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Ryan Anaya, MD
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Undergraduate: Baylor University
Medical School: The University of Texas Southwestern Medical School
Favorite Activities: Going to concerts, gym, traveling, binging thrillers and horror movies/shows, reading, spending quality time with my friends/family/dogs, and video games
Why Arizona and U of A College of Medicine – Phoenix: I was raised in Arizona for several years as a child, and many of my family members and close friends still live in Phoenix, making it feel like a second home. Beyond these personal ties, I was drawn to the University of Arizona College of Medicine–Phoenix because of the opportunity to work with Dr. Brown and the residents. From the beginning to the end of my interview day, I felt genuinely welcomed, almost as if I were reconnecting with colleagues and friends. The camaraderie within the program created a sense of ease and belonging that left a lasting impression. Professionally, I am deeply motivated by the opportunity to serve underserved communities and care for a predominantly Spanish-speaking population. I was particularly inspired by Dr. Brown and the faculty, whose leadership in public health, community service, and mentorship reflects the kind of physician I aspire to become. I left my interview feeling that there is much I can learn from this team, both clinically and as a future leader in family medicine. I am especially excited about opportunities to grow in sports medicine, addiction care, and community-based practice. Overall, I felt that this program not only aligns with my goals but exceeds what I am seeking in a residency. I would be honored to train in an environment that embodies the values and qualities I hope to carry forward in my career as a family physician.
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Spencer Barlow, MD
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Undergraduate: Brigham Young University
Medical School: University of Utah School of Medicine
Favorite Activities: Powerlifting, Playing and composing piano music, Spending time with my family
Why Arizona and U of A College of Medicine – Phoenix: Until I spent my first December in Arizona, my life had been a story of frigid winters and frozen windshields. Turns out, practicing medicine somewhere you can feel your fingers year-round is a pretty compelling upgrade! Moreover, the vibrant Southwest culture, delicious food, and my wife’s strong family roots made Arizona feel like a home away from home. When I interviewed at UACOM-Phoenix I was so impressed at how effortlessly kind and intelligent the residents and faculty were. I learned that this was a place where I would be able to practice cutting-edge, evidence-based medicine while developing the skills I needed to provide broad-spectrum care. I was so impressed that the same residency that houses the AFP podcast was also happily dedicated to hosting a small food pantry for the underserved. I am thrilled to join a group of people who can balance a love for learning with a love for serving others at UACOM-Phoenix!
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Anna Maria Driesen, MD
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Undergraduate: University of Arizona
Medical School: University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson
Favorite Activities: Traveling, Matcha reviews, Trying new restaurants
Why Arizona and U of A College of Medicine – Phoenix: As someone from Arizona, choosing the University of Arizona COM-P felt like the perfect fit for me. I grew up coming to Phoenix all the time, so the city already felt familiar and like a place where I could continue learning and growing. I’ve always loved the diversity and sense of community here, and during interview season everyone was so welcoming and supportive. I was especially excited about the strong mentorship within the program and the opportunity to mentor high school and undergraduate students. The program’s focus on caring for underserved communities also really aligned with the kind of family physician I hope to become. I also can’t forget to mention that there are so many fun things to do in Phoenix! From concerts to trying new restaurants, there’s always something to do in your free time.
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Taylor Forbeck, DO
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Undergraduate: Creighton University
Medical School: Midwestern University, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite Activities: Reading (Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Romance), painting, digital art, Hiking, scuba diving, mushroom foraging, Live-music events, cuddling my dog and my nephews and nieces, and travel
Why Arizona and U of A College of Medicine – Phoenix: As a Phoenix native, I always hoped to complete my medical training in my hometown. During my sub-internship, it quickly became clear that this program is full of people who are not only supportive and hardworking, but who genuinely enjoy being around each other and are committed to continuous improvement. It was obvious that the program values what each person and their passions bring to the table. I was drawn to the strong focus on advocacy, caring for underserved communities, and training that prepares you to meet patients where they are. I’m excited to continue growing here, stay close to the people I love, and keep exploring Arizona, one new adventure at a time.
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Tyler King, MD
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Undergraduate: University of Alabama- Tuscaloosa, AL
Medical School: University of South Alabama College of Medicine- Mobile, AL
Favorite Activities: Fishing, boating, lounging outside. I have fallen victim to the sourdough starter fad- who doesn’t love freshly baked goods? Watching women’s sports, playing soccer/tennis/pickleball/golf, etc.
Why Arizona and U of A College of Medicine – Phoenix: Having grown up in the Southeast, completed all my schooling there and served in the US Navy on the East coast, I wanted to venture out to see a new area of the country. I immediately recognized University of Arizona College of Medicine- Phoenix as a top tier program with excellent training opportunities that would challenge you as a physician and a community leader. After interviews and resident socials, I knew that this was a place where you would be deeply cared for and looked after during this pivotal career point in our lives! Additionally, Phoenix has everything there is to offer in the way of outdoor exploration, sports, culture & arts, and food!
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Gargee Khaparde, MD
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Undergraduate: Creighton University
Medical School: Creighton University School of Medicine (Phoenix Regional Campus)
Favorite Activities: Baking all sorts of sweet treats, Trying new local coffee shops, Spending time with my dog, Mocha
Why Arizona and U of A College of Medicine – Phoenix: Throughout the match process, the feeling of family and camaraderie was what originally drew me to the University of Arizona Family Medicine Residency Program. In addition, the emphasis of the program on full spectrum family medicine training was important to me, as I hope to one day have a practice that involves not only chronic disease prevention/ management, but also focuses on women’s health and obstetrical care. Though a California Native, I’ve come to love Phoenix and am so excited to spend another three years in this beautiful city!
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Beverly Sayasouk, DO
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Undergraduate: California State University, Fullerton
Medical School: Midwestern University- Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite Activities: Pilates/lagree classes (also love teaching classes as a certified HIIT pilates instructor), Binge watching kdramas and rom-coms, Facetiming/spending time with my niece and nephews
Why Arizona and U of A College of Medicine – Phoenix: UACOM-P embodies everything that I sought out in a family medicine residency program: a strong commitment in serving the local community, empowering others through teaching/mentorship, and following evidence-based medicine to help benefit patients as best as we can. During my sub-internship, I was able to see first-hand how this was practiced in real life and appreciated the overarching support each resident received from each other and from faculty. I believe that my time at UACOM-P will provide me with the capabilities and resources to be the best family physician I can possibly be. I am so excited to train here for the next 3 years!
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Kaylah "Kay" Scharf, DO
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Undergraduate: The University of Arizona
Medical School: The University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine (UIWSOM)
Favorite Activities: Family and Community: I value quality time spent with my family, two dogs, and friends. Active Lifestyle: I enjoy staying active outdoors, particularly through playing pickleball and golf. Leisure: In my downtime, I am an avid reader.
Why Arizona and U of A College of Medicine – Phoenix: As a Valley of the Sun native and a lifelong Wildcat, returning to the Phoenix area is incredibly meaningful after completing my undergraduate studies at the University of Arizona in Tucson and medical school in Texas. I am particularly drawn to this program’s dedication to broad-spectrum care and its rigorous application of the latest evidence-based medicine. Furthermore, the program's strong emphasis on advocacy and leadership at both the state and national levels resonates with my professional commitment to being a voice for my patients and the medical community.
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