Undergraduate Education: University of South Florida
Medical School: Florida State University College of Medicine
Future Specialty: Radiation Oncology
Why Choose BayCare: The BayCare Transitional Year Program at Winter Haven stood out to me for its uniquely supportive culture, strong clinical training and genuine commitment to resident growth. From my earliest interactions with Winter Haven faculty during my time at FSU Sarasota to my interview experience, I was struck by the warmth, collegiality and enthusiasm shared by residents and faculty alike. The program impressed me not only through the quality of its education and patient care experiences, but also through the way it fosters mentorship, collaboration and personal development. I knew this was an environment where I would be challenged to grow clinically while also feeling supported as I transition into the next stage of my training and career as a physician.
Undergraduate Education: UNC Chapel Hill
Medical School: FIU Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine
Future Specialty: Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Why Choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because of both the people and the community. Winter Haven reminded me of my hometown, and every person I met during my interview was welcoming and genuinely made me feel at home. I couldn’t think of a better place to begin my career as a physician.
Undergraduate Education: University of Florida
Medical School: Florida State University
Future Specialty: Dermatology
Why Choose BayCare: As a Florida State University medical student, I had always heard wonderful things about the Transitional Year program in Winter Haven. When I had the opportunity to interview, I immediately knew it was a place where I wanted to continue my medical training. What stood out most to me was how genuinely valued and supported the residents are, with a clear emphasis on both education and overall well-being. I’m excited for the opportunity to serve and learn in Central Florida, close to home.
Undergraduate Education: University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
Medical School: Central Michigan University College of Medicine
Future Specialty: Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Why Choose BayCare: Family medicine focus and year-round sunshine!
Undergraduate Education: Florida International University
Medical School: Wayne State University School of Medicine Dermatology
Why Choose BayCare: I chose BayCare for its welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community within the program. I was especially drawn to the supportive environment, commitment to diversity and the close-knit culture that encourages both personal and professional growth.
Undergraduate Education: University of South Florida
Medical School: Emory University School of Medicine
Future Specialty: Diagnostic Radiology
Why Choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because it offered what I was looking for in a transitional year: The ability to be close to family, enjoy one more year of Florida weather and beaches before heading to Boston and build a strong, practical foundation in general medicine. As a future radiologist, I wanted training that would help me maintain broad clinical judgment, develop real-world skills and continue growing as a well-rounded physician.
Undergraduate Education: University of Florida
Medical School: Florida Atlantic University
Future Specialty: Dermatology
Why Choose BayCare: I wanted to train in a program where I would feel supported as I developed into a confident physician. BayCare stood out as a place that values excellent patient care and resident well-being.
Undergraduate Education: University of Central Florida
Medical School: University of Central Florida College of Medicine
Future Specialty: Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Why Choose BayCare: I chose BayCare because of the warmth and friendliness I experienced on interview day and during my in-person visit. I was also really impressed by the program’s well-rounded curriculum, the faculty’s collegial teaching style and electives in many PM&R-related fields such as sports medicine, radiation oncology, radiology and orthopedic surgery. Finally, this program’s location in Central Florida allows my husband and me to enjoy one last year of sunny weather before heading up north!
Undergraduate Education: Southern Adventist University
Medical School: Loma Linda University
Future Specialty: Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Why Choose BayCare: I chose BayCare for its welcoming community, emphasis on wellness and broad elective opportunities. I appreciate the program’s holistic approach to patient care, and I’m confident it will help me become a well-rounded physician.
Undergraduate Education: Washington and Lee University
Medical School: University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health
Future Specialty: Radiology
Why Choose BayCare: I choose BayCare for the tight-knit, supportive group of colleagues and staff!
Undergraduate Education: Arizona State University
Medical School: University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix
Future Specialty: Anesthesiology
Why Choose BayCare: BayCare stood out to me because of the welcoming and inclusive culture created by both the residents and leadership. As I pursue anesthesiology, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of understanding patients beyond a single procedure or hospitalization, and I value the perspective that family medicine brings to that approach. From the moment I spoke with residents and faculty, it was clear that the environment is supportive, collaborative and genuinely invested in helping each resident succeed. I’m excited to begin this next chapter in Winter Haven while continuing to grow into a well-rounded, patient-centered physician.
Undergraduate Education: Siena College and University of South Florida
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Bradenton Campus
Future Specialty: Dermatology
Why Choose BayCare: As a medical student, I completed all my core rotations at Winter Haven Hospital and surrounding clinics. Naturally, this program was an easy choice, as I would be able to serve the community I now call home! I’m so excited to be part of the BayCare Transitional Year Residency.
