Current Residents
Internal Medicine – PGY3

Edwin Mendoza, M.D.
- Academic Chief Resident
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso because of its unique border population, learning how to manage and treat complex disease pathophysiology is critical to learn and develop as a physician. Many of the people in El Paso are Spanish-only speakers, so giving back to the community as a Latino resident was a priority. Additionally, the warm and friendly residents at the meet and greet pushed them as my No. 1 choice.
Favorite things about El Paso: The diverse selection of restaurants, so many fun activities to do from Top Golf, bowling, or taking a spontaneous trip to Ruidoso, the possibilities are endless! It is an amazing city!
Hobbies/Interests: Absolutely love going to the gym to get a workout, looking up new recipes to try out, or giving a new restaurant a try!
Plans after residency: I plan to pursue a fellowship in gastroenterology.
Something unique or interesting about myself: I can do 70 lbs weighted pullups!

Manas Pustake, M.D.
- Ambulatory/QI Chief Resident
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency because it offers exposure to unique pathologies from both Mexico and the United States. The program's geographical location on the border of the two countries provides a diverse and rich clinical experience. During my interview, I sensed the faculty's dedication and the supportive learning environment, which reinforced my decision.
Favorite things about El Paso: My favorite things about El Paso are the vibrant cultural diversity, the friendly and welcoming community, the beautiful sunrises, and the stunning desert landscapes. I also appreciate the rich history of the area and the delicious local cuisine.
Hobbies/Interests: In my free time, I enjoy watching cricket, trying different cuisines, and spending quality time with friends.
Plans after residency: After residency, I plan to pursue a fellowship in hematology and oncology.
Something unique or interesting about myself: One thing about me is that I grew up living on the top floor of a hospital in a remote Indian village. My parents are pediatricians and seeing them rush off to help patients at all hours is what inspired me to become a physician.

Kunal Sharma, M.D.
- Administrative Chief Resident
- PGY3

Bhaswanth Bollu, M.D.
- PGY3

Yagnapriya Chirrareddy, M.D.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: Texas Tech Health El Paso offers an exceptional residency program with a comprehensive curriculum, hands-on training, and a supportive community. The warm and welcoming environment, along with excellent mentorship and diverse patient exposure, aligns perfectly with my career goals and passion for internal medicine. The program's commitment to serving underserved populations and the enthusiastic, friendly residents and faculty solidified my decision to choose Texas Tech Health El Paso for my residency training.
Favorite things about El Paso: The sunsets, Mexican food, sense of safety and the people.
Hobbies/Interests: I love trying different crafts. I also enjoy watching movies, reading books and cooking.
Plans after residency: I am deeply passionate about all aspects of medicine, making it tough to decide on my future path. However, I am especially fascinated by hematology-oncology.
Something unique or interesting about myself: My skill with the abacus helps me solve math problems quickly and accurately.

Ritwik Dey, M.D.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: I had never been to Texas, let alone El Paso, before matching into Texas Tech Health El Paso. However, it was an easy decision for me to choose this program as I have always wanted to train in a large academic center with excellent clinical exposure and robust research opportunities. It was my first interview, and though I was a little nervous, I had an amazing interview experience due to a very supportive staff, be it the program coordinators, attendings or chief residents. I also loved the camaraderie among the residents during the meet-and-greet session. Hence, I think I am very lucky to have been matched into this program and do my training here.
Favorite things about El Paso: I have yet to explore the city fully, but I think I can spend hours watching the night lights of the twin cities of El Paso and Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, from the Scenic Drive atop the mountain.
Hobbies/interests: I am a travel addict and can set off at the drop of a hat. I also love to experiment with photography and indulge in anything related to crime/thriller/horror/adventure genre, whether movies or books. I also love to hoard books.
Plans after residency: Pursue fellowship, probably Cards/HemOnc/GI, but I wish to explore more before deciding.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I know four languages - Bengali, English, Hindi- and I learned to speak Tamil during medical school. I hope to learn Spanish, too, in the next three years of residency here! Also, I probably suck at cooking, but I can make good chai!

Esraa Elsayed, M.D.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: Before my interview, I knew Texas Tech Health El Paso provided an excellent training ground. The diverse patient population, being consistently pushed to think outside the box to provide the best care in situations where patients have limited resources and the complexity of patients is both a challenge and a privilege. My experience on interview day opened my eyes to the spirit of collegiality and mutual support at Texas Tech Health El Paso; that is why it was my No. 1 choice for residency.
Favorite things about El Paso: The breathtaking sunsets and the beautiful weather all year round especially when
it rains.
Hobbies/interests: I enjoy cooking, practicing yoga and reading. I also love watching
TV series and movies and could binge watch an entire season in less than a week!
Plans after residency: I like to approach things with an open mind so I’m still undecided.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I’m good at learning new languages. I speak English, Arabic and French. I’m currently learning Spanish.

Mostafa Eysha, M.D.
- PGY3

Marco Fimbres, M.D.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso because it aligned with the traits I was looking for in a program: an academic institution with in-house fellowship opportunities that is close to my hometown. Additionally, from interview day and by speaking with the residents, I could tell that this program provides an environment that promotes our thriving and growth, both as humans and as physicians. I am confident that by the end of my residency training, I’ll be a well-rounded internist and ready to take the next step in my career.
Favorite things about El Paso: The kindness and warmth of its people, the Star on the Franklin Mountain, the view from Scenic Drive, and being close to home (Juarez, Mexico).
Hobbies/Interests: I am a dog enthusiast, a live sports fan (mainly futbol “soccer”), and passionate about geography and cartography.
Plans after residency: I aspire to pursue fellowship training and am interested in academic medicine.
Something unique or interesting about myself: I listen to “Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd almost every day. Shout out to my sister for sharing this masterpiece with me.

Virali Gulla, M.D.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: Texas Tech Health El Paso provided everything I was looking for in a residency program: a supportive culture, high-quality education and strong mentorship. During my interview, the positive interactions with senior residents and the welcoming environment gave me a strong sense of belonging. I am confident that this program aligns perfectly with my goals and will help me become the doctor I aspire to be.
Favorite things about El Paso: Warm people, delicious food, and sunshine year-round.
Hobbies/interests: I enjoy reading thriller novels, watching TV shows, and practicing yoga. Recently, I’ve taken up crochet and am excited to create some cute items.
Plans after residency: To pursue a fellowship
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I once binge-watched a Korean TV show on Netflix for 18 hours straight.

Alan Jurado Orozco, M.D.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: Patient diversity, weather, friendly environment, and excellent training opportunities are the reasons why I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso. Being close to the border in a Level 1 Trauma Center is a great learning opportunity.
Favorite things about El Paso: Closeness to my family in Mexico, sunsets, and unique culture.
Hobbies/Interests: I love going to the gym, dancing, and playing sports like fútbol or padel. I am a huge Real Madrid and Cristiano Ronaldo fan SIUUUU, adopting his mentality got me here.
Plans after residency: I am very interested in pursuing a fellowship.
Something unique or interesting about myself: I am a former FIFA and Halo champion on xbox (global and national bracket)

Mutaz Kalas, M.D.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: After my interview, my first visit to the campus sealed my decision to choose Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency. One of the main reasons was the unique and diverse patient population which each day brings new challenges and learning opportunities. Also, the program's commitment to rigorous clinical training and robust research support has strongly influenced my decision.
Favorite things about El Paso: The stunning mountain views, authentic Mexican food, and the sunny weather that makes outdoor activities enjoyable year-round.
Hobbies/interests: I enjoy watching and playing football. I am also a huge Manchester United fan. GGMU!
Plans after residency: To pursue a fellowship.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I was part of a professional Dabke dance group.

Venkata “Abhilash” Muthineni, M.D.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency:Texas Tech Health El Paso offers residents a comprehensive residency experience that goes beyond clinical practice. Residents actively engage in research, quality improvement initiatives, and administrative tasks, ensuring a well-rounded and rewarding training program.
Favorite things about El Paso: My favorite things about El Paso are its friendly people and the stunning Franklin Mountains.
Hobbies/interests: I have a passion for driving cars and enjoy playing cricket and table tennis in my
free time
Plans after residency: After completing my residency, I see myself pursuing a gastroenterology fellowship
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I like taking unplanned trips. There are instances when I booked flight tickets just
a couple of hours before departure.

Durga "Mounika" Muvva, M.D.
- PGY3

Shamali Nehete, M.D.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: This is a university program with ample resources available for all aspects of Internal Medicine education and training. During the interview, albeit virtual, I could sense a congenial atmosphere and great camaraderie among the residents. I was looking for a supportive environment to thrive and grow into a well-rounded independent physician.
Favorite things about El Paso: The low cost of living and the daylight! After having lived in the warmer regions of India, United Arab Emirates, and the Sultanate of Oman, I am very used to the warmth and sunlight to get my day started.
Hobbies/interests: Outside of work, I enjoy watching TV series which mainly revolve around crime and
mystery. I recently got into watching documentaries and psychological thrillers.
I also like arts and I have tried my hand at different art forms like shadow art,
water marbling, linoleum carving and block printing, just to name a few. Acrylic/resin
pour art and pottery are next on my list.
Plans after residency: To pursue a fellowship.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I am left-handed.

Suyog Patel, M.D.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: During my interview, I found faculties to be highly supportive. The research and academic opportunities at the program are robust to achieve my future goals. Additionally, the hospital serves a broad and diverse patient population, which would offer an excellent training experience during residency.
Favorite things about El Paso: The low cost of living, beautiful mountain landscapes, and welcoming people at El Paso make it a perfect place to live.
Hobbies/Interests: In my free time, I enjoy playing chess and cricket, reading Indian mythology, watching movies, and traveling.
Plans after residency: I want to pursue a fellowship after my residency.
Something unique or interesting about myself: I had won several chess championship awards. I have a wristwatch collection with more than 25 watches. My name is a fine blend of my mom's and dad's names: SUnita + YOGesh = SUYOG.

Alec "Jacob" Pinon, D.O.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: I was born in El Paso, so coming back for residency was an easy choice so I could serve the community
Favorite things about El Paso: Definitely all of the outdoor activities and the food.
Hobbies/interests: Sports, working out, video games
Plans after residency: Thinking of pursuing a fellowship
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I'm color blind

Prerana Ramadurgum, D.O.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: Texas Tech Health El Paso's internal medicine program is a well-structured and strong academic program catering to a very diverse patient population. I knew I would have excellent training and gain experience in many fundamental aspects of medicine here.
Favorite things about El Paso: I love the unique culture here on the border, the people are very warm and welcoming, and the food is amazing!
Hobbies/Interests: I am an outdoor person and love trying new things and exploring new places with my dog. However, I am always ready for a good movie, show, or just spending time with family and friends.
Plans after residency: I am interested in fellowship and am exploring everything internal medicine has to offer.
Something unique or interesting about myself: I love dinosaurs and have watched basically every documentary that exists. I even took a dinosaur course in college and went on a dig in Big Bend National Park!

Sidhartha Senapati, M.D.
- PGY3
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency: The Texas Tech Health El Paso Internal Medicine Residency Program offers a diverse patient population, including a large Hispanic population, which provides a unique opportunity for residents to gain experience in cultural competency. The program is affiliated with the University Medical Center of El Paso, which is a Level 1 trauma center and the only academic medical center in the region providing residents with exposure to a wide range of medical conditions. It has a strong didactic curriculum, including weekly grand rounds, journal clubs, and board review sessions providing residents with the best possible education.
Favorite things about El Paso: Warm weather, the delicious and authentic Mexican food, the friendly people, and the stunning natural landscapes.
Hobbies/interests: Traveling, reading books.
Plans after residency: I would like to pursue fellowship in Cardiology (if possible, Interventional Cardiology).
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I get myself out of a funk by working towards a new goal, investing in hobbies, and getting a good workout.
Internal Medicine – PGY2

Serena Crawford, MD
- PGY2
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso because of its strong emphasis on community engagement and its hands-on training in a diverse clinical environment as well as its emphasis on culturally competent care. These aspects made it the ideal place for me to grow both professionally and personally.
Favorite things about El Paso: El Paso has a warm, welcoming community and a unique blend of cultures that create
a vibrant atmosphere. I love the breathtaking desert sunsets, the scenic hikes and
the incredible local food
Hobbies/interests: Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with my partner and 2 rescue cats as well
as cooking and staying active
Plans after residency: After residency, I hope to pursue a fellowship
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I am the 11th of 13 children and the first physician in my family — both of which
have shaped my resilience, fueled my determination, and deeply inspired my journey
into medicine.

Nain Dadhania, MD
- PGY2

Deepak Lamichhane, MD
- PGY2
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I had a very positive experience during the social event with the senior residents — they were welcoming, genuine, and easy to connect with. My interview with the faculty was also a highlight; it felt both seamless and engaging. On a personal note, I have family living nearby, which makes El Paso feel even more like home. All of this, combined with what the program offers, makes it a great fit for me.
Favorite things about El Paso: Spending time with my wife, scenic drives, biking, fixing and restoring things
Hobbies/interests: Swimming, hiking, trekking, running, cooking
Plans after residency: Thinking about pursuing a fellowship (gastroenterology or endocrinology)
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I am extremely interested in history and geopolitics. I can also speak four different
languages.

Alan Mendez-Perez, MD
- PGY2
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I chose this program for a couple reason, but the two most significant are the community we serve and the great opportunities the hospital provides. As a Hispanic individual, I understand the challenges some communities face in accessing quality healthcare, and I'm impressed by the commitment of this hospital to serving the community. It's an honor to be part of it.
Favorite things about El Paso: The people in El Paso have been incredibly friendly and welcoming. I also really enjoy
the view; the mountains and sunsets are impressive.
Hobbies/interests: Outside of medicine, I have a few passions, including my faith, family and sports.
Right now, I'm focused on improving my golf game, although it's been a bit more challenging
than I anticipated.
Plans after residency: Looking ahead, I plan to pursue a fellowship, and after that, I hope to serve as
a medical professional, taking part in missionary trips to help underserved communities
around the world.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I was involved in a research project that is characterizing a new organism.

Mohammad Mustafa, MD
- PGY2
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso for my residency because of its strong reputation for serving a diverse and medically underserved population, its supportive and collaborative learning environment, and its deep commitment to community-focused care.
Favorite things about El Paso: it's a quiet city; I like the safety of the city
Hobbies/interests: I like boxing, I have won multiple championships. I like going to the gym
Plans after residency: I am interested in Gastroenterology
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I have calm presence, I listen more than speak, which helps me understand people

Ramin Nassiry, MD
- PGY2

Satya Paritala, MD
- PGY2

Pratiksha Patel, MD
- PGY2
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso for its robust clinical training and diverse patient population. The university also offers strong research opportunities, all of which align well with my career goals.
Favorite things about El Paso: Although I haven’t had the chance to explore the city much, the mountains and landscapes
here remind me of my hometown, Los Angeles. I don’t think I’ll miss the Mexican food
from back home, but I’m still looking forward to seeing what El Paso has to
offer.
Hobbies/interests: I’m outdoorsy and enjoy swimming, going to the gym, hiking, and playing table tennis.
Also, I’m a huge K-drama fan!
Plans after residency: After residency, I plan to pursue either primary care or hospital medicine
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I've loved athletics since I was 8 and have been competing in track and field ever
since. Over the years, I’ve won multiple awards, including the Best Sportswoman Award
in medical school, which was one of my proudest moments.

David Pimentel, MD
- PGY2
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I am a native El Pasoan. It was my intention to practice medicine in my lovely city of El Paso, TX. I enjoy living here at home; lots of good food, things to do, nice outdoor activities, and most importantly; all of my family and friends are here. I also graduated here from the Paul L. Foster School of Medicine.
Favorite things about El Paso: Food, love to go to the movie theatre, enjoy outdoor activities here, events/festivals,
and gym/fitness.
Hobbies/interests: Fitness, outdoor activities, be with family/friends, and explore new restaurants.
Plans after residency: I am open to many opportunities at this time since Internal Medicine allows for versatility.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I have been a Lyft/Uber driver before. I enjoy driving. It was great getting to meet
and talk to new people daily.

Harshitha Popuri, MD
- PGY2

Neel Ravela, MD
- PGY2
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: After having graduated medical school in Mexico, it became clear that I wanted to be in a place where I could serve and give back to the Latin American community as much as possible. Texas Tech El Paso fit that description perfectly and I knew it was the place I wanted to be.
Favorite things about El Paso: Definitely the mountain views and the abundance of great food spots to choose from
all over the city!
Hobbies/interests: Outside of the hospital, I enjoy watching and playing basketball, and I love hosting
people for board game/video game nights!
Plans after residency: After residency, I plan on pursuing a fellowship in Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I have lived in 3 different countries: USA, India, and Mexico!

Cristy Tavarez, MD
- PGY2

Joshua Torres, MD
- PGY2
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I chose TTUHSC El Paso because of its strong commitment to serving a diverse and underserved patient population along the US-Mexico border. As a graduate of the PLFSOM, I experienced firsthand the program’s supportive academic environment, rigorous clinical training, and dedication to my community. I knew this was the ideal place to continue developing as a physician.
Favorite things about El Paso: The people! We El Pasoans are welcoming, humble, and resilient. I love my city’s
unique culture, its incredible food, the dry heat, and the mountains that provide
the perfect backdrop for reflection and rest. The mountain's etched lines are so beautiful
to contemplate at every sunrise
Hobbies/interests: I enjoy exploring the intersection of medicine, philosophy, and statistics. Outside
of work, I spend time writting poetry and reading classic literature. I especially
enjoy reading anything by G.K. Chesterton, Robert Frost, and Jorge L. Borges. "Casa
Tomada" by Julio Cortazar and "El Sur" by Jorge L. Borges are my top favorite short
stories. I am currently reading Paradise Lost by John Milton.
Plans after residency: I plan to practice as a hospitalist while remaining active in medical education and
research. I’m also working toward establishing a nonprofit clinic that integrates
primary care, imaging, and community health services. Notwithstanding, entering into
a sub-specialty is not entirely out of the question.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: Before entering medical school, I worked as a registered nurse, which gave me a deeply
rooted understanding of patient care from the bedside up. That experience continues
to shape how I approach clinical decision making, team collaboration, and patient
advocacy. I also pursued a master’s degree in biomedical science, which strengthened
my analytical foundation and inspired my ongoing interest in clinical research and
biostatistics.

Vinyl Joseph Valeza, MD
- PGY2

Shikha Virani, MD
- PGY2
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: During my interview, I felt a genuinely welcoming environment, which made a lasting impression. Texas was my top choice for residency because it's close to my family, which gives me the support I need during this important phase. I also love El Paso's sunny weather; I've always preferred a warm climate as it positively affects my mood and energy.
Favorite things about El Paso: I love the warm, sunny weather, the friendly community, and the unique cultural blend.
The food scene is also incredible; I've already found a few favourite spots!
Hobbies/interests: Cooking, calligraphy and painting, and traveling.
Plans after residency: I’m considering a hybrid role as both a hospitalist and a primary care physician,
though I’m also interested in exploring a subspecialty like nephrology. I plan to
use residency as a time to explore my options and see where my passions lead.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I have a quirky habit of collecting small souvenirs and even random objects from
the places I visit; my wardrobe is full of them! I also have an unusual sleep pattern:
I can sleep for 24 hours straight or stay awake for 48 hours if needed.

William Wells-Gatnik, MD
- PGY2
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: The IM program at TTUHSCEP stood out to me as a well-established, academically strong program that has been producing great internists for over half a century. The structure of the training, the diversity of the patient population, and the reputation for fostering clinical excellence all made it clear that this was the right environment for me.
Favorite things about El Paso: Good weather, good food, good people. What more can you ask for? The "Sun City" has
such a laid-back and friendly atmosphere. I've felt welcome in El Paso since day one.
Hobbies/interests: I'm a fan of Formula 1 racing and Australian NRL football. Outside of work, I spend
a lot of time outdoors and enjoy travelling with my family and dog
Plans after residency: I'm currently planning to pursue a fellowship in Nephrology, but I am looking forward
to exploring all the possibilities internal medicine has to offer.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I grew up in rural Australia and somehow ended up with two wild birds as pets during
my childhood. Although completely different breeds, they both sought shelter during
large summer storms and decided that they weren't going to leave! One even spent the
next 6 months flying down from the trees and landing on my head every time I went
outside!
Internal Medicine – PGY1

Shawn Alex, MD
- PGY1

Mohammed Al-Hasan, MD
- PGY1

Irfan Ansari, MD
- PGY1

Edhu Ashok, MD
- PGY1
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I chose to do residency at Texas Tech Health El Paso for its unique geographic location and diverse patient demographics. I am sure the program will offer me memorable residency training, along with a wonderful living experience in El Paso, which has plenty to offer.
Favorite things about El Paso: Stunningly beautiful mountains, vibrant culture, friendly neighbors and much more.
Hobbies/interests: Travel, Gaming!!! I own an Xbox Series X and a PlayStation 5. I plan to build my
own custom gaming PC in the future with my paychecks!!
Plans after residency: A fellowship in Cardiovascular Diseases.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I refused to quit volleyball even after the sport gave me a terribly painful ACL
tear. For me, it's always "NO PAIN, NO GAIN".

Anne Chan, MD
- PGY1

Shubhangi Deoker, MD
- PGY1

Nikita Guntuboina, MD
- PGY1
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso because of its outstanding clinical training, diverse patient population, and the abundance of research and fellowship opportunities.
Favorite things about El Paso: The weather is one of my favorite things about El Paso—it makes it easy to enjoy
the outdoors year-round. I also love the hiking, incredible food, and the welcoming
community that makes the city feel like home.
Hobbies/interests: I enjoy rock climbing, spending time outdoors, and picking up new hobbies. I'm always
excited to learn something new, whether it's a sport, a skill, or just an interesting
way to spend a weekend.
Plans after residency: I have been always fascinated by the heart, would love to pursue a fellowship in
cardiology.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I genuinely enjoy meeting new people and hearing their stories. Building meaningful
connections has always been one of the most fulfilling parts of my life, whether it's
with patients, friends, or someone I've just met. I like to think that this love for
connecting with people is one of the reasons I was drawn to medicine in the first
place.

Osagie Izevbigie, MD
- PGY1
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso because of its strong commitment to serving an underserved and diverse patient population, its supportive learning environment, and the genuine sense of community I experienced throughout the interview process. Also, having lived in El Paso for years and having immediate family members here in El Paso, it was a very easy choice for me to remain in El Paso (a place I call home) to train and my goal is to remain here after training to serve this community while also being close to family members.
Favorite things about El Paso: The welcoming people, beautiful mountain views, amazing sunsets, and incredible food
have quickly made El Paso feel like home. I also appreciate the slower pace of life
and the strong sense of community throughout the city.
Hobbies/interests: I particularly enjoy playing video games (Fifa) on my PlayStation 5 and watching
soccer. I also enjoy working out, traveling, and exploring new restaurants.
Plans after residency: I hope to become a well-rounded internist who provides compassionate, evidence-based
care while serving underserved communities. I also plan to pursue fellowship training
at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso in Cardiology immediately
after residency.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: My path to medicine wasn't traditional. I was accepted into medical school twice
in Nigeria but couldn't attend because of financial challenges. I later moved to the
United States, became an ICU nurse, attended medical school while working full-time,
and am now beginning residency. That journey taught me resilience, gratitude, and
the importance of never giving up on a dream.

Babu Kolluri, MD
- PGY1

Andrew Li, MD
- PGY1
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I knew I wanted to train in Texas, and Texas Tech Health El Paso stood out for its strong clinical training and supportive learning environment. I really liked the small class size and high faculty-to-resident ratio since I was looking for a program with close mentorship. I also wanted to care for a diverse and underserved patient population similar to the communities I grew up around in California.
Favorite things about El Paso: I love El Paso’s sunny weather, desert scenery, and mountain views. It’s easy to
get around by car, the Tex-Mex is delicious, and the cost of living is low.
Hobbies/interests: I enjoy swimming, working out at my apartment complex gym, and studying historical
maps.
Plans after residency: I’m interested in pursuing fellowship training after residency, but I’m also open
to the different opportunities within internal medicine before deciding on my long-term
path.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: During high school, I was the principal tubist of the San Francisco Symphony Youth
Orchestra.

Vamsi Mohan, MD
- PGY1
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: Not only do you experience and learn how to manage a high volume of patients with complex and rare pathology, but you also have the unique opportunity to help provide care and education to an underserved region. That said, the number one reason I chose to come to Texas Tech Health El Paso for residency is because of the people: the faculty, residents, medical staff, and the patients themselves.
Favorite things about El Paso: My favorite thing about El Paso is its people. While those in the Midwest are known
for being nice, and those in the south for their generous hospitality; the community
in El Paso is truly in a league of its own.
Hobbies/interests: I am an avid sports fan, particularly of baseball, soccer, football, and basketball.
I also enjoy traveling, fishing, playing card games, hanging out with friends, and
trying new restaurants.
Plans after residency: If I had to decide right now, I would pursue a fellowship in gastroenterology. That
said, I am openminded and looking forward to experiencing the breadth of internal
medicine.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I have a YouTube video with over 16 million views, and I was lucky enough to have
visited all 7 continents.

Araceli Morelos, MD
- PGY1

Merazul Ony, MD
- PGY1

Vincent Pinkert, MD
- PGY1
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: After my clinical rotations at Curry General Hospital in Gold Beach, and at the Yellowhawk Tribal Health Center in Mission, Oregon, I knew I wanted to work with rural communities who didn't enjoy the same access to healthcare that many people in urban centers do. But at the same time, it can feel disconnected being outside an urban environment when you spent most of your life in the city. El Paso just happens to be a perfect mix of large hospital medicine in an urban center, while at the same time being a really important safety net for a lot of rural communities.
Favorite things about El Paso: The relentless congeniality everywhere you go. The comforting and grounding view
of the Franklin Mountains. The extra busy birds in my backyard.
Hobbies/interests: Weightlifting, gardening, reading, video games, running, soccer.
Plans after residency: GI Fellowship
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I can't finish a TV show to save my life, but I love a good movie. I think I might
actually be the palest person in the city right now.

Preetha Rajkumar, DO
- PGY1
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: El Paso is home, and having the opportunity to serve the community that has supported and educated me throughout my journey is truly a blessing. In addition, Texas Tech Health El Paso offers a strong academic program that I knew would support my lifelong commitment to learning while providing diverse and comprehensive training in Internal Medicine.
Favorite things about El Paso: The beautiful sunrises and sunsets, along with the Franklin Mountains, are some of
my favorite things about El Paso.
Hobbies/interests: I am passionate about serving the community through my nonprofit organization, No
Lost Food. In my free time, I enjoy making handicrafts, painting, going on long drives
while listening to music, and reading thriller novels.
Plans after residency: After residency, I hope to pursue a fellowship in Hematology/Oncology.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: I'm a huge tea enthusiast and have built quite a collection at home. I'm always on
the lookout for unique flavors and hope to try teas from as many countries and cultures
as possible.

Maharshikumar Sandesara, MD
- PGY1
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I chose Texas Tech Health El Paso because of its supportive learning environment, strong mentorship and exposure to a broad, diverse, and medically complex patient population.
Favorite things about El Paso: The stunning Franklin Mountains, beautiful sunsets, warm and friendly people, and
the low cost of living make El Paso a wonderful place to live.
Hobbies/interests: I enjoy cooking and playing table tennis.
Plans after residency: I plan to pursue a fellowship in Cardiology.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: Planes have fascinated me since childhood and I still hope to earn my private pilot
license one day.

Nicholas Tran, DO
- PGY1
Why I chose to come to Texas Tech El Paso for residency: I chose Internal Medicine because I wanted to be there for patients during some of the most difficult and vulnerable moments of their lives. I enjoy building relationships with patients and helping them navigate complex medical problems with compassion and teamwork.
Favorite things about El Paso: The food, the sunsets, and the mountains. Everyone has also been really welcoming
since I moved here.
Hobbies/interests: I'm a big car guy. I enjoy building engines, working on cars in my garage, and taking
them to the track. I also enjoy landscape photography, powerlifting, video games,
and spending time outdoors.
Plans after residency: I'd like to pursue a fellowship and subspecialize, but I haven't decided which field
yet. I'm keeping an open mind and looking forward to exploring the different specialties
during residency.
Something unique or interesting about yourself: If I'm not at the hospital, I'm probably in my garage working on one of my cars.
I've torn down and rebuilt high-performance engines by hand in my home garage, and
one of my project cars has won several national car show awards. I enjoy taking on
challenging projects and figuring out how things work.
