POST GRADUATE YEAR 1
OLUWATOBI "TOBI" ASADE, MD
Lagos State University“What drew me to Southern Regional AHEC was how warm and welcoming everyone was. From the moment I spoke with the residents and faculty, I felt like I was talking to people who truly cared, not just about medicine, but about each other. That kind of supportive, team-oriented environment is exactly what I was looking for in a residency, and it made me feel like I could really belong here.
I am also passionate about obstetrics and women’s health, so I was excited to see how much the program prioritizes that area. SR-AHEC seemed like the ideal location to lay a solid foundation for the type of doctor I intend to become because of the curriculum’s important opportunities to expand my knowledge in that discipline and obtain practical experience."
ZACHARY GALLO, MD
St. George's University School of Medicine"I chose SRAHEC because its values matched the kind of physician I want to become—one who is grounded in service, committed to excellence, and connected to the people they care for. During my transitional year at Cape Fear Valley, I observed how deeply SRAHEC physicians were embedded in both the hospital and the broader community. I watched them care for their patients seamlessly across outpatient clinics, emergency rooms, and inpatient wards—and that continuity resonated with me. It reflected a view of the physician not just as a provider, but as a guardian of their patients’ well-being. I knew I wanted to train in a program where I could build those kinds of relationships—rooted in trust, responsibility, and long-term care—while developing the skills to support patients through every phase of illness, healing, and health maintenance."
SAMILLE JEAN-PIERRE, MD
Trinity School of Medicine"The mission of the Southern Regional AHEC aligns closely with both my professional goals and personal values. The small size of the program stands out as a major advantage, offering more personalized mentorship, a tight-knit learning environment, and greater opportunities for hands-on learning experiences. Fayetteville’s diverse population presents an opportunity to work with a broad spectrum of patients, especially those in underserved communities who need care the most. This aligns with my commitment to health equity and community-based medicine. The curriculum at the Southern Regional AHEC seems robust yet flexible, providing space to grow both clinically and professionally. After speaking with the faculty and residents on interview day, I experienced a warmth and authenticity that gave me a strong sense of belonging, solidifying my desire to be a part of this family medicine program."
ELOISE KUNU, MD
St. George's University School of Medicine"I chose Southern Regional AHEC for residency because they train excellent physicians and foster a strong sense of family. The fact that some residents have stayed on as faculty speaks volumes about the program’s supportive environment and lasting impact. With my interest in women’s health, I love that the program offers an OB fellowship. Having that option available makes the program even more appealing.
Being from Charlotte, NC, it also means a great deal to be close to home and to give back to communities in a state where I’ve spent most of my life. I wanted a program where I could learn a wide variety of medicine, and SRAHEC’s rural setting adds a powerful layer to that learning experience. From the warm and welcoming vibe, I felt at the Family Medicine conference to the engaging interview and tour, I knew this was the right place for me, not just to grow and learn, but to create a lasting impact in my home state."
JACOB LARSON, DO
Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University"I chose SR-AHEC because of its proximity to Fort Bragg, where my wife serves as an Army physician—allowing us to stay together and support each other’s careers. I’m drawn to the program’s multidisciplinary approach, especially its integration of OMT and procedural training, which are essential to my development as a well-rounded clinician. SR-AHEC’s dedication to serving a diverse patient population aligns with my commitment to community-centered care. The program’s supportive environment and emphasis on comprehensive, hands-on learning make it an ideal place to continue my medical training."
VAN PIERRE MANDIN, MD
Tulane University School of Medicine"When I first met Dr. Hardy and Dr. Kapoor at the AAFP Conference, they welcomed me with open arms. I knew I would be learning from a wonderful faculty! Because I value a training environment aimed at the service of the whole patient whilst dedicating comprehensive healthcare to one’s own community, SR-AHEC was a good fit. Plus, having family in Fayetteville encouraged me to have a new adventure in a brand-new state (rest assured you can’t take the Californian out of me)! Much to my curiosity about learning new facts about this special North Carolina town, the diversity of the city and patient demographics impressed me: Fayetteville as a retirement community piqued my delight for geriatrics; the growing number of Filipino immigrants in the area assured no dearth in culture as a fellow Fil-Am; and, capturing my patriotic spirit as an American doctor, the presence of the military from Fort Bragg opens the opportunity to serve some of our men and women in uniform! Above all, it truly is the people who help form you to become a good doctor. I believe that the co-residents, teachers, and staff, all who comprise the SR-AHEC family, will guide me in attaining my professional goals, support my interests and values, and cultivate a memorable and beautiful residency experience as I train to become a wonderful family medicine physician."
SANGAM POUDEL, MD
National Medical College, Birgunj“I chose Southern Regional Area Health Education Center (SR-AHEC) in North Carolina for my Family Medicine residency because of its strong emphasis on community-based, patient-centered care. The program’s commitment to serving underserved populations and fostering compassionate, holistic healthcare deeply aligns with my personal and professional values. Additionally, the supportive learning environment, diverse patient population, and opportunities for leadership and public health initiatives make it the ideal place for me to grow as a physician and advocate for community wellness."
JAMIE ROUHI, DO
Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine“I chose SR-AHEC for many reasons. Having gone to medical school locally, I was inspired by the warmth and friendliness of the staff and residents during my rotations. The program’s strong professional support system, the diverse patient population, balanced mix of inpatient and outpatient experiences, and the osteopathic recognition, made it an easy decision. I am excited to join the team and look forward to serving the Fayetteville community as a resident."