Undergraduate: University of Nebraska at Kearney
Medical School: University of Nebraska College of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because of the people I interviewed with. I was struck by the commitment of the program’s leadership to research and mentorship. I was confident that I would have the opportunity to become the best physician that I could be at this program.
Undergraduate: Saint Xavier University
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare for the family-like environment and their dedication to patient care. I felt that I really connected with the program’s leadership during my interview and saw their excitement to start this new program. I saw myself thriving here and I knew this was the program for me!
Undergraduate: California State University
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: BayCare is an exciting opportunity for me to surround myself around others who prioritize creating an environment of learning, understanding, and professional development and growth. I’m very enthusiastic to be on this journey!
Undergraduate: University of South Florida
Medical School: Albany Medical College
Why did you choose BayCare: BayCare has a great local reputation, and I was excited to match at their new program. The faculty and leadership’s emphasis on education and collaboration is a great opportunity to further my medical training.
Undergraduate: Florida International University
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because of the people I met. It was. When I met the faculty and staff, it was evident that this program wants to make compassionate physicians. Importantly, I genuinely care for the communities in Florida and plan to serve them in my future practice.
Undergraduate: Universidad de Puerto Rico Recinto de Rio Piedras
Medical School: Ponce School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Why did you choose BayCare: Choosing BayCare was a natural decision for me. The program's celebration of diversity, commitment to innovation, and, above all, its dedication to compassionate patient care resonated deeply with my values and aspirations.
Undergraduate: University of South Florida
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because of how much I enjoyed my interview. The conversations felt very natural and they cared about who I was as a person. I could tell that I would have all the support I would need. As a USF alumni, I really wanted to stay in Florida.
Undergraduate: Universidad Nacional Experimental Francisco de Miranda
Medical School: Universidad Nacional Experimental Francisco de Miranda Programa de Medicina
Why did you choose BayCare: Choosing BayCare was the best decision of my life. Their philosophy, vision, and commitment to helping others perfectly align with my own values. From the start, I knew I had found a place that truly reflects what I believe in and stand for.
Undergraduate: University of South Florida
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: BayCare being a community hospital system gives me an opportunity to serve the place I have called home. I am also invested in the mission of bringing high quality care to the community. As an inaugural member of the Internal Medicine program, I look forward to paving the way.
Undergraduate: Florida International University
Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because, during my interview, it was evident that program leadership was dedicated to building a supportive program for residents to get the best training. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the inaugural class and look forward to growing with the program.
Undergraduate: Illinois Institute of Technology
Medical School: Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare for a variety of reasons but ultimately it came down to location. I really enjoy working with such a diverse patient population and living in sunny Florida!
Undergraduate: University of Florida
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare for many reasons, but it came down to the leadership in the program. I could see this program was built with residents and patients in mind. I also am happy to have chosen a program close to home to give back to my community.
Undergraduate: University of Texas at Dallas
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because it offers the chance to align with a mission-driven organization known for high-quality care and modern facilities. It provides opportunities for collaboration, community impact, and education.
Undergraduate: University of Aleppo
Medical School: University of Aleppo Faculty of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare for a variety of reasons. The advanced health care services the hospital provides, along with its modern approach to teaching medicine and the opportunity to work closely with great doctors, were all factors. Additionally, being in Tampa, a fantastic place to live with great weather and plenty of attractions, made it an easy choice.
Undergraduate: Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
Medical School: Our Lady of Fatima University College of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because it is a beacon of health care excellence, embodying core values of trust, respect and dignity. With a steadfast commitment to treating patients and employees with utmost respect, BayCare fosters an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. Through its unwavering dedication to excellence in patient care and the now, education of medical residents, I have no doubt that I will learn and achieve the excellent training I am looking for and at the same time embody its values and commitment to exceptional health care.
Undergraduate: Purdue University
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: During my interview, I could sense Dr. Bazo's excitement about starting a new program and how much they cared about having the right people for their inaugural class. When I visited BayCare, I felt right at home and could see myself living, learning, and training here for the next three years.
Undergraduate: University of South Florida
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because of the people. During my interview, I knew I would be training with doctors who were compassionate about teaching and who would cultivate a positive learning environment for me to thrive in.
Undergraduate: Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud
Medical School: Fundación Universitaria de Ciencias de la Salud (FUCS) Facultad de Medicina Colombia
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because it aligned perfectly with my aspirations. Joining the inaugural class filled me with pride, as it offered a chance to contribute to the program's growth and future direction. The program embodies diversity, boasting a substantial Hispanic patient population where my fluency in Spanish would be valued, and BayCare’s dedication to clinical excellence assured me of a fulfilling and promising trajectory during residency. Also, Tampa felt like the ideal city for me to practice post-residency. Above all, my interview experience with both the PD and program coordinator left a lasting impression, as they received me with great enthusiasm, thoroughly reviewed my application, and solidified my connection with the program.
Undergraduate: University of Central Florida
Medical School: Ponce School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because it was clear that faculty genuinely care for the well-being and professional growth of their residents, providing the guidance and support needed to achieve our goals. I felt confident that this program offers everything I need to succeed, along with the added perk of warm, sunny weather and beautiful beaches nearby!
Undergraduate: Stony Brook University
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: My decision was sealed the moment I stepped into St. Joseph's Hospital after my interview. The warmth and camaraderie I felt during the tour were unparalleled. The faculty didn't just welcome me, they made me feel part of an expansive family! Moreover, the overwhelming endorsement of St. Joseph's Hospital from patients I encountered during my clinical rotations solidified my decision. Their trust and recommendations spoke volumes about the hospital's impact on its community. For me, it's not just about joining BayCare; it's about striving to excel amongst the finest.
Undergraduate: Purdue University
Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: Having lived in Tampa, I realized how deeply integrated BayCare is within the community. I chose BayCare because of how warm and welcoming the program leadership is and also because of how dedicated BayCare is to providing the best care possible to the community. It is such a blessing to be returning to Tampa for residency!
Undergraduate: University of South Florida
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: The amazing people involved in BayCare truly care about creating a spectacular residency program that will provide caring and competent doctors to Tampa. I wanted the opportunity to give back to the community that gave so much to me.
Undergraduate: University of Georgia
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because of the location and pleasant experience on my interview day. I was excited to build into a newer program that evoked passion and commitment and felt that this program would give me the opportunity to grow into a confident and competent physician. I knew that I would have the chance to build close relationships with my co-residents and attendings and be able to create a great training atmosphere for the next three years! Overall, I'm thrilled to be starting my residency training with BayCare!
Undergraduate: University of California - Davis
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I came to BayCare because of the opportunity to help build a program from the start, especially at a large well-reputed program like BayCare in an increasingly important city like Tampa, FL. There are so many unique opportunities and new programs to build and be involved with.
Undergraduate: University of Central Florida
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: As a Tampa Bay native, I was already familiar with St. Joseph's and their reputation. When I found out they were starting an internal medicine residency and I could be a part of their inaugural class, I felt pulled to come back home and serve my community.
Undergraduate: Nova Southeastern University
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: It was BayCare's commitment to compassionate and patient-centered care that stood out to me. This approach not only benefits patients but also enriches the learning experience for residents, teaching the importance of empathy and communication. I was confident that this program would deliver a well-rounded education, preparing its residents to become not just skilled, but also compassionate physicians.
Undergraduate: University of South Florida
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I wanted to give back to the community that watched me grow through all my major life chapters. Having family close by for support was also a huge plus, as I know they’ll be there for me throughout my residency journey. Additionally, the program fosters a home-like environment at work, which made BayCare feel like the perfect fit—supportive both inside and outside the hospital.
Undergraduate: University of Florida
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: During my audition rotation, I connected with the residents. It was such a welcoming, non-malignant environment, and the attendings were incredibly willing to teach. I truly couldn’t imagine myself anywhere else.
Undergraduate: Florida International University
Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine Grenada
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because of the strong sense of unity fostered by the leadership and members of the team. During open house it was clear to me the program created a place for residents to grow as physicians and people. Ultimately, I was convinced BayCare was the place I could learn and challenge myself through residency.
Undergraduate: Florida State University
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine; Bradenton, Florida
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because of the awesome hospital environment where everyone works with a positive attitude. I am looking forward to living in the Bay area and can’t wait to start treating patients from the community.
Undergraduate: University of Tampa
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine; Bradenton, Florida
Why did you choose BayCare: After rotating at BayCare as a medical student, I knew this would be a perfect fit for me for my residency training. I instantly connected with the other residents and faculty and felt a strong sense of camaraderie in the community at BayCare.
Undergraduate: University of Florida
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I wanted to serve my home community, but what truly sold me was meeting the residents and administration. Everyone seemed genuinely happy, passionate about learning and teaching, and dedicated to providing the highest level of patient care.
Undergraduate: University of Puerto Rico at Cayey
Medical School: American University of of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: Since the moment of my interview, I felt truly welcomed and confident in the program’s vision for the future. Attending the open house reinforced that feeling—I was attracted to the culture, the supportive environment, and the incredible sense of community.
Undergraduate: George Mason University
Medical School: William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: During my rotation here as a medical student just a few months ago, it was the kindness, support, and collaboration of the team that made the experience so unforgettable. Everyone is always eager to help, and the culture here is genuinely inclusive and stress-free. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and look forward to growing alongside such a supportive and inspiring team.
Undergraduate: Michigan State University
Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: The residents and faculty I spoke with ultimately made the choice for me. It was obvious that this group was a tight-knit family passionate about the health of the community and giving the best medical education to its residents. I knew that I would feel at home with the St. Joseph’s family.
Undergraduate: University of North Carolina
Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine, Grenada
Why did you choose BayCare: On my second look at the program, I saw how the residents and physicians took pride in their patients and formed meaningful connections that extended beyond medicine. I was also drawn to the fact that BayCare is a newer program, allowing for more collaboration and input to shape a strong team atmosphere.
Undergraduate: University of Florida
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare after completing an audition rotation at St. Joseph’s Hospital, where I was immediately drawn to the program. The attendings, residents, and hospital staff created such a welcoming and supportive environment that I felt genuinely happy. Throughout my rotation, I gained extensive experience and knew without a doubt that BayCare was where I wanted to train.
Undergraduate: Henry Ford College
Medical School: American University of Antigua College of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare as my top choice for residency because they value women’s health training in internal medicine and will support my growth in that field. During my interview and meet-and-greet, residents spoke highly of BayCare’s commitment to their well-being, allowing them to learn at their best.
Undergraduate: University of the Incarnate Word
Medical School: Poznan University of Medical Sciences Center for Medical Education In English
Why did you choose BayCare: Having rotated at St. Joseph's Hospital as a student, I knew immediately that I wanted to continue my training at a quality institution with excellent medical professionals who foster an environment of clinical growth.
Undergraduate: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I am excited to receive excellent training with BayCare's train to retain model, which emphasizes the importance of strengthening your foundations and building upon them.
Undergraduate: University of Georgia
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University - DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because I love the beliefs of the program as well as the wonderful people who make the program what it is. From great leadership to amazing residents, I knew BayCare was the place I wanted to complete my internal medicine training!
Undergraduate: University of Washington
Medical School: Albany Medical College
Why did you choose BayCare: The diversity in patient population of the Tampa Bay area, the incredible variety in clinical exposure, and the extremely supportive program leadership all make BayCare an excellent training environment. The warm weather of Tampa Bay is the cherry on top.
Undergraduate: University of Central Florida
Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: During my second look for the internal medicine residency program at BayCare, it became clear to me that this is a family, and the leadership truly values the wellness of the residents. Everyone seemed excited and passionate about the education being provided. I was also excited about the chance to serve a diverse patient population with a good exposure to a wide range of pathologies.
Undergraduate: University of South Florida
Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare as I was able to do two months of clinical rotations in the nearby area and resonated with the atmosphere and environment of the Tampa Bay area. As I will be part of the internal medicine residency's 2nd class, I know this program has a bright future. I believe there is a great support system within and without the hospital, (and I get to be close to my family after 4 years of med school)!
Undergraduate: University of South Florida
Medical School: A.T. Still University of Health Sciences School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona
Why did you choose BayCare: During my month-long rotation at BayCare, I was impressed by the supportive environment and the dedication of the residents and preceptors who eagerly shared their knowledge. I felt valued as part of the team, and it was clear that training at BayCare would provide the guidance and comprehensive education needed to shape me into a competent and compassionate physician.
Undergraduate: University of California-Los Angeles
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: BayCare quickly became my top choice for residency after a wonderful audition rotation, where the welcoming and supportive residents and faculty made me feel right at home. Having spent my medical school years in Tampa, I have grown to love the area and am excited to stay local with my fiancé and sister, who also live here.
Undergraduate: University of Tampa
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare for several compelling reasons. Dr. Bazo’s inclusive leadership and the program’s enthusiastic nature inspired me. Furthermore, its novelty offers me a chance to leave my legacy by continuing to work here. BayCare’s excellency in cardiology aligns with my goal to pursue a cardiology fellowship. Finally, I have a strong connection to Tampa Bay from my undergrad at UTampa playing college basketball for the Spartans and research work at Moffitt Cancer Center.
Undergraduate: University of South Florida
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare for several reasons, but ultimately, my decision was driven by the desire to stay close to home. Additionally, my experience during the second-look opportunity played a significant role. It was clear that the residents were genuinely happy, and I was impressed by the program’s supportive environment and forward-thinking vision.
Undergraduate: University of Central Florida
Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: When choosing a residency program, BayCare Health System’s St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa stood out to me as the perfect fit. I was drawn to the program’s welcoming environment, strong clinical training, and commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care. I am excited to grow within a program that values teamwork, continuous learning, and serving the diverse needs of the community. I am especially interested in internal medicine with plans to pursue a fellowship in cardiology, focusing on preventative care and long-term patient outcomes.
Undergraduate: University of Mary Washington
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University - DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because of the supportive environment I experienced while interviewing and visiting St. Joseph’s. Dr. Bazo took the time to carefully review my application, ask thoughtful questions, and genuinely get to know me as a person. I truly appreciated the effort he made to understand me beyond just my qualifications. I believe that the leadership and training at BayCare will help me grow into the best physician I can be. I was also drawn to the beautiful setting of Tampa, Florida.
Undergraduate: Qingdao University College of Medical Science
Medical School: Peking Union Medical University
Why did you choose BayCare: BayCare’s supportive culture, focus on education, and dedication to patient care made it the perfect place for me to grow and give back to the community I’ve come to love.
Undergraduate: National Academy of Medical Sciences Kathmandu
Medical School: Nepal Medical College
Why did you choose BayCare: I am truly thrilled to be joining BayCare Health System at St Joseph’s Hospital as an internal medicine resident. The opportunity marks the beginning of an incredible journey where I look forward to deepening my clinical medical knowledge and making a meaningful impact on patient care. Beyond professional growth, I am eager to develop personally by building strong relationships with my colleagues, mentors and patients.
