Mark Liotta, MD

Hometown: Chatham, NJ

Medical School: Rutgers New Jersey Medical School

Academic Interests: Cardiology, Advanced Heart Failure, Electrophysiology, Quality Improvement, Lifestyle Medicine.

What I love about Jefferson: Although residency can be challenging, Jefferson's culture of collaboration, academia, compassion, and resilience creates an environment for residents to flourish.  My co-residents are supportive, amazing clinicians, and have become some of my closest friends.  The core faculty has also provided invaluable mentorship, learning opportunities, and career guidance to help prepare me for my next chapter.

Favorite things to do in Philly:  Running the Schuylkill River Trail and in local races, walking with my dog through Wissahickon Park, watching a Phillies game, exploring many of the historical offerings of Old City, and discovering new eateries.  Philadelphia's rich history, combined with its big-city opportunities and small-town feel, makes it the ideal place for residency training.

Akash Patel, DO

Hometown: Jersey City, NJ

Medical School: Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine

Academic Interests: Gastroenterology/Hepatology, Public Health Policy, Patient-Centered Care, Improvement of the Health Care Team

What I love about Jefferson: Being in the literal Heart of Philadelphia puts us in the unique position and privilege to treat a culturally diverse patient population, which is the soul of Philadelphia.  You will hear that at Jefferson and at other institutions it is all 'about the people' but never have I been anywhere where this is more true.  I have lost count of the number of times when members of this residency have rallied together for patients, the team, and most importantly for each other.  Also, the chocolate chip pancakes in the cafeteria after a night shift hits the spot.  Shout out to the pancake guy!

Favorite things to do in Philly: Each neighborhood in Philadelphia has its own feel and culture.  Swing over to Fairmount to get some greenery, or to Fishtown to try out that new trendy restaurant, or stay in Center City to grab a drink or two at a local bar after sign-out with your co-residents.  I personally love walking all through Philly with my Fujifilm and taking pictures of all the city has to offer!

Ashley Traczuk, MD

Hometown: Philadelphia, PA

Medical School: Sidney Kimmel Medical College 

Academic Interests: Hospital Medicine, Medical Education, Gender Disparities in Medicine, Quality Improvement

What I love about Jefferson: At the risk of sounding cliche, I love the people and warm and friendly culture here!  I feel so lucky to be a part of this community.  My co-residents are incredibly smart, kind, compassionate, and supportive.  The nurses, therapists, and advanced practice providers we work alongside are incredibly dedicated.  I love being able to see lots of friendly faces even on short walks around the hospital!

Favorite things to do in Philly: I love taking walks to the Delaware River to stroll along the beautiful waterfront.  John's Water Ice is the perfect place to get a treat in the spring and summer.  The plays and musicals that come to Philly are always a great time.  I also love seeing the Eagles and Phillies play in South Philly.  There is always something to do!

Claire Zurlo, MD

Hometown: Hershey, PA

Medical School: Sidney Kimmel Medical College

Academic Interests: Infectious Disease, Public Health and Healthcare Disparities, Medical Education

What I love about Jefferson: It sounds cliche but the best part about my Jefferson experience has been the people I have met.  I say this all the time but I feel so incredibly lucky to be able to come in to work every day and work with some of my closest friends as well as have those people be some of the smartest and trusted clinicians I know.  Jefferson certainly does something special to attract such a wonderful group of residents as well as fellows, attendings, nurses, and ancillary staff. 

Favorite things to do in Philly: I could go on and on about Philly.  I have lived here since my post-bacc year and I haven't looked back.  The restaurant scene is incredible while still being quite affordable given the other major East Coast cities we are nestled between (BYOBs are definitely part of this).  The city feels incredibly interesting to me and I always feel like there's something new to do or a new place to check out.  My husband and I live close to the Schuylkill River Trail and Fairmount Park so it always feels quite easy to 'escape' and be close to nature and enjoy the outdoor beauty of the city.  I strongly identify as a 'Philadelphian' and I'm a cheerleader of the city!