Tina Boortalary, MD

Hometown: Falls Church, VA

Medical School: George Washington University

Academic Interests: GI/Hepatology, Clinical Research, and Medical Education

What I love about Jefferson: The people and the opportunities!  Jefferson has an unmatched culture of collegiality and a supportive environment that fosters collaboration and growth.  My co-residents are some of the most talented, down-to-earth and uplifing people who I have gotten to know.  The facutly members invest their time in making sure you succeed both in becoming a competent physician and in achieving your professional aspirations.  Whether you are interested in research, earning a second degree, or becoming an educator, you will have the support and opportunities to achieve your goals. 

Favorite things to do in Philly: Philly is a fantastic young, affordable city with a ton of food options!  There are so many amazing restaurants to try from all over the world.  It is also an active and energetic city with great outdoor activities.  I love running by the Schuylkill river trail and hiking at Wissahickon Valley Park.  It is no wonder Time magazine has ranked it as one of the "World's 100 Greatest Places" in 2021.   

Raashi Mamtani, DO

Hometown: Hopewell Junction, NY

Medical School: Tour College

Academic Interests: Endocrinology and Obesity Medicine, Primary Care, and Medical Education

What I love about Jefferson: I love the sense of community and camaraderie at Jefferson.  My co-residents are some of the most intelligent, kind-hearted people I know - they all truly embrace the value of teamwork and I feel lucky to call them my friends and mentors.  There is an immense amount of support and respect here from all faculty, ancillary staff,and housestaff no matter what role you play or where you are within the institution.  Residency can be challenging at times, but the people at Jefferson and the warm environment they create have made training here so much fun and the absolute best.  The fantastic food scene and location doesn't hurt either!

Favorite things to do in Philly: So many favorites but if I am being honest, most of them are related to food. There are too many amazing restaurants to name, but I am currently trying to find the best nachos in the city (all recommendations appreciated).  I also love exploring the outdoor spaces and going for walks through local parks/hiking trails with my husband and my dog (Wissahickon is our current favorite).

Justin Robbins, MD

Hometown: West Windsor, NJ

Medical School: Sidney Kimmel Medical College

What I love about Jefferson: Jefferson has been home for me for 6+ years now and I can't imagine being anywhere else.  It is an incredibly warm and welcoming environment, and my coresidents feel like family.  On an academic level, there is an incredible focus on teaching at all levels, something I have a special interest in.  Even between specialties, residents and attendings are willing and open to learn from each other, whether it's through interdisciplinary conferences or chalk talks after rounds.  I love that everyone is encouraged to step outside their comfort zone when it comes to learning, teaching, and investigating.

Favorite things to do in Philly: Green spaces.  I am a huge outdoor person and Philly is the perfect balance of city life with nature readily available.  The quad right by Jefferson is a wide open space with enough room for spike ball, flag football, and general sunbathing/outdoor studying.  You can't walk more than 5 blocks without coming across small parks throughout the area and giant murals from local artists to go along with them.  Lastly and most arguably most important is Wissahickon Park.  This is a HUGE park just 30 minutes away from Jefferson with awesome hiking and biking trails, perfect for a day away from the city. 

Svenja Schneider, MD

Hometown: Yorktown Heights, NY

Medical School: Drexel University

Academic Interests: Cardiology, Global Health, Public Health, Quality Improvement, and Medical Education

What I love about Jefferson: There are so many great things but the best by far is the people.  From my amazing co-residents to the attendings, nurses and ancillary staff, Jefferson is a community of caring, passionate, and hard-working individuals.  The residency is like a second family, everyone looking out for each other, looking to make each other better doctors and there for you when you need it.  Another big thing for me is the location right in the center of Philly, with restaurants, cafes, and bars right across the street.

Favorite things to do in Philly: Running along the river with my dog, playing ultimate frisbee, taking advantage of the many great restaurants in Philly, and hiking around the Wissahickon.