Neurology Residency Program
PGY4 Residents
Class of 2025
Priyanka Atit, DO
Medical School
Midwestern University Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why USF?
I love the open and supportive environment. The people are why I chose this program and that sentiment has continued to hold true.
Favorite Thing to do in Tampa
Thai temple! Beautiful scenery and food.
Favorite Quote
I don’t believe in quotes.
Favorite Part of Neurology
The exam. Localization is incredibly fun and I love all the subtleties and nuances to the exam.
Adolfo Baez, MD
Medical School
Indiana University School of Medicine
Why USF?
Diverse neurology training and strong mentorship.
Favorite Thing to do in Tampa
Exploring ramen shops and enjoying the nightlife.
Favorite Quote
“The brain is wider than the sky.” – Emily Dickinson
Favorite Part of Neurology
Reading brain MRI’s and diagnosing odd neurological syndromes.
Catherine Boldig, DO
Medical School
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why USF?
I enjoy the Tampa area and the attendings I have the opportunity to work with. The city’s atmosphere enhances my experience, and the attendings provide valuable mentorship and support.
Favorite Thing to do in Tampa
I enjoy outdoor activities in Tampa, such as running and paddle boarding.
Favorite Quote
“Do what you love, love what you do.” - Wayne W. Dyer
Favorite Part of Neurology
Neuro-oncology is my favorite field of neurology because it allows me to care for patients who are truly appreciative. There is also a vast potential to advance medicine in this field with ongoing research.
Avinash Kolli, MD
Medical School
Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine
Why USF?
We have broad exposure to rare and bread & butter cases. All of our attendings are approachable and want you to succeed! Tampa has amazing weather.
Favorite Thing to do in Tampa
Enjoy the weather outside!! I like to take my dog to one of the many nature preserves or grab a beer at a local brewery.
Favorite Quote
"How old do you have to be before you know what's going on?" - Calvin and Hobbes
Favorite Part of Neurology
I love all neurology but if I had to pick one field it would be neuroimmunology!
Alena Makarova, MD
Medical School
University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine
Why USF?
After experiencing USF as a medical student, I knew that my training would be excellent and that I would be supported by my coresidents and attendings throughout the long but rewarding journey that is residency!
Favorite Thing to do in Tampa
Visit various neighborhoods in Tampa and St. Pete for art, live music, and indie markets. And Bayshore sunset walks, of course!
Favorite Quote
“Don’t be blue, be a blueberry.” ~ me
Favorite Part of Neurology
Vascular Neurology! Time is brain!
Victoria Mazo, MD
Medical School
First Moscow State Medical University, named after I.M. Sechenov
Why USF?
I really enjoyed my interview day, especially the dynamic between Dr. Frontera and Dr. Robertson.
USF offers great exposure to all areas of neurology and a fantastic program culture.
Favorite Thing to do in Tampa
Taking walks along the Bayshore/Riverwalk. Exploring beaches with my fam. Trivia nights at Woven Water.
Favorite Quote
“I hate hospitals, in my mind they are associated with sickness.” -Michael Scott
Favorite Part of Neurology
Getting to know the patients through history and exam is my favorite. But I’m also a big fan of asking patients to draw the clock. And neonatal exam.
Karla Mora Rodriguez, MD
Medical School
Universidad de Ciencias Medicas Andres Vesalio Guzman Escuela de Medicina
Why USF?
Tampa is the most beautiful place in in the US. It is also close to my home country and flights are frequent. The population is diverse, and it feels like I'm home. I had visited USF before and was looking forward to learning from USF faculty.
Favorite Thing to do in Tampa
So many favorite options! Visiting the Zoo is what I do the most. I love animals.
Favorite Quote
"Faith is the bird that feels the light and sings when the dawn is still dark." - Rabindranath Tagore
Favorite Part of Neurology
Epilepsy ♥️
Kelly Nguyen, MD
Medical School
Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine
Why USF?
USF was my top choice because of the friendly and supportive culture among the residents and faculty. It is a great location near beaches. There is also great weather year round to do outdoor activities such as kayaking, biking, etc.
Favorite Thing to do in Tampa
I like to try different restaurants and coffee shops! There are always new ones to try.
Favorite Quote
“No matter what life throws at you, it doesn’t end. Keep moving forward. There’s always something better ahead”.
Favorite Part of Neurology
Vascular Neurology!