Resident Spotlights
Abdulaziz “Aziz” AbuHaimed – PGY-3
Where did you grow up? Where did you go to medical school?
I grew up in Dammam, Saudi Arabia and attended medical school at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University.
Why did you choose UMMC for residency?
Coming from Saudi Arabia, the choice was not easy. However, I knew that I would get outstanding clinical training at UMMC. Having an opportunity to train simultaneously at UMMC, VA, and Mercy Medical Center allows me an opportunity to work with a diverse patient population and equip me with the knowledge and skills to practice anywhere.
What do you value most about the program?
I truly appreciate all the support I receive from my colleagues, chief residents and leadership. No matter how busy things get, I know that I can rely on them for help. Also, I believe that the size of the program and the diversity in the clinical pathways of its residents create a unique and highly educative environment. Having people from Med-Peds, EM/IM, Neurology, Anesthesia and other prelims with me has broadened my insight and equipped me with a wider set of knowledge and skills. Also, the friendships I formed carried through my years of training and helped me significantly.
What are your career goals and how has UMMC helped you achieve them?
I want to pursue a fellowship in Hematology/Oncology. My residency training at UMMC has provided me with extensive exposure to the field. During my second year rotation at the cancer center, I encountered various acute malignancy presentations and managed treatment complications. The X+Y structure enabled me to experience the outpatient setting and build longitudinal relationships with patients, faculty and staff. This structure also helped me identify mentors who have been instrumental in my pursuit of these goals.
What neighborhood do you live in and what do you love about Baltimore?
I've lived in Federal Hill throughout my time in Baltimore and have thoroughly enjoyed it. The neighborhood offers a wide selection of restaurants and shops, and nothing beats the sunrise or sunset view from Federal Hill Park. Baltimore stands out for its vibrant food, Broadway and sports scenes. No matter your cuisine preference, there's always something amazing to discover. Additionally, the proximity to Washington D.C., Virginia, Philadelphia and New York makes for fantastic day trips whenever I have the time.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I usually spend my free time cooking and hosting friends for board games and video games. Whenever I have the time, I sometimes enjoy rowing, bouldering, catching a Ravens or an Orioles game or just strolling through the harbor. No matter the season, there’s always something to do here or something new to enjoy.
Emily Davidson – PGY-2
Where did you grow up? Where did you go to medical school?
I grew up in Philadelphia and South Jersey. I attended medical school at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University in Camden, NJ.
Why did you choose UMMC for residency?
I chose UMMC for the supportive environment of genuine and dedicated co-residents coupled with hands-on clinical training, including extensive patient diversity and pathology. Additionally, the strength of each specialty program and the research opportunities available make it possible to pursue virtually any fellowship.
What do you value most about the program?
The commitment to serve the Baltimore patient population and to treat and care for the entire person.
What are your career goals and how has UMMC helped you achieve them?
My career goals are to pursue a Hematology/Oncology fellowship. UMMC is an NCI-designated cancer center, and the exposure to both solid and liquid oncology and benign hematology is extensive. The fellows and attendings are accessible and passionate mentors.
What neighborhood do you live in and what do you love about Baltimore?
I live in Otterbein, right next to Camden Yards and Federal Hill. I love the charm of each individual neighborhood in Baltimore and the walkability of this city, as well as the pride in Baltimore sports, proximity to the water and great food scene.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I'm an avid runner and foodie. I love exploring different trails throughout the Baltimore region – Northern Central Railroad Trail and the Baltimore and Annapolis trail, to name a few – and enjoying time with my friends and family.