Residents
Our Residents
McCoy Clementson, DO
My name is McCoy Clementson and I’m originally from Phoenix, Arizona. I did my undergraduate studies at the University of Arizona and then a master’s at Georgetown University. In between my degrees, I was an ED tech, where I fell in love with the specialty. I went to medical school at Midwestern University knowing that I would return to the ED one day.
I chose to do my residency here in Corpus Christi after I visited here during interview season. Everyone I met was very friendly, down-to-earth, and super smart. Once I knew how sick the population here is, I knew how great my training here would be. In my first months as a resident here, I have done more procedures than I could have imagined, taken care of incredibly sick patients, and met some incredible people at the same time.
In my free time, I enjoy playing soccer, running, going to the beach, finding new restaurants, and spending time with my fiancée and co-residents.
Bryan Coburn, DO
Medical school: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hello! My name is Dr. Bryan Coburn, DO. I was born in Logan, UT, and raised in Salt Lake City. I attended undergraduate at Utah State University, graduating with a bachelor's in human biology and a minor in chemistry. My love for emergency medicine developed while at a rural, trauma-level IV emergency department during the third year of my medical education. I enjoyed interacting with the close-knit community members and making a difference in a small community when medical emergencies arose. In 2023, I was a presenter at the Uinta Basin Emergency Care Conference. During the last two clinical years at medical school, I continued to deepen my passion and knowledge of emergency medicine by learning from multiple emergency departments across the United States, such as the University of Oklahoma, Louisiana State University, the University of Las Vegas, Tower Health Hospital System, and Valley Health Hospital System.
I met my wife, Raquel, during my senior year of college. We have an Aussie doodle named Cleopatra, who loves running around the gigantic parks in Texas. In our free time, we love to explore, get good food, go to the beach, and play board games.
After living in Utah my entire life, I am excited about this new adventure in Texas. I am especially interested in helping those with emergent problems in the rural population and with pediatric emergencies in the rural populations. I chose to join the Texas A&M emergency medicine resident team at Christus Spohn Shoreline for many reasons. It is unopposed, meaning we are the only resident learners in the hospital and have tremendous learning opportunities. I like the positive working environment and the autonomy my attendings provide that expedites my learning. This program offers a unique opportunity to work in various types of emergency departments. I enjoy working at trauma-level II referral centers like Christus Spohn Shoreline, but I also look forward to working at smaller emergency departments such as Spohn South, Allice, Kleeberg, and Beeville.
I am currently the Nueces County Medical Society Representative for the first-year class. My wife and I hope to stay in the area even after my residency ends, as there is a tremendous need for emergency physicians in the area, and we want to give back to this community.
Mecham Groneman, DO
Hi, my name is Mecham Groneman. I was born in San Antonio and grew up just outside Salt Lake City, UT. I stayed local for undergrad at The University of Utah and went to Nova Southeastern University KPCOM in Clearwater, FL for medical school. One of my first experiences with medicine was learning CPR and first aid as a boy scout, and I always found myself drawn to the natural chaos and excitement of emergency medicine. I feel like emergency medicine was a constant flame being stoked in the background throughout my life until I realized during medical school that I truly only saw myself on the front lines, in the emergency room.
My wife and I were married shortly before moving to Florida for medical school, and we’ve since doubled our family with two boys. While most of my free time is now spent playing cars and trains, I also enjoy hiking and backpacking, camping, skiing, the beach, and playing the piano and organ.
I first met CCEMRP during a “speed dating” event at an ACOEP conference as I started my MS4 year. Among all the programs I spoke with, this one was clearly a winner. I could instantly tell they were genuine people who deeply believed in and cared about their program. They also thought I needed to know about their annual “Mustaches of Medicine” calendar, and they weren’t wrong. After watching the community pushback during the (thankfully temporary) closure and resurrection of the program and an incredibly welcoming interview day, I knew this is where I wanted to be. I actually felt so good about it after my interview that I decided to end my interview season on a high note by cancelling the rest!
Between the family connection I’ve felt since the beginning and the “unopposed” nature of the program with seemingly unlimited opportunities for hands-on learning, I have no doubt this program offers the best possible experiences in emergency medicine training. I have no regrets in my decision and feel extremely fortunate to be a resident here!
Miranda Mingen, DO
Medical school: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine - Louisiana
Howdy! My name is Miranda Mingen, and I was born in raised in Houston, Texas on northwest side in Cypress. I went to college in Aurora, NY at Wells College and fell in love with emergency medicine as a medical scribe in my time before medical school. I love the quick pace and the broad variety of things you can see/do.
During my 4th year of medical school, I had the amazing opportunity to rotate here at Corpus Christi and absolutely knew there would be no other place like it. Day 1 and the place already felt like family. Now that I’m here training, it’s been a whirlwind of fun and excitement between the numerous opportunities for procedures to the vast pathology. Everyone is super supportive and I’m so glad I’m here!
In my free time, I spend a lot of it playing with my dog Hinome a very sassy and energetic Australian shepherd. If I’m not with the pup, you can find me outside on a run/hike, whipping up a new dish, playing volleyball/pickleball (any sport really), or hanging out with my co-residents. Although there are no mountains here to snowboard or go on a true hike, there are plenty of other fun outdoor activities I’ve enjoyed since being in Corpus from kayaking to bonfires on the beach.
Mariah Seip, DO
Hello! My name is Mariah Seip. I was born and raised in Springfield, Nebraska, went to undergraduate at Hastings College, and attended medical school at A. T. Still University. I was first exposed to Emergency Medicine in college after getting my EMT license, and I immediately fell in love with the specialty. Throughout medical school, after participating in campus run organization such as emergency medicine club, and advanced wilderness life support club, my love for this specialty only continued to grow.
I was fortunate enough to meet my lovely husband Jacob in Highschool, and together we have bought our first home here in Corpus Christi! In our free time, we love to do just about anything outdoors including hiking, camping, hunting, and bow-fishing! We are also huge football fans, so during football season we will be glued to the TV watching the Nebraska Corn Huskers inevitably break our hearts. While we don’t have any kids yet, we have two fur babies’ kitties, Fishstick and Nugget, that have us wrapped around their paws.
After living in Nebraska for most of my life, I was beyond ready for a change of scenery for residency, and Corpus Christi has been just that. I originally discovered this program after one of my best friends did an audition here and absolutely loved it. After hearing her talk about the culture of the program, and all the amazing things she got to do, I knew I had to check it out. Throughout my interview it became very apparent that this program was everything I was looking for. Not only is it completely unopposed, meaning that we are the only resident learners in the ED, but it felt like everyone was one big happy family and had each other’s back. Needless to say, now that I have been in Corpus Christi for a couple months, everything that was advertised has held true, and been better than I could’ve imagined. On day one, you are given the autonomy and opportunity to see the sickest patients right away and have the opportunity to make a genuine difference in a community with many co-morbidities and socioeconomic challenges.
For any medical students trying to decide where to complete residency, look for a program where you will be well trained, happy, and feel supported by all your faculty and colleagues. I couldn’t be more grateful to have matched to this program and look for to the rest of my time here.
Alexander Sharum, DO
Hello. My name is Alex Sharum and I am a PGY-1 at CHRISTUS-Spohn Shoreline. I am from Fort Smith, Arkansas and lived there my entire life up until residency. I attended medical school at Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine and made some lifelong friends there. I decided Emergency Medicine was the specialty for me after my first block during 4th year when I had my core EM rotation. It seemed like all the other specialties I had rotated through the year prior, although great, declined to check all of my boxes. I wanted a broad role and knowledge base, ample opportunity for procedures, and to be able to save lives every day. Emergency Medicine checked all of my boxes. In my free time I enjoy doing anything and everything outdoors. I love to kayak, fish, camp, backpack, and traveling. I enjoy hanging out with my family, friends, and girlfriend and exploring day-to-day life.
I decided to come to Corpus and join this program after my interview. It happened to be my last interview after a long interview season and at the time I felt like I knew where I wanted to match. I decided to accept the invitation and I am so glad that I did. The resident night prior to the interview really stuck out to me. Seeing how well all of the residents got along was refreshing to see. The faculty relations also stuck out to me... everyone seemed like family. It was also nice to hear how strong the residency program is in terms of the alumni network and fellowship matches. Corpus Christi has some wonderful outdoor activities such as fishing, going to the beach, and watersports making days off even more enjoyable. The food is also unmatched. Getting to grind out the trials and tribulations of residency is just a little bit easier when you have a supportive team and the beach right next door. I have learned so much in such a short time already and caring for such a diverse population will make me a well-rounded physician.
Kenneth Slimp, DO
Hello! My name is Kenny Slimp. I was born and raised in Abilene, Texas. I went to Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas for my undergraduate degree. From there I went to medical school at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine. I fell for the specialty of emergency medicine while working as a paramedic in the cities of Waco and Brownwood. Emergency medicine has always felt like the place where I belong.
I met my wife at my first job as a paramedic where she was working as an EMT. We have two beautiful children that keep us busy. When my wife and I are not at work, we love to be outside. Now that were in Corpus Christi, we spend as much time at the beach as we can. We also enjoy hiking, camping, and traveling to places we have never been before. I enjoy woodworking and cooking when I get the time.
After living in Ohio for six years, my family and I are excited to be back home in Texas with our family and friends. The cherry on top of our moving back was matching at my #1 choice here in Corpus Christi! I did not audition here, but I knew what I wanted in a residency program. The first thing about the program that caught my caught my attention was how close everyone is to each other in the program. From day one, I have felt like part of the family, everyone is approachable and excited to help with whatever you need. Another standout feature of this amazing program is the unopposed practice of medicine in the hospital. All procedures are yours from day one, everyone will be there to support and help you. There is no graduated responsibility either. You can pick up the sickest patients in the emergency department the moment you walk in the door. We also get a lot of critical care time, covering the medical and trauma ICU. Consistent exposure to the sickest patients in the hospital helps you feel comfortable in managing any situation, preparing you for the day you practice on your own. Overall, Corpus Christi is an amazing place to live and train!
Zachary Tavallaee, DO
Hi, everyone, thanks for checking out the program.
I was born and raised in Carrollton, Texas, a suburb of Dallas. I also went to undergrad in Dallas at the University of Texas at Dallas where I played tennis and majored in Neuroscience. I had high-quality mentorship there, which got me interested in medicine, so I eventually scribed in the ER which is where I decided I would go to medical school. I attended TCOM in Fort Worth where I continued to pursue my hobbies of tennis, running, working out, and playing video games with my friends. Here in Corpus the residents play pickleball regularly, have gym sessions, and play sand volleyball so I've begun to incorporate those in my week-to-week life too!
I loved the program at Corpus Christi from the moment I interviewed with them. The culture here is supportive, hardworking, and genuine. We are an unopposed program that allows for more procedures and experience than most which was a priority for me. After spending these first few months here I know I made the right choice as we are gifted with incredible autonomy yet all the support we need to hit the ground running. My upper-level residents are truly capable and the faculty are excellent teachers that bring out the best of us. If you want to be the best ER doctor you can be, one who can handle anything the outside world throws out at you, this is the program for you!
Blake Theabold, DO
Hello there! My name is Blake Theabold. I always ask myself, “Why didn’t Gandalf have the eagles drop off Frodo and the one ring right there at the fires of Mount Doom instead of making Frodo suffer so incessantly?” I’m also married and have three kids. I was born and raised in the Arizona valley, which is also where I attended college at Arizona State. I have worked in several occupations including construction, EM medical scribing and as a ranch hand. I completed medical school at ATSU - Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in Missouri. Emergency medicine and I are almost as inseparable as me and my wife (which, fyi, we are not at all separable). This specialty feeds into many of my strengths and, as I’m sure many of the faculty here can attest, it targets my weaknesses and allows for an environment of rapid, efficient growth and self-improvement. I am a sucker for any type of athletic competition or outdoor activity. It has been my recent hobby to help persuade my boys to adopt similar sentiments. Corpus Christi has so much to offer in this regard!
My family and I love Corpus Christi and are beyond grateful to be a part of the CCEM family. It was our #1 choice! The CCEM residency program is #1! It is stronger than ever and full of opportunity for growth and improvement available through stellar faculty, state of the art simulation labs, unopposed learning environments, wildest pathology you ever did see, and through a culture of wellness fostered by true leadership. Find your people! I’m blessed to have found mine!
Christopher Tucker, DO
Medical School: A.T. Still University | Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate University: University of New Mexico
Hello there, I am a small-town country boy from Granbury, TX. I am what most would call a non-traditional student of medicine. I graduated high school, tried going straight into college and then quickly decided that college wasn’t for me, so I spent the better part of ten years working in the oilfield, construction, and mining industries. While I wouldn’t trade the valuable life experiences I gained while working in those industries, I am so thankful that I was ultimately able to pursue my passion for medicine.
When I finally decided to go back to school and start my journey to medicine, I sought out an opportunity to shadow in the ED and was blown away by the specialty. I loved the idea of practicing the full spectrum of medicine. The adage of being a jack of all trades, in my opinion, truly defines emergency medicine. As soon as I started my clerkships and actually got to perform all the exciting procedures we do in the emergency department I was sold. While I did not have the opportunity to rotate at CHRISTUS Spohn during clerkships, my upper classmate and mentor matched to Corpus Christi and praised how amazing the program was, so I decided to apply, and I am here to tell you that was the best decision I ever made. I absolutely love the culture, how knowledgeable the attendings are, how, even as an intern, I am given appropriate autonomy to diagnose and treat patients, the amazing pathology this hospital has to offer, and lots and lots of procedures that you don’t have to fight for due to our unopposed program. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking to train at a place with a tight nit group with amazing hands-on training.
Caleb Watts, DO
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate: Bellarmine University
Hi I’m Caleb Watts. I am originally from Bardstown, Kentucky the bourbon capital of the world. I spent a few years in Texas while in the Military and fell in love with the culture here. I spent a few years in the Army as a Physician Assistant before attending medical school at Lincoln Memorial University.
My first choice of residency was at Corpus Christi. This was my first interview during interview season and it left an amazing imprint on me. The attending and residents were so nice and helpful. They were very family oriented (I have three wild kids under 5 and a lovely wife). Here you can get all the required procedures for residency within your first year. The patient population is a very complex medical population that requires deep consideration that you won't find many places else.
There’s so much to do here in Corpus and you have bigger cities like Houston and San Antonio close by. You also have a very different landscape from Big Bend National Park to East Texas. I love fishing and cannot wait to teach my son how to fish. I enjoy exercising, going to the beach, reading, and going to Church.
Austin Zimmerman, DO
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate: Brigham Young University
I am originally from Centerville, Ohio. I did my undergrad at BYU in Provo Utah, and most recently completed medical school at UIWSOM in San Antonio. My wife's family lives in the DFW area, which is what originally brought us to Texas! We love it here, so I imagine we will be staying in Texas for the long run! I’ve known I wanted to be an emergency medicine physician for as long as I can remember. I have been lucky to have had some excellent mentors and teachers over the years who helped me get to where I am today! I am incredibly passionate about the specialty and have always wanted to turn around and give back, so if you have any questions about the transition to residency or emergency medicine, don’t hesitate to reach out!
I truly believe this program is a lesser-known hidden gem and one of the best places to train in Texas and maybe even the whole country! I was lucky enough to have been recommended this rotation as a medical student by a now alumni of the program. It was one of the best decisions I could have made! The medical student rotation experience is one of a kind and the program sold itself! I feel like every member of the faculty is incredibly supportive and excited to teach. There are so many opportunities for hands-on experience and our exposure here is unopposed, which is exactly the type of training and experience you want as a resident. I ranked this program #1 and was so happy to match here! The best part is that now that I’m a resident here, I can say that I am still incredibly happy and have no regrets! It’s one big family and I wouldn’t trade it for anything else!
When I’m not at the hospital doing all the doctor stuff, I’m probably juggling my three kids and trying to figure out how to be a better husband and dad for my little family. I enjoy working on my photography hobby by taking pictures of anything and everything, and if I’m not doing that, you’ll most likely find me playing video games on my PC or switch! I’m a huge technology, AI, and 3D printing enthusiast and I’m trying to become a gym enthusiast as well!
If you’re checking out the program, I hope you’ll come rotate with us and see for yourself everything the program has to offer! Thanks for reading my bio!
Tyler Adams, DO
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
I am from a small town in Texas located between Abilene and Fort Worth called Olden. I then completed my undergrad at Southwestern University where I competed in football as well as track and field. I was drawn to the ER due to the fast-paced environment and procedures. I enjoy the ability to make an acute difference in a patient's life, whether that be a lifesaving intervention or giving them information for proper follow up to continue their care.
The program in Corpus Christi has delivered everything I could ask for. The unopposed nature of practice in the ER for residents offers us an abundance of procedures and builds confidence early. You are highly encouraged to take the sickest patients in the department on day one. You always have the proper backup you need, but are offered a great deal of independence. We have a great relationship with all of the staff within the Emergency department and we are treated with respect. It is a great practice environment and great place to receive training.
Living in Corpus has been a good time so far. I live in a “tiny house” directly on the water. In my free time, I have taken up fishing, and enjoy going to the beach for bonfires at night. I also hunt for the best food and coffee in town. My co-residents and faculty have become great friends, and we get together monthly. I cannot recommend Corpus enough, and if you are thinking about emergency medicine come do a rotation and see for yourself.
Aaron Bartoe, DO, MS
I grew up in south Florida and developed multiple careers prior to becoming a resident at Corpus Christi. Prior to medical school, I worked as a Firefighter/Paramedic, an ER Nurse, and ER Charge Nurse. I did my undergrad at the University of Central Florida, my Master of Science at Kansas City University, and medical school at A.T. Still University in Kirksville, Missouri.
From the moment I decided to pursue medicine, I knew Emergency Medicine was where I needed to be. Unfortunately, I was not able to rotate at Corpus Christi during my fourth year. However, when I interviewed with Corpus Christi, which was my first residency interview, I found the faculty and the residents to be very welcoming, friendly, and genuine, with a true desire to provide a highest quality training possible. This became the interview by which the others were measured.
My first couple months as a resident have proven that the Corpus Christi Emergency Medicine Residency Program was the right one for me. The unopposed training environment with outstanding faculty and staff has allowed me to gain a lot more experience, procedures, and growth than I thought possible in such a short period of time.
Kilee Burke, MD
Hi, I’m Kilee! I grew up in The Woodlands, TX and then went to Baylor University in Waco, TX for undergrad where I majored in biology. After graduation, I moved to Galveston, TX to attend UTMB for medical school. It was there I first got to enjoy the beach life and live an island.
Moving to Corpus for residency has been great! I didn’t get to rotate here like most of my fellow classmates, but I fell in love with the program after coming to their open-house. The residents and faculty were so welcoming and everyone seemed like such good friends. Since coming here, I’m constantly reminded of how thankful I am to have matched here because our program is unopposed. As the EM residents, we do all of the procedures and manage all of the trauma patients in the ED, a luxury residents at other hospitals don’t often get or have to fight other residents for. My friends at other residencies are shocked at how much we get to do here!
In my free time, you can find me playing with my dog, Chile, going to the beach, trying new restaurants, or playing volleyball at open gym night downtown. I also really enjoy camping, hunting, archery, and fishing and try to go as often as a I can!
Elizabeth Do, DO
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: Baylor University
Hometown: Fort Worth, TX
Hi, I’m Elizabeth! I'm originally from the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. I attended Baylor for my undergraduate studies and worked as a scribe in the emergency department for a few years before enrolling at UIWSOM for medical school in San Antonio. In my free time, I enjoy watching Netflix and kdramas, savoring delicious food and boba, and playing volleyball with my fellow residents!
During my fourth year of medical school, I had the opportunity to rotate here, and I absolutely fell in love with this place. The warm welcome and support from both the residents and faculty made it feel like my home away from home. The faculty and residents here are incredibly passionate about teaching, and I am constantly humbled by their profound knowledge. Our program is unopposed, which means we are the only residents in the Trauma and ICU departments, allowing us to sharpen our procedural skills. Moreover, the high acuity level and wide range of illnesses create the perfect training environment, helping us learn to manage multiple critically ill patients while benefiting from the expertise of our attending physicians.
There are countless wonderful aspects to our program that can't be fully expressed in a few paragraphs. We cordially invite you to come and experience firsthand all that our program has to offer!
Griffin Geick, DO
Medical School: Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: University of North Iowa
Hometown: Bettendorf, IA
Hi, I'm Griffin! I was born and raised in Bettendorf, Iowa. I went to undergrad at the University of Northern Iowa and attended medical school at Des Moines University. It didn't take me long in medical school to realize that the Emergency Department felt like home. Every day, every shift is a mystery. The ER always keeps you on your toes, something I truly enjoy.
I was fortunate enough to complete a rotation at CHRISTUS Spohn Shoreline with the CCEMRP program, and after my first shift, I knew this was the place I wanted to train. To me, I knew that I would get good training no matter what residency I went to. But what I was really looking for was a supportive environment that felt like home. That is exactly what CCEMRP provides: a supportive, family culture where I genuinely look forward to every single shift in the ED. If you're looking for diverse pathology and a high acuity place to train with no competition for procedures from other residency programs, Corpus Christi is the place for you.
In my free time, you can find me on the golf course or watching the Iowa Hawkeyes' offense struggle to put the football into the end zone.
Michael Harbin, DO
My name is Michael, I’m from Austin, TX. I went to UT Austin for undergrad (hook ‘em) and TCOM in Fort Worth for medical school. I’m a college football fan, avid outdoorsman, fisherman, pickleballer, and PADI divemaster in scuba. I’ve got two rescue dogs, a feral toddler, and my wife is a FM resident here at CHRISTUS Spohn.
I’m certain you’re not reading this page to learn more about me, as much as you are interested in the CHRISTUS Spohn EM program and if it’s a good fit for you. So I’ll tell you that I believe that this program has amazing people that know how to have fun, while also being amazingly competent in all areas of Emergency Medicine. Our faculty are overpowered in their education for us as residents, our acuity and volumes are very high, and the program is unopposed to surgical residencies. When it comes to procedures and patient care, the buck stops here. I think that makes our program incredibly unique nationwide, because you’ll find a wide breadth of training without sacrificing acuity or volume. Beyond that, the beach bonfires, group CrossFit sessions, and working hard with some of your new closest friends doesn’t hurt.
In the end, I am a believer that in residency “you get out what you put in”, and I would say that there’s no better place you could invest your time in Emergency Medicine than with the Corpus Christi family.
Christopher Lancaster, DO
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: Southwestern University
Hi, my name is Christopher Lancaster. I was born in Sacramento, California but grew up in Fort Worth, Texas. I went to undergrad at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas and attended medical school at the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas. I was first exposed to Emergency Medicine while working as a scribe at a Level II Trauma Center in Fort Worth and I fell in love with it. I knew it was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.
During my fourth year of medical school I was able to do a rotation here in Corpus and knew right away that this was the place for me. My goal in training is to learn as much as possible and to be as prepared as possible so that when I finish residency I will feel comfortable working anywhere. This program’s unopposed nature, with no other specialty residents to take away patients or procedures, has allowed me from day one to gain experience in the full breadth of Emergency Medicine. The attendings and upper-level residents here love to teach and ensure we are always being challenged in a way that helps us grow.
In my free time I enjoy reading books (sci-fi especially!), playing video games (wide variety including RPG, FPS, strategy, etc.), playing soccer (any sport really), and hanging out at the beach.
When looking at residencies my advice is to look for a place where you will fit in and be happy at, that is offering what you are looking for in terms of training, and where everyone respects you. I feel very lucky to be here at this program and look forward to my continued training.
Rogelio Martinez, DO
My name is Rogelio Martinez, but I go by Trey. I was born and raised in McAllen, Tx. I attended Texas A&M University and graduated in 2016. After undergrad I attended Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland Ohio. While I was there, I earned an MPH and a master’s degree in Nutrition. I then attended University of the Incarnate Word for medical school.
In my free time, I hang out with my black lab and really enjoy spending time with friends and family. I’m a big college football fan! Gig em! I also enjoy playing golf on my days off.
Tanner Nielsen, DO
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
University School: Utah State University
Hometown: Hyrum, UT
Hey everyone! My name is Tanner Nielsen. I grew up in northern Utah. I received my undergraduate education at Utah State University and worked for 5 years in the prehospital setting as a firefighter/Advanced Emergency Medical Technician during that time. From there, I made my way south and completed medical school at Rocky Vista University.
I was fortunate enough to have auditioned here as a fourth-year medical student. I was immediately impressed by the competency of the residents and their proficiency in managing sick patients and performing procedures. The culture was very welcoming, laid back, and non-hierarchical between the residents and attendings. I was instantly sold.
Our program is unopposed, offers endless opportunities for procedures, and provides care to a high volume of high-acuity patients in south Texas. Corpus Christi is a great place to live with constant sunshine and nearby beaches. My wife and I are thrilled to have matched here!
Mikayla Shorten, DO
Medical School: Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: Rhodes College
Hometown: Cypress, TX
Hi, I'm Kayla! I was born in Houston but have actually lived there four separate times in between moving to England, Pennsylvania, and Washington. I went to undergrad at Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, and medical school at KCU in Kansas City, Missouri. I fell in love with the Corpus Christi EM residency program during my rotation there and compared every single other program to them throughout my interview season. Everybody here is so welcoming, fun, and friendly, and there is always something exciting going on outside of work. My favorites so far are beach bonfires, sand volleyball tournaments against the Family Medicine residents, and exploring new restaurants with my co-residents. I could not be happier to have matched at such an incredible program and would love to talk to anybody who has questions about it.
Daniel Tran, MD
Medical School: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center Paul L. Foster School of Medicine
Undergraduate School: University of Texas-Austin
Hometown: Cypress, TX
Hi everyone, my name is Daniel. I grew up in Cypress, TX, a suburb of Houston. I completed my undergraduate studies at UT Austin (Hook 'em!) where I earned my BSN. I worked in a trauma IMC and ICU for about 2 years before attending medical school at Texas Tech El Paso. When I was searching for a residency program, I knew I wanted to be somewhere close (but not too close) to home. I had heard a lot of great things about Corpus Christi from my mentors in El Paso and decided to do an away rotation here. As a student, I found the faculty to be very welcoming and genuinely interested in helping me become a competent physician. All the residents I worked with seemed appropriately stressed while remaining friendly and energetic. The high acuity of the ED and the abundance of procedures ensured great training in emergency medicine.
What I came to appreciate more as I went through the interview process was how valuable being in an unopposed program is. Everyone is more than happy to give you opportunities to perform procedures, and you learn how to consult with attending physicians who are not part of a residency program. Many resources are available to you, including unlimited free food, parking, access to Rosh Review, Hippo Education, EM society memberships, and more! As a resident, I also appreciate that we spend most of our time at one hospital, with only 2 or so blocks at other facilities per year. Eight-hour shifts are fantastic; having time to work out, eat, and get some sleep on most days is a luxury I couldn't enjoy with 12-hour shifts. My peers and faculty are even more amazing than I thought when I was a medical student. I cannot stress enough how great it is to have matched here!
Outside of work, I enjoy going to the beach, fishing, visiting family in Houston and Austin, playing pickleball, eating delicious food, working out, binge-watching shows, gaming, and spending money I don't have.
Matthew Treasure, DO
Medical School: Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: Utah State University
Hometown: Mountain Green, UT
Just a little about me: I am from Mountain Green, Utah, and attended Utah State University, where I majored in Biology. I was totally lost during my sophomore year on what to do as a career and was earning very average grades. I decided to shadow an ER doctor and was essentially hooked from that point on. My grades even magically improved once I found what I wanted to do with my life. I moved to Las Vegas with my wife, to attend Touro University Nevada for medical school. We added what we thought was a mini goldendoodle named Alta to our family, but she grew to 65 lbs. It was the best scam we have ever been a part of! I enjoy binge-watching shows with my wife, mountain biking, skiing, playing pickleball, and online Catan with friends across the country. I’m obsessed with late-night television shows and their hosts. I’m a proud Swiftie!
Why I chose Christus Health - Texas A&M, Spohn Emergency Medicine Residency:
I never got the chance to rotate here in Corpus Christi but did a last-minute change up of my rank list after my interview here. The interview just spoke to me because I realized I needed a place where I would be prepared to work in a community setting and be ready for whatever would be thrown at me. Here in Corpus, they spoke so much about how this is an unopposed residency program and we would get to do as many procedures as we would like. They also emphasized that we would be responsible for the sickest patients on our very first day, all while receiving plenty of support from faculty and co-residents. I have found that to be so true and feel so happy I am getting this experience in residency so I can leave here being the best doctor possible.
It very cool to live in a place so different from my previous experiences. I have taken well to hanging, biking, and running at the beach. I am even learning to kiteboard. I have been thrown in the air and dragged around like a ragdoll, but it has been a fun learning process.
Alfredo Arriaga De La Garza, MD
Medical School: University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine
Undergraduate School: University of Texas Rio Grande
Hometown: Brownsville, Texas
Hello, my name is Alfredo Arriaga De La Garza. I was born in Mexico, and grew up in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. I attended UTRGV for my undergraduate studies, UNTHSC in Fort Worth for graduate school, and UTRGV School of Medicine for medical school. I rotated with this program as a fourth-year medical student and quickly realized that this is the place where I wanted to do my residency. The attendings in the program are some of the most knowledgeable and supportive physicians I've had the pleasure of working with. The pathology seen in Corpus Christi patients is very broad, allowing ample opportunities for learning and building a strong foundation in emergency medicine care.
Chelsea Clark, DO
Medical School: University of North Texas Health Science Center College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: Texas Tech University
Hometown: Austin, Texas
I’m Chelsea, and I’m originally from Austin, TX. I received my undergraduate and MBA degrees from Texas Tech University and went to TCOM for medical school. I spent my OMS-III year in Corpus for core rotations and fell in love. I always felt challenged, supported, and valued when working with the EM residents and faculty. On top of that, the location allows me to pursue hobbies like running (by the beach!), sports (surfing, kiteboarding), fishing, and camping. If you want an environment conducive to your well-being during a unique time like residency, you’ve picked the right place!
Candice Hill, MD
Chief Resident
Medical School: Texas A&M University
Undergraduate School: Brigham Young University-Idaho
Hometown: Anaheim, California
Hi there! I am originally from Anaheim, CA, went to Santa Ana Community College, then BYU Idaho, and attended medical school at Texas A&M. I met my husband in undergrad and moved to Austin, TX for his job after graduating. I took a gap year to become a Texas resident and worked at Kaplan Test Prep teaching MCAT classes. I loved this job and kept it as a side gig, tutoring a bit during medical school.
Outside of work and studying I love being outdoors, staying active and traveling. Here in Corpus there are great outdoor activities like wind surfing, kayaking, fishing, kite flying and just relaxing at the beach with a bonfire. My greyhound, Valkyrie, is learning to love the beach as much as I do. Since I played water polo through college, I love swimming for exercise. It's a great break from the world and great aerobic exercise. Something unique about Corpus is all the public pools are free!
I have had some amazing opportunities to travel and have been to 6 countries and 25 of the 50 states. My favorite destination so far was Rhodes, Greece. It is an amazing island with rich history and the coolest beach I've ever seen. I'm excited for more traveling adventures in the future. I plan to do a rotation in a Spanish speaking country during my 3rd year of residency, and Panama during my next summer break.
This is an amazing program and I love going to work every day. Everyone looks out for each other on shift and we spend lots of time outside of work hanging out together. I can't imagine being anywhere else for residency.
Katherine Hoffman, DO
Chief Resident
Medical School: University of North Texas Health Science Center College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: Texas A&M University
Hometown: San Antonio, Texas
Hi everyone, I’m Kat. I grew up in San Antonio, went to Texas A&M for undergrad, and went to TCOM in Fort Worth for medical school. I was drawn to this program because of how family friendly it is since I have a husband and daughter, that was important to me. I also heard nothing but wonderful things from fellow students that had rotated here and also from faculty that was familiar with the program.
Valene Knutson, DO
Medical School: A T Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: University of Wisconsin
Hometown: Wausau, Wisconsin
I'm Val, and I relish spending time with my handsome husband, who you'll find on the previous page. Our journey began in med school, and we're both thrilled that our paths led us to Corpus Christi. We share a deep love for the outdoors, often embarking on hiking and camping adventures. My furry companion, Cash, a spirited GSP pup, keeps life interesting and helps me unwind from the demands of work. Much like Cash, Tylor, my other buddy, brings joy as we explore the beach together, watching him revel in the ocean's waves. Beyond these activities, I find solace in our garage gym, where I work out, and in practicing yoga with my co-residents.
I couldn't have asked for a better residency program, and the faculty plays a significant role in making it exceptional. They lead each shift with enthusiasm and approachability, ensuring our success as future EM physicians. Attendings offer unwavering support, going the extra mile to impart valuable knowledge. The camaraderie among co-residents and nursing staff infuses our workplace with positive energy, making each day a pleasure to anticipate. Additionally, our unopposed program ensures that we gain ample experience with procedures, further enriching our training.
Tylor Kock, DO
Medical School: A T Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: South Dakota State University
Hometown: Lennox, South Dakota
I know what you’re thinking so we will just get it straightened out right away. My name is Tylor Kock but pronounced “tie-ler cook”. I grew up in the great white north in Lennox, South Dakota and graduated from South Dakota State University with a Bachelor’s in Biology. After undergrad I spent three years working as a patient care tech in an emergency department until starting medical school. Four years later, the ghost of Andrew Taylor Still himself presented me with my diploma after graduating from ATSU KCOM in Kirksville, Missouri. My first two years of medical school were spent in Missouri and my two clinical years in Phoenix.
Unlike most of the other residents, I never did a rotation at CHRISTUS Health and had never even been to Texas. Everyone always asks how you know what programs you like when you interview on zoom? But I will tell you from experience, there are a handful of places that are going to stand out, even through a virtual interview. This program was one of them. Everyone I interviewed with was down to earth and genuine. It was evident that the residents had a great relationship, and the faculty was approachable and supportive.
Since starting residency in June, I quickly found I made the right choice. From day one, you are treated like a physician and given tremendous autonomy. There are no limits to patients that interns can manage, and you are able to see patients of all levels of severity from the start. Although you own your patients, your attending and other residents are always there for support and help whenever needed. I am still in awe of the level acuity we see on a daily basis. There is definitely no shortage of procedures.
In my free time I do anything that involves the outdoors. My hobbies include hunting, fishing, working out, jiu-jitsu, and more hunting. My wife Val and I, who is also an EM resident here, enjoy camping, hiking, and occasionally suffering through a few games of pickle ball. We have a delinquent fur-baby named Cash (named after Johnny) who is a German Shorthair Pointer. He likes birds. Also, if you have any questions, you are better off asking Val because she is the smarter half.
Coady Mier, DO
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: Texas State University
Hometown: Killeen, Texas
How’s it going everyone? My name is Coady Mier. I pursued my undergrad in Microbiology and Biochem at Texas State University, followed by medical school at UIWSOM in San Antonio, TX, and finally landed residency here in Corpus Christi at CHRISTUS Spohn Shoreline. Before going to undergrad, I was a medical scribe and heard about this awesome ER residency in Corpus Christi (previously at Memorial Hospital, which has since closed and moved to our current location at Christus Spohn Shoreline Hospital); 10 years later, here I am, and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to be here.
I chose CHRISTUS Health|Texas A&M Emergency Medicine for its incredible high acuity cases seen in the ED, where from day one as an intern, you’re doing procedures and managing critical patients. While doing an away ultrasound rotation here during fourth year of med school, I quickly knew this is where I wanted to be, as the hospital is literally across the street from the Corpus Christi Bay waterfront and everyone here at the hospital makes you feel like “family.”
The North Padre Island is located just about twenty minutes away, where you can drive down the beach and build bonfires on the sand (all legally), which is definitely one of my favorite things to do to mentally “decompress”. Outside of residency, I tend to my ever-growing collection of snakes and am currently trying to breed green tree pythons.
Azim Pothiawala, MD
Medical School: McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Undergraduate School: Rice University
Hometown: Sugar Land, Texas
Hey, my name is Azim Pothiawala. I was raised in Sugar Land, a suburb near Houston, Texas. I went to Rice University for undergrad and McGovern for medical school. I had first heard about this program from a friend working at an ED in Austin. He felt the docs, alums from CHRISTUS, were really well-trained. I did not rotate here, but my interview day, the residency location and unopposed nature were the big reasons I ranked the program high on my list. I am so happy that I did! Everyone here is so supportive and always looking out for one another. I hope you will come check us out!
Kelly Sandall, DO
Chief Resident
Medical School: Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: Eastern Washington University
Hometown: Spokane, Washington
I grew up in Washington state and did my undergrad in Cheney at Eastern Washington University. I moved to Las Vegas, NV to complete medical school at Touro University-Nevada. I went to medical school interested in emergency medicine. Over the course of my rotations, I liked a bit of everything but I became more appreciative and interested in seeing the undifferentiated sick patient. I enjoyed having procedural skills but also valued never being in a situation where there was a patient I couldn’t take care of. Whether it’s an EKG, a CT scan or a crashing patient, emergency medicine gave me the skills and knowledge to care for and help those patients. All the while having in my opinion the best work-life balance of shifts and never being on call! Aside from that, I’m a Brazilian jiu-jitsu blackbelt and train at least 5x/week, I love anime, stand-up comedy, magic the gathering, Dark Souls games and music!
I wasn’t able to do an away rotation in Corpus Christi because of COVID. I chose to apply here based on comments on reddit spreadsheets from previous years about EM residencies. It was my last interview of my interview season, I had honestly thought about canceling it, but begrudgingly I decided to do one more. What’s one more interview, right? Well, one more interview shattered my rank list. Speaking with the residents and attendings I could tell the culture of this program was somewhere I’d feel comfortable. Over zoom that’s difficult to accomplish but that was how overwhelming of an impact my interview had on me. Since becoming a resident here, I feel even stronger about my decision.
Michael Scott, DO
Medical School: Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: Brigham Young University
Hometown: Santa Clarita, California
Hey there everyone, my name is Michael Scott. I was raised in Southern California and claim Santa Clarita, CA as my hometown. I attended BYU, Provo for my undergrad where I met my wife. I graduated in Physiology and Developmental Biology and then attended Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine for medical school. We have had two kids along the way during medical school.
I auditioned at CHRISTUS Spohn Shoreline as a medical student and was amazed at the amount of experience I had in just a few weeks. This included hands on procedures, diversity of pathology, with a high-volume emergency department. It became apparent for me that this is where I wanted to end up to receive the best training possible for my needs as a resident and also provide a great environment for my family. Another reason why I was drawn to this program was to use Spanish in a healthcare setting.
I enjoy playing volleyball (we have resident volleyball nights), surfing (yes, there are enough waves here), mountain biking, skiing, rock climbing, hiking, and really any outdoor activity. While here in Corpus Christi, I am wanting to try out windsurfing, kite boarding and the local deep-sea fishing.
Katherine Spencer, MD
Chief Resident
Medical School: University of Arizona, College of Medicine - Phoenix
Undergraduate School: Arizona State University
Hometown: Durham, North Carolina
Hi there, I’m Kate! I was born in Durham, NC and lived in Denver, CO for a few years before settling into Phoenix, AZ at age 10. I completed my education in Phoenix, including undergrad at Arizona State University, where I studied biochemistry and anthropology, and medical school at University of Arizona, College of Medicine - Phoenix. In my free time, I love practicing yoga, trying new restaurants, and hiking with my husband, Justin, who’s also a resident in this program!
I was able to rotate here as a medical student and had a phenomenal experience. I was drawn to the unopposed nature of the program, which ensures that we build a wide range of strong skills. I also appreciate that there are no restrictions to the patients that you can see as an intern. You are encouraged to see the sickest patients and will be guided by upper-levels and attendings as a team. Our faculty are incredibly knowledgeable and always make time for teaching on-shift. In addition to the excellent training, this program has a lot of other aspects that were important to me - including excellent relationships with colleagues and nursing, perks like free food and parking, great moonlighting opportunities, and a well-designed shift schedule. My favorite part of all is the culture and the people in this program - everyone is incredibly friendly, welcoming, and supportive.
I wish you the best of luck in finding your future residency program and would absolutely encourage you to consider Corpus! 10/10 would recommend :)
Travis Tarleton, DO
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Undergraduate School: Texas Tech University
Hometown: Coppell, Texas
I’m Travis. I’m originally from the Dallas/Ft. Worth area and went to medical school nearby in San Antonio. I went to undergrad at Texas Tech University and graduate school at Texas A&M. I like to go fishing, play golf, cook, and hang out at our local breweries. I’m married to my wife, Erica, and we have a precious kitty cat named Max.
As a 4th year medical student, I rotated in the ER here and absolutely fell in love with the program. I was really impressed at how knowledgeable and capable the residents were, and I was thrilled when they asked me to intubate the very first patient I saw on my rotation. The residents and attendings were great at teaching on shift and I learned and did so much during my rotation. I ranked this program #1 on my rank list and was ecstatic to find out I matched here.
I can say without a doubt that my experience here as a resident has been even better than I imagined. There is no graduated responsibility, so on day 1 you are allowed and encouraged to see the sickest patients that come into the ER. As an unopposed residency, the procedures are plentiful and when you need specialty consultation, you’re the one making the call. Our didactics are entertaining, the rotations are great, and we have excellent relationships with the attendings and nurses. We have tons of independence and are allowed to really develop our confidence and style of practicing emergency medicine, while always having excellent attending support and expertise. I would highly recommend everyone come and check out our program.