Current Residents in the Neurology Residency Program

PGY-4

Santiago Diaz Gonzalez, M.D.

Hometown: Medellin, Colombia

College: Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana

Medical School: Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana

Bio: I lived all my life in Medellin, Colombia. I studied Medicine at Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana. From the very beginning, I developed an interest in Neurology as I consider it one of the most complex and unexplored fields in Medicine. I came to the US in 2019, and I lived in Miami for two years, where I became a member of the Kaplan Medical Honor Society and did some research.

What do you like about Mobile: The people, the beach and the food.

What do you like about your residency: It’s a resident-driven program where you have a close relationship with your fellow residents and attendings. People are very welcoming, and there is an excellent work atmosphere.

Hobbies: Watching movies and playing chess.

Mohammad Jahangiri, M.D.

Hometown: Plano, Texas

College: University of Texas at Dallas

Medical School: University of Texas Medical Branch (John Sealy)

Bio: I lived most of my life in the state of Texas, first in Odessa for a brief few years during childhood, then Plano until college graduation before leaving for medical school in Galveston.

What do you like about Mobile: This town is quiet, spacious, and has close access to excellent beaches as well as larger cities such as New Orleans and Atlanta.

What do you like about your residency: Friendly co-workers and broad exposure to every field of neurology. The program is very supportive of residents.

Hobbies: Basketball, weightlifting, and (non-medical) reading.

Fun fact: I have a black belt in Taekwondo.

Favorite Quote: "Keep before your eyes the swift onset of oblivion, and the abysses of eternity before us and behind; mark how hollow are the echoes of applause, how fickle and undiscerning the judgments of professed admirers, and how puny the arena of human fame.

For the entire earth is but a point, and the place of our own habitation but a minute corner in it; and how many are therein who will praise you, and what sort of men are they?" (Meditations, Marcus Aurelius)

George Malatinszky, M.D.

Hometown: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

College: University of Oklahoma

Medical School: Boston University School of Medicine

Bio: I am originally from Hungary and moved to America when I was four, first to Michigan, then Oklahoma, which is where I spent the most time growing up. My interest in neuroscience began early, when I saw a drawing of a neuron in an encyclopedia at age five or six. I researched Drosophila neuronal remodeling in college. Between undergrad and medical school, I worked as a phlebotomist and research assistant for projects related to platelets and carotid artery stenosis. After spending some time in New England, I am excited to start the next chapter of my life in a new (to me) part of the country.

What do you like about Mobile: The crepe myrtles, live oaks, and friendly people.

What do you like about your residency: Faculty, staff, and co-residents who are knowledgeable and caring for each other and our patients.

Hobbies: Hiking, cooking, eating, vibing, horticulture, traveling, live music.

Fun fact: I kept an indoor tomato plant alive and producing through a dark Boston winter. It even grew into my apartment’s drop ceiling!

Alexandria Penwell, M.D.

Hometown: Chapin, South Carolina

College: University of South Carolina

Medical School: University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville

Bio: I grew up in SC and spent a lot of time at either the lake or the beach. I majored in biology at U of SC and then went to medical school at USCSOMG. I developed an interest in neurology since it deals with some of the most impactful diseases with the greatest potential for future advancements in treatments.

What do you like about Mobile: I love being close to the beach!

What do you like about your residency: Everyone is very nice and welcoming. The other residents are all great people and I look forward to spending the next few years with them.

Hobbies: Sailing, camping, kayaking

Fun fact: I once spent a week backpacking on the Appalachian Trail in Virginia.

PGY-3

Harjus Birk, M.D.

Bio coming soon!

Daniel Lee, M.D.

Hometown: Chesterfield, Virginia

College: University of South Carolina

Medical School: University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville

Bio: I grew up in Chesterfield, Virginia outside of Richmond before moving to Columbia, South Carolina for undergraduate studies. I ended up majoring in biology with a minor in neuroscience. I conducted research at the medical school during that time investigating the underlying neurochemical pathways involved in PTSD. Following undergraduate, I attended USC Greenville for medical school where I continued my love and passion for neuroscience. It was there that I met my beautiful wife before moving to Mobile for residency.

What do you like about Mobile: Being a coastal city, Mobile has the opportunity for trips to beautiful, local beaches. Additionally, the downtown area has many opportunities for fun, which include Mardi Gras, monthly Art Walks and more.

What do you like about your residency: There are a variety of opportunities for professional, scholarly, and personal development. Faculty and residents are tight-knit and support each other to achieve their goals.

Hobbies: Ping pong, video games, reading, fishing, card games

Fun fact: I studied abroad in Japan for 6 months and stayed with a family who didn't speak English.

PGY-2

Daniel F. Isaza Pierotti, M.D.

Hometown: Cali, Valle del Cauca, Colombia

College: Pontificia Universidad Javeriana de Cali Escuela de Medicina (Basic sciences).

Medical School: Universidad Del Valle Escuela de Medicina (Clinical clerkships).

Bio: I lived most of my life in my hometown, Cali. After high school spent 6 months improving my English skills in Calgary, AB. Started med school upon returning back to Colombia. After graduating med school, I spent 4 years between clinical research and clinical practice. I have also lived in Miami, Washington DC, Boston, Bogotá and Buga (Colombia). Although interested in stroke and neurointervention, I’m opened to other possibilities in Neurology.

What do you like about Mobile: it’s a calm place without big city traffic and distractions.

What do you like about your residency: it’s an academic medical center and comprehensive stroke center, research is encouraged, residents have teaching opportunities, and everyone you have contact with is very nice.

Hobbies: stargazing, outdoor activities, cooking, sports, concerts.

Fun fact: I share the same DOB with my 10-years older brother.

Career prior to residency: Obtained master’s degree in clinical service operations (MCSO) from Harvard Medical School. This is a clinical leadership training program in operations management to optimize efficiency and improve patient experience. My capstone project consisted in developing a plan for optimizing stroke care at an underserved rural hospital in Colombia.

Ashley Nguyen, M.D.

Hometown: Mobile, Alabama

College: Spring Hill College

Medical School: University of South Alabama Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine 

Bio: My family emigrated from Vietnam and started from the ground up. I am the first female in my family to pursue higher education and the first person in the family to have a career in medicine. Thus, education is extremely important to me, and my team at work is like my second family! I have been in Mobile, Alabama, for most of my life, and I look forward to giving back to the community that has helped me come this far. I currently have an interest in neurocritical care and pain medicine.

What do you like about Mobile: Mobile is a town where you can meet and know everyone. I appreciate the Southern hospitality, the close-knit community, and the affordable lifestyle. I also enjoy having my family and friends close to me.

What do you like about your residency: One of the things I appreciate most about our program is that it makes every member feel valued and appreciated. The support that I have received from my mentors and peers is unparalleled. The program always places our education, well-being, and interests first. The staff, chairs, and directors go to great lengths to ensure our voices and concerns are heard and addressed. The attendings are eager to teach, and co-residents are easy to get along with. Every department member is unique and frequently introduces the group to new hobbies. There is never a dull moment with USA Health’s Neurology Residency Program, and the learning never stops!

Hobbies: Travel, international cuisines, shopping, kickboxing, paintballing, spending time with family/friends.

Fun fact: Due to a traumatic experience as a child, I used to fear dogs. To overcome that fear, I got a Corgi puppy. Her name is Sushi, and she is a very plump and friendly pup.

Career prior to residency: I worked several jobs during college and medical school, including as a nail technician, translator at an insurance company, lab technician, and a private tutor.

Richard Sliva, M.D.

Bio coming soon!

Abdullah Uddin Syed, M.D.

Hometown: Fontana, California

College: University of California, Riverside

Medical School: University of California, Riverside School of Medicine

Bio: I was born one of 4 boys (my mom wanted a girl) and grew up in Southern California. I got my degree in neuroscience from UC Riverside and also identity med school there. I’m known for my sense of humor and always knowing how to have a good time.

What do you like about Mobile: The coast and the Southern charm.

What do you like about your residency: Seeing a diverse range of pathologies, oftentimes farther advanced than most other institutions will see. My co-residents are amazing as well!

Hobbies: Video games, stand-up comedy, axe throwing.

Fun fact: I have 3 brothers, all with my same first name (Syed), so I go by Abdullah!