Pediatrics Residents

As the 2026-2027 Pediatrics Chief Residents, I’m thrilled that you’re interested in the Pediatrics Residency at UMass Chan Medical School–Baystate! I’d love to share a bit about what makes our program such a unique and welcoming place to train.

A Close-Knit, Diverse Community

Our residency thrives on the strength of our diverse and inclusive community. Each year, we welcome 10 pediatric residents and 8 Med-Peds residents from a wide range of backgrounds—spanning research, engineering, emergency response, microfinance, and even the music industry. This diversity enriches our culture and fosters mutual respect, learning, and connection.

Outside the hospital, our residents build lasting friendships through shared interests like hiking and biking, trivia, rock climbing, local music, and board games. The camaraderie is real—Baystate becomes not just a workplace, but a second home.

What makes Baystate truly special is the incredible team spirit. Residents, attendings, nurses, social workers, nutritionists, pharmacists, and medical students all work together with a shared commitment to excellent patient care and support for one another.

A Residency Built Around Learning

Education is at the heart of everything we do. Our general pediatrics and subspecialty attendings are passionate teachers—whether on rounds, during academic conferences, in weekly simulation labs, or through afternoon teaching sessions on the wards.

We also know that some of the best learning happens through teaching. Our residents regularly mentor and teach UMass Chan and visiting medical students, sharpening their own clinical and leadership skills along the way.

I hope this glimpse into our program helps you feel the warmth, energy, and sense of purpose that make Baystate such a meaningful place to train. Thank you for considering us as you explore where your next chapter will begin! Please feel free to reach out with questions. 

Samantha Pendleton, DO
Josh Pankin, MD

Let our amazing team of residents introduce themselves and tell you why Baystate is a good fit for them. They represent a wonderful diversity of backgrounds, interests and medical schools.

Albany Medical School ATSU: AT Still University of Osteopathic Medicine Ben Gurion University of the Negev Faculty of Health Sciences Creighton University: School of Medicine Frank H. Netter, MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine PCOM: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine Ross University School of Medicine Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland School of Medicine: RCSI Dublin

Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University SUNY Downstate Medical Center College of Medicine The Jagiellonian University The University of Queensland|Ochsner MD Program Tufts University School of Medicine University College Dublin School of Medicine University of Alabama School of Medicine University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine University of New Mexico School of Medicine University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry University of South Carolina School of Medicine University of Texas Medical School at Houston Wake Forest School of Medicine at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center Western University of Health Sciences/College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific

Muhammed “Cagri” Bayrakutan, MD

I was born in northeastern Turkey and grew up in Istanbul. I completed medical school and pediatrics residency training in Turkey, where I became deeply involved in caring for children with complex medical and developmental conditions. Working closely with these children and their families taught me how much it matters to truly understand and respond to their needs and sparked my lasting interest in neurodevelopmental disorders and complex care.

That path led me to Boston, where I pursued translational neuroscience and neurogenetics research, from learning zebrafish models of childhood epilepsies to helping build natural history studies for rare neurodevelopmental disorders. These experiences deepened my commitment to connecting research with clinical care for children with complex neurologic and developmental conditions.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy biking, sailing, and brewing coffee in probably more ways than necessary.

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to complete my general pediatrics training at UMass Chan-Baystate. What drew me to Baystate was the chance to build a broad pediatric foundation while caring for children with a wide range of medical complexity, along with the opportunity to continue improving my medical Spanish and French through resident tutoring. I truly believe that becoming a good child neurologist begins with becoming a good pediatrician.

Antonio “Tony” Bon Nieves, MD

I was born and raised in Puerto Rico, a small slice of paradise that I'm fortunate to call home. My interest in medicine started early; as a kid, I once handed my mom a "prescription" I had written myself, convinced I was already practicing. Throughout this journey, my family has been a constant source of support and inspiration, playing a central role in shaping my path to becoming a physician.

I started my journey in medicine at the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine. Here, I took a break to complete a master’s degree in Clinical and Translational Science, which ignited my passion for research and deepened my interest in social determinants of health. After finishing medical school, I moved to the New England area and fell in love with the place, which led me to decide to stay.

A fun fact about me is that I collect playing cards from places I've traveled to, each one a small reminder of a new experience. Outside the hospital, you'll usually find me cooking, making my world-class potato soup. Also, you can find me going for a run, testing my luck at trivia nights, or planning my next trip.

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
What really stood out at Baystate were the residents. Their passion for patient care, willingness to help others, and strong camaraderie are remarkable. I have also come to appreciate the New England environment, which I now consider home. Choosing Baystate felt like an obvious decision. I am excited to join the team and start this journey in becoming a pediatrician.

Francesa Gallo, MD

I was born and raised in upstate New York, where I went to undergrad and received a degree in biology from Siena College. During college and prior to medical school, I gained hands-on experience in healthcare by working on a high-risk antepartum unit and as an emergency room scribe. I have always been drawn to pediatrics, especially the idea of being able to see a child grow from infancy all the way to college! My younger brother was diagnosed with autism at a young age, which inspired my volunteer work with the organization Keen, which supports children and young adults to play sports. Outside of medicine, I enjoy cooking and baking, as well as taking long walks and spending time in nature.

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
When I interviewed at Baystate, I immediately felt that the faculty and residents have created a supportive, close-knit environment, which was very important to me in choosing a program. Additionally, Baystate offers the opportunity to care for a diverse patient population in a high-volume hospital setting.

Charles Linskey, DO

I grew up in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, with a younger brother and sister and a big extended family (26 cousins). I went to Northeastern University for a bachelor's in chemical engineering and did several co-ops at bio-tech companies. Then I started a PhD program at Northeastern and worked on my research in a mitochondrial biology lab and TA'd anatomy for 4 years before leaving the PhD program with a Masters to pursue medical school instead. During my time in Boston, I also volunteered at Boston Children's and swimming with penguins at the aquarium. I went to UNE for medical school and did my 3rd year rotations in Nashua, NH and spent 4th year hopping around hospitals in the northeast, including Baystate! I love working with kids and career-wise I am interested in general outpatient pediatrics or possibly PEM. Outside of medicine I have many nerdy hobbies including reading, playing D&D, and painting detailed miniatures for games like Warhammer. I also have 2 beautiful huskies who make every day better :)

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
I scheduled rotations at Baystate because I really liked the area geographically, close to family and will allow my wife to continue her research at UMass in Worcester while still living together. In person I really enjoyed both of my rotations at Baystate, everyone I met was very kind and helpful. And during my interview a student mentioned that the book club was reading Red Rising and I adore that book series (can't wait to read the finale this year!) Which just seemed like another great sign that I would be around people I could get along with. I look forward to starting residency this summer!

Nina Pacion, DO

Hi, I’m Nina! I was born and raised in Barrington, IL, a small northwest suburb of Chicago. Growing up in a small town was great, but I knew that after high school I needed to venture out and start experiencing all that the rest of the country and world have to offer! I spent my freshman year of college at Loyola University’s campus in Rome, Italy, where I truly discovered my love of traveling, learning about different cultures, and gelato. After that amazing year of exploring (and eating), I transferred to Northeastern University in Boston where I earned my undergraduate degree in Biochemistry and met my future husband, Chirag, who is also a resident at Baystate. At Northeastern I completed two Co-op experiences, one as a quality assurance researcher at an agricultural technology company, and the other as an EMT. I continued to work as an EMT throughout the pandemic and really started to become interested in public health and healthcare policy. In medical school I started taking public health courses and had the opportunity to work at the Chicago Department of Public Health on their Antimicrobial Stewardship team. I completed my master's degree in public health and as a Pediatrician I hope to use the knowledge and skills I gained to support the health and well-being of children through vaccine advocacy and policy reform. Healthcare isn't a privilege, it is a human right, and it is our responsibility as healthcare professionals to help protect it!

Outside of medicine I love to read (mainly rom-coms and psychological thrillers), travel, and spend time with my family. When I’m not at work you can most likely find me napping on the couch with Curly (our very lazy French bulldog), trying a new ice cream place, or out on the Cape swimming at Campground beach.

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
I first learned about Baystate when my husband did an away rotation here in the ED during his 4th year of medical school. On the last day of his rotation, he called me and said, “it really is the people that make this place special, we're going to love it here”. One interview and two away rotations later, I knew without a doubt that he was right. Everyone I've interacted with at Baystate, as a patient, medical student, and now resident has treated me with the utmost respect and compassion and made me feel like a valued member of the community. I’m so excited to be a part of the Baystate family and so grateful for the opportunity to learn and train at such an amazing program.

Aayushi Patel, MD

I grew up in Calgary, Canada, and completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Alberta, where I developed a strong interest in immunology that ultimately drew me to pursue a career in medicine. I am excited by opportunities to explore complex disease processes while also building meaningful, long-term relationships with patients and their families. What drew me to pediatrics was the resilience of children and the unique opportunity to make a lasting impact early in a patient’s life. I value the blend of science, advocacy, and compassion that pediatrics requires, and I love being part of a field where small interventions can shape lifelong health.

Outside of medicine, I love spending time in nature. Growing up in Calgary, I was surrounded by the mountains, which sparked my love for the outdoors. I enjoy camping, hiking, and exploring new trails whenever I get the chance. Most of all, I love to spend time with my friends and family!

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
I was especially drawn to UMass Chan–Baystate because of the genuinely supportive environment and the strong culture of mentorship. During my interactions with faculty and residents, it was clear that trainees are truly valued and guided in their personal and professional growth. I believe the program's academic rigor, commitment to service, and advocacy will help me become a truly well-rounded physician. I am very excited to join the Baystate family!

David Rofaiel, MD

Born and raised in Toronto Ontario, I’m a proud second-generation Coptic Egyptian immigrant. It may sound exaggerated, but I’ve truly known I wanted paediatrics since I was 15 years old and thus started medical school at 17 at the University of Galway, Ireland.

During my time across the pond, I threw myself into community work as President of our Paediatrics Society, and became a crisis responder with Kids Help Phone, supporting and coordinating active rescues for children with suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, and more. This is what transformed what was my initial excitement for paediatrics, particularly in mental health and development, into a full-blown passion during my rotation in Toronto and New York.

I completed my intern year in Ireland to cap off my medical training and gain invaluable clinical experience, and in anticipation of this year’s match, have been practicing at Crumlin Children’s Hospital. Paeds is magic to me because you get to aid during a child’s most vulnerable years, the chance to impact lifelong health, all while having the joy of working with kids. In research and in practice, I’m particularly passionate about paediatric mental health, social paediatrics / EDI, developmental paediatrics, and adolescent medicine, but can’t wait to see everything paeds has to offer!

When I’m off the wards, I’m at the gym, playing guitar or trumpet, cooking up a storm, baking my (technically) world-famous chocolate chunk cookies, travelling, or reading fantasy epics (and various other nerdy hobbies).

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
Baystate was one of my first interviews, and I knew immediately how exciting it would be to train here. On paper, I’m drawn to the strong academic background, the commitment the program has to equity, advocacy, and its community, the robust clinical exposure, and reputation for treating their residents well. In practice, it was the community that drew me in; I cannot wait to join this group of empathetic and brilliant individuals looking to make a difference.

Madhumita Sathish, MD

I am the first physician in my family, raised in Fremont, California, before moving to India at the age of 13. I completed my medical education at Indira Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute in Pondicherry. During medical school, I served as Secretary of the Medical Student Association, where I organized academic and community initiatives, including a national Emergency Medicine conference. I was actively involved in mental health and HIV/AIDS awareness initiatives and was recognized with a poster presentation award.

A deeply personal experience has given me a profound understanding of the emotional and physical challenges families face when caring for a child with a chronic illness. This experience has shaped my commitment to pediatrics, where I strive to provide compassionate and family-centered care.

I am passionate about making a meaningful, lasting impact on children’s lives, while supporting families through every stage of care.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy watching films, photography, traveling, and hiking. I value meaningful relationships and have had the opportunity to visit 12 countries, which has enriched my appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives.

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
I have always aspired to train as a pediatrician at UMass Chan – Baystate, inspired by my cousin’s decade-long experience and the consistently positive feedback I’ve heard from Baystate’s physicians. From my very first meet-and-greet to the social event, I was met with warmth and kindness from both residents and faculty, leaving every interaction with a smile. The program’s commitment to resident growth and exceptional patient care reassured me that Baystate was the right place for me.

I am excited for the opportunity to train in such a collaborative environment, refine my clinical skills, and grow into the well-rounded pediatrician I aspire to be.

Ashish Tiwari, MD

I grew up in the cultural city of Kathmandu, Nepal. My journey in medicine began at the Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan university. It was there, amidst the fast-paced energy of neonatal and emergency care, that I found my calling. A defining moment for me was the successful resuscitation of a premature newborn girl; that experience didn't just spark my passion for pediatrics, it taught me the profound impact of seamless teamwork in critical care.

Beyond the traditional clinical setting, I’ve always been drawn to the intersection of medicine and adventure. As a Mountain Medicine enthusiast, I had the unique opportunity to serve as the physician for the film crew of the Danish travel documentary, “The Journey: 15 Days in Nepal.” Managing medical care in rugged, high-altitude terrain reinforced my adaptability and my belief that healthcare is as much about resourcefulness as it is about science. My perspective was further shaped by clinical experiences in the Bronx and Philadelphia, where I saw firsthand how social determinants of health impact patient outcomes.

I am a natural organizer who thrives on bringing people together. Whether I’m coordinating an academic workshop or hosting dinner parties and cooking for friends, I believe that building a strong, connected community is essential to our work in medicine. When the white coat comes off, you can usually find me on a basketball court, catching up with my nephew Avyan, or hiking to a great view with some classic John Denver playing in the background.

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
I was drawn to UMass Chan - Baystate because it was my very first interview of the season, and it remained the most memorable. The vibe was truly surreal; the deep-rooted camaraderie and supportive culture I witnessed made me feel as though I had discovered the medical equivalent of Gryffindor House. I deeply resonate with the philosophy that residents are the center of the program, and I am excited to train in an environment that prioritizes mentorship and personal growth as much as clinical excellence. I am honored to join a family where teamwork is the foundation of everything we do, and I look forward to contributing to the unique 'magic' and strong bonds that make this program so special.

Neeha Veerabose, MD

I was born and raised in Foster City, California, and later moved to India, where I completed my medical training.

I was drawn to pediatrics because it brings together clinical medicine, communication, prevention, and family-centered care.

I trained at a busy public hospital in South India, where much of the patient population came from underserved communities facing significant social challenges. This experience helped me better understand how closely children’s health is tied to safety, stability, education, and access to resources, and it inspired me to participate in several volunteering activities focused on supporting children’s well-being.

During my clinical training, I completed an observership in a cardiac ICU, where I developed a strong interest in pediatric cardiology and especially enjoyed learning about the intricate cardiac anatomy and the wide range of cardiac pathologies.

Outside of medicine, I trained in Indian classical dance and performed competitively throughout school. I also enjoy spending time by the beach, and I’m an amateur baker who enjoys trying new recipes (though I do have a bit of a sweet tooth and honestly enjoy eating the baked goods more than baking them.)

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
From my very first interview, I could tell how welcoming and supportive everyone in the program was. I was especially drawn to the close-knit environment and the strong emphasis on resident well-being, and I’m super excited to join the team and begin my pediatrics training.

Rabbia Ashraf, MD

I was born and raised in Punjab, Pakistan, and earned my Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery from Allama Iqbal Medical College at the University of Health Sciences in Lahore. My passion for supporting children began in my teenage years when I volunteered to assist children with special needs and their families. After graduating, I moved to the United States and joined the Pediatric Global Health Team at Massachusetts General Hospital as a research volunteer, contributing to studies on the impact of air pollution on lung function growth in infants in Uganda.

My professional interests lie in pediatric global health, strongly focusing on improving healthcare access for underserved communities. Beyond medicine, I enjoy nature and portrait photography, reading history books, and spending quality time with my family.

Why UMass Chan-Baystate?
I first heard about UMass Baystate from my research colleagues, who spoke highly of the program’s reputation for excellent resident training. Connecting with the residents during the social event and afterward gave me insight into the program’s supportive culture. Everyone I interacted with was incredibly kind and helpful, and I repeatedly heard that residents are the program’s top priority—a sentiment that became evident halfway through my interview. The program’s ideal size and core values align with my goal of becoming a well-rounded, holistic pediatrician who can serve the community effectively.

Raneem Atta, MD

I was born in Egypt but spent my childhood bouncing around the Gulf region, where my parents’ work took us to various cities. After high school, I returned to Egypt and graduated from the University of Alexandria School of Medicine. I then took my passion for research to the next level with a post-doc fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), where I worked in an animal lab studying gene therapy for cystic fibrosis. This further deepened my enthusiasm for pediatrics, knowing the impact cystic fibrosis has on children's quality of life. Despite the science, something about being around kids always brought out my inner child and made me the happiest—nothing beats the joy of caring for children and their families. When I'm not in scrubs, you’ll likely find me swimming, cheering on my favorite teams (I’m a big fan of sports!), or spending quality time with my husband. And if you’re lucky, you might get to try one of my famous cookies—apparently, people can’t get enough of them!

Why UMass Chan-Baystate?
Baystate is a very busy tertiary center, and I can't wait to train in such an engaging environment. The program offers excellent hands-on experience with diverse cases, and I’m eager to learn from a supportive team of mentors and colleagues. Additionally, staying in Boston for over a year during my research fellowship made it feel like home, and I was thrilled to stay close to this vibrant and dynamic city. I’m genuinely excited to join Baystate, as it offers the perfect combination of academic rigor, clinical exposure, and community impact. I look forward to making a positive contribution to the hospital, especially with my tiny patients, who I hope will always remember me.

Kylee Cardoso, DO

I was born and raised in Southeastern Massachusetts into a Portuguese/Brazilian family. At a young age I was given a doctor toy set as a gift which began fueling my passion for medicine and becoming a physician. I completed my bachelor’s degree in biology and minored in Portuguese at the University of Massachusetts - Dartmouth. I then went onto live away from home for the first time when I began medical school at Edward via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) in South Carolina. As the first in my family to become a physician, I am thrilled to return to Massachusetts to be closer to my biggest support system - my family, during my pediatrics residency. Outside of medicine, I enjoy cooking, baking, traveling, yoga, and spending time with loved ones.

Why UMass Chan-Baystate?
From completing my undergraduate studies at UMass- Dartmouth to participating in the BaccMD medical scholars’ program at UMass Chan Medical School, the UMass system has always felt like home to me. When I had the opportunity to do a pediatric subspecialty elective at Baystate during my fourth year of medical school, I was excited to learn more about the pediatrics residency program and be exposed to the people and the environment. During the month of my elective, I was able to witness the supportive and close-knit relationships built between the residents and faculty. This camaraderie, along with being back in my home state, made Baystate easily become my #1 choice for my pediatrics residency!

Sydney Kurtz, DO

Hi, I’m Syd! I’m from Oregon, where I went to undergrad at Portland State University and medical school at Western University of Health Sciences. I have a huge love for adventure, which has driven me to travel to many different places for my clinical rotations and led me to Baystate. When I’m not working, I like to explore a new country, find a lake to swim in, or take up a new hobby I might not be very good at. Pediatrics has always felt like home for me because children approach the world with that same sense of curiosity. I can’t wait to learn and grow alongside them!

Why UMass Chan-Baystate?
I flew across the country for my very first away rotation at Baystate, and the program set the bar high. The dedication of the residents and faculty both supported and inspired me. With their help, I’ll learn to be a great pediatrician, and I can have an adventure on the East Coast while doing it. I am so glad to be back!

E. Betül Deniz, MD

I was born and raised in Istanbul, Türkiye, and completed my medical education at Selçuk University Faculty of Medicine. After graduation, I moved to Canada and am now a dual citizen of Türkiye and Canada. Exploring life in Canada has been an exciting and rewarding experience. I’ve enjoyed learning about the culture and connecting with people from different backgrounds. Since childhood, I’ve always dreamed of working with children. That passion grew stronger during medical school, when I joined a student-led organization dedicated to making small wishes come true for pediatric oncology patients. In my free time, I enjoy reading and writing short personal essays. I’ve been writing stories since I was a child, and I still turn to writing as a creative outlet. I also love going on long walks and discovering new places.

Why UMass Chan-Baystate?
I was drawn to Baystate for its warm and supportive environment, as well as its strong commitment to education and growth. During my interview, I immediately felt the sincerity and kindness of everyone I spoke with, and it left a lasting impression on me.

What stood out to me the most was Baystate’s clear emphasis on resident education and professional development. As someone who learns best in collaborative and close-knit settings, I value programs that foster connection between faculty and residents. I believe that such environments not only enhance learning but also support personal growth and confidence—both of which are essential in becoming a well-rounded pediatrician. Baystate felt like the ideal place to grow into the kind of pediatrician I want to be.

Danielle Ertz, MD

I was born and raised in Southern California and grew up as a ballet dancer. I completed my bachelor’s degree in Integrative Biology at Berkeley where I was a Cal Dance Team member. I moved to the East Coast and earned my master’s in medical sciences at Drexel University where I went on to complete my medical education. During medical school, I fell in love with the specialty of Neurodevelopmental Disabilities because of the inspiring patients and their parents. Outside of medicine and dancing, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our corgi, watching football, yoga, community engagement and exploring new cuisines.

Why UMass Chan-Baystate?
I thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the residents at Baystate on interview day, and I could really envision myself at Baystate. It seemed like the perfect program to gain a well-rounded Pediatrics training, and I felt very connected to the faculty and residents. I am excited to become involved in the ample community service opportunities and to serve the patient population.

Kiran Hashmi, MD

I was born at Baystate Medical Center and raised in Canada before my family relocated back to Longmeadow, Massachusetts, my hometown. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Medical Sciences with a minor in Psychology from Bay Path University. During my time at Bay Path, I actively contributed to the academic community as a tutor, anatomy and physiology lab assistant, and as a peer mentor and orientation leader for incoming freshmen.

As the first female physician in my family, I, alongside with my colleagues, founded the Women in STEM Club at Bay Path University to empower young women of all ethnicities to overcome societal and cultural barriers to succeed in STEM fields. My leadership and advocacy were highlighted when I served as a panelist at the 2023 Life Sciences Alumni Career Event. I also dedicated time to volunteering in the Pediatric Emergency Department at Baystate Medical Center, actively participating in the Islamic Society of Western Massachusetts, and working as a head baker throughout my collegiate years.

After completing my undergraduate studies, I pursued my medical education at the American University of Antigua, College of Medicine. There, I joined the Global Health Track Certificate Program and completed core clinical rotations at clinical sites affiliated with Florida International University’s Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. My experiences inspired me to complete an observership at Ali General Hospital in Multan, Pakistan, during the summer of 2024.

Outside of my medical career, I am a self-proclaimed foodie who enjoys exploring new recipes and cuisines. I also have a passion for baking and the culinary arts, whilst spending quality time with family and friends, and dancing to my favorite Bollywood songs.

Why UMass Chan-Baystate?
As a local resident with deep roots in the community, having volunteered at Baystate Medical Center and with all of my cousins, including myself, being born here, I can confidently say that Baystate has been both my inspiration and dream hospital since childhood. In addition to being a leading healthcare institution in Western Massachusetts, I was drawn to the close-knit culture among the faculty and residents, the exceptional global health program, and the overall supportive and positive environment. I knew that at Baystate, I would not be just another number; rather, I would be part of a community that values personal growth and collaboration.

Baystate offers everything I need to fulfill my childhood dream of becoming a pediatrician, while also giving me the opportunity to serve both my local community and the broader population. I am truly grateful for the opportunity and excited to join the Baystate Pediatrics family as I begin this incredible journey.

Ashmita Mulmi, MD

I was born and raised in Kathmandu, Nepal, and completed my medical education in Bangladesh. During medical school, I found myself drawn to pediatrics, fascinated by the resilience of children and the joy of helping them grow and thrive. Seeing the miracles of life made me realize that this is where my heart truly belongs. Pediatrics is more than just a field of medicine to me; it is a chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of young patients and their families. With my diverse background and experiences, I am eager to learn, grow, and contribute to the well-being of children. Outside of medicine, I love exploring new places and cuisines, and I cherish the moments I get to share with my loved ones.

Why UMass Chan-Baystate?
From the very first virtual meet-and-greet, I felt a strong sense of warmth and positivity from the residents and faculty. Everyone was so welcoming, and it truly felt like a family. I knew right away that Baystate would provide the perfect environment to learn, develop my skills, and become the well-rounded pediatrician I aspire to be. I am excited to be part of this incredible community and to begin this new chapter in my journey!

Tatiana Polanco Rodriguez, MD

I’m originally from Lajas, Puerto Rico, and was raised by a young single mom. She went back to school when I was a teenager & while she pursued her education, I helped care for my younger siblings. Seeing her chasing her dreams despite all odds definitely shaped me into the strong, determined woman I am today. My mom is my role model and my north. I studied at the University of Puerto Rico for both college and medical school. During my first year of medical school, I was diagnosed with cancer and took time off for treatment. That experience, although painful and difficult, gave me a deeper understanding of vulnerability, resilience, and the kind of physician I want to be. I also served as president of the Medical Student Pride Alliance and was active in LMSA, both of which deepened my commitment to building inclusive spaces in medicine. I believe representation matters, not just for patients, but also for trainees like me. Outside of medicine, I enjoy crocheting, crafting, reading, and spending time with my two cats (Acland & Juno) and bunny (Oliver).

Why UMass Chan-Baystate?
Baystate immediately stood out to me as a place where people genuinely care, not just about patients, but also about each other. The program’s commitment to equity, advocacy, and whole-person care really aligned with my values, and I could see myself growing both personally and professionally in such a supportive environment.

Michelle Pollak, MD

I grew up in Toronto, Canada, alongside my twin sister and two older siblings. I earned my bachelor’s degree from McGill University in Montreal before attending medical school. Throughout university, I dedicated much of my time to volunteering—raising awareness about food insecurity in northern Canada and fundraising for hot meals for elementary schools in Nunavut. I completed my last two years of clinical training in the Bronx, New York City, where I developed a passion for working with underserved communities and advocacy. My research in quality improvement focused on topics such as newborn emergencies in the nursery. I also pursued my love for global health and pediatrics on a trip to rural Thailand, where I worked with pediatric patients and gained firsthand experience in resource-limited settings. What drew me to pediatrics is the opportunity to make a lasting impact on children and their families—from infancy to adolescence and beyond! Outside of medicine, I’m a big film buff, a bookworm, and an avid traveler (always planning my next adventure). I also believe that food tastes better when shared with friends! In the winter, you will find me snowboarding, and in the summer, I am usually out on a hike.

Why UMass Chan-Baystate?
Baystate was my very first interview of the season, and from the start, I felt an instant connection. The warmth and enthusiasm of the residents and faculty stood out, and I left every interaction with a huge smile on my face. The camaraderie between residents, the supportive environment, and the program’s commitment to exceptional patient care all reassured me that this was the right place for me. Baystate strikes the perfect balance for me— a strong academic training within a close-knit, welcoming community. As someone who grew up embracing winter, I also love that I’ll be somewhere that actually gets snow! I’m very excited to be joining the Baystate family and to start my journey in pediatrics here.

Amanda Elliott, MD

Amanda was born and raised in Central California. Prior to pursuing medicine, she worked as a store manager for more than a decade. She completed bachelor's degrees in biology and psychology at the University of Idaho. She studied medicine at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. Amanda is passionate about both teaching and medicine. While in medical school she also completed a master’s degree in higher education. When not in the classroom or on the wards, Amanda can usually be found enjoying the great outdoors.

Why UMass Chan – Baystate?
My connection to Baystate started with the resident social the evening before my interview. They were all genuine and incredibly warm and welcoming. Despite interviewing virtually, I felt a strong connection to the faculty who interviewed me. I could picture myself working alongside them throughout residency training. I am excited to be joining the Baystate family as I begin my career as a pediatrician.

Yara Kassamani, MD

I grew up just outside of London, England in a Lebanese family. I completed my undergraduate degree in Biochemistry at Boston College where I also spent time volunteering as an EMT. I later went on to pursue my master’s in medical sciences at Boston University. I then moved back across the globe, but this time to Ireland, where I completed my medical education at University College Cork School of Medicine. I began medical school initially unsure of which specialty I would pursue but along the way found myself gently gravitating towards pediatrics. I greatly enjoyed learning how pediatricians support children and their families across a multitude of areas in their lives in addition to medical care. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, taking piano lessons, boxing, and spending time with friends and family.

Why UMass Chan- Baystate?
Baystate really stood out on my interview day. Even from a virtual format, I could tell that the residents and faculty were genuine, compassionate people who care about fostering a positive, collaborative environment. Baystate has everything I could want in a program, and I am confident that the balanced, well-rounded nature of the residency program will help me become a holistic pediatrician. I am delighted to be coming back to Massachusetts and to be joining the Baystate pediatrics family.

Sophia Leu, DO

Born and raised in the historic Hudson Valley region of New York, Sophia grew up in a small but close-knit community with the outlandish dream of becoming a pediatrician. Despite being a first-generation doctor, her high school science teachers supported her every step of the way. After completing a bachelor’s degree in human biology and psychology at SUNY Albany, she returned to her hometown to work as a college tutor and volunteer as an EMT. She didn’t have to travel far for medical school, attending the Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in Middletown. Over the years, she found her love working and interacting with the community’s youngest population, solidifying her decision in pediatrics during 3rd-year rotations. As it turns out, her outlandish dream of becoming a pediatrician wasn’t so strange! While not practicing medicine, she enjoys cooking new recipes, exploring new places, and documenting them in photographs.

Why UMass Chan- Baystate?
The post-COVID age of Zoom interviews were nerve-wracking because I feared I couldn’t gauge a program from behind the screen. But that wasn’t the case with Baystate. From the moment I logged on to interview day, a sense of comfort and warmth washed over me. Everyone was genuinely kind, passionate, and excited to meet us. The family-like support and learner-manager-teacher model made me realize their passion for doing what’s best for their residents. I felt I could thrive and truly connect to this program, and I’m so excited to start my journey with everyone here! 

Rich Pack, MD

Rich moved here from Central Florida, where he lived the past 12 years for undergrad, med school, and plenty of odd jobs in between. He’s worked at the Lego Store in Disney, as an advisor and interim director of a group home and spent time as a researcher in a biostatistics lab. His hobbies outside medicine include gardening with his wife, running with his dog, and baking.

Why UMass Chan- Baystate?
What impressed me most were the kind and generous personalities of the directors, attendings, and residents. They radiated warmth and kindness from the first introduction. As a student, it could be difficult to weigh out which aspects of a program are most important. Since Baystate has so many great resources, not to mention being in a beautiful and affordable part of the country, the assurance of a friendly work culture really won me over.

Manasa Pisipati, DO

Manasa was born and raised in Long Island, New York. Growing up, she enjoyed making greeting cards and performing dances for hospital and nursing home patients, and volunteering in the local community. She completed her bachelor’s degree in biology at Adelphi University, Honors College, in New York. She is passionate about the role of nutrition in patient care and wrote her Honors College Senior Thesis on dietary sources for the maintenance of bone health, with a focus on the Mediterranean diet. Manasa pursued her medical degree at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, where she was selected for the Doctor Patient Continuum program, a case-based learning curriculum. She has always enjoyed interacting with kids, and teaching lessons and crafts at a local children’s museum. She pursued a pre-clinical internship with a pediatrician, where she discovered an interest in endocrinology, and worked on a project about growth hormone deficiency in pediatric patients. She also worked with her preceptor on a presentation about diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in pediatric patients. Her interest in pediatrics was confirmed by her clerkship rotation, where she had the chance to teach children and families by giving a talk on common pediatric rashes, which was shared on their website. Outside of medicine, Manasa enjoys painting, visiting art museums, baking, dancing, and spending time with friends and family.

Why UMass Chan Baystate?
I appreciate Baystate’s commitment to academic instruction for residents. From my interview, I could tell that the faculty truly wanted to help residents learn and thrive. I liked that I would get to learn from a diverse set of cases, through gradual autonomy with the learner manager teacher model. Baystate’s emphasis on community health also resonated with me. The social determinants of health have always been important to me, and I appreciate how they are incorporated into the curriculum and patient care at Baystate.

Emily Rodriguez Ortega, DO

Emily was born in Lima, Peru and moved to Florida with her family many years ago. She always enjoyed working with kids and volunteered at a local summer camp during her first summer in high school. She completed his bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences at Florida Atlantic University. She discovered her passion for giving back her community by working as a tutor and volunteering at her local hospital during her undergraduate years. She later went on to move to central Florida to complete her medical education at Kiran C. Patel College of osteopathic Medicine in the Tampa Bay campus. Outside of medicine Emily enjoys painting, listening to podcasts, group work out classes, and spending time with her family .

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
I knew Baystate was the right place for me to complete my pediatric training after my interview day. Despite interviews being online it was possible to see that the residents and faculty were genuinely warm and supportive. I also knew this program was going to provide me with depth and breadth of clinical cases and research opportunities. I am excited for what the future holds for me and my new coresidents here at Baystate and hope to give back to this community as well.

Raizel Suresh, MD

Born in Tirunelveli, at the southernmost tip of India, Raizel lived in various places in south India before completing medical school at Stanley Medical College, Chennai. Spending time with kids made her the happiest, hence her decision to pursue pediatrics. Subsequently she moved to the US-and lived in the states of beautiful Washington and sunny California for a while. Her next stop is Springfield, MA! She likes exploring various cuisines, binge watching Netflix, writing stories, reading books of all genres, and singing Tamil cinema songs.

She lives with her husband and her little daughter.

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
The story of how I landed in Baystate is a very dramatic one. Having lost the program, I matched in due to unfortunate circumstances, I got the opportunity to interview at Baystate. Like the 'wand choosing the wizard', it was a perfect fit for me. I liked the program from the get-go and meeting the faculty and residents only solidified that feeling. Their approach to both pediatrics and resident well-being is amazing:) I'm glad to say that I feel incredibly happy to be here!

Samuel Weitzen, MD

A lifelong resident of Massachusetts, Sam was born and raised in the Merrimack Valley. He was actively involved in the Boy Scouts, where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and explored his love for the outdoors. He completed a bachelor's degree in microbiology at the Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. During this time, he spent his summers working as an EMT and was actively involved in microbiology research. After completing his bachelor's degree, he went on to medical school at the Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan. During his time there, he was part of their global health program and helped to run “Ask the Doctor” sessions for newly arrived refugees from all over the world. Outside of medicine, Sam enjoys hiking, skiing, cooking, baking, listening to international music, and learning about commercial aviation.

Why UMass Chan/Baystate?
One of my best friends in medical school worked at Baystate. He constantly spoke about their supportive environment and about how they were just big enough that you got a broad exposure to Pediatrics while also not being so big that you got lost. Add in an amazing global health program and the opportunity to explore the mountains of Western Massachusetts and you have the perfect program for me to start my career in Pediatrics.

Ume-Farwah Zahidi, MD

Farwah was born and raised in Orange County, CA. She grew up playing basketball and spending time with her family. She completed two years of undergraduate degree at Chapman University in California, then packed up and moved to Ireland for the opportunity to study medicine at University College Dublin. There she made incredible friends and was able to travel around Europe. Outside of medicine Farwah enjoys spending time with her family, reading, hiking, and listening to true crime podcasts.

Why UMass Chan - Baystate?
Baystate instantly gave a warm and welcoming feeling. From the beginning of the interview, it felt like everyone cared about the residents, both professional and personal lives. I instantly felt a connection with the people at Baystate. I am excited to begin my career in Pediatrics here at Baystate.