Resident Testimonials

YuNing Chan, DO
PGY-3

"Originally born and raised in Taiwan, I immigrated to Westchester, New York, where I completed undergraduate studies in Biology and Psychology at Manhattanville College. I received medical education at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine, where I developed a passion for Family Medicine. I knew I wanted to continue my medical training at Overlook ever since my sub-internship as a fourth-year medical student here. I was very impressed by how strongly they care for the students' development and success, as well as how organized the rotation was. It was reflective of the way the residency program is run, which every member of the team is deeply cared for and supportive of one another. As someone for whom family and community has been the cornerstone of education, I was moved by how welcoming the faculty and residents were. I look forward to a very fulfilling experience during my residency training and bonding with my co-residents while at the same time raising a wonderful baby boy!"

Samantha Cohen, DO
PGY-3

"As a North Jersey native, it's no surprise that I'm back here for residency! I went to the University of Delaware for college (go Blue Hens!), and then went to medical school at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. Having heard incredible things about Overlook Family Medicine while at Rowan SOM, I decided to do a sub-internship here during my fourth year. Let's just say that this program certainly lived up to the hype. The residents, faculty and office staff welcomed me with open arms as a fourth-year medical student, and then again as an intern. Between the supportive learning environment, the resident camaraderie and diverse patient populations, this program truly has it all. Overlook Family Medicine places a huge emphasis on teaching, and I feel that I'm in a comfortable space to learn, make mistakes and be challenged. My favorite thing about the program is my co-residents! Overlook FM has managed to cultivate an extraordinary group of humans who are equally selfless, hard-working, brilliant, caring and down-to-earth. I'm confident that Overlook Family Medicine will prepare me to become a well-rounded family physician, and I can't wait to continue exploring my interests in LGBTQ+ healthcare and academic medicine. My time spent at Overlook thus far has exceeded my expectations. I truly did not think that residency could be this good, and I feel so lucky to be training here alongside such amazing people! "

Sachi Desai, DO
PGY-3

"When looking at residency programs, the most important aspect for me was working with an open, tight-knit group that promoted a collaborative environment. After completing my Master's in Integrative Medicine at Georgetown University and attending medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, I wanted to train at a hospital that would give me opportunities to practice these principles of holistic care. Being born and raised in New Jersey, I knew Overlook FM would be the best place to train to explore my interests in integrative medicine, women's health and procedural skills, while maintaining a work-life balance. I loved my interview day and felt so much warmth from everyone in the program since my first day. Throughout my training, I have seen how resident wellness is of the utmost importance amongst the faculty and staff. I am truly grateful to be able to train at Overlook Family Medicine and become a well-rounded family medicine physician." 

Aphnie Germain, DO
PGY-3

"I was born in Gonaives, Haiti and immigrated to the US (Orange, NJ) when I just turned 10 years old. I attended Dickinson College in PA where I acquired my BS in Biology. I was introduced to DO during senior year of undergrad, so I decided to take a year off to get my Master's degree at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine. It so happened that's where I also ended up doing my 4 years of medical school. Before medical school, I always thought I was going into OBGYN or Surgery. Throughout my last 2 years of medical school, I realized I was interested in a myriad of things and was introduced to the field of family medicine. After an extensive self-reflection, I decided to pursue family medicine. Best decision so far because it ties continuity of care with all my interests (procedures, women's health, adolescent health, primary care, behavioral health, community medicine, lifestyle medicine, and global health). As a kid, Overlook Medical Center was the place I always imagined myself training. I did not get the chance to do a sub-internship there, but from the start of my interview, I felt at peace and myself talking to the faculty and staff. At Overlook FM, I know I will get the best training that I need in order to become a well-rounded family doctor; I chose this place as a result of the above, but most importantly, because even through the camera, I could feel the camaraderie of the residents, the kindness and guidance from the attending and staff as well as the support to be unapologetically you. In my spare time, I love to spend time with my family and friends, eating good food, being active, reading, catching up on my Marvels and DC movies/shows, my K-dramas and Anime."

Waqar Khan, MD
PGY-3

"I was born in England and raised in Baltimore. I studied at the University of Maryland Baltimore County and received my Bachelor's degree in Biology and Sociology. I went to medical school at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. When deciding where I would like to do residency, I had the unique experience in having an older sibling in the same field and subspecialty. I was able to see first-hand how strong the training is at Overlook and the level of comradery that exists between residents, attendings, and staff. I believe that Overlook provides a broad scope of training that will provide me the confidence to practice in whichever realm of family medicine I choose. I am excited to see my growth as a physician these next three years while working in a collaborative learning environment that emphasizes residents' wellbeing."

Anjali Sivendra, MD
PGY-3

"I was born in North Jersey and grew up very close to Overlook in West Orange, NJ until I left for college in Philadelphia. I was always interested in Medicine as my career path but it was in the city that I really learned of the multitude of health disparities experienced by minority and underserved communities, especially concerning lack of access to healthcare in general. I decided to pursue my medical education back in NJ at Cooper Med in the heart of Camden because of the school’s strong commitment to community medicine and social service emphasized in the curriculum. Working with, learning from, and living alongside the communities in Camden further emboldened my desire to work with populations with increased need but not enough resources. When I interviewed with the Overlook Family Medicine Program, I knew I found a program that prioritizes the same work I wanted to do in Primary Care. Even after a few months this residency, from faculty to residents to staff, has only further solidified that I chose the best program for my needs. Everyone here have been incredibly kind, patient, and constantly go out of their way to check on you and help you progress. I could not ask for more supportive, extremely accessible faculty and co-residents that feel like good friends and even family early on. It is a true privilege to be part of program that shares the same passion for expanding primary care services to those who need it the most as well as a program that will definitely produce well rounded, compassionate family medicine physicians. I’m so happy with my choice, and excited to see what the next few years bring!"

Frenda Yip, DO
PGY-3

"I was born and raised in New York City. I attended college at Cornell University and majored in Human Biology, Health and Society where my studies not only focused on the general sciences, but also overarching human health issues through a biological and behavioral lens. In a way, I was subconsciously paving my road towards family medicine— I just didn’t know it at the time yet. During my clinical years in medical school at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, I was attracted to the breadth of care and practice unique to family medicine. In my search for a residency program, I sought out an institution that would provide me with adequate exposure to patients of all ages and backgrounds, sufficient outpatient practice, experience in performing procedures, and the pleasure of being surrounded by people who genuinely care about my well-being and growth. Overlook Family Medicine fulfilled those checkboxes and many more over. My ultimate goal as a physician is to be able to help anyone who walks through the door and my training at Overlook will get me there. In my free time, I like to try new cuisines, anime glass paint, travel, swim, watch kdramas, and play board games!"

Iymaan Pinkman, MD
PGY-3

"I'm originally from Morristown NJ, moved to PA before high school. I studied Biology with a minor in Chemistry at Delaware State University and earned my Master's degree at Barry University in Fl. I completed my Medical Degree at St. George's University School of Medicine in Grenada, WI. Going into medical school, I had an interest in both Pediatrics and OB/GYN. While on the island I participated in many community outreach projects like diabetic clinics, mini medschool, and health fairs. I was lucky enough to start off my third year with Family Medicine at Overlook, where there were many opportunities for learning, I gained mentors, and even had the opportunity to participate in local health fairs. After having such a rich experience at Overlook, I knew that Family Medicine would be the best specialty for me to go into (tying in all my interests; pediatrics, obstetrics, women's health, community outreach) and I knew I would have superb learning experience and support at Overlook Family Medicine. Outside of medicine I enjoy spending time with my twin girls, traveling #beachislife, comedy, movies, planning events & trying new restaurants."

Matthew Ajaj, DO
PGY-2

"After growing up in the Garden State and acquiring a B.A. at The College of New Jersey, I made a four-year pit stop in Long Island to attend New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine before rooting back down in NJ for residency. I knew Overlook Medical Center’s Family Medicine program was right for me during my fourth year rotation there, where I was inundated by a bevy of passionate people whose fervor for medicine was matched only by their kindness and compassion for others. Now a PGY-1 in that very program, I have felt supported each day and every step of the way. I may still be green with just a month’s experience under my belt thus far, but with the privilege of working with the excellent faculty and my exemplary co-residents for the next three years, I am confident that I have found the perfect place to cultivate my medical knowledge and skills and maximize my potential as a physician."

Marianna Jolly, MD
PGY-2

"Born and raised in California, I pursued my undergraduate degree at UC Berkeley in Molecular and Cellular Biology. With 3 gap years in between, I eventually decided to make the leap to attend New York Medical College where I received my M.S. as well as my MD. As soon as I found out what family medicine was in my second year of medical school I was hooked. The only thing left to do was find a residency program that emphasized: learning and growth in a positive environment, friendly faculty and peers, diverse patient population, community involvement and a robust mental health curriculum. Furthermore, as a National Health Service Corps Scholarship recipient it was important that my future residency program have ample opportunity to work with medically underserved populations. Overlook Family Medicine residency program fulfilled all these wants with ease. I felt increased confidence in my decision to attend Overlook Family Medicine program after shadowing for a day. The residents appeared to have comradery amongst themselves, with the faculty, and with the leadership of the program. They seemed to have curated a positive environment while continuing to prioritize learning and strong patient care. Now as a new intern, I am constantly affirmed in the impressions made upon me by the program. I feel so fortunate to have found this program and to have the opportunity to learn and work alongside such smart, well rounded colleagues and mentors."

Philip Lena, MD
PGY-2

"I chose Overlook Family Medicine residency because of the people. No other residency program sold themselves to me but Overlook did. They made me feel welcome, valued, and supported from the moment my interview started. My interview with Dr. Tribuna sealed the deal. He was so genuine, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable that I knew I wanted to learn from him and be part of his team. And if the program director is so great, you can imagine how amazing the rest of the faculty and staff are. They are all dedicated, experienced, and passionate about teaching and mentoring the next generation of family physicians. Overlook Family Medicine residency is more than just a program, it’s a family. I am proud to be an Overlook resident and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to pursue a career in family medicine."

Amanda Labib, DO
PGY-2

"I was born in NJ and have been here my whole life. I received my bachelor’s degree in biology at Rutgers University – New Brunswick and my medical degree from Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. I knew I wanted to stay close to home and had always heard nothing but great things about the Overlook Family Medicine program. From the first day of my sub-internship rotation, I was greeted with overwhelming kindness and felt extremely welcomed. The camaraderie among the residents was unmatched which was exactly what I was looking for – a supportive, collaborative environment. I recognized that all the faculty were deeply dedicated to building up strong, well-rounded family physicians and offered great autonomy to residents with their patients. The community that OMC serves also allows me to interact with a diverse population, equipping me to take on various challenges in medicine. I am so grateful to be a part of the Overlook Family Medicine team and I hope to pass on the same spirit and love for teaching and learning that I have experienced as these next few years go by."

Devon Mackey, DO
PGY-2

"I have lived in New Jersey my whole life. I grew up in Wayne in North Jersey, I studied biology at Rider University and then went on to earn my master's degree at Rutgers, and finally my medical education at Rowan University in South Jersey. As a New Jersey native was important to me to stay local when choosing a residency program. While I found that there were many great family medicine programs in NJ, Overlook was the one that stood out from the rest. I felt the residents and faculty were above and beyond in terms of how supportive and welcoming they were on my interview day, and they truly made it feel like a positive environment for me to be able to work and further my medical education. Something that I have always wanted from my medical career is to be able to give back to my community, which is why the strong emphasis on community medicine here at Overlook was so important to me. Since I have started here at Overlook, all of the faculty and residents have been eager at every step of the way to teach and support my goals as I transition into the role of a family medicine physician. I am extremely grateful to be part of the Overlook family, and I am confident my training here will serve me well throughout my career as a family medicine physician."

David Schulman, DO
PGY-2

"When thinking of which residency programs I wanted to apply to, the most important quality for me was working with fun, brilliant, and caring people who promoted a supportive and collaborative learning environment. I went to the University of Delaware for my undergraduate studies in Biology, and then went to medical school at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. During my time at Rowan SOM, I came to Overlook for a sub-internship and I absolutely fell in love with the program. The staff, residents, and faculty were so incredibly welcoming to me as a medical student, and even now as one of the new residents. I think my favorite part about working here, besides my co-residents, is how I never feel afraid to ask questions or make mistakes. There are an abundant number of opportunities for learning and teaching, as well as time for fine-tuning procedural skills. With the new family I’ve made here, I’m extremely confident I will become a well-rounded family physician throughout my time at Overlook Family Medicine." 

Timothy Wenzel, MD
PGY-2

"When I visited Overlook for a “second look,” I was immediately impressed by how close-knit everyone was. Residents and faculty alike seemed to genuinely enjoy and respect one other. Since beginning my intern year, that has proven to be resoundingly true. The entire program is not only invested in your success in medicine, but in who you are as a person. They’ve created an environment where one feels both supported and empowered. The greatest testament to the culture here is how many former graduates choose to return as faculty or stay with Atlantic Health for their careers. When you consider that type of positive environment, along with the opportunity to train at one of the best hospitals in New Jersey, it's easy to see why it’s such a privilege to be a Resident at Overlook Family Medicine."

Jayshree Chauhan, DO
PGY-1

"I was born and raised in the United Kingdom before moving to South Jersey 12 years ago. I completed my undergraduate studies at Rutgers University in New Brunswick and then pursued my medical education at Rowan SOM. During my third year, I found joy in every rotation, which ultimately led me to family medicine. As a fourth-year medical student, I had the privilege of rotating at Overlook Medical Center. From my very first day, I sensed that this was a truly special place to train. The camaraderie among residents, faculty, and staff is unparalleled, creating a supportive environment that fosters growth and collaboration. The clinic offers a wealth of resources to serve our diverse patient population, providing ample learning opportunities at every level of care. I am deeply grateful to train here and eagerly look forward to the next three years as a member of the Overlook family!"

Maria Gomez, MD
PGY-1

"My medical school, Thomas Jefferson university, offered the opportunity to be part of a longitudinal clerkship for 3rd year rotations at Overlook and Morristown hospitals. Through this program I was able to do all my core rotations at both hospitals and I had an amazing experience. I got to work with attendings through all the core specialties and see the dynamics of different specialties within the hospital, which highlighted the positive learning environment throughout the hospital system. For my Family Medicine rotation, I got to work with preceptors, Dr. Baker and Dr. Resciniti and was inspired by their relationships with their patients and felt very involved as a student in patient care. This solidified for me that I wanted to come to this program for residency. I am also very interested in doing a sports medicine fellowship and I knew that AHS had a strong fellowship so I was drawn by the opportunities this program could offer. I was also looking for a program that was close to home in Jersey city and a program that worked in part with Latinx communities.  Overall, I felt the environment in the hospital and the program would be a place where I would be happy to learn, encouraged to grow, and offered the opportunity to expand my interests within family medicine,  and now months into residency I am so grateful to be a part of this amazing program!"

Joseph Melillo, DO
PGY-1

"I was born and raised in North Jersey and went to undergrad at nearby Seton Hall University. After graduating from college, I was a high school teacher for four years in Englewood, NJ before attending RowanSOM. I first was introduced to Overlook Family Medicine through a sub-internship during my fourth year of medical school. From my very first day at the office, I was amazed by how friendly and welcoming the residents and faculty were. I knew early on this was the type of environment I would want to train in for my three years of residency. Overlook also met every other criteria for what I was looking for in a program. There were plenty of opportunities to continue being a teacher by working with medical students, I would be able to work with underserved communities, and I would be able to develop new skills in medical Spanish. I enjoyed learning more about the program and being able to see firsthand how I would be supported and encouraged to pursue my interests within family medicine. I am thrilled to be a part of the team to become the best family medicine physician I can be and to contribute to the culture that makes this program so special."

Jasmine Mortazavi, MD
PGY-1

"I was born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs of Philly in Lower Merion. I went to Drexel University in Philadelphia for my undergraduate degree in Biology.  After graduation, I worked as a basic scientist, taking two gap years before deciding on pursuing my medical degree. I attended medical school at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine in Grand Rapids, MI. I decided on Family Medicine pretty late in my third year of medical school. I was drawn to Family Medicine and knew it was the right specialty for me when I completed my third year clerkship. It encompassed everything I envisioned for myself as physician; someone who is able to know her patients and provide continuity of care. I also enjoyed how I could explore my other interests, such as behavioral health, addiction medicine, and women’s health. When it came down to applying for residency, I knew I wanted to come back to the North East to be closer to my family and fiancé, who lives in North Jersey. My interview at Overlook Family Medicine program absolutely blew me away. What really sold me and ultimately made me rank Overlook was because of the community that feels like family. Everyone has been so nice and so willing to help make the transition from being a student doctor to resident as smooth as it can be. One of my absolute favorite things about the program are my fellow co-residents! I am excited and eager to see my progress and growth over the next three years in an environment that is warm and so open to teaching. In my spare time, I love being active and doing activities such as hiking or hot yoga."

Taylor Parsons, DO
PGY-1

"I was born and raised in Livingston, NJ, just a short distance from Overlook. I went on to pursue a degree in Molecular Biology at Montclair State University. My journey continued at Rowan SOM for medical school. As you can see, I have yet to leave NJ and have no plans on leaving anytime soon! Therefore, matching at Overlook Family Medicine for residency was truly a dream come true. While I was in medical school, I found myself drawn to every specialty I encountered. I loved learning about the different aspects of medicine and didn’t want to limit myself to just one. This desire to retain a broad scope of practice while also forming lasting and meaningful relationships with my patients naturally led me to Family Medicine. What drew me to Overlook FM was not only its strong reputation as a program but also the people who make it exceptional. Family Medicine is known for its welcoming community; however, Overlook takes it to another level. The warmth and kindness of the residents, attendings, and clinical staff creates an environment that is ideal for patient care and resident education. Our attendings are some of the most empathetic and most intelligent physicians I have ever crossed paths within medicine.  They also encourage you to explore your interests within Family Medicine, which for me include sports medicine, lifestyle medicine, pediatrics, and community health. Here, I feel genuinely supported and encouraged to grow, surrounded by faculty, residents, and staff who aren’t just exceptional mentors and colleagues, but also people who will become lifelong friends."

Sruthi Srinivasan, MD
PGY-1

"I completed my undergraduate studies at Rutgers University, receiving a BA in Cell Biology Neuroscience and Visual Arts, after which, I worked in AmeriCorps for a year. Specifically, I worked in a project to improve access to community resources for the senior demographic in Morris and Sussex counties. From this experience, I became interested in community involvement and education and knew I wanted to incorporate it into my career. This led me to pursue my medical education at Cooper Medical School due to its strong emphasis on community medicine. As a third-year medical student, I realized that Family Medicine was the path for me due to its emphasis on community health education and holistic care. I also wanted to work in a collaborative environment that prioritized residents' wellbeing. During my interview at Overlook Family Medicine, I could really sense the camaraderie among faculty and residents and felt that it provided a positive and nurturing environment to grow as a learner. During my time here, I look forward to receiving a fulfilling educational experience, exploring my interest in geriatrics, as well as bonding with my co-residents. In my free time, I love to draw/paint, sing karaoke with my grandpa, and spend time with family and friends."

Ankita Veta, MD
PGY-1

"I was born in India and moved to the US at 6 years old. Since then, I have spent the vast majority of my life as a Jersey gal: I grew up in Princeton, attended Rutgers University, and worked in New Brunswick for a year before medical school! I got my medical degree at Albany Medical College, and my MPH at Jefferson University. After bopping around the northeast, I am thrilled to be back in the Garden State for residency... especially because it means I get to spend my time learning and working with the wonderful people at Overlook Family Medicine! I could not have imagined a warmer, more supportive environment than OFM. From my co-residents to attendings to office staff, everyone is truly invested in each other's well-being.  I am lucky to be part of a program that fosters both my personal and professional growth!"