Andrew Broussard
LSU – Shreveport

Being born and raised in South Louisiana, the opportunity to remain close to home while receiving excellent surgical training sent Ochsner to the top of my rank list. I thought very highly of the fact that, each year, this program sends residents to competitive fellowships throughout the country while also placing a fair number straight into private practice. The robust surgical case volume as well as the critical care experience were characteristics of this program that I regarded highly. It was apparent during the interview process that there was a strong comradery among the residents, which is very important in this training environment. The staff are all very well-trained and have been approachable since the first day. I couldn’t be happier with the situation that I am in and look forward to the full breadth of surgical training at Ochsner over the next five years.

Chloe Callier
Mercer Univ.

When I was interviewing and researching different programs a few things became very clear to me about what I wanted in my residency, which is why I was so excited to start my training at Ochsner. I wanted to complete my training somewhere that would enable me to become a competent, skillful surgeon, yet wouldn’t sacrifice a healthy atmosphere for learning. The general surgery residency at Ochsner offers its residents abundant and varied surgical volume, all the while maintaining a positive, team-oriented learning environment. This was obvious as I saw the relationships between residents of different years as well as with attendings, who all offered help and give guidance whenever it was needed. And while I’m not sure if I want to pursue fellowship training yet, I know that regardless of my decision I will be prepared for whatever path I want to take in the future as a result of my training and the opportunities available here at Ochsner. The amazing city of New Orleans is icing on the cake, too!

Matthew Canipe
Univ. of TX Southwestern

Ochsner was an easy sell for me once I found that the program's priorities and values aligned with mine and I would get to live in the wonderful city of New Orleans. Ochsner has a proven track record of molding excellent, confident general surgeons as well as preparing residents to thrive in fellowships after graduation. This flexibility was a must for me. Additionally, the culture at Ochsner is centered around teamwork and respect. This creates an optimal learning and working environment. When we are not working, we have one of the most entertaining cities in the nation to explore, relax, and have fun in.

Reginald Du
Univ. of TX – Houston

I knew that I wanted to be at a program with a high operative volume, independence, and residents with whom I would get along. I found these attributes at Ochsner, with an added realization that there is a dedication to constantly improve the program for the residents. I am confident that Ochsner will equip me with the tools necessary to constantly improve as a surgeon both during and after residency. Living in the neighborly, storied, vibrant city of New Orleans is also an undeniable enjoyment.

Faith Mason
Univ. of TX Med Branch – Galveston

When looking for the type of residency I wanted to be a part of, three qualities were at the top of my list: high surgical volume, a strong academic program, and a supportive culture. Ochsner easily has all three and it is evident from the first second you step through the doors. The camaraderie among the residents is like no other and the support from the faculty is superb. From the minute you start, you are an important part of the team and given the opportunity to step up and perform as such. You will be taught how to be an excellent surgeon here and Ochsner has the track record to back that statement up. The Program Director (Dr. Fuhrman) is wonderful and sets a great tone for this program. He is always striving to see how the program can improve and works closely with the residents to make sure they are a part of the planning team. New Orleans is a fantastic city to live in and will surprise you in the best way possible with its amazing culture, food, and people. I feel incredibly blessed to be here at such an amazing program.

Wm. Dolan Mitchell
Mercer Univ.

After an away rotation at Ochsner during medical school, I knew immediately where I wanted to be. This program provides the complex case load and opportunity for clinical research as seen in the larger academic systems, and combines this with the operative experience, autonomy, and individualized training of smaller, community-style programs. Specialty rotations such as transplant, pediatric surgery, and surgical oncology are all in-house, and the critical care training is incredible. The people here at Ochsner are second to none and made the decision to train here an easy one. We study under esteemed surgeons and staff, and with a group of residents that make you feel at home. Not to mention getting to do all of this in a city as special as New Orleans! Ochsner is an incredible place, and I feel confident that my training here will provide a solid platform for whichever type of surgical career I choose to pursue.

Stephen Shapiro
Chas. Schmidt College – FL Atlantic Univ.

Ochsner offers comprehensive training in a collegial and friendly environment. The program faculty and administration are supportive, and the residents are close with one another. New Orleans is a wonderful city, and I’m thrilled to start my residency here.

Elizabeth Darby Winter
Med. Univ. of So. Carolina

My name is Darby, I’m originally from South Carolina. I went to undergrad at the University of South Carolina and then did Medical School in Charleston, SC at MUSC. This has been my biggest move thus far and I am so happy to call New Orleans my home. Interview season for me had a lot to do with gut feelings - and when I came to Ochsner my experience interviewing won me over. Our training is broad and thorough, the leadership here inspires me to be better and work harder. And just as importantly - the people truly like each other and their jobs. As a plus, this city is so diverse and has such a beautiful culture - people, food, music, art. I’m excited to see what the next years have in store.

Ashlyn Alongi
Univ. of Alabama

I chose Ochsner for the large volume of high-acuity general surgery cases, where I would receive excellent surgical training from a diverse and energetic program. My goal is to become a safe and confident surgeon at the end of my training, striving to be innovative and collaborative in the field of general surgery. I was incredibly impressed by the caliber of staff, as well as the supportive environment among the residents. I believe the relationship between residents and staff surgeons is particularly unique to Ochsner; I knew I would easily find surgical mentorship. In considering a path of fellowship training, I believe Ochsner provides endless opportunities for career advancement and personal growth. It was a very easy decision to live in such a thriving city that already feels like home.

Adam Berenson
Texas A&M

As I evaluated programs during the interview process, the surgical reputation of Ochsner combined with the overall culture at the hospital ensured that it would stand out from the rest. The training encourages operative autonomy in order to develop our core technical skills, yet also exposes us to complex cases and high-level care. It is clearly evident that the faculty support our goals and are equally invested in our successes, whether that involves pursuing fellowship or practice opportunities afterward. Most importantly, the residents were very welcoming and friendly during my interview, and I knew with confidence I'd enjoy training with this group. To add to this, we’re able to begin our surgical careers while surrounded by the energy and excitement that is unique to New Orleans.

Sarah Budney
Creighton Univ.

When originally looking for residency programs, I had a very objective approach. I wanted a program that would allow me to pursue whatever path I may choose after training, whether that be a career operating as a rural general surgeon or a highly specialized academic surgeon. For that reason, I looked for programs which had a good balance of residents pursuing both of these routes. I also looked for programs with flexibility to take optional research years and/or the infrastructure to complete meaningful research in tandem with my training. From the objective aspect, many of the programs I interviewed at were similar. It was my subjective experience while interviewing that made it clear Ochsner was the right fit for me. I feel that having a comfortable training environment is crucial for residency. After all, it is where you are going to spend the next five years of your life. Ochsner is a healthy program in which residents are supported by one another as well as their faculty. While early autonomy and independence is highly encouraged, so is asking for help. Some of the first words of advice given to my class was that if the ship is sinking, load the boat. From my few weeks here, this is something I can say the residents truly believe in. They are always willing to help. All in all, at Ochsner I know I am going to receive top notch training in a supportive environment and will have the ability to choose the career path I want.

Manuel Giraldo Grueso
Pontificia Univ. Javeriana

I was born and raised in Bogota, Colombia, where I did my medical school at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana. I chose Ochsner due to the reputation of the program, complexity of cases, and the teaching and supportive environment. The program gives you the opportunity to be able to practice general surgery and at the same time be competitive for a fellowship. I'm fortunate to be training in such a formidable institution. Additionally, New Orleans is a fantastic city, full of energy, culture, food, and diversity.

Nicole Neal
Mercer Univ.

I knew by choosing Ochsner I would have the opportunity to receive excellent surgical training that would allow me to enter into practice as a general surgeon or match into a competitive fellowship. I also loved the genuine camaraderie between the residents and the support from the program director and faculty. I knew by coming to Ochsner, my best interest as a resident mattered. I am grateful to have this opportunity and proud to stand behind the mission to serve, heal, lead, educate and innovate. And it doesn’t hurt that I get to do all these great things in a city like New Orleans.

Jaron Pettis
Univ. of So. Carolina

When searching for a residency, three factors were important for me. Location, training, and resident camaraderie. At Ochsner all three are blatantly evident. New Orleans is an amazing city with an endless list of fun activities to do. The surgical training at Ochsner is some of the best in the country. In surgery, the Ochsner name is synonymous with surgical excellence. As for resident camaraderie, that was obvious during the interview. The residents here are invested in helping each other improve, and when not at the hospital we are hanging out and enjoying what New Orleans has to offer. Ochsner has everything I wanted in a residency program and made choosing Ochsner an easy choice.

Amanda Riggs
Univ. of Texas

I chose Ochsner because it had everything I was looking for in a program: high operative volume, a strong sense of camaraderie amongst residents, and faculty that are truly invested in resident education. I couldn’t be happier to spend the next 5 years in city as fun and unique as New Orleans and at a program with such a strong reputation in surgery. I am certain that in my time here I will receive top-notch training with experiences that will prepare me for any career path I may choose. I couldn’t have picked a better place to train or live!

Ryan Bedi
Hofstra Northwell

I chose Ochsner because it had exactly what I was looking for in a program: good operative experience and opportunities to pursue my academic interests. All too often on the interview trail I encountered programs that had one or the other. At Ochsner, I know at the end of five years I will be a safe and competent general surgeon and if I choose to, I will be able to pursue the fellowship of my choice. Perhaps even more importantly, the people at Ochsner were what really sold me on the program. The culture here is one that is conducive to learning. As an intern, my upper levels want me to succeed and go out of their way to make me better. I couldn’t ask for anything more.

Kyle Hoffman
Univ. of Alabama

I chose Ochsner because I wanted a program that had a high volume of general surgery while still providing opportunities to operate in highly specialized cases. Residents leave here with the case numbers to be a technically sound general surgeon, and the resumé to enter competitive fellowships. Additionally, I have found this program to be very close knit and New Orleans has been an incredible city to spend time in outside of work!

William Lewis
Mercer University

Ochsner is an incredible place to train. When I went through the recruitment process I had four criteria to judge each program: location, reputation, exposure, and culture. As far as location goes, New Orleans speaks for itself. I’m excited to experience Voodoo Fest, Jazz Fest, and (of course) Mardi Gras this year! Apart from location, Ochsner has an impeccable reputation for surgical training. Our program is respected nationwide and widely known for excellence in transplant surgery and surgical oncology. Ochsner graduates finish with a high number of liver and pancreas cases. Finally, the residents clearly enjoyed being around each other. Each day I feel that sense of comradery and am thankful I chose Ochsner. I’m ecstatic to be here and can’t wait to see what the next five years bring!

Wm. Peter Sawyer
Univ. of Miami

Ochsner was number one on my rank list for myriad reasons. The culture is positive. Patients are treated with respect and humanity. The staff and upper level residents are committed to teaching in a supportive environment. The patient population is diverse with a wide range of pathology. We get a month of rural surgery experience in Houma each year. We are trained to be competitive for fellowship as well as to be able to practice general surgery after residency. Bigger picture, the Ochsner Clinic is on the vanguard of changes affecting healthcare in the US. Its outcomes, as measured by IBM Watson Health, are reliably in the top 15 among large teaching hospitals in the country. I am thrilled to be at a place so committed to improving care for its patients, and to help in that effort. New Orleans, with its rich history, food and culture is wonderful. Time off feels like going on vacation, and I can continue my other love besides surgery -- sailing -- on the surrounding waters!

Mary Van Wert
Univ. of S. Carolina

When interviewing for surgical residency, I was searching for a program that would train me to be an excellent general surgeon while also affording me the opportunity me to pursue a competitive surgical fellowship if I so chose. I was captivated by Ochsner, not to mention the amazing food, jazz, and soulful culture of New Orleans. I ultimately chose Ochsner for its great surgery reputation, the engaged faculty and staff, and the fun and collegiate atmosphere among the residents.

Alexandra Hahn
Tulane University

As a Philadelphia native, who moved to New Orleans for medical school at Tulane, I was captivated by the city's unique charm and personality early on. In choosing a surgical residency, Ochsner’s program had everything I was looking for: ample, high quality, operative volume (even early on), a supportive community of fellow residents, and fantastic faculty mentors from which to learn and work with. When it came time to make my rank list, it was an easy decision to put a great program in the city I fell in love with at the top, and I could not be happier.

Laura Jeter
Mercer University

I did an away rotation at Ochsner and immediately felt at home. I knew the program attracted residents who were dedicated, well rounded, and personable - and I am beyond thrilled to now be a part of such an outstanding group. All of the faculty and fellows are so supportive and truly devoted to training and teaching the next generation of surgeons. The overall culture is extremely open, inclusive and hands on, and I cannot think of a better place to train for five years. Plus New Orleans is amazing!

Charles Pfister
University of Louisville

I was born in Louisville, Kentucky, and I also went to medical school at the University of Louisville. I chose Ochsner because of the great reputation this program has for surgery. There are many leaders in the field of surgery working here and educating residents on the most up to date treatments and procedures, which shows in the apparent skill level of the residents. This program has already proven to be very welcoming, and all the residents and staff are always willing to help. On top of all that, the city of New Orleans is a diverse and exciting city and there is always something fun to do or something new to try.

Ryan Phillips
Brody School of Medicine
at East Carolina University

Three main reasons why I chose Ochsner Clinic for residency: living in NOLA is awesome, I am getting the best surgical training in the country, and I have opportunities to fulfill my career ambitions. I am going to be a Pediatric Surgeon. I have ongoing research projects with the Pediatric Surgeons at Ochsner. After my third year of clinical training, I joined the Burn/Trauma/Pediatric Surgery research lab of Dr. Steven Moulton at Children’s Colorado to continue making myself competitive for the pediatric surgery match. I can safely say after speaking with surgical residents across the country my clinical/operative experience has far surpassed anything they have done in terms of autonomy and volume. I have done anastomosis of the great vessels in a heart transplantation and have had “autonomy” in the operating room that makes me confident when I graduate I could practice general surgery without need of a “transition to practice year”. If I had to make a rank list again, no question Ochsner would be #1.

David Samaha
LSU - New Orleans

As a future Navy surgeon, my wish list for a program focused on a team mentality and excellence in training. I remember Ochsner standing out on my interview trail for residents who were friendly and enjoyed each other's company, even at work. The program's commitment to general surgery as a potential career, and not just a preamble to a fellowship, was equally as impressive. We hope you get the chance to visit our city and experience a bit of the amazing culture both in and out of the hospital.

Tung Vu
University of South Alabama

I chose Ochsner for many different reasons. Most importantly, I wanted a program that would train me to be a great general surgeon while also preparing me for any fellowships I may want to pursue in the future. Being from Mobile, AL, I was also looking to stay close to my family. Lastly, I’ve always enjoyed the culture and diversity of New Orleans so choosing to do my training here was an easy decision to make.

Matthew Ayo
LSU - Shreveport

Growing up in Louisiana, Ochsner was synonymous with surgical excellence. Having rotated here as a 4th year medical student, I was able to see first-hand the large case volume and the level of autonomy that the residents had here at Ochsner. That experience made the decision to come here for my surgical training an easy one. Aside from the great educational opportunity, the city of New Orleans was another big drawing factor for me with all of its food, music, and culture.

Leeanna Clevenger
University of North Carolina

Ochsner is an ideal place to train for a career in surgery. The residents share a strong sense of camaraderie, the staff is truly invested in our education and we get to experience an impressive variety and volume of operative cases. Despite being far from my family in North Carolina, I feel that I have a new family here amongst my fellow residents. New Orleans is the perfect location for a surgical residency program because there is so much to do during my time off.

Danielle Jacks
Oregon Health & Science

I chose Ochsner because I was impressed with the operative experience and diversity of the patient population. I like that the program is small enough to know each resident personally but large enough to provide opportunities in any surgical specialty. I moved here from Oregon and have enjoyed spending time with my fellow residents around New Orleans!

Ashley McMann
LSU - New Orleans

Raised in New Orleans, the opportunity to train in proximity to family and friends was appealing. After doing an away rotation as a fourth year, I experienced how unique Ochsner’s surgery program truly is. It is a smaller, tight knit program, with a broad range of high volume operative experience, and a level of autonomy that is increasingly rare across the country. I could not be happier with the decision to train at Ochsner!

Raulee Morello
University of Kansas

When deciding on a residency, my top priorities included a good operative experience, the ability at the end of five years to choose general surgery or a subspecialty, and a program that truly cares about its residents. After a little bit of research the first two priorities were evident. Coming to Ochsner would provide me with the experience I would need to have any career path I would choose. The last priority was shown to be true during my interview. Meeting with faculty, residents, and especially Dr. Fuhrman (the program director), it was clear that this program truly cares about its residents and what is best for them. If I had the opportunity to go back to match day I would not change a thing.

George Mize
Mercer University

I chose to come to Ochsner after completing an away rotation here during my fourth year of med school. I was blown away by the diverse training experience that Ochsner has to offer. As a large referral center, with few fellowships, residents have the opportunity to gain ample experience in complex procedures that many other programs simply cannot match. Also, having the chance to spend significant time each year in a rural setting allows us to gain confidence as general surgeons. Overall, I have found Ochsner residents well-prepared for private practice, while remaining a good candidate for competitive fellowships. Of course, being in New Orleans doesn’t hurt either.

David Schexnayder
LSU - New Orleans

Being from the New Orleans area, I wanted to stay in South Louisiana for my residency. I was able to experience Ochsner during my fourth year when I rotated here. I was impressed with the camaraderie of the residents, the competency of the senior residents and the complexity of surgical cases. I knew this was a place I wanted to train and was blessed with the opportunity to train here.

Heather Liebe
Univ. of N. Dakota

The first thing that struck me when interviewing here was the obvious care that the staff had for providing excellent education to the resident in a positive environment. Each attending and resident I have worked with strives to challenge me in my knowledge of surgery as well as my technical skills in a constructive way. I chose Ochsner because it not only gave me the opportunity to be in a rigorous academic community where I can pursue any fellowship I choose but it also offered a supportive environment with a great group of residents and staff that challenge and support each other. From journal clubs to OR experiences to managing patients on the floor, you will see a breadth of pathology and learn from attendings and other residents how to be an excellent surgeon and compassionate physician.