MEET THE RESIDENTS
Class of 2026
Class of 2025
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.
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.
Class of 2028
Ahmad Abid
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
EM Interests: Critical Care, Sports Medicine
Why I Chose HUMC: I thoroughly enjoyed my rotations as a medical student in the HUMC ED as you could clearly see a strong sense of community among the faculty and residents. The combination of a strong teaching curriculum and being one of the busiest EDs in the country makes for an invaluable training experience in my eyes.
Fun Fact: I enjoy keeping active with sports in my spare time, a fun fact about me is that I can dunk a basketball! I also enjoy risk taking activities and have gone skydiving in the past, and in the future hope to learn how to fly small planes.
Gabriella Acoury
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
EM Interests: EMS, Medical Education, Critical Care
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC for its diverse patient population, its status as a Level 1 trauma center, and the opportunity to serve the very community that shaped me. I grew up just twenty minutes away, and being able to care for the people who supported me means the world. Training in the fifth-busiest ER in the country in 2025 is the cherry on top, as this program offers the high volume and acuity I was looking for in residency.
Fun Fact: During the COVID-19 pandemic, I ran a marathon to raise money for cancer research through MSK’s Fred’s Team. I am also an EMT, and I love watching Marvel movies and spending time with my two pugs!
Dylan Amin
Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine
EM Interests: Critical Care, Pain Management, Medical Education
Why I Chose HUMC: During my fourth-year rotation at HUMC, I had an outstanding experience. I consistently felt supported by both the faculty and residents, and I was able to care for a diverse patient population as a result of the hospital’s high volume and acuity.
Fun Fact: I met Shaq (DJ Diesel) on vacation and had the opportunity to play catch with him
Hannah Bashar
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
EM Interests: Ultrasound, Critical Care, Sports Med, Med Ed
Why I Chose HUMC: The residency program has a great intersection of volume, acuity, and faculty who create a robust educational environment. Having completed my medical school rotations here at HUMC, I wanted to continue to hone my skills while giving back to the community who helped me get to where I am. I know this program will make me feel confident approaching any patient presentation post-graduation.
Fun Fact: Life is a constant quest to complete my “To Read” book list on Goodreads - 57% completion rate right now!
Noelle Bessette
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
EM Interests: Sports Medicine, Procedures, Education
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC because of the high patient volume and wide range of pathologies seen. From my first time in the HUMC ED, I felt the supportive nature of both the residents and attendings and knew it was a place where I could flourish and grow. I also grew up in New Jersey, only about 45 minutes from here, so getting to stay in the area is a big plus.
Fun Fact: I was a member of the first Rutgers athletics team to win a Big Ten championship (shout out field hockey!) and I still play in 2 different women’s leagues.
Zachary Coles
Medical School: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
EM Interests: Medical Education, Social EM, Street Medicine
Why I Chose HUMC: diverse patient population, volume, proximity to family and friends
Fun Fact: I've worked part-time since I was 16 years old, and most recently worked at a deli delivering bagels during my 4th year of medical school
Sheam Jahan
Medical School: Rowan-Virtua SOM
EM Interests: PEM, Interventional Pain, Health equity, and underserved populations
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC because of its commitment to serving a diverse patient population and its reputation for clinical excellence. I’m drawn to the collaborative environment, high acuity cases, and strong academic support that will challenge me to grow while allowing me to make a meaningful impact in the community.
Fun Fact: I took culinary classes when I was younger, and I’ve loved cooking ever since. I enjoy experimenting with new recipes and cuisines.
Ahsan Khan
Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: EMS, Ultrasound
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC for its location, high-acuity and diverse patient population. When I decided to pursue emergency medicine, HUMC was at the top of my list. After meeting the faculty and residents, I was impressed by their enthusiasm for mentorship and the strong sense of camaraderie within the team. The opportunity to teach and mentor medical students was also important to me.
Fun Fact: I like working on cars and autocross.
Jieun Kim
Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine - Harlem, NY
EM Interests: Ultrasound, Global Health
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose HUMC for its high-acuity environment, strong clinical training, and supportive culture. Growing up in New Jersey and attending high school just minutes away, I’m excited to train close to home and serve a diverse, multilingual community I understand well.
Fun Fact: Between prayer and love stories, I find just enough emotional maintenance to keep going.
Ahmad Saleh
Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine
EM Interests: U/S, Pain management , ICU
Why I Chose HUMC: I chose Hackensack University Medical Center because of its reputation as the top hospital in New Jersey and its strong academic and teaching environment. I had the privilege of completing a fourth-year rotation here and was deeply impressed by the collaborative atmosphere, the emphasis on teaching, and the high standard of patient care.
My connection to HUMC is also personal. I moved to New Jersey in 2014, and since then, it has become home. Most of my extended family, including many of my cousins, live here, and I’ve built strong roots in this community. Before medical school, I worked as an EMT in Paramus, where we frequently transported patients to HUMC. Those early experiences left a lasting impression and sparked my dream of one day joining the team at this exceptional institution.
Fun Fact: I’m the tenth of eleven siblings, which means I mastered negotiation and patience early on. I hold a second-degree black belt in Taekwondo—helpful both in sparring and securing the last slice of cake. I’ve traveled to 15 countries, feeding my love for new cultures (and even more so, new cuisines). Food and sweets are my weakness, and I proudly consider dessert a necessary food group.
Savannah Seraphim
Medical School: TouroCOM Harlem
EM Interests: MedEd, PEM
Why I Chose HUMC: I grew up in central Jersey (if you believe in it) and went to school in NYC- to me, it just made sense to complete residency at a program perfectly nestled between the two! I also fell in love with Hackensack during my interview day- I left my 5 hour Zoom session happier than I ever remember being in my other interviews. Moreover, I know Hackensack is huge on medical education for residents- my second-look was a 4 hour shadow shift, during which we had a SIM session IN the ED! The case was one in which a pacemaker was going haywire, and the solution was to place a magnet on the patient/mannequin's chest (something I had never been exposed to before). This kind of education, which I knew I would be getting every day I was in the ER, made Hackensack a no-brainer for this huge nerd!
Fun Fact: I worked as a Starbucks' barista for 6 years during high school and undergrad- I actually have a tattoo of a coffee cup to commemorate this time!
Amina Syed
Medical School: St. George’s university school of medicine
EM Interests: Critical care, EMS
Why I Chose HUMC: I have always aspired to complete my residency training in a program that offers exposure to a high volume of patients with diverse pathologies, and HUMC clearly provides both. During my interview with Dr. Haji, other attendings, and residents, I felt a genuine sense of warmth, support, and belonging—it truly felt like I had found my new home.
Fun Fact: I love to cook and enjoy creating my own spice blends, experimenting with flavors from different cultures. In my free time, I find joy in decorating my home, especially incorporating antique pieces that add character and history to the space.