Resident Testimonials

YuNing Chan
PGY-2

"Originally born and raised in Taiwan, I immigrated to Westchester, New York, where I completed undergraduate studies in Biology and Psychology at Manhattanville College. I received medical education at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine, where I developed a passion for Family Medicine. I knew I wanted to continue my medical training at Overlook ever since my sub-internship as a fourth-year medical student here. I was very impressed by how strongly they care for the students' development and success, as well as how organized the rotation was. It was reflective of the way the residency program is run, which every member of the team is deeply cared for and supportive of one another. As someone for whom family and community has been the cornerstone of education, I was moved by how welcoming the faculty and residents were. I look forward to a very fulfilling experience during my residency training and bonding with my co-residents while at the same time raising a wonderful baby boy!"

Samantha Cohen, DO
PGY-2

"As a North Jersey native, it's no surprise that I'm back here for residency! I went to the University of Delaware for college (go Blue Hens!), and then went to medical school at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. Having heard incredible things about Overlook Family Medicine while at Rowan SOM, I decided to do a sub-internship here during my fourth year. Let's just say that this program certainly lived up to the hype. The residents, faculty and office staff welcomed me with open arms as a fourth-year medical student, and then again as an intern. Between the supportive learning environment, the resident camaraderie and diverse patient populations, this program truly has it all. Overlook Family Medicine places a huge emphasis on teaching, and I feel that I'm in a comfortable space to learn, make mistakes and be challenged. My favorite thing about the program is my co-residents! Overlook FM has managed to cultivate an extraordinary group of humans who are equally selfless, hard-working, brilliant, caring and down-to-earth. I'm confident that Overlook Family Medicine will prepare me to become a well-rounded family physician, and I can't wait to continue exploring my interests in LGBTQ+ healthcare and academic medicine. My time spent at Overlook thus far has exceeded my expectations. I truly did not think that residency could be this good, and I feel so lucky to be training here alongside such amazing people! "

Sachi Desai, DO
PGY-2

"When looking at residency programs, the most important aspect for me was working with an open, tight-knit group that promoted a collaborative environment. After completing my Master's in Integrative Medicine at Georgetown University and attending medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, I wanted to train at a hospital that would give me opportunities to practice these principles of holistic care. Being born and raised in New Jersey, I knew Overlook FM would be the best place to train to explore my interests in integrative medicine, women's health and procedural skills, while maintaining a work-life balance. I loved my interview day and felt so much warmth from everyone in the program since my first day. Throughout my training, I have seen how resident wellness is of the utmost importance amongst the faculty and staff. I am truly grateful to be able to train at Overlook Family Medicine and become a well-rounded family medicine physician." 

Aphnie Germain, DO
PGY-2

"I was born in Gonaives, Haiti and immigrated to the US (Orange, NJ) when I just turned 10 years old. I attended Dickinson College in PA where I acquired my BS in Biology. I was introduced to DO during senior year of undergrad, so I decided to take a year off to get my Master's degree at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine. It so happened that's where I also ended up doing my 4 years of medical school. Before medical school, I always thought I was going into OBGYN or Surgery. Throughout my last 2 years of medical school, I realized I was interested in a myriad of things and was introduced to the field of family medicine. After an extensive self-reflection, I decided to pursue family medicine. Best decision so far because it ties continuity of care with all my interests (procedures, women's health, adolescent health, primary care, behavioral health, community medicine, lifestyle medicine, and global health). As a kid, Overlook Medical Center was the place I always imagined myself training. I did not get the chance to do a sub-internship there, but from the start of my interview, I felt at peace and myself talking to the faculty and staff. At Overlook FM, I know I will get the best training that I need in order to become a well-rounded family doctor; I chose this place as a result of the above, but most importantly, because even through the camera, I could feel the camaraderie of the residents, the kindness and guidance from the attending and staff as well as the support to be unapologetically you. In my spare time, I love to spend time with my family and friends, eating good food, being active, reading, catching up on my Marvels and DC movies/shows, my K-dramas and Anime."

Waqar Khan, MD, PGY-1

"I was born in England and raised in Baltimore. I studied at the University of Maryland Baltimore County and received my Bachelor's degree in Biology and Sociology. I went to medical school at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. When deciding where I would like to do residency, I had the unique experience in having an older sibling in the same field and subspecialty. I was able to see first-hand how strong the training is at Overlook and the level of comradery that exists between residents, attendings, and staff. I believe that Overlook provides a broad scope of training that will provide me the confidence to practice in whichever realm of family medicine I choose. I am excited to see my growth as a physician these next three years while working in a collaborative learning environment that emphasizes residents' wellbeing."

Anjali Sivendra, MD
PGY-2

"I was born in North Jersey and grew up very close to Overlook in West Orange, NJ until I left for college in Philadelphia. I was always interested in Medicine as my career path but it was in the city that I really learned of the multitude of health disparities experienced by minority and underserved communities, especially concerning lack of access to healthcare in general. I decided to pursue my medical education back in NJ at Cooper Med in the heart of Camden because of the school’s strong commitment to community medicine and social service emphasized in the curriculum. Working with, learning from, and living alongside the communities in Camden further emboldened my desire to work with populations with increased need but not enough resources. When I interviewed with the Overlook Family Medicine Program, I knew I found a program that prioritizes the same work I wanted to do in Primary Care. Even after a few months this residency, from faculty to residents to staff, has only further solidified that I chose the best program for my needs. Everyone here have been incredibly kind, patient, and constantly go out of their way to check on you and help you progress. I could not ask for more supportive, extremely accessible faculty and co-residents that feel like good friends and even family early on. It is a true privilege to be part of program that shares the same passion for expanding primary care services to those who need it the most as well as a program that will definitely produce well rounded, compassionate family medicine physicians. I’m so happy with my choice, and excited to see what the next few years bring!"

Frenda Yip, DO
PGY-2

"I was born and raised in New York City. I attended college at Cornell University and majored in Human Biology, Health and Society where my studies not only focused on the general sciences, but also overarching human health issues through a biological and behavioral lens. In a way, I was subconsciously paving my road towards family medicine— I just didn’t know it at the time yet. During my clinical years in medical school at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine, I was attracted to the breadth of care and practice unique to family medicine. In my search for a residency program, I sought out an institution that would provide me with adequate exposure to patients of all ages and backgrounds, sufficient outpatient practice, experience in performing procedures, and the pleasure of being surrounded by people who genuinely care about my well-being and growth. Overlook Family Medicine fulfilled those checkboxes and many more over. My ultimate goal as a physician is to be able to help anyone who walks through the door and my training at Overlook will get me there. In my free time, I like to try new cuisines, anime glass paint, travel, swim, watch kdramas, and play board games!"

Amanda Lin, MD
PGY-3

"I was born and raised in Houston, TX, where I also went to medical school at UT Houston McGovern Medical School. My past experiences in the area and my partner's career in the city led me to discover Overlook Family Medicine and fall in love with the program. The residents and faculty were so warm and welcoming to us on our interview day, and it was very apparent how close-knit they are with each other. It was really important to me to find a program where I could find a second family that would support me as a person and also to become a well-rounded family physician. I am happy to have found that here at Overlook."

Farah Alshammary, DO
PGY-3

"I was raised in North Jersey and received my bachelor’s degree in chemistry and women’s studies from Rutgers University.  I received my medical degree from Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine. My decision to pursue family medicine was a direct result of experiences I had with family medicine physicians both abroad in refugee camps and here in the United States. Finding a residency program that would value my experiences and enable to me explore and cultivate my own interests within family medicine was extremely important to me. Luckily, I have found that here at Overlook Family Medicine.  I am extremely excited and grateful to learn from and join this family of clinicians and I look forward to the next few years of training together."

Edward Cho, MD
PGY-3

“I was born and raised in New York City and studied Human Evolutionary Biology at Harvard before coming back to New York for medical school at New York Medical College. The biggest things that drew me to Overlook Family Medicine were the breadth and strength of education, the supportive work culture and, most importantly, the phenomenal people. Overlook FM is thoroughly integrated into the local and neighboring communities, serving socioeconomically and ethnically diverse patient populations, with plenty of training opportunities across many of my professional interests (i.e. community medicine, sports medicine, women’s health, pediatrics, dermatology). I knew the program would help me become a well-rounded clinician capable of treating patients of any age and background, while also enabling me to explore multiple subspecialty interests. Overlook is also part of the Atlantic Health System, one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work. For multiple years in a row (even throughout the pandemic!) and it’s not hard to see why. I feel well supported and encouraged to grow here, with faculty, residents, and staff that are not only outstanding mentors and colleagues, but also vibrant personalities who I always look forward to spending time with both at and outside of work. The program prioritizes resident input and work-life balance, standing out both virtually and in person as a robust and fun place to train – each day I feel satisfaction and pride as a resident here (and yes, as a NJ transplant). I have faith that I will not only become a strong family physician, but that I will also enjoy every year of my training for it.”

Stephanie Llanos, MD
PGY-3

"I am originally from Miami, Fl, but grew up in Long island, NY, received my bachelor's from Penn state (we are!) and then went to Howard University College of Medicine for medical school.  I had exposure to family medicine from a young age and fell in love with the clinic setting. I enjoy treating adults and children with various medical problems, and love continuity of care. Overlook's Family medicine program is well known in New Jersey (4th best hospital in NJ!), has a big Latinx population and is close to my home, therefore it was a perfect fit. The residents, faculty and staff are very helpful, happy and friendly which was another plus about this program. In my spare time, I love to watch movies, attend the theater, go to the gym, dance, and spend quality time with friends and family." 

Danielle Marsh, DO
PGY-3

"I was born on the beautiful island of Jamaica, but raised in the boogie-down Bronx, NY (and still residing in New York!). I received my Bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences with a minor in Judaic Studies at Binghamton University, and completed my Master’s in Biological and Physical Sciences as well as my medical degree at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine- Harlem. Family Medicine was the perfect fit for me because I wanted to maintain a broad understanding of all the medical knowledge I acquired during medical school, while developing life-long relationships with the patients and community I would come to care for. I needed a program that was close to home, had a supportive and non-judgmental environment, heavily involved in the community (especially the underserved), and opportunities to explore my interests (OMM, obesity and integrative medicine). Having to go through the interview process virtually through the pandemic made it a challenge at times to know if there was a true connection with various programs, but Overlook Family Medicine did an amazing job of expressing its heart through the computer screen. However, it was the in-person second look that sealed the deal for me. Not only are the residents and faculty genuinely kind to and happy with one another, the “family”  feel extended to the other health professionals, staff,  and  various  employees throughout the medical center. I look forward to coming in day after day to learn from my preceptors and grow with an amazing group of residents! In my spare time, I enjoy the company of my family and friends, watch re-runs of Star Trek, crochet, and continue my involvement with my church community."

Ashley Park, DO
PGY-3

"I was born and raised in the Philadelphia area and completed my undergraduate studies at Lehigh University. During my college years, I had the opportunity to work with community organizations that prioritized focus on preventative medicine and the social determinants of health. This interest led to me obtaining my Masters in Public Health at Thomas Jefferson University. However, I knew that I wanted to merge my interests in public health and clinical care as a practicing physician. I then moved to Erie, PA for medical school, and as a 4th year student had the opportunity to rotate at Overlook. From day one I felt very quickly that this was a special place to train; the camaraderie amongst residents, faculty, and staff here is unmatched. There are also so many resources offered at our clinic for our diverse patient population, with ample learning opportunities at all levels of care. I am so grateful to train here and am looking forward to these next 3 years with the Overlook family!"

Iymaan Pinkman, MD
PGY-3

"I'm originally from Morristown NJ, moved to PA before high school. I studied Biology with a minor in Chemistry at Delaware State University and earned my Master's degree at Barry University in Fl. I completed my Medical Degree at St. George's University School of Medicine in Grenada, WI. Going into medical school, I had an interest in both Pediatrics and OB/GYN. While on the island I participated in many community outreach projects like diabetic clinics, mini medschool, and health fairs. I was lucky enough to start off my third year with Family Medicine at Overlook, where there were many opportunities for learning, I gained mentors, and even had the opportunity to participate in local health fairs. After having such a rich experience at Overlook, I knew that Family Medicine would be the best specialty for me to go into (tying in all my interests; pediatrics, obstetrics, women's health, community outreach) and I knew I would have superb learning experience and support at Overlook Family Medicine. Outside of medicine I enjoy spending time with my twin girls, traveling #beachislife, comedy, movies, planning events & trying new restaurants."PGY-2

Devin M. Toledo, DO
PGY-3

"I was born and raised in a small town in North Jersey called Hasbrouck Heights and attended college at the great University of Delaware (Roll Hens). After receiving my B.S. in Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology, I came back to Jersey and completed my medical degree at Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine. Even before starting medical school, I knew that I wanted to become a primary care physician. The real question was: which post-grad program was going to provide me with a great well-rounded education while simultaneously supporting me throughout the arduous battle that is residency? Although my interview process was conducted completely through a computer screen, it was easy to get a sense of what this organization was about. Both the faculty and residents allow you to feel comfortable in learning and asking questions, thereby maximizing the educational experience. Everyone associated with Overlook Family Medicine is dedicated not only to the practice and to their own individual patients, but also with the education of their own residents. Frequent academic lectures, 1 on 1 meetings with behavioral health staff, an office wide open-door policy, and various social events outside of the hospital all showcase this basic principle. With their goodwill and compassion, they have all allowed for the transition from being a 4^th year medical student to 1^st year resident to be as seamless as possible. In my eyes, that is the greatest compliment of all and I am lucky to be a part of such a caring organization."

Matthew Ajaj, DO, PGY1
New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine

"After growing up in the Garden State and acquiring a B.A. at The College of New Jersey, I made a four-year pit stop in Long Island to attend New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine before rooting back down in NJ for residency. I knew Overlook Medical Center’s Family Medicine program was right for me during my fourth year rotation there, where I was inundated by a bevy of passionate people whose fervor for medicine was matched only by their kindness and compassion for others. Now a PGY-1 in that very program, I have felt supported each day and every step of the way. I may still be green with just a month’s experience under my belt thus far, but with the privilege of working with the excellent faculty and my exemplary co-residents for the next three years, I am confident that I have found the perfect place to cultivate my medical knowledge and skills and maximize my potential as a physician."

Marianna Jolly, MD, PGY1
New York Medical College

"Born and raised in California, I pursued my undergraduate degree at UC Berkeley in Molecular and Cellular Biology. With 3 gap years in between, I eventually decided to make the leap to attend New York Medical College where I received my M.S. as well as my MD. As soon as I found out what family medicine was in my second year of medical school I was hooked. The only thing left to do was find a residency program that emphasized: learning and growth in a positive environment, friendly faculty and peers, diverse patient population, community involvement and a robust mental health curriculum. Furthermore, as a National Health Service Corps Scholarship recipient it was important that my future residency program have ample opportunity to work with medically underserved populations. Overlook Family Medicine residency program fulfilled all these wants with ease. I felt increased confidence in my decision to attend Overlook Family Medicine program after shadowing for a day. The residents appeared to have comradery amongst themselves, with the faculty, and with the leadership of the program. They seemed to have curated a positive environment while continuing to prioritize learning and strong patient care. Now as a new intern, I am constantly affirmed in the impressions made upon me by the program. I feel so fortunate to have found this program and to have the opportunity to learn and work alongside such smart, well rounded colleagues and mentors."

Philip Lena, MD, PGY1
Rutgers, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School

"I chose Overlook Family Medicine residency because of the people. No other residency program sold themselves to me but Overlook did. They made me feel welcome, valued, and supported from the moment my interview started. My interview with Dr. Tribuna sealed the deal. He was so genuine, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable that I knew I wanted to learn from him and be part of his team. And if the program director is so great, you can imagine how amazing the rest of the faculty and staff are. They are all dedicated, experienced, and passionate about teaching and mentoring the next generation of family physicians. Overlook Family Medicine residency is more than just a program, it’s a family. I am proud to be an Overlook resident and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to pursue a career in family medicine."

Amanda Labib, DO, PGY1
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine

"I was born in NJ and have been here my whole life. I received my bachelor’s degree in biology at Rutgers University – New Brunswick and my medical degree from Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. I knew I wanted to stay close to home and had always heard nothing but great things about the Overlook Family Medicine program. From the first day of my sub-internship rotation, I was greeted with overwhelming kindness and felt extremely welcomed. The camaraderie among the residents was unmatched which was exactly what I was looking for – a supportive, collaborative environment. I recognized that all the faculty were deeply dedicated to building up strong, well-rounded family physicians and offered great autonomy to residents with their patients. The community that OMC serves also allows me to interact with a diverse population, equipping me to take on various challenges in medicine. I am so grateful to be a part of the Overlook Family Medicine team and I hope to pass on the same spirit and love for teaching and learning that I have experienced as these next few years go by."

Devon Mackey, DO, PGY1
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine

"I have lived in New Jersey my whole life. I grew up in Wayne in North Jersey, I studied biology at Rider University and then went on to earn my master's degree at Rutgers, and finally my medical education at Rowan University in South Jersey. As a New Jersey native was important to me to stay local when choosing a residency program. While I found that there were many great family medicine programs in NJ, Overlook was the one that stood out from the rest. I felt the residents and faculty were above and beyond in terms of how supportive and welcoming they were on my interview day, and they truly made it feel like a positive environment for me to be able to work and further my medical education. Something that I have always wanted from my medical career is to be able to give back to my community, which is why the strong emphasis on community medicine here at Overlook was so important to me. Since I have started here at Overlook, all of the faculty and residents have been eager at every step of the way to teach and support my goals as I transition into the role of a family medicine physician. I am extremely grateful to be part of the Overlook family, and I am confident my training here will serve me well throughout my career as a family medicine physician."

David Schulman, DO, PGY1
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine

"When thinking of which residency programs I wanted to apply to, the most important quality for me was working with fun, brilliant, and caring people who promoted a supportive and collaborative learning environment. I went to the University of Delaware for my undergraduate studies in Biology, and then went to medical school at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. During my time at Rowan SOM, I came to Overlook for a sub-internship and I absolutely fell in love with the program. The staff, residents, and faculty were so incredibly welcoming to me as a medical student, and even now as one of the new residents. I think my favorite part about working here, besides my co-residents, is how I never feel afraid to ask questions or make mistakes. There are an abundant number of opportunities for learning and teaching, as well as time for fine-tuning procedural skills. With the new family I’ve made here, I’m extremely confident I will become a well-rounded family physician throughout my time at Overlook Family Medicine." 

Timothy Wenzel, MD, PGY1
University of South Carolina School of Medicine

"When I visited Overlook for a “second look,” I was immediately impressed by how close-knit everyone was. Residents and faculty alike seemed to genuinely enjoy and respect one other. Since beginning my intern year, that has proven to be resoundingly true. The entire program is not only invested in your success in medicine, but in who you are as a person. They’ve created an environment where one feels both supported and empowered. The greatest testament to the culture here is how many former graduates choose to return as faculty or stay with Atlantic Health for their careers. When you consider that type of positive environment, along with the opportunity to train at one of the best hospitals in New Jersey, it's easy to see why it’s such a privilege to be a Resident at Overlook Family Medicine."