Class of 2026
Alexa Aaronson, MD
Undergraduate: Boston University
Medical School: University of Arizona, Tucson
I was born in Boston but spent most of my childhood in Tucson. I attended UC Irvine for my first 2 years of college, where I studied Vocal Performance and Biology, did many solo and choral performances, and met my husband. I then transferred to Boston University for my last 2 years of undergrad and I absolutely loved my experience there. After graduating, I moved to LA for a bit and then returned to Tucson with my husband for medical school. Although I didn’t fully appreciate Tucson growing up, I now love the serenity of the desert, the accessibility of both nature and city amenities, the ease of life, and the cost of living, so we have decided to make Tucson our family’s permanent home.
My husband and I are now both PGY3s (he is in Internal Medicine), and we have a wonderful 3-year-old daughter and 2 pups. We plan to practice in Tucson after graduating, he as a hospitalist and me as a primary care pediatrician. I love being the center point for a child’s medical care and guiding families through the changes and challenges in childhood. I try to be a pragmatic doctor, balancing the gold standard and most evidence-based treatment with a family’s preferences, beliefs, and financial situation. I am excited to finish out my training here as part of the THMEP family.
Megan DeStefano, DO
Undergraduate: Arizona State University
Medical School: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University
I was born and raised in Chandler, Arizona. I attended Arizona State University for my undergraduate degree. After graduating, I worked in a domestic violence shelter which ultimately led me to pursue a career in medicine. Along the way, I lived in St. Louis, Missouri and Detroit, Michigan, but ultimately came home to the state of Arizona to attend Midwestern University where I completed a master’s degree in biomedical sciences and attended medical school. I chose pediatrics because there is nothing better than working with kids and helping to care for the future generation.
I am thrilled to remain in Arizona for residency close to family and friends. I am excited to attend residency at THMEP due to its small program size, hands-on education, and one-on-one time with faculty members. In my spare time I enjoy hiking, baking, anything Disney, and spending time with my husband and two dogs.
Nermin Elmakawey, MD
Undergraduate: Benha School of Medicine, Benha University
Medical School: Benha School of Medicine, Benha University, Egypt
I knew moving from Chicago to Tucson would be a great adventure, particularly climate-wise. Choosing THMEP was based on many factors. I wanted a program where I would have a very one-on-one, hands-on. focused educational experience to set a strong base for my career ahead. Being a team member at THMEP in a highly populated city like Tucson meant that I would be very involved in each procedure during the residency, in addition to exposure to a lot of pathologies and patients. Another thing was my interview experience, which reflected how friendly everyone is, and the harmony between residents, all of which are aspects I care about, particularly in a place where I will spend years.
In my free time, I enjoy cooking, knitting and yoga. I look forward to exploring restaurants and new dishes in Tucson, besides all the national parks and outdoor activities. I like gardening a lot and with sun all year round I believe it will be a pleasant experience.
Michaela LaCorte, DO
Undergraduate: University of Arizona Honors College
Medical School: A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Mesa
I was born in South Korea and was adopted by my lovely parents, an accountant and a pediatric dentist. I came to the United States when I was 4 months old and attended preschool through high school in Oro Valley, just north of Tucson. I then went to college at the University of Arizona and medical school at A.T. Still University, where I was able to continue learning medicine in Tucson. Throughout my medical school career, I was lucky enough to be able to rotate through TMC and El Rio; these experiences helped me realize how much I valued the mission of this program. I am so excited and humbled to be able to continue to give back to the community I call home as I navigate the journey of becoming a pediatrician.
Outside of medicine, I enjoy eating, traveling and spending time with my parents, my grandmother and my longtime boyfriend. I am quite possibly the biggest Disney fan out there, which may explain why I love working with children.
Timothy Willis, DO
Undergraduate: Brigham Young University, Utah
Medical School: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University, Glendale
I was born in Illinois, but I spent the majority of my childhood in Tucson. I graduated high school in Tucson and moved to Utah for my undergraduate. However, I’d had enough of the snow and returned to Arizona. I then attended medical school at AZCOM in Glendale.
THMEP was my first choice for residency. The small program size was ideal for one-on-one learning with attendings. I want the opportunity to grow into the best pediatrician I can be and THMEP seemed like the perfect opportunity for me.
When I’m not working or studying, I love traveling, baking, playing pickleball, and spending time with my family.
Class of 2027
Jasmine Al-Zahiri, DO
Undergraduate: University of Jordan’s School of Medicine, Jordan
Medical School: University of Jordan’s School of Medicine, Jordan
I was born and raised in New Jersey until the age of 15. For the remainder of high school, I moved to Amman, Jordan (my parent’s hometown); where I experienced a different culture and lifestyle that certainly connected me to my roots. In 2021, I graduated from the University of Jordan’s School of Medicine and decided to pursue my passion for Pediatrics for the rest of my medical career. Being part of a child’s physical, social, and emotional growth is what draws me the most to this field.
Knowing that Arizona is a hiker's paradise and Tucson a city of sunshine, I was sure it is the place for me. It is also known for its very diverse and heavy Pediatric population; I am looking forward to the impact it will have on my growth as a pediatrician. I chose to be a resident at THMEP because I appreciate a program that feels intimate and grows together like a family.
Outside of medicine, I love roller-skating, contemporary dancing, water coloring, bouldering, writing poetry, puzzling, hiking, acro-yoga, reading, and spending quality time with my partner.
Varshini Athipathy, MD
Undergraduate: PSG Institute of Medical Sciences, India
Medical School: PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research/Christian Medical College Hospital, India
I was born into the snowfall of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and was raised in the frosty and dynamic town of Westborough, Massachusetts, along with my lovely younger sister, Nikhita. My childhood dream was to become a pediatrician. After graduating high school, I set off to India, my parents’ homeland, to pursue medical school.
TMC was my top choice for my residency training because of its focus on teaching and education. I absolutely loved the close-knit community feel I had when I visited. I was drawn to Tucson's warmth, natural beauty, and its abundance of outdoor activities. My subspecialty interests are pediatric cardiology and adolescent medicine.
Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors, swimming, yoga, listening to music, and spending time with family and enjoying my parents’ yummy homemade food. a lot and with sun all year round I believe it would be a pleasant experience.
Dallon Maxwell, DO
Undergraduate: Southern Utah University
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, St. George
I was born and raised in Utah and attended Southern Utah University for my undergraduate degree. Prior to undergrad, I spent two years in Peru which kick started my medical journey. I attended Rocky Vista University in St. George, Utah for medical school. During my education, I became a father of 2 beautiful daughters. My wife and I are extremely excited and grateful to be a part of the THMEP family.
THMEP was our first choice for residency. We really wanted a small program to get more one-on-one training and be able to develop lifelong relationships with fellow residents. After interacting with the faculty and staff through zoom activities and a sub-internship, we knew this was the place for us. This program felt like a home away from home and everyone treated us like family. The diversity of Tucson will provide a perfect environment to become a community-based pediatrician as well as ample opportunity to maintain my fluency in Spanish. As an added bonus, the program aligned with our geographical preference because we love the sun and heat.
My family and I have a special love for the desert, lakes, and red rock. During our free time we love visiting Lake Powell which is located in Northern Arizona and Southern Utah. We enjoy boating, traveling (especially cruising), and nearly everything outdoors from camping in the mountains to walking to the park.
Alexander Lizarraga, MD
Undergraduate: University of Arizona
Medical School: Michigan State University, East Lansing
I have always had the pleasure of calling Tucson home. I was born just down the road at University Medical Center, graduated high school here, and completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Arizona where I majored in Physiology. My medical education took me to Michigan State University (Go Green!), where I’ve been fortunate enough to complete my schooling in the cities of Lansing and Flint.
To say I am excited to return home for the next step in my training would be an understatement. I can’t think of a better way to begin this chapter of my career than to bring what I have learned in the Midwest back to the community that raised me. Knowing TMC and their commitment to Tucson, I look forward to the opportunities the program will provide to challenge myself in a way that prepares me for my future career while simultaneously allowing me to improve upon the health of the next generation of Tucsonans.
Aside from medicine, I love music (playing, listening, all of it), cooking, and being outdoors whenever possible. This year especially, you will find me getting reacquainted with the sun and desert of my hometown.
Class of 2028
Atiyeh Afjei, MD
Undergraduate: Tehran University
Masters: Lund University
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean
I was born and raised in Tehran, Iran, and my journey has taken me across four countries and twelve cities over the past twelve years, with visits to more than ten others. Experiencing different cultures and communities has shaped my perspective and given me a deep appreciation for diverse cultures, new experiences, and connecting with people from all backgrounds.
When choosing a residency program, THMEP stood out as my top choice because of its supportive culture, diverse patient population, and strong commitment to academic and career development. The opportunity to train in a program that emphasizes both excellence in patient care and resident support made it the perfect fit for me.
I am excited to begin this next chapter in Tucson, a city with endless opportunities for exploration. Outside of medicine, I enjoy driving, capturing sky photography, and connecting with people from all walks of life. I look forward to the experiences ahead and growing both professionally and personally.
Thaddeus Derbyshire, DO
Undergraduate: Arizona State University, AZ
Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dothan, AL
I was born in Tucson and have spent most of my life in Arizona, though I have also lived in different parts of the country, including Iowa, Alabama, Vermont, and Pennsylvania. In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis with my wife, who has been adventuring with me for fifteen years now. Despite having lived in various regions of the country, there is no doubt that the Southwest (specifically the Sonoran Desert) holds a special place in our hearts.
I knew THMEP was the ideal residency program for me because of my experience during my third year. Coming into medical school, I had initially planned on pursuing a different type of residency program, but after experiencing the benefits of training in a smaller program where attendings truly get to know you, it was hard to ignore how valuable that environment is. I also appreciate how easy it is to get to know your senior residents before working with them, given the program’s smaller size.
My subspecialty interest is Oncology, though I am also interested in both Hospital and Outpatient Medicine.
Mercy Gohil, MD
Undergraduate: Surat Municipal Institute of Medical Education & Research, India
Medical School: Surat Municipal Institute of Medical Education & Research, India
Masters: University of Louisville, KY
I was born and raised in Surat, a vibrant city in the western part of India. I completed my medical education there and practiced as a general practitioner for three years. In 2021, I moved to the U.S. to pursue a Master of Health Administration at the University of Louisville, driven by a passion to learn from advanced healthcare systems and expand my global perspective.
My heart has always been in pediatrics, where I find deep purpose in supporting children and their families during crucial stages of growth and development. I am thrilled to join the TMC Pediatric Residency Program—my top choice. From my very first conversation with the program’s leadership and residents, I felt a strong sense of connection and community. I’m confident that the program’s diverse patient population, emphasis on mentorship, and commitment to community engagement will shape me into a well-rounded and culturally competent pediatrician.
Outside of medicine, I’m a proud mother who loves spending time with my husband and son. I enjoy exploring beaches, playing pickleball, and trying new recipes. I’m also looking forward to calling Tucson home—with its warm climate, rich culture, and many opportunities for adventure.
Nelly Prodanova, MD
Undergraduate: Vanderbilt University, TN
Medical School: Medical University, Plovdiv Faculty of Medicine, Bulgaria
Hi! I was born in Bulgaria and moved to Costa Mesa, California when I was four years old. My two big dreams growing up were to become the number one tennis player in the world and to be a “doctor for kids.” I reached the #2 ranking in the nation in junior tennis and am now proudly pursuing my journey of becoming a pediatrician!
After completing my undergraduate studies at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee I returned to my home country of Bulgaria to go to medical school—a meaningful full-circle experience.
I’m thrilled to be continuing my training at THMEP, where the program’s strong, family-like environment and commitment to serving a diverse pediatric population truly resonates with me. The warm weather, vibrant food culture, and beautiful scenery are added bonuses!
In my free time, I love being outdoors with my husband and our two-year-old daughter. I’m a proud Disney and Christmas enthusiast and cherish every moment spent with my family.
Iqra Saeed, MD
Undergraduate: Khyber Girls Medical College, Pakistan
Medical School: Khyber Girls Medical College, Pakistan
Though Punjabi by heritage, I was born and raised in Peshawar, one of South Asia’s oldest living cities, well known for its deep-rooted hospitality. Growing up in such a diverse environment exposed me to different languages and traditions, making cultural competence a cornerstone of my identity. As the eldest of five siblings, I developed a natural affinity for children. After graduating from medical school, I moved to the U.S. with my husband. Since moving to the U.S., Arizona is where I’ve stayed the longest, and it truly feels like home now.
TMC was my top choice for residency due to its well-established reputation for excellence in medical education and training. I was attracted to the institution’s genuine commitment to resident well-being reflected in its thoughtful initiatives and program-specific activities. TMC’s robust community outreach programs further set it apart, offering residents the opportunity to directly impact and serve diverse populations. I am excited to build on this experience by learning Spanish through El Rio’s language offerings and continuing my work with underserved communities. With abundant hiking trails, year-round sunshine, and the cost of living that makes family life more manageable, I am excited to call this dynamic, welcoming city home.
In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, traveling, and practicing calligraphy. Fun fact: I also love collecting pencils!
Nelmary Teresen Taylor, MD
Undergraduate: Universidad de Carabobo, Venezuela
Medical School: Universidad de Carabobo, Venezuela
I was born in Valencia, Venezuela. I completed my undergraduate studies at Universidad de Carabobo and earned my medical degree from Universidad de Carabobo. Becoming the first physician in my family has been one of the most meaningful accomplishments of my life, and I’m honored to now be continuing this journey at THMEP.
What excites me most about residency at THMEP is the strong sense of community, the dedication to excellence in patient care, and the opportunity to learn in a diverse and supportive environment. I’m also thrilled to train in Tucson, a city full of culture, beauty, and sunshine. The warm weather, stunning desert landscapes, and vibrant local food scene are just a few of the many things I love about living here.
Outside of medicine, I love going to the gym and taking spinning classes, especially when there’s reggaeton playing! I also enjoy traveling and discovering new restaurants. Exploring new places and flavors is one of my favorite ways to recharge and stay inspired.
I’m incredibly grateful to be part of the THMEP family, and I’m looking forward to growing both personally and professionally while serving the Tucson community.
