Third-Year Residents — Class of 2027
I am originally from New York, but for the last 5 years have made Houston, TX my home. I began my educational journey with a BS in Nursing from Long Island University-Brooklyn Campus in 2007 and continued on to achieve my Master of Science in Nursing- Women's Health Nurse Practitioner from SUNY Downstate Medical Center College of Nursing in 2012 and my MD from Oceania University of Medicine, Samoa in 2024. The most interesting aspect of family medicine is how you can build a lifelong bond with an entire family by caring for one person. So not only do I get to care for a mother, but I can care for the father, children, grandparents, and extended relatives. They become like your family and that makes family medicine a rewarding specialty to be a part of. I am passionate about providing my patients with the knowledge and tools to empower them to be an active participant in their health care management and I am excited to learn how to care for patients across the life span in different settings while in residency. Outside of practicing medicine, I love to spend time with my family: Husband- Dionne, Son- Sebastien, Twin Daughters- Vivienne and Vanessa. A fun fact about me is that I taught myself how to play the piano at 14. I would describe myself as: Caring, Empathetic, and Fun-loving.
I was born and raised in Quezon City, Philippines, and later moved to Glendale, California—though I returned to the Philippines to complete my medical education. I earned my undergraduate degree in Computer Science from the University of the Philippines – Diliman in 2014 and my medical degree from Far Eastern University – Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation in 2018. What draws me most to Family Medicine is the chance to build lasting relationships with patients and their families. I enjoy the continuity of care and the impact it allows across generations. Texarkana has been a refreshing change of pace, and I’ve grown to appreciate the kindness of the people and the unique vibe between its Texas and Arkansas sides. Outside of medicine, I love gaming and I’m all about good food and great company. My wife, Joy, and I love discovering local eats wherever we travel and watching food vlogs. Three words that describe me: Chill, Patient, and Uplifting.
My hometown is Temple, TX and I received my BS in Biology from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in 2011. I received my MD from Ross University in 2024 and I'm eager to learn how to apply the knowledge I learned in school in a real world setting and getting to perform procedures while in residency. I love following the full story of helping people from initial symptoms to full recovery. The journey is wonderful, and it is one of my motivating factors for going into Family Medicine. Three words to describe me would be: Upbeat, Organized, and Dedicated. When I am not studying, I enjoy writing fiction, gaming, and journaling. I am looking forward to exploring the great gem finding opportunities available in Arkansas and I'm excited to find raw stones in the ground.
I hail from nearby Taylor, AR and achieved my BS in Nursing from Southern Arkansas State University in Magnolia in 2010, and both my Master of Nursing and Post Masters Certificate Family Nurse Practitioner from Northwestern State University in 2014 and 2016, respectively. I attained my MD from Oceania University of Medicine in 2024. I am passionate about providing quality care to the residents of South Arkansas and love that Family Medicine provides comprehensive healthcare for people of all ages. In my spare time I enjoy hunting, fishing, camping, traveling, golf, and spending time with my wife, Jessica, and our son, Reid. I would describe myself as diligent, compassionate, and humorous.
I spent 1st-4th grade in Sand Diego, California for my mother's Pulmonary Medicine Fellowship, but I consider Coppell, TX, a small suburb of Dallas, to be my hometown. I received my BA in Philosophy from University of Texas in 2018 and my MD in 2024 from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. The variety and ability to connect with patients throughout their lifespan drew me to Family Medicine and I'm most excited about actually managing my patients, whether it's depression, diabetes, or small bowel obstruction! It feels like the long hours of medical school are finally paying off. I am eager to explore the food scene in Texarkana. I've already found great restaurants for both sushi and pizza. I absolutely love playing board games with friends in my spare time. I am recently married and my wife, Carolina, and I have a dog named Cold Brew. I would describe myself as: Laid back, Diligent, and Curious. Curious isn't quite the right word but I am very prone to investigate things and poke around as to "why" things are.
I was born, raised, and attended medical school in Lagos, Nigeria, but moved to Dallas three years ago to join my husband. Since then, life has been a whirlwind! I became a mom of two, completed all three USMLE Steps, and matched into residency. It’s been intense, but it’s taught me resilience, balance, and how to show up fully in both medicine and life. My husband, Kunle, has been my biggest support, holding everything down without complaint. Our kids, Nadia and Zayn, have reshaped how I see the world. Motherhood has deepened my empathy and strengthened the way I connect with patients. I chose Family Medicine for its versatility and the opportunity to build long-term relationships. I’m especially passionate about advocating for fairness and making sure every patient feels safe, seen, and truly cared for. Texarkana has been a pleasant surprise—no traffic (sorry, Dallas!) and genuinely kind people. That warmth extends into our residency program, which is supportive and inclusive. In my spare time, I’m usually in mom or wife mode, catching up on sleep when I can. I take pride in juggling it all while staying grounded—and maybe just a little nosey, in the best way.
I’m originally from Acton, Maine, and my academic journey began with a degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Maine, which I completed in 2016. Over time, my passion for science and healthcare grew stronger, leading me to pursue a second degree in Human Biology from the University of Southern Maine in 2019. I went on to earn my Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from NYITCOM in Jonesboro, Arkansas, in 2025. What draws me most to family medicine is its preventive focus—being able to help patients avoid illness before it starts is incredibly rewarding. I also value the chance to build long-term relationships and support wellness throughout every stage of life. Since moving to Texarkana, I’ve been touched by the warmth and kindness of the community. I’m excited about the learning opportunities ahead and the chance to grow both personally and professionally. I’d describe myself as empathetic, curious, and resilient. Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Teaka, and our pets. I also love hiking, gaming with friends, and staying active at the gym. Nature and science continue to inspire me in both my personal life and medical career.
I spent most of my youth in Northern New Jersey. After high school I lived abroad for about 10 years in Hungary. I spent a lot of time in my young adult years visiting my dad in Russellville, Arkansas and it has become my second home. I received all my secondary education from University of Debrecen Medical Health and Science Center Debrecen, Hungary and attained my MD in 2019. I love the impact Family Medicine physicians have in shaping the future of a patient's overall health through a lifetime of getting to know the person. I am excited to learn as wide an array of medicine as I possibly can, but I have a keen interest in both Geriatrics and Obesity Medicine. I am eager to meet the people of Texarkana during my residency, as well as, hiking and fishing in the surrounding area. I also enjoy reading, cooking, tennis, playing board games and I love to learn new words from different languages. My wife, Reka, and kids, Laura and Ronan, would probably agree that three words to describe me would be: Resourceful, Hardworking, and Patient.
I am from Anambra State in the south-eastern part of Nigeria. Most of my childhood and education were in a neighboring state, Enugu, where I attained a Master of Public Health and MD from University of Nigeria College of Medicine but immediately prior to residency I lived with my wife, Emmanuela, and kids, KC and Zara, in the small town of Harvey, Louisiana. I earnestly love every aspect of family medicine. I'm particularly fascinated with Family Medicine’s facilitation of preventive health as that is one of my motivations to acquiring my Master of Public Health degree. I'm passionate about Health Literacy and always want to share my knowledge on how to improve one's health profile. I'm also always curious to listen and learn what works for others and I look forward at the opportunity to learn both Hospital and clinic-based patient care while in residency. I would describe myself as down to earth, unassuming, and easy going. My hobbies include going on road trips, biking, playing in the park with the kids, going to the movies, and touring (visiting new places and trying new delicacies).
I call both Quezon City, Philippines and Walnut Creek, California my hometowns. I received a BS in Health Science in 2012 and a Master of Business Administration from Ateneo de Manila University in 2017, and my MD in 2017 from Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health, Philippines. I love the versatility of Family Medicine, where you can help people of all ages and address a diverse range of health needs and conditions. I am especially passionate about Quality primary care and inclusive public health and am eager to learn about Community health and geriatrics while in residency. I enjoy long drives and hiking, competing in table tennis tournaments, playing video games, reading graphic novels, and catching up with family and friends. I would describe myself as: Loyal, Determined, and Hearty.
I grew up in Southern California, spending my early years in the San Fernando Valley before moving to Simi Valley. I earned my BSN in 2016 and my MD in 2020 from the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Medical Center in the Philippines. I chose Family Medicine for its broad scope and the opportunity to care for patients across all ages. I enjoy the unpredictability of each day and the privilege of being on the front lines of patient care. Since moving to Texarkana, I’ve been grateful for the genuine kindness and hospitality of the community. The UAMS Southwest residency program has patient and helpful faculty that are willing to help with questions and guidance. All the staff have been supportive in integrating us into the program and the area. Outside of medicine and spending time with my partner, Ellen, I enjoy staying active at the gym, watching Netflix, improving my pickleball game and trying new activities like indoor rock climbing and surfing. I would describe myself as quiet, patient, and caring.
I’m originally from Katy, Texas, and earned my medical degree from China Medical University in 2011. I chose Family Medicine because I love the continuity of care and the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients of all ages. The variety keeps me learning every day, and I enjoy blending preventive care, disease management, and emotional support in my practice. I’m passionate about compassionate, patient-centered care and promoting mindfulness in health and well-being. I’m also fascinated by how medicine applies to extreme environments like space, and how that research can help us better understand human resilience. Climate change and sustainability are causes close to my heart—I believe in doing my part to leave behind a healthier world. Since moving to Texarkana, I’ve come to love the friendly, welcoming community and the peaceful pace of life (especially the lack of traffic!). The residency program here is supportive and full of opportunities to grow. Outside of medicine, I enjoy hiking, dancing Garba, traveling, and experimenting in the kitchen—my friends and family are always up for taste-testing my latest creations, whether they’re hits or hilarious flops. Three words to describe me: Funny, Positive, and Dedicated.
I’m originally from Guaynabo, Puerto Rico, and completed my undergraduate studies in Cellular Molecular Biology at the University of Puerto Rico – Río Piedras Campus in 2013. I earned my medical degree in 2021 from San Juan Bautista School of Medicine in Caguas. What drew me to Family Medicine is the continuity of care and the opportunity to develop meaningful, lifelong relationships with patients. I’m especially passionate about empowering others through education, creativity, and authentic connection. Since starting my residency, I’ve come to love the warmth and strong sense of community in Texarkana. The supportive environment and collaborative spirit have made learning incredibly rewarding. Outside of medicine, I recharge myself by painting, gaming, and exploring nature—and my husband, Onix, and I co-host a bilingual anime podcast that bridges different cultures and celebrates diversity in media. Three words that describe me best: Creative, Versatile, and Innovative.
I grew up in Austin, Texas, and earned my BS in Biochemistry from Texas A&M University in 2009. I later attended VCOM in Auburn, Alabama, where I received my DO in 2021. What drew me to family medicine is the opportunity to care for patients across all age groups—from playful toddlers to wise elders—making every day dynamic and rewarding. Since moving to Texarkana for residency, I’ve come to appreciate how easy it is to get around town—no traffic jams, just smooth drives and friendly faces.
Outside of medicine, I’m passionate about cooking, traveling, and producing electronic music. I also enjoy making abstract art, watching MMA and futebol, and once even ran a marathon back in 2014. Three words that describe me best are: Compassionate, Creative, and Adventurous.
I am a triplet who hails from Dumas, Arkansas! I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southern Arkansas University in 2017 and completed my medical degree at NYITCOM in Jonesboro, Arkansas, in 2025. I chose Family Medicine because I love variety, it gives me the chance to learn a little bit of everything. That broad knowledge helps me better serve rural communities like the one I grew up in. I’m especially passionate about providing compassionate, patient-centered care in areas where access can be limited. I would describe myself as compassionate, kind, and caring. One of the things I’ve come to love about Texarkana is the opportunity to serve in a rural clinic setting, it is great practice for my future. In my spare time, I enjoy going home to spend time with family or traveling. I also love spending time with my animals and visiting zoos and aquariums whenever I can. My fiancé, Josh Allen, and I are planning to get married this year.
Second-Year Residents — Class of 2028
I was born and raised in Quezon City, Philippines, and later moved to Glendale, California—though I returned to the Philippines to complete my medical education. I earned my undergraduate degree in Computer Science from the University of the Philippines – Diliman in 2014 and my medical degree from Far Eastern University – Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation in 2018. What draws me most to Family Medicine is the chance to build lasting relationships with patients and their families. I enjoy the continuity of care and the impact it allows across generations. Texarkana has been a refreshing change of pace, and I’ve grown to appreciate the kindness of the people and the unique vibe between its Texas and Arkansas sides. Outside of medicine, I love gaming and I’m all about good food and great company. My wife, Joy, and I love discovering local eats wherever we travel and watching food vlogs. Three words that describe me: Chill, Patient, and Uplifting.
I was born, raised, and attended medical school in Lagos, Nigeria, but moved to Dallas three years ago to join my husband. Since then, life has been a whirlwind! I became a mom of two, completed all three USMLE Steps, and matched into residency. It’s been intense, but it’s taught me resilience, balance, and how to show up fully in both medicine and life. My husband, Kunle, has been my biggest support, holding everything down without complaint. Our kids, Nadia and Zayn, have reshaped how I see the world. Motherhood has deepened my empathy and strengthened the way I connect with patients. I chose Family Medicine for its versatility and the opportunity to build long-term relationships. I’m especially passionate about advocating for fairness and making sure every patient feels safe, seen, and truly cared for. Texarkana has been a pleasant surprise—no traffic (sorry, Dallas!) and genuinely kind people. That warmth extends into our residency program, which is supportive and inclusive. In my spare time, I’m usually in mom or wife mode, catching up on sleep when I can. I take pride in juggling it all while staying grounded—and maybe just a little nosey, in the best way.
I’m originally from Acton, Maine, and my academic journey began with a degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Maine, which I completed in 2016. Over time, my passion for science and healthcare grew stronger, leading me to pursue a second degree in Human Biology from the University of Southern Maine in 2019. I went on to earn my Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from NYITCOM in Jonesboro, Arkansas, in 2025. What draws me most to family medicine is its preventive focus—being able to help patients avoid illness before it starts is incredibly rewarding. I also value the chance to build long-term relationships and support wellness throughout every stage of life. Since moving to Texarkana, I’ve been touched by the warmth and kindness of the community. I’m excited about the learning opportunities ahead and the chance to grow both personally and professionally. I’d describe myself as empathetic, curious, and resilient. Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Teaka, and our pets. I also love hiking, gaming with friends, and staying active at the gym. Nature and science continue to inspire me in both my personal life and medical career.
I grew up in Southern California, spending my early years in the San Fernando Valley before moving to Simi Valley. I earned my BSN in 2016 and my MD in 2020 from the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Medical Center in the Philippines. I chose Family Medicine for its broad scope and the opportunity to care for patients across all ages. I enjoy the unpredictability of each day and the privilege of being on the front lines of patient care. Since moving to Texarkana, I’ve been grateful for the genuine kindness and hospitality of the community. The UAMS Southwest residency program has patient and helpful faculty that are willing to help with questions and guidance. All the staff have been supportive in integrating us into the program and the area. Outside of medicine and spending time with my partner, Ellen, I enjoy staying active at the gym, watching Netflix, improving my pickleball game and trying new activities like indoor rock climbing and surfing. I would describe myself as quiet, patient, and caring.
I’m originally from Katy, Texas, and earned my medical degree from China Medical University in 2011. I chose Family Medicine because I love the continuity of care and the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients of all ages. The variety keeps me learning every day, and I enjoy blending preventive care, disease management, and emotional support in my practice. I’m passionate about compassionate, patient-centered care and promoting mindfulness in health and well-being. I’m also fascinated by how medicine applies to extreme environments like space, and how that research can help us better understand human resilience. Climate change and sustainability are causes close to my heart—I believe in doing my part to leave behind a healthier world. Since moving to Texarkana, I’ve come to love the friendly, welcoming community and the peaceful pace of life (especially the lack of traffic!). The residency program here is supportive and full of opportunities to grow. Outside of medicine, I enjoy hiking, dancing Garba, traveling, and experimenting in the kitchen—my friends and family are always up for taste-testing my latest creations, whether they’re hits or hilarious flops. Three words to describe me: Funny, Positive, and Dedicated.
I’m originally from Guaynabo, Puerto Rico, and completed my undergraduate studies in Cellular Molecular Biology at the University of Puerto Rico – Río Piedras Campus in 2013. I earned my medical degree in 2021 from San Juan Bautista School of Medicine in Caguas. What drew me to Family Medicine is the continuity of care and the opportunity to develop meaningful, lifelong relationships with patients. I’m especially passionate about empowering others through education, creativity, and authentic connection. Since starting my residency, I’ve come to love the warmth and strong sense of community in Texarkana. The supportive environment and collaborative spirit have made learning incredibly rewarding. Outside of medicine, I recharge myself by painting, gaming, and exploring nature—and my husband, Onix, and I co-host a bilingual anime podcast that bridges different cultures and celebrates diversity in media. Three words that describe me best: Creative, Versatile, and Innovative.
I grew up in Austin, Texas, and earned my BS in Biochemistry from Texas A&M University in 2009. I later attended VCOM in Auburn, Alabama, where I received my DO in 2021. What drew me to family medicine is the opportunity to care for patients across all age groups—from playful toddlers to wise elders—making every day dynamic and rewarding. Since moving to Texarkana for residency, I’ve come to appreciate how easy it is to get around town—no traffic jams, just smooth drives and friendly faces.
Outside of medicine, I’m passionate about cooking, traveling, and producing electronic music. I also enjoy making abstract art, watching MMA and futebol, and once even ran a marathon back in 2014. Three words that describe me best are: Compassionate, Creative, and Adventurous.
I am a triplet who hails from Dumas, Arkansas! I earned my Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southern Arkansas University in 2017 and completed my medical degree at NYITCOM in Jonesboro, Arkansas, in 2025. I chose Family Medicine because I love variety, it gives me the chance to learn a little bit of everything. That broad knowledge helps me better serve rural communities like the one I grew up in. I’m especially passionate about providing compassionate, patient-centered care in areas where access can be limited. I would describe myself as compassionate, kind, and caring. One of the things I’ve come to love about Texarkana is the opportunity to serve in a rural clinic setting, it is great practice for my future. In my spare time, I enjoy going home to spend time with family or traveling. I also love spending time with my animals and visiting zoos and aquariums whenever I can. My fiancé, Josh Allen, and I are planning to get married this year.