MEET THE RESIDENTS
Class of 2025
Class of 2025
Sung Choi
Medical School: University of Maryland School of Medicine
EM Interests: Ultrasound, EMS
Why I Chose HUMC: The extremely talented yet humble characters of residents drew me into HUMC. Furthermore, the immense diversity of pathology and patient population ensured that I would grow as a physician and as a person through my training here.
Fun Fact: I love singing, whether it is at a karaoke place or at home. If you are walking outside and are hearing 90s R&B and early 2000s pop, you are
currently walking in front of my house.
Corey Dolan
Medical School: St. George's University
EM Interests: Ultrasound and procedures
Why I Chose HUMC: I rotated here as a student and was extremely impressed by the level of teaching in the ED as well as during conferences and sim lab.
Fun Fact: After work, you can catch me blasting Britney Spears or Rihanna during my drive home.
Michael Gagliardi, Chief
Medical School: Albany Medical College
EM Interests: Ultrasound, Toxicology
Why I Chose HUMC: The most important aspect of a residency program to me was having a supportive group of residents to work with, and we definitely have that here at Hackensack. I always feel like we have each other's backs and we can count on one another when the ED is busy, which is basically all the time. There are definitely plenty of high-acuity patients to learn from!
Fun Fact: I love to cook seafood and one of my part-time jobs while I was in college was working as a fishmonger, I got really good at cleaning shrimp
while I was there.
Luis Gamero
Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine - Middletown
EM Interests: Ultrasound, International Medicine
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC for the rich learning environment with incredible support from the program with a focus on wellness. The faculty are knowledgeable and the access to a large variety in patient population leads to exposure to many complex cases. The pediatric ED is excellent here. I know I will be capable of handling any patient presentation graduating from HUMC.
Fun Fact: I love traveling, cars, new foods, soccer, snowboarding.
Melissa Luu, Chief
Medical School: St. George's University
EM Interests: EMS, global medicine, SIM, education
Why I Chose HUMC: During the interview trail, I kept telling myself I wanted a place that entailed all of the following: great training, good volume with diverse pathology, opportunities to explore different niches, and close proximity to home. I was able to find all of that at HUMC. And since being here for the short time that I have, I've already experienced and learned so much. I look forward to the quality physician I will become in the next three years by training here.
Fun Fact: I'm originally from the west coast! Outside of work, I am a big foodie and am always willing to try new foods at least once. Also a big movie
person. Strangely good at celebrity gossip too.
Parth Majmundar, Chief
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Critical Care and Health Policy
Why I Chose HUMC: HUMC provides a supportive yet fast-paced and high-volume environment to learn and practice emergency medicine. Located near NYC, our patient population is diverse, giving me the confidence to practice in any setting in the future. Additionally, living so close to NYC gives us many opportunities to have fun outside work with friends and co-residents.
Fun Fact: I love exploring new restaurants with friends and watching television!
​Ashay Mehta, Chief
Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine - Middletown
EM Interests: Sports Medicine, Administration and Pain Management.
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC because the patient population offers a wide variety of clinical diversity and the hospital benefits from a high volume of annual patient visits. Paired with a supportive leadership, this creates a great learning environment.
Fun Fact: Senator Cory Booker called me out for being a fan of the 6 time NFL champions, the New England Patriots, during a large medical conference
in Newark, NJ.
​Raj Patel
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Administration, Health equity
Why I Chose HUMC: We see a very diverse, complex, and high-volume level of patients that makes our learning environment rich and full. The camaraderie between staff, admin, attendings, and residents is exactly what I was looking for when choosing a program. The program builds skilled, efficient, and independent EM physicians.
Fun Fact: I met Adam Sandler and Chris Rock at a hotel once, and they bought my drink!
​Joshua Sapadin
Medical School: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
EM Interests: Medical Education, Simulation
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC for its supportive learning environment, culture of mentorship, and commitment to resident education.
Fun Fact: I'm a Mets fan and I love the Simpsons. One has brought me joy and one has brought me pain.
Monica Shah
Medical School: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Critical Care, Administration, Medical Education
Why I Chose HUMC: I really enjoyed my interview with the program. Everyone was so kind and welcoming and it has translated to my positive experiences here. Most importantly, it was close to home and I got the chance to make a direct impact on my community.
Fun Fact: I've been dancing for 20+ years now which has led me to compete nationally! I got to dance at Carnegie Hall which was an amazing experience!
Class of 2026
Class of 2026
​Haroon Choudry
Medical School: St. George’s University
EM Interests: Sports Medicine, Global Healthcare
Why I Chose HUMC: I love trauma so a big reason has to do with Hackensack being a Level 1 Trauma Center. After meeting Dr. Haji, Dr. Berns and Julia in my interview, I knew this was somewhere I could see myself grow and learn as a practitioner. Also with both the hospital's close ties to local sports, and with the away rotation opportunities outside of the United States, I knew I would be able to pursue my interests inside of emergency medicine as well. I'm also a big fan of NYC.
Fun Fact: I love filming and eventually want to release a culture/food series similar to Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown. Also I love animals, and in college I had the chance to buy a horse. His name was Senna.
​Nicholas Jensen
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean
EM Interests: Sports Medicine, Critical Care, Administration
Why I Chose HUMC: High acuity, diverse patient population, strong support and leadership, close proximity to home, and the ability to learn from a wide range of specialties. I am confident these important elements will ensure I continue to grow as a physician and a person right here at HUMC.
Fun Fact: Former Division-I football player. Enjoy staying active whether it is working out, snowboarding, playing sports, or traveling the world.
Salman Khan
Medical school: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
EM Interests: EMS, Critical Care
Why I chose HUMC: The faculty and residents here at HUMC really helped cultivate a positive learning environment that I had felt like I was able to thrive in when I rotated here as a medical student, and I wanted to continue that experience. That, coupled with the diverse patient population and clinical acuity that comes to this emergency department, made this the ideal opportunity for me to grow as a new provider.
Fun fact: I built my own computer a few years ago, and now spend copious amounts of leisure hours playing video games on it!
Mackenzie Kimball
Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, Middletown NY
EM Interests: I am interested in ultrasound, anything procedure related, and trauma!
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC because of location, its high volume of patients, and the fact that they have their own medical school. This meant I’d have the opportunity to get involved with teaching and mentoring other students, which has always been important to me.
Fun Fact: I have a bearded dragon, her name is Pepper, and she loves kale and strawberries!
Patrick Lin
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
EM Interests: Medical Education, Critical Care
Why I Chose HUMC: Since my first rotation here as a med student, it's been clear that the EM faculty at HUMC are here to help us grow as physicians and as empathetic humans. Residents are all close to each other. The nursing support and the diversity in patient presentations here are unparalleled. SIM labs are frequent, relevant, and with advanced equipment. The fact that HUMC was just ranked #1 in NJ is just a cherry on top.
Fun Fact: I used to be on a competitive hip-hop dance team in college back in California!
Naiya Patel
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
EM Interests: EMS & Disaster Medicine, Administration, and Sports Medicine
Why I Chose HUMC: I was born and raised in North Jersey, so staying close to home and family was a priority for me. HUMC allows me to not only be close to home, but also get the best clinical experience in order to be a great practicing Emergency Medicine physician. HUMC gives you the ability to see a high-volume of patients, have opportunities to do numerous procedures, practice academically, and have all the resources available to you. HUMC gives you access to all that while being in a supportive environment where the leadership cares about resident wellness. HUMC is also close to NYC and neighboring upcoming towns, so there's always opportunities to relax and have fun when you're not working.
Fun Fact: I survived a Category 5 hurricane, did a medical school semester on a ferry boat, and lived through the Covid-19 pandemic shutdown all during medical school! I love sports, cars, traveling, and am also a certified scuba diver!
Bohdan Semak
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine-Bradenton
EM Interests: Critical Care, First Response Medicine
Why I Chose HUMC: Hackensack is high-paced, high-volume with complicated patients. Also, when I interviewed here it was one of the more unique interviews where especially the PD showed clear interest in me as a person and future physician.
Fun Fact: I swam in the same pool as Michael Phelps.
Yusteena Shehata-Rizk
Medical School: Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Procedures, SIM, Sports Medicine, EMS
Why I Chose HUMC: It was very important to me to find a program that 1) is close to my home and my support system 2) has a positive work environment with people I can call family and supportive leadership 3) will not only prepare for post-residency, but will help me become the best physician I can be, through a strong medical knowledge foundation and seeing a large volume of patients with diverse pathologies 4) offers opportunities to explore different subspecialties such as EMS, SIM education, critical care etc. I was able to find all my needs at HUMC. I am grateful for my match and look forward to all the learning I will be doing over the next 3 years!
Fun Fact: I am obsessed with dogs and anything dog! I have a 2-year-old Australian Shepherd who I learned to train myself by reading books and watching videos. I would like to officially study dog training and one day own a dog farm with lots of rescues :) I also love traveling and would love to travel all around the world with my husband! Thailand has my heart.
​Daniel Toren
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
EM interests: Ultrasound, Education, Sports Medicine
Why I chose HUMC: Having rotated through many departments here during medical school, including the ED, I saw the outstanding patient care that the residents provide and the exceptional education that they receive. I grew up in New Jersey and did all of my education here, from kindergarten through medical school, so coming here for residency was an easy choice!
Fun Fact: I‘ve been playing guitar for 15 years and like to write and record music in my spare time.
​David Xu
Medical School: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, AZCOM
EM Interests: Ultrasound, Medical Education
Why I chose HUMC: I drove across the country completing rotations and sub-internships between San Diego, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Detroit, Boston, and Hackensack. During my time at HUMC, the staff, faculty, and administration were really approachable, friendly, and made a successful learning experience a top priority. I worked a variety of shifts between the adult, pediatric, and trauma/oncology services alongside the resident and attending teams but also one to one with attendings. This program offers great support and a strong educational foundation for new, developing residents as well as the freedom to become a successful, independent Emergency Medicine Physician.
Fun Fact: Two truths and a lie: I got booped by a shark while surfing, I am a world champion martial artist and I have sailed across the Gulf of Bothnia.
Hephziba Yohannan
Medical School: Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Global EM, Health Policy
Why I chose HUMC: Never thought I'd move to Jersey but the location close to friends and family, the diverse patient population, the high volume and high acuity seen here as well as the focus on wellness and a positive experience during my interview led me here!
Fun Fact: I am trilingual and lived in about 6 different states last year! I also love singing, movie nights, and will go out of my way for good sunsets.
​Aaron Zohar-Bondar
Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine Harlem
EM Interests: POCUS, Orthopedic cases
Why I Chose HUMC: HUMC is located 5 mins from where I've lived all my life. There is a diverse patient population, high volume, and excellent education & leadership.
Fun Fact: I was born at Hackensack!
Class of 2027
Class of 2027
Nishat Ananya
Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine - Middletown, NY
EM Interests: Medical Education, Critical Care
Why I Chose HUMC: I felt very supported during my time at HUMC and knew I could become a competent physician with HUMC’s guidance. Despite the high volume and high acuity patient population, I felt that I can learn and practice emergency medicine properly and still have time for friends and family. The staff, residents, and faculty at HUMC always look out for each other and work together to improve patient care and the community's quality of life.
Fun Fact: I speak 4 languages, 5 if you count Latin (even though it’s not a spoken language anymore).
Hila Baer
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
EM Interests: Ultrasound, Pediatric EM
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose Hackensack ED for its dynamic, high-volume environment, which offers exposure to diverse pathologies and high-acuity cases. The friendly, close-knit resident community makes the experience even more rewarding.
Fun Fact: Outside of the ED, I enjoy traveling, nature walks, reading, and rewatching the same 4 sitcoms over and over again.
​Ujwal Boppana
Medical School: St. George's University
EM Interests: Critical Care, Ultrasound, Pain Management
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC for its rigorous training, diverse patient population, and supportive environment. The talented faculty and emphasis on teaching, teamwork, and wellness impressed me.
Fun Fact: I'm an avid gamer and have logged too many hours playing StarCraft for my own good.
Emma Daly
Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine, Middletown
EM Interests: Medical Education
Why I Chose HUMC: I had the opportunity to rotate at HUMC as a 4th year medical student and had a wonderful experience. The learning opportunities both on and off shift were vast and all of the residents/faculty were so welcoming, kind, and excellent teachers. Additionally, I was born and raised in NY, about 25 minutes from HUMC, and I am super grateful to be close to home where all of my family still lives.
Fun Fact: I played Division II college basketball and still love to challenge myself physically, most recently by running the NYC marathon! I additionally love the beach, trying new restaurants/coffee shops, spending time with my family, and adventurous activities such as skydiving.
Peter Dunn
Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine - Middletown
EM Interests: EKGs, Critical Care, Ultrasound
Why I Chose HUMC: The willingness to teach from the faculty, the family mindset of the residents, the exposure to a wide range of pathology and acuity, location in the greater NYC area
Fun Fact: I currently have over 11,000 unclaimed Dunkin' rewards points in my app.
​Nima Lama
Medical School: New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Disaster Medicine, Pain Medicine, Ultrasound
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC because it feels like the perfect fit for me. The wide range of patient pathologies and complex cases encountered here really excites me, and I know they'll challenge me to become a better physician. I love the nurturing learning environment and the strong culture of mentorship. The commitment to resident education is something I deeply value, and the camaraderie among residents makes me feel like I'm joining a family. The focus on wellness and the inclusive, supportive culture are just what I need. Plus, being close to home is a huge bonus, adding a great balance to my life.
Fun Fact: I love playing basketball, going to concerts, and trying new foods. Hiking and trekking for amazing views are some of my favorite activities. Plus, I have a real soft spot for animals!
Lindsey Mathis
Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine
EM Interests: Ultrasound, Sports Medicine
Why I Chose HUMC: The close relationships among faculty and residents in the setting of a high-acuity, high-volume, and fast-paced emergency department were what attracted me to HUMC. I knew I would graduate fully prepared for any pathology or situation. The residents are close-knit and the faculty are always there to support you in any way they can.
Fun Fact: I love going to the gym! I also can often be found reading a book on my phone, and I love spending downtime with family and friends.
Iyann Aden
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie Campus
EM Interests: Critical Care, Global Health, Health Inequities in Emergency Medicine
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC because of it being a large academic center with high volume and large patient diversity. The close-knit feeling between residents and the location being close to NYC was another big plus for me!
Fun Fact: I love being outside and trying new restaurants if I have time. I am also a huge reality TV fan! I love catching up with family and friends as much as I can.
​Sherin Oommen
Medical School: St. George's University
EM Interests: Critical Care, PEM
Why I Chose HUMC: HUMC offered a diverse patient population with high acuity cases and a large patient volume. Being born and raised in Jersey, I was already familiar with how valuable the Hackensack system is in providing high quality healthcare with compassionate doctors. After meeting some of the faculty and residents during my interview, it only further solidified how amazing, kind, and dedicated they are to their patients, and how equally enthusiastic they are in providing excellent training for their residents.
Fun Fact: Hiked on a glacier in Iceland! Also got hit in the face with a little volcanic rock on that same hike. 10/10 recommend.
​Daniel Sanchez
Medical School: St. George’s University
EM Interests: Critical Care and Ultrasound
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC because I was confident that its high-volume, high-acuity Emergency Department, dedicated faculty, camaraderie among residents, and extensive sim lab exposure would prepare me to become an independent and confident physician.
Fun Fact: I was a member of the 17 and under boys' soccer team that represented Hawaii in the Olympic Development Program.
Julia Wickman
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
EM Interests: Ultrasound, Medical Education, Pediatrics
Why I Chose HUMC: At HUMC, the faculty and staff are always willing to teach, personal and professional growth are encouraged, and there are endless opportunities to engage in complex patient care. It is a privilege to work alongside supportive and knowledgeable faculty while providing high quality care to the Hackensack community!
Fun Fact: A lifelong goal is to visit all 63 US National Parks! I prefer visiting in the winter because of the beautiful snow, fewer crowds, and greater chances of seeing wildlife. To date, my favorite park experiences are snowshoeing in Yosemite and hiking through the caves of Pinnacles. As of June 2024: 6 parks down, 57 to go!
Emma Zoubek
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
EM Interests: Ultrasound and Patient Safety
Why I Chose HUMC: I really enjoyed rotating there as a student. There was a welcoming environment and the camaraderie between residents and attendings was very apparent. It also seemed like the perfect place to train with high patient volume and acuity!
Fun Fact: I enjoy traveling and have been to 11 different countries so far! I also spend my free time baking and reading.