Resident Experience Highlights

Question 1

Is there an orientation program for incoming residents?

Basheer Alghizzawi, MD · Accepted Answer

Yes, there is a great orientation program for incoming residents. Right from the start, everyone created such a warm, welcoming atmosphere. I truly felt at home from day one and had a wonderful experience.

Question 2

What’s the most interesting or exciting experience you’ve had during residency?

Daniel Alvarez-Yeomans, MD · Accepted Answer

One of the most exciting experiences during residency has been watching myself grow from feeling uncertain on my first day to becoming someone who can confidently manage complex patients and make clinical decisions. Every rotation has brought unique challenges, but the moments I enjoy the most are working alongside an incredible team to care for patients with complicated medical problems. Seeing patients improve and knowing I played a role in their care has been the most rewarding part of my residency experience.

Question 3

What has changed since you came to the program? Is the program responsive to suggestions for change?

Mauricio Medina Mieles, MD · Accepted Answer

Since joining the program, there have been notable structural changes shaped by resident feedback — among them, a reduction in consecutive inpatient weeks per block, which has improved the overall rotationexperience. The program has established channels for input and has moved forward with meaningful adjustments. It continues to develop, and resident perspective remains part of that conversation.

Question 4

What do you do to handle the stress of residency?

Shehani Perera, MD · Accepted Answer

Residency is stressful, there is really no way around that. I think the biggest thing is accepting that it's going to be challenging and then focusing on what you can control. For me, that means identifying my strengths and weaknesses early and creating a workflow that helps me stay organized. Once I found a system that worked for me, I became more efficient, and that significantly reduced my stress. I also think having a strong support system is important. Whether it's family, friends, or co-residents, having people you can talk to makes a big difference. Another thing I've learned is the importance of knowing when to take a break. On my days off, I make an effort to decompress and do things that help me recharge. Taking that time allows me to come back refreshed, focused, and able to provide the best care for my patients. Overall, I manage stress by identifying what's causing it, finding practical ways to improve those areas, staying organized, and making sure I take care of myself so I can continue taking care of my patient.

Question 5

How do the program benefits compare to other residencies?

Astrid Sanchez Torres, MD · Accepted Answer

Hamilton Medical Center’s Family Medicine residency benefits are competitive compared with many Family Medicine programs, not only from a financial perspective but also in terms of overall resident support. While the salary and benefits package are strong, the program’s greatest strengths are its supportive, close-knit community, approachable faculty, and team-oriented culture. The combination of professional development opportunities, quality of life, and a welcoming environment creates a residency experience where residents feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow both personally and professionally.

Question 6

Is the program supportive of parental leaves?

Veera Thind, MD · Accepted Answer

The program was genuinely committed to supporting residents through major life events, including parenthood. The culture was incredibly understanding and accommodating making it possible to take parental leave. The program demonstrates that it is possible to thrive both as a physician and a parent.

Question 7

What types of leadership opportunities are available?

Julen Torrontegui, MD · Accepted Answer

Leadership grows out of the ability to identify problems and take the initiative to bring solutions. By leading the improvement of some aspect of life (in our case the residency), you become a leader. Here, we are constantly analyzing what we do and looking for ways to grow. Whether you're a natural leader who brings energy, new ideas, and a desire to help, or someone who wants to learn the art of leadership, you'll find your place with us. You can join one of our Family Medicine chairs (quality, community involvement, wellness, and more) or one of the GME subcommittees (policy, quality, etc.). And if you have an idea that doesn't fit neatly into any of these, you can always bring it up and be part of the Program Improvement chair.

Join the Hamilton Family Medicine Residency

Resident Experience Highlights

“Yes, there is a great orientation program for incoming residents. Right from the start, everyone created such a warm, welcoming atmosphere. I truly felt at home from day one and had a wonderful experience.”

Basheer Alghizzawi, MD

Daniel Alvarez-Yeomans, MD

Mauricio Medina Mieles, MD

Shehani Perera, MD

Astrid Sanchez Torres, MD

Veera Thind, MD

Julen Torrontegui, MD

Daniel Vasquez, MD

2026 Residency Open House

Diverse Clinical Exposure

Mentorship & Collaboration

Cutting-Edge Technology

Values-Driven Culture

Community Connection

Comprehensive Network

Application Process

FAQs

What to Expect on Interview Day

Program Requirements

Hospital-Residency Committees with resident membership

Program Data