Neurology Residents

Hometown: Wichita, KS

Medical School: University of Kansas School of Medicine

Why MU: There are many things that can speak for a program on paper, and MU has all of that: a diverse patient population that present a wide range of pathologies, training in all subspecialties with highly esteemed faculty, and a program that graduates strong neurologists. However, what was different about MU is that there was a family atmosphere that was immediately evident. Leadership here cares about each individual person and their goals, you are not just one of many applicants. Residents care about each other and look out for each other, as you would a teammate and friend. Within only a few months of being an intern, the program has made efforts to include interns in educational opportunities, neurology outpatient clinic, and mentorships with more senior neurology residents.

Accolades: 2023 Outstanding Junior Resident

Hobbies: fishing, hiking, eating Freddy's, and being an aunt!

Hometown: Chattanooga, TN

Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine - Carolinas

Why I Chose MU: Going into residency interview season, the main qualities I was looking for in a program were a friendly and welcoming environment, the amount of sub specialty exposure, and excellent program leadership. MU exceeded my expectations and I continue to be amazed at how warm and welcoming everyone is - not only in our department, but the whole hospital! Additionally, the patient volume is large and the pathologies diverse, making it a great place to train. Columbia is a great place to live as well, with lots of different things to do during your free-time.

Hobbies: Playing guitar, listening to music, breweries, TV shows/movies, all sports especially NFL (Titan up!), basketball, and my newly discovered passion for Nashville SC

Hometown: Khartoum, Sudan

Medical School: University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan

Why I Chose MU: I am delighted to be part of the Mizzou team and to be part of the Neurology residency program in particular. This program offered me everything I dreamed of in a program: high-quality training with exposure to all Neurology sub-specialties, an ample number of patients with diverse clinical exposure, an approachable and teaching committed faculty, and a collegial friendly environment. Living in Columbia offers you an affordable, safe, quiet college town life but with a lot of things to do, as well as beautiful nature to enjoy around the city.

Hobbies: Baking, Cooking, Walking and watching NETFLIX!

Hometown: Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada

Medical School: Trinity School of Medicine

Why I Chose MU: Mizzou's Neurology program is a busy program with amazing faculty and strengths in all the areas I am interested in. Mostly through, I chose it because of the people. The camaraderie among the residents and the leadership of Dr. Shenker make it a perfect place to learn in a fast- paced challenging environment.

Hometown: Dhaka, Bangladesh

Medical School: Sylhet M.A.G. Osmani Medical College, Bangladesh

Why I Chose MU: During my observership here at MU neurology department, it really felt like family! I loved the way residents and a great group of faculty learn, teach, and collaborate on every clinical learning and research opportunity. I realized the exposure I can get to various branches of Neurology through the residency program here will help me choose my fellowship plan wisely and grow as a confident Neurologist. Also, Columba, MO is a great place to grow a family. I love the Mizzou campus since my husband did his MBA here and I always wanted to be a Mizzou Tiger!

Hobbies: Cooking, Playing Chess, DIY Home Improvements

Hometown: London, United Kingdom

Medical School: Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary

Why I Chose MU: From the first day of residency, the neurology program makes you feel involved despite being in internal medicine. Both the residents and the senior faculty go our of their way to achieve this. It really displays the collegial atmosphere here. Truly phenomenal. Combined with the exposure to a diverse range of neurological disorders and an emphasis on education, you have a program that will really fine-tune that neurologist within you (and me). But every ship is as good as the captain that steers it, and so if you ask me for one thing that stood out above all else during the interview process, it would be the program director, Dr. Shenker. After speaking with him, it quickly becomes apparent why he won the Residency Program Director award from AAN. What about the area? It is a college town and so has most of the amenities a big city will offer you, without the hassle of big city. However, if there is really something you cannot find here you have Kansas City and St. Louis, both within a two-hour drive. Season-wise, whether you love the warmth of summers or the coziness of winters, you will enjoy your time here.

Hobbies: Gym, squash, technology, dancing (not too bad at it) and traveling

Hometown: Egypt

Medical School: Menoufia University Faculty of Medicine

Why I chose MU: I could tell on the interview day that this is the best environment for me to develop professionally. First, I could feel how friendly and supportive the residency team is. I also liked the research facilities in the University including the NextGen building, and the comprehensive services the hospital provides for multiple neurological conditions such as epilepsy and stroke.

Hometown: Inner Mongolia, China

Medical School: Xi'an Jiaotong University College of Medicine

Why I chose MU: My family lives in Kansas City, and I always wanted to choose a program nearby. But what's even more important to me is being a part of a supportive team in a positive learning environment. My love for this program started with the warm welcome letter I received from Dr. Shenker the day before my interview. During the interview itself, I was impressed by the team's attention to detail and their friendly nature. All of this made me really want to join this amazing team; I feel so incredibly lucky to be a part of this team. I'm grateful for the guidance and support from Dr. Shenker, the senior residents, my co-interns, and the staff. Being a part of this family fills me with deep gratitude.

Career Plans/Interests: My areas of interest are Neuromodulation, Movement Disorders, Pain Medicine, and Epilepsy. 

Hometown: Jacksonville, AR

Medical School: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine

Why I chose MU: I chose MU for my neurology training because of my experience with the attendings and residents during a rotation here. I was constantly and without exception made to feel welcomed as a learner. The culture at MU Neurology has been intentionally crafted to foster that environment and it shows.; I feel very fortunate to have matched at MU and even more so to be a part of a remarkable group of residents.

Accolades:

• 2024-2025 Outstanding Junior Resident

Hobbies: Spending time with my wife and two daughters, Jujitsu, classical guitar

Career Plans/Interests: Research interest in neurovascular dysregulation and process structuralism in biologic control systems.

Hometown: New York

Medical School: University of Missouri School of Medicine

Why I chose MU: In my experience as a medical student at Mizzou, this dynamic program has values centered around teaching, learning, general wellness, and a nurturing environment. I enjoyed working with the faculty and the residents. The success of the program in mainly due to outstanding leadership. Dr. Shenker is a wonderful program director dedicated to running an excellent Neurology Program, but first and foremost cares about the well-being of his residents. I was happy to join this program knowing I would receive exceptional training and thrive in this environment. There are also many resources in the form of fellowships which I look forward to exploring.

Accolades:

• 2025 Inducted into the MU Chapter of the Gold Humanism Society.

Hometown: Karachi, Pakistan

Medical School: Dow Medical College

Why I chose MU: ;I was drawn to MU early on during the match cycle. The first thing that caught my interest as an International Medical Graduate was the immensely supportive and close-knit culture that pervaded the program and my interview day experience.

MU offers everything I wanted in a robust Neurology Residency Program including diverse clinical experiences, stellar leadership and management, thoughtful educational curricula, and an openness to feedback with an emphasis on continual growth. Having spent time with my co-residents, Dr. Shenker, and each member of the department, I can assure you that this is a home away from home.

Finally, Columbia is a hidden gem in Missouri. Whether you're a foodie, sports enthusiast, nature lover, or theatergoer, there is something here for you.

Hobbies: Cooking, writing, reading, boxing, gym, exploring new tech.

Career Plans/Interests: Open-minded right now. Planning to explore the breadth and depth of Neurology available at MU and decide accordingly.

Hometown: Kirksville, MO

Medical School: A.T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine

Why I chose MU: I grew up near Columbia, MO so my family is nearby. There is an outlet for every single activity I enjoy outside of work and everyone here is so friendly. I have already found that Mizzou offers a very supportive environment for learning with the opportunity to see a wide variety of pathologies and learn from great mentors.

Accolades: Still Scholar, AHEC Scholar

Hobbies: CrossFit, mountain biking, bouldering, bodybuilding, hiking, gardening, cooking, travel

Career Plans/Interests: I'm interested in both vascular and neuromuscular neurology. I intend to let my experiences during residency guide which subspecialty and practice setting I choose.

Hometown: Born in Burgas Bulgaria and grew up in Piscataway, NJ

Medical School: Robert Wood Johnson Medical School

Why I chose MU: I approached selecting a residency program the same way that I’ve approached most of my life decisions: by gut feeling. From the educational side, I was looking for a program that would give me the space to think through a plan for myself but have the support for when I would inevitably need help. From the social side, I wanted a program in which the atmosphere amongst the residents would be lighthearted and collaborative. And in terms of location, I love that I can make the drive from my house to the hospital in <6 minutes. (It averaged at 5 minutes and 34 seconds.) Coming from the heavy traffic and the constant urgency of the most densely populated state in the country, I feel like Columbia is a breath of fresh air.

Accolades: Distinction in Research, Distinction in Service to the Community, RWJMS Summer Research Fellowship Program.

Hobbies: Drawing, Painting, Gaming, & Skiing

Career Plans/Interests: Currently undecided and open to all specialties.

Hometown: Freedom, WI

Medical School: Des Moines University

Why I chose MU: When trying to choose a residency program, I was looking for a place that would fit with my personality, while also giving me great learning opportunities and diverse patients. I was lucky enough to do a rotation at MU during my fourth year of medical school and I immediately felt comfortable here. All of the residents wanted me to ask questions about anything and everything, and faculty wanted to get to know me, and I could see that the program was about building strong doctors... and people. The icing on the cake was the city of Columbia offering multiple ways to stay active, meet new people, and get ingrained in the community

Hobbies: Spending time with my family and my cat, reading fantasy series, cooking, working out; either in the gym or a pick up game, & watching Wisconsin sports teams, especially, the Green Bay Packers.

Career Plan/Interests: At this time I am open about specific career plans but I am leaning towards stroke. That being said I am excited to get more outpatient exposure to experience different subspecialties.

Hometown: Reno,NV

Medical School: Kansas City University

Why I chose MU: I chose MU because the environment is full of positive energy and the culture fosters strong comradery. The program director, faculty, residents, and staff are exceptionally warm and genuinely care about the education and well-being of team members and patients. I am very excited and proud to be a devoted and loyal member of this healthcare community. Columbia is a wonderful place to live and allows me to be hear my family and friends.

Hobbies: Salsa and Bachata, weight-lifting, movies, cooking, and dancing with family and friends

Career Plans/Interests: Neuro-Hospitalist, Fellowship, or outpatient setting.

Hometown: Kansas City, MO

Medical School: University of Missouri - Columbia

Why I chose MU: Saying the faculty, residents, and staff in the department was the #1 reason feels redundant, but it is 100% true. While choosing a residency program, I always understood, "the environment would shape my success" While attending medical school at MU I saw first hand the support for my education from the faculty, residents, fellows, and administrative staff. It was an easy decision to stay.

Accolades: Eagle Scout Troop 314, 2021 Outstanding MedZOU Chair

Hobbies: You can always find me running around Columbia training for the next race or reading another fantasy novel in one of our coffee shops. Currently I am reading through the Mistborn trilogy by Brandon Sanderson; I highly recommend them. I have been learning woodworking, If I ever have more time (and money) I hope to explore this more. For now if anyone needs a poorly carved spoon (or firewood), I'm your guy.

Career Plans/Interests: Currently, I am a fluid, but I know that my residency training will help guide my decision. I am open to fellowships and I find a lot of interest in vascular neurology and cognitive disorders.

Hometown: High Ridge, MO

Medical School: University of Missouri - Columbia

Why I chose MU: I attended MU for medical school and was very happy with my education here. The neurology department at MU sees an extensive variety of neurological conditions, treating patients from all over the state. The department is also led by a very knowledgeable group of faculty, who are passionate about teaching and preparing residents for their future careers. I am confident that I will become a well-rounded and capable physician after completing this program. I also very much enjoy living in Columbia. It is a great college town with so much to do. GO TIGERS!

Accolades: Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society

Hobbies: Exercising, Watching Movies, Reading, Painting, Baking, & Board Games

Career Plans/Interests: I am currently interested in pursuing a career as a neuro-hospitalist and potentially doing a fellowship in vascular neurology, although, I hope to get ample exposure to all the subspecialties before making a final decision.

Hometown: Madaba, Jordan

Medical School: Hashemite University, Jordan

Why I chose MU: Applying to residency is a pivotal milestone, and I knew I needed a program with strong clinical training, diverse pathology, supportive mentorship, and rich academic opportunities. MU stood out by offering all of that within a friendly, collaborative environment where I can thrive both professionally and personally. Living in Columbia adds to the experience - an affordable, safe, and family friendly college town with beautiful nature, vibrant culture and a great place to raise children.

Hobbies: I enjoy reading multicultural novels - especially those adapted into movies, series, or anime. I also love staying active through cycling, soccer, and volleyball.

Career Plans/Interests: I am passionate about all areas of neurology and am eager to explore them further, with a particular interest in vascular neurology.

Hometown: Mumbai, India

Medical School: Terna Medical College & Hospital

Why I chose MU: I knew early on during my observership, that MU would be an excellent place to train. From my interactions with the program leadership, residents, and coordinators, I could tell that everyone here genuinely looks after one another. The way everyone helped us settle in and feel like part of the family was a testament to that.

The program itself offers a wide range of subspecialties to explore, which is perfect for someone like me who is still discovering their specific interests within neurology. What impressed me most, is the department's commitment to continually evolve and improve in tandem with the needs of its residents. That kind of dedication to training and education assure me that MU was the right choice for my residency.

Lastly, Columbia is surrounded by beautiful state parks and hiking trails, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Being situated between St. Louis and Kansas City offers the perfect balance for anyone who values both nature and access to larger cities.

Hobbies: Badminton, Hiking, Most Things Outdoors, Pokémon, and trying to keep my plants alive.

Career Plans/Interests: Still figuring it out!

Hometown: Beirut, Lebanon

Medical School: Lebanese American University Gilbert and Rose Marie Chagoury School of Medicine

Why I Chose MU: The tightly knit family environment and strong mentorship program drew me towards MU's Neurology Program. The emphasis on clinical neurology as well as the vast opportunities to participate in medical education and research strongly aligned with my career aspirations.

Hobbies: Reading, Gymnastics, Traveling, and Exploring new cities/countries

Career Plans/Interests: I am currently open-minded about fellowship opportunities, but definitely was academic neurology and medical education to be part of my future career.

Hometown: Saint Peters, Missouri

Medical School: University of Missouri - Columbia, School of Medicine

Why I chose MU: The primary reason I chose MU for neurology residency was the culture. When I rotated here as a student, I saw the residents going out of their way to support each other. They also genuinely seemed to enjoy spending time with each other, which made the tougher shifts much easier to handle. Additionally, MU is home to a Level 4 Epilepsy Monitoring Unit, a Level 1 Stroke Center, and a phenomenal endovascular team - all filled with physicians who prioritize education. I couldn't be more thankful to have the opportunity to learn here!

Accolades:

• American Academy of Neurology 2025 Medical Student Prize for Excellence; May 2025
• Glasgow-Rubin Citation for Academic Achievement; May 2025
• Joseph & Margaret Flynn Medical Student Scholarship; May 2025
• Global Health Scholar; May 2025
• Alpha Omega Alpha; Fall 2024
• James Dexter Award for Excellence in Neurology; May 2024
• Frank E. and Ena Hickerson Rhoads Scholarship; May 2024
• SLEEP 2023 Meeting Trainee Merit Award; June 2023
• Conference Presentation Travel Award June 2023
• Karl J Hasik Scholarship Award; Fall 2023
• Russell & Dara White Scholarship Award; Fall 2023

Hobbies: Outside of residency I enjoy exploring local restaurants and coffee shops, thrifting, and going to the Columbia Farmer's Market. I also like to partake in indoor cycling, Pilates, and yoga.

Career Plans/Interests: While I am currently undecided on a potential subspecialty of neurology to pursue, a Clinical Neurophysiology fellowship would allow me to feel more competent with EEGs, EMGs, and NCSs.

Bio Coming Soon

Hometown: Overland Park, KS

Medical School: University of Kansas

Why I chose MU: When I began exploring residency programs, I was looking for a place with strong supportive faculty, residents who felt like friends and mentors, and a culture of learning, that balanced patient complexity with time for growth and research. It was a tall order - but through an unexpected route, MU exceeded my expectations. My partner and I were couple's matching, and we first heard great things about Columbia from MU family medicine residents at a conference.  During my interview, it was clear - especially after speaking with Dr. Shenker, that the program values mutual respect and team-based care across all roles. The warm, collaborative atmosphere, along with the diverse patient population and approachable lifestyle in Columbia, made it an easy decision to bring our family (including our four pets!) here.

Accolades:

• Served in Army Reserves from 2013 - 2025
• Lee EB, Dilower I, Marsh CA, Wolfe MW, Masumi S, Upadhyaya S, Rumi MAK. Sexual Dimorphism in Kisspeptin Signaling Cells. 2022 Mar 28;11(7):1146. doi: 10.3390/cells11071146. PMID: 35406710; PMCID: PMC8997554.
• Masumi S, Lee EB, Dilower I, Upadhyaya S, Chakravarthi VP, Fields PE, Rumi MAK. The role of Kisspeptin signaling in Oocyte maturation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2022 Aug 22;13:917464. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2022.917464. PMID: 36072937; PMCID: PMC9441556.
• 2018 Nurses Excellence Award Nomination - University of Kansas
• 2018 Good Catch Nomination, National Model United Nations - University of Kansas

Hobbies: I enjoy riding road and mountain bikes. I have built my own electric bicycle and regularly ride on bike paths and mountain bike trails. I also enjoy spending time with my partner, playing pickleball with co-residents and running with our Golden Retriever.

Career Plans/Interests: I'm currently exploring various subspecialties within neurology and look forward to gaining broad clinical exposure during residency before deciding on a fellowship path.