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Barbara Awad, D.O.
PGY 1
Hometown
Birmingham, AL
Undergraduate
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Medical School
Lincoln Memorial University
Career/Clinical Interests
Academic Medicine- Palliative Care or Gastroenterology
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
UAB Pediatrics had everything I wanted in a residency program—complexity and acuity of care, a large catchment area and a deep dedication to patients. From the start this program overwhelmingly felt like home and its commitment to the success and growth of its residents is evident every step of the way. If I had to choose again, I would choose UAB Peds every time!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Cooking, gardening, home improvement projects, spending time with my little girl and family!Fun Fact
My family owns Wings Plus! -
Lauryn Bass, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Baton Rouge, LA
Undergraduate
Spring Hill Collge
Medical School
Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans
Career/Clinical Interests
Undecided
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I had a great experience on my away rotation during my 4th year and I couldn’t imagine doing residency anywhere else!
Hobbies/Special Interests
reading, traveling, exploring Birmingham!Fun Fact
I am scuba certified! -
Bella Blair, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Madison, AL
Undergraduate
Auburn University
Medical School
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Career/Clinical Interests
Undecided
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I chose UAB for its genuinely supportive culture and the strong sense of community among residents and faculty. I was also drawn to its deep commitment to caring for a diverse patient population and community engagement. I knew this was a place where I could grow into a well-rounded pediatrician!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Baking, playing piano, and board games!Fun Fact
I’m growing an avocado tree from a store-bought avocado! -
Emily Blumenfeld, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Fort Mill, SC
Undergraduate
Wake Forest University
Medical School
University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia
Career/Clinical Interests
Undecided but maybe NICU!
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I chose UAB because it truly felt like home! The people at UAB are kind, genuine, and clearly dedicated to resident education. I knew coming here I would experience the highest level of care in pediatric medicine.
Hobbies/Special Interests
I love to play guitar and sing with my two sisters. You will also find me frequently fiddling around with different methods of coffee-making!Fun Fact
Maybe not so fun, but I will guaranteed have a nightmare if I wear socks to sleep. -
Riley Brents, M.D.
PGY 1
Medical School
Univeristy of South Carolina
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Lauren Brooker, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Sandersville, GA
Undergraduate
University of Georgia
Medical School
Mercer University School of Medicine
Career/Clinical Interests
Primary Care, Rural Medicine
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
During interviews, it was clear to me that UAB was a great place to learn from experts of all different fields to form, while still prioritizing a firm foundation in general pediatric medicine. I knew day one of orientation I made the right decision!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Crochet, college football (Go Dawgs!)
Fun Fact
I qualified for the Junior Olympics when I was in high school!
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Anna Paige Crumbley, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Huntsville, AL
Undergraduate
Auburn University
Medical School
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Career/Clinical Interests
Emergency Medicine with interest specifically in injury prevention
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I was lucky enough to be exposed to the UAB Pediatrics Program during my time as a medical student at UAB. During that time, I met some of the most caring, enthusiastic, and encouraging individuals who made me feel welcome while also pushing me to learn new things every single day. The residents, attendings, fellows, and support staff really make the program feel like home. Additionally, the exposure to complex patients who require high levels of care is guaranteed to prepare me for whatever career I choose after residency!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Reading, true crime podcasts, trying new restaurants with my husband!
Fun Fact
As a kid I had my acting debut in a TV commercial for sweet tea!
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Emma Domangue, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Houma, Louisiana
Undergraduate
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Medical School
Louisiana State University New Orleans
Career/Clinical Interests
I love continuity and procedures, so currently thinking General or Academic Pediatrics!
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I came here on an away rotation and fell in love with the people, hospital, and the patients! I wanted a hospital with diverse pathology, strong culture of education, and opportunity to learn and perform procedures.
Hobbies/Special Interests
Walking, hiking, cooking, baking, swimming. Special interest in pediatric obesity and academic medicine!
Fun Fact
I am an amateur homesteader and new cat mom!
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Alyssa Goldman, D.O.
PGY 1
Hometown
Delray Beach, FL
Undergraduate
Florida State University
Medical School
Nova Southeastern University
Career/Clinical Interests
PEM
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
As a medical student, I had the privilege of working with two incredible physicians who trained at UAB Peds. Their knowledge, empathy, and dedication to their patients were unlike anything I had seen before. I remember thinking to myself, “That’s the kind of doctor I want to be.” Now, as a part of the program myself, I can wholeheartedly say those values are deeply embedded in everyone at UAB Peds. I would make the same choice a million times over!!!
Hobbies/Special Interests
I’d consider myself a professional hobby jumper. Anything outdoors, pilates, cooking Italian dishes, and going to the local concert venues are some of my favorites!
Fun Fact
I am a huge college football fan (Go Noles!) and have attended games at more than 20 different stadiums!!
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Kahlea Haladwala, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Birmingham, AL
Undergraduate
Auburn University
Medical School
University of South Alabama
Career/Clinical Interests
Pediatric Cardiology or PHM
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
The atmosphere during interviews/second-looks was always so inviting and encouraging. I could really feel how much the program values its residents and supports them. On top of that, I wanted to train at a large medical center and get exposure to the highest levels of pediatric care. Children's/UAB was the perfect place for me!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Tennis/pickleball, running and going on sunshine walks, reading on the beach and hanging out with friends and my sweet grey tabby cat Theodore!
Fun Fact
I am bilingual, fluent in both English and Spanish! Have a big passion for serving Spanish-speaking communities.
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Rachel Haley, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Murfreesboro, TN
Undergraduate
University of Notre Dame
Medical School
University of Tennessee Health Science Center
Career/Clinical Interests
Gen Peds
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I love how intentional UAB is about cultivating community. There are so many opportunities to bond with your co-residents and their families, from social lunches to beach week. When I came for a second look, I felt the positivity and genuine excitement about learning from the residents, and I wanted to be a part of it!
Hobbies/Special Interests
I love board games, learning new crafts, and exploring new bakeries (occasionally baking my own treats).
Fun Fact
My current goals are to watch all past seasons of Survivor and read at least one book a month.
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Joshua Hill, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Louisville, KY
Undergraduate
Rhodes College
Medical School
University of Louisville School of Medicine
Career/Clinical Interests
Critical Care or Emergency Medicine
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
UAB wasn't always on my radar, but after my second look, I knew it would be home. It was abundantly clear that everyone in the program supported one another, challenged each other, and weren't afraid to joke around from time to time. The training opportunities and community involvement here are second to none, and I really believe that UAB will make me into the best physician I can be.
Hobbies/Special Interests
I love hosting friends for game nights and cookouts, going for walks with my wife and dog, and eating ice cream.
Fun Fact
I've never eaten an Uncrustables sandwich.
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Adam Jagen, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Austin, TX
Undergraduate
The University of Texas at Austin
Medical School
McGovern Medical School at UT Houston
Career/Clinical Interests
Neonatology
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I chose UAB because I wanted to be at a program where I would gain the skills and knowledge to become a well-rounded pediatrician while being surrounded by kind and supportive co-residents and faculty. I knew from my interview day and second look that this was a phenomenal program, where residents learn so much and have fun doing it!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Traveling, all things music, and spending time with friends and family.
Fun Fact
I auditioned for Disney Channel as a kid!
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Deborah Jensen Song, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Vienna, VA
Undergraduate
University of the Sciences, Philadelphia
Medical School
The University of Alabama at Birmingham
Career/Clinical Interests
Peds palliative, NICU
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
The people! The residents are so kind and great teachers!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Painting, playing with my dog, watching movies with my husband.
Fun Fact
I was in a dolphin show at sea world when I was 6!
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Austin Jin, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Augusta, GA
Undergraduate
University of Georgia
Medical School
University of Georgia
Career/Clinical Interests
General pediatrics/pulmonology
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I wanted a residency program with a strong sense of community that took care of a diverse patient population. The faculty really takes care of the residents well, which fosters a better environment for learning!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Being outdoors, golf, Georgia Football (go dawgs)!
Fun Fact
My best friend and I had a podcast in college!
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Shelby Kaup, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Hartselle, AL
Undergraduate
University of Alabama in Huntsville
Medical School
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Career/Clinical Interests
Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
The training is unrivaled and truly prepares some of the best pediatricians I have ever met!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Reading, playing with my son, being outside!!
Fun Fact
I was a collegiate athlete!
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Victoria Kupper, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Louisville, KY
Undergraduate
University of Kentucky
Medical School
University of Kentucky College of Medicine
Career/Clinical Interests
Primary Care or Adolescent Medicine
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I chose UAB because it was important to me to train at a program with its own standalone children’s hospital. I wanted a place where I could care for the sickest of kids while also seeing those bread-and-butter pediatric cases. UAB’s large catchment area allows me to do just that. But more than anything, I wanted to find a program where I felt the residents truly supported and cared about each other. From the moment I interviewed, I felt so welcomed and could easily see myself becoming part of the UAB family. I’m so glad I did!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Reading, sand volleyball, puzzles, traveling, going to concerts.
Fun Fact
I’ve seen Taylor Swift in concert 10 times and attended a show on every one of her tours—from Fearless all the way to the Eras Tour!
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Caleb Kingma, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Jackson, MS
Undergraduate
Mississippi College
Medical School
University of Mississippi Medical Center
Career/Clinical Interests
Undecided
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I chose UAB Pediatric Residency because of its welcoming and supportive culture, strong clinical training, and the opportunity to be exposed to high-volume and high-acuity care.
Hobbies/Special Interests
I enjoy propagating houseplants, playing pickleball with my wife, and exploring playgrounds/children’s museums with my son.
Fun Fact
I come from a big family—I’m one of eight siblings!
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Shriya Meesala, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Birmingham, AL
Undergraduate
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Medical School
University of South Alabama
Career/Clinical Interests
General Pediatrics
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I did an away rotation at UAB in my 4th year of medical school and absolutely fell in love with the people, the hospital, and the program! Better yet, it was in a city that was already home to me so it honestly was a no brainer. And as someone who travels a lot, Birmingham consistently has the prettiest sunsets I've ever seen.
Hobbies/Special Interests
I enjoy hosting for friends and family and cooking and baking, spending time with my dog, and reading.
Fun Fact
One day, I want to have a farm!! I love being outdoors, gardening, and spending time with animals so I figure might as well have a farm!
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Helen Mistler, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Nashville, TN
Undergraduate
Furman University
Medical School
ETSU Quillen College of Medicine
Career/Clinical Interests
Undecided
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I chose UAB because during my interview, it was evident that this program fosters a strong sense of community and promotes a safe, supportive learning environment. Throughout the interview season and during my second-look visit, I was consistently impressed by the program’s thoughtfulness, attention to detail, and genuine hospitality when getting to know me. It was clear to me that UAB truly cares for their residents and is dedicated to helping them flourish. I was drawn to UAB’s commitment to both teaching and learning, and I knew I wanted to be part of the excellent patient care and medical education happening here.
Hobbies/Special Interests
Spending quality time with my friends and family, traveling, hiking, going on walks with my dog, Willa, cooking for friends, finding the best ice cream spot in town.
Fun Fact
I love to bake sourdough bread, and my favorite recipe is sourdough bagels!
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Ansley Myrick, D.O.
PGY 1
Hometown
Senoia, Ga
Undergraduate
Jacksonville State University
Medical School
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Career/Clinical Interests
Pediatric Emergency Medicine or Hospital Medicine
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I had the opportunity to shadow as an undergraduate student in the PCC, which is the program’s outpatient clinic, and I immediately enjoyed all of my interactions with the staff, attendings, and residents. I also did an acting internship with the program in the PICU during my fourth year of med school and felt so welcomed by every resident I worked with. It felt like home! I had known since visiting as a college student that I wanted to train at this program and I am so blessed I matched here.
Hobbies/Special Interests
Thrifting, antiquing, reading, yoga, and playing with my dogs Birdie and Lucy.
Fun Fact
My family and I took a cross country road trip in a single rv with a group of NINE!
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Isaac Robinson, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Parrish, AL
Undergraduate
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Medical School
Univeristy of Alabama at Birmingham
Career/Clinical Interests
Critical Care Medicine
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
This program feels like home. The culture of residents and others in the program is so warm and inviting.
Hobbies/Special Interests
Spending quality time with my wife, going to church, fantasy football.
Fun Fact
I have performed in concert with The Temptations, Robin Thicke, and Taylor Hicks.
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Kelsey Staggs, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Pelham, AL
Undergraduate
Auburn University
Medical School
Univeristy of Alabama at Birmingham
Career/Clinical Interests
General Pediatrics
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
Incredible people, caring leadership, excellent training, safe learning environment, lunches provided, convenient parking, enjoyable city.
Hobbies/Special Interests
Hiking/spending time outdoors, reading, baking, puzzles, Atlanta Braves.
Fun Fact
In college, I had a dream that my friends and I drove from Auburn, AL, to the Grand Canyon. I told them about it, and then we did!
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Austin Wall, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Decatur, AL
Undergraduate
Auburn University
Medical School
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Career/Clinical Interests
Academic Medicine - Undecided on Fellowship
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
The people! I have felt so supported by all members of the UAB Pediatrics family throughout my training, I knew this is where I wanted to end up. I also really enjoy the emphasis on simulation experiences and the noon conferences (free lunch and protected time to decompress and learn)!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Basketball, cooking, and game nights with friends.
Fun Fact
My favorite meals to make are chili con carne, dumplings, or lasagna!
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Annabel Ward, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Atlanta, GA
Undergraduate
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Medical School
Mercer University School of Medicine
Career/Clinical Interests
I’m still figuring out the details of my career goals and excited to explore different possibilities during residency. One area I’m especially excited about is medical education!
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
I wanted a residency where I’d be able to see a wide range of clinical conditions and learn from a variety subspecialists, but also work with people who genuinely care about each other. The people at UAB showed warmth in their interactions and enthusiasm for the medicine they practice, making it clear this was a place I’d be supported both personally and professionally
Hobbies/Special Interests
Some of my favorite ways to spend time include going for runs with a good playlist and having movie nights at home with my sweet cats, Tommy and Leo. I also love trying new restaurants and am excited to explore the Birmingham food scene.
Fun Fact
I am scuba certified!
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Jacob Wurst, M.D.
PGY 1
Hometown
Belton, SC
Undergraduate
Anderson University
Medical School
University of South Carolina School of Medicine-Greenville
Career/Clinical Interests
Hospitalist/Med Ed/Global Health
Why did you choose UAB Peds?
UAB created such a welcoming environment during my interview experience and truly offered everything I was looking for in a program. The leadership was so kind and encouraging, and I wanted to train somewhere with exposure to lots of different pathology so that I can best care for my future patients. I also wanted a program that allowed me to participate and grow in my areas of interest, especially medical education and global health, which I am getting to do!
Hobbies/Special Interests
Running, trying new restaurants/dessert places, traveling, music, and reading
Fun Fact
I have been skydiving and love an adrenaline rush!