriatric population – a population that Internal Medicine often interacts with and is a sub-specialty of great interest to Paige.

I am so grateful to be a part of MAHEC. I knew I wanted to stay in the Appalachian region for residency as I have family from the region, and since I spent my clinical years of medical school here, the population has my heart. I had the privilege of meeting several MAHEC Internal Medicine residents during my clinical rotations and was impressed by them all. I knew being at MAHEC would help me to become the best version of myself while serving the population I care deeply about. I have loved living in Asheville. In my free time, you can find me trying out local coffee shops around town, catching a live show, or walking my dog!

Andrea grew up in Coral Springs, Florida, and earned her medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine. She can’t wait to eat her way through Asheville and explore the beautiful scenery, hopefully running into some wildlife!

Andrea always knew she wanted to become a physician since she was a young girl. She quickly realized a career in internal medicine was where she belonged, as she loves building connections with patients and managing complex clinical cases.

Andrea is an animal lover, and birds hold a special place in her heart. Her hobbies include cooking, trying new restaurants, and watching thriller/mystery movies or TV series with her fiancé, Ben.

Jonathan was inspired by stories of his physician grandfather who had opened a clinic in South Korea during the time of the Korean War. He provided free medical care to those who could not afford it and firmly maintained a lifestyle of altruism throughout his practice. These stories of the grandfather he never had the chance to meet were the start of Jonathan’s medical journey. After experiencing how internal medicine often acts as the gateway to the rest of a patient’s medical care Jonathan decided to pursue internal medicine as his specialty.

I love being outdoors. Having had a taste of the incredible hiking trails at Asheville from my time at Duke for undergrad, I am excited to come back to this city. Outside of hiking, jogging, and exploring the outdoors, I also enjoy taking HIIT classes, kayaking, tennis, yoga, and hip hop. I am also a huge foodie and love checking out new restaurants and enjoy cooking. My biggest passion is finding deals at grocery stores. However, coming from Texas, anything below 60 degrees is parka weather. You will likely find me taking frequent naps at home during the winter and will find me again after hibernation in the spring.

Carielys discovered her interest in science as a child. She loved studying and was passionate about learning something new every day. Above all, she was passionate about helping others. When she reached high school, she realized that medicine was the perfect field for her. She completed her bachelor's degree in Natural Sciences at the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey. After starting medical school, her interest in Internal Medicine was born from the discipline's complexity and the opportunity it provided to care for patients holistically. When she found MAHEC, she identified with the program because of her principles, values, and the kind of physician she wanted to become.

I love spending time with my family, playing with my baby dogs Paris and Chispi, watching movies, and going for walks outdoors. Having the opportunity to start this new adventure in Asheville and being able to call it my home makes me feel very blessed and excited. I am ready to start this new stage and am sure it will be a beautiful experience full of learning!

Praveena has wanted to be a doctor ever since she received a poster for Doctors Without Borders from her middle school job fair. While in undergrad on the East Coast, she sought to improve access to healthcare and medical supplies for local communities as well as hospitals abroad. After traveling to Brisbane and New Orleans as part of her medical program, she developed an interest in Internal Medicine due to their role in managing and coordinating care of patients admitted to hospital. In particular, she admired Internal Medicine’s role in educating patients on their medical diagnoses so they could be good self-advocates for future appointments. After reviewing MAHEC and Asheville’s charms, she was thrilled at the prospect of moving to North Carolina to practice what she loves.

When I am not in hospital, I will be out enjoying the wonderful botanical gardens Asheville has to offer. There are many hiking trails in Asheville that will provide different views with each season, and I hope to capture them all on my camera. I love winter on the East Coast and am happy to be back to my regular winter pastime of hearing the crunch of freshly fallen snow under my boots. When I want to stay warm, I hope to spend my time caring for my houseplants, playing video games and doing puzzles. Asheville even has a highly recommended restaurant scene that can address all palates, making the overall area a wonderful place to work, eat, and enjoy life.

Ben was fascinated by the field of internal medicine during his third year of medical school. He found it intriguing as it requires a holistic mindset and knowledge of every organ system, and it enables the creation of a strong patient-doctor relationship. During his time in medical school, he developed an interest in medical education and took the initiative to organize and lead Point-Of-Care ultrasound (POCUS) workshops. This made it easier for his peers to understand the clinical applications of POCUS. In residency, he plans to continue refining his POCUS skills and teach the basics of POCUS to medical students.

In my free time, I enjoy playing basketball, weightlifting, practicing Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and most recently, PC gaming. I chose MAHEC due to the program's emphasis on the well-being of its residents, experienced faculty, and tight-knit community. I'm excited to explore Asheville alongside my fiancée Andrea, especially the hiking trails!

Sarah was quickly drawn to cardiology after spending time on inpatient cardiology service during M3, she developed passion for the niche of women’s heart health and invested in learning more about topics in cardiology uniquely impacting women, such as SCAD and MINOCA and other topics related to cardioobstetrics. She enjoyed surgery due to the challenge of mastering technical skills and elected to do a CT surgery rotation during M4 to see and understand more about cardiac surgery, which has continued to motivate her in pursuing interventional cardiology and being able to impact patient lives during high stress situations in a hands on way.

I am so excited to begin this chapter in a beautiful, charming city alongside my spouse, Greg, a general surgery resident whom I couples matched with. We were drawn to the mountainous landscapes of Asheville as they remind us of our KY home. Additionally, after interviewing at MAHEC, there were clearly countless opportunities for a unique, diverse training experience from both of our respective programs. The incredibly experienced leadership and commitment to resident wellness was unmatched along the interview trail! We enjoy playing pickleball, taking our golden retriever, Bailey, on new adventures, and trying new foods and local shops!

Eduardo was always interested in science but his true passion was in helping others. Medicine marries these two domains and once he decided to pursue it, he never looked back. While working as a medical scribe before medical school, he met his mentor that inspired him to pursue internal medicine and ultimately, hematology/oncology. Eduardo completed his undergraduate studies at University of Central Florida, and his medical degree at Florida State University and greatly enjoyed his time. After discovering MAHEC and meeting current residents, Eduardo knew his passions aligned with their mission and is happy to call Asheville home.

I enjoy being outside and trying new things and Asheville does not disappoint in that department with all sorts of outdoor activities. Living in an area with cold winters and mountainous terrain has been a happy adjustment. If I’m not outside, I love spending time playing board or video games with loved ones. I have a puppy who is a sweetheart and is very affectionate, and the same could be said about my partner. Asheville is nothing short of amazing and I am thrilled to be here to serve for many years to come.

After originally earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Boston University, Mrs. Taws was inspired by the Boston Marathon Bombings to attend EMT school. She later worked the night shift as an EMT while completing additional prerequisite coursework for medical school. During her clinical rotations, Sarah found that she enjoyed serving higher acuity patients in the inpatient setting and later hopes to pursue a career in either hospital medicine, hospice, or infectious disease.

As a mom of two young children, I originally applied to MAHEC because my husband has family in Hendersonville and I wanted him to feel supported throughout this journey. I felt that MAHEC fostered such a positive and supportive environment. The interactions that I had with the attendings and residents were both respectful and transparent. The schedule was crafted to maximize learning without sacrificing work-life balance. Our family is also remarkably passionate about the outdoors and we spend the majority of our free time hiking, hunting, gardening, and taking care of our small farm. Currently we have four cats, two dogs, seventeen chickens, two ducks, one hamster, and one parakeet. We feel truly blessed to have matched at MAHEC and we are so excited to meet new friends, explore the greater Asheville area, and learn medicine!

Hi everybody! My name is Robert Tuosto. I grew up in Radford, Virginia before earning my bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from Virginia Tech (Go Hokies!). I was able to continue my education in the Blacksburg area as I went to medical school at VCOM-Virginia. I am very excited to continue my medical journey at MAHEC and to explore a different part of the Blue Ridge Mountains that I have enjoyed so much in Virginia.

Outside of medicine I enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, playing golf, soccer and trying new restaurants. I am interested in pursing a Pulm/Critical Care fellowship, but I will see what interest me the most in my time in Asheville!

I enjoyed my internal medicine rotations and considering the patient as a whole, as well as the multidisciplinary approach taken by physicians. These rotations also made me believe that internal medicine would be a good fit that would allow me to also experience subspecialties.

Growing up in NC, Asheville allows me to be closer to family and has among the best scenery in the state. In my free time, I enjoy watching movies, playing tennis, and watching hockey.