As graduation approaches, trainees across the Indiana University School of Medicine Department of Surgery are preparing for the next chapter. While their paths have taken them through different surgical specialties, their experiences share common threads: elite clinical training, impactful mentorship and a culture defined by collaboration and lasting relationships.
For Rachel Kim, MD, a graduating general surgery chief resident, the department's national reputation in hepatobiliary surgery and surgical oncology captured her attention during the residency application process.
"Indiana University has one of the highest HPB and surgical oncology volumes in the country, and the highest volume of pancreatic surgery, which is what drove my initial interest in the program," Kim said. "Ultimately, the reason I chose IU was the culture and sense of support and collegiality I observed between the residents and faculty."
That sense of community stood out to many trainees before they even arrived in Indianapolis.
"The interview process made me feel very welcome," said Humraaz Samra, MB BCh BAO, RPVI, a graduating integrated vascular surgery resident. "My training was a priority, but who I was as a person was equally important. I felt the department was looking for the right fit, as was I."
Developing confidence in the operating room
As residents and fellows progressed through training, rising responsibility in the operating room helped mold them into confident surgeons. Along the way, they developed the skills and judgment needed to care for complex patients.
"The HPB and surgical oncology group pushed and challenged me to be the best clinician and surgeon that I could be," Kim said. "For me, that all culminated in doing my own hepaticojejunostomy without the attending even scrubbed."
For Samra, the range of vascular surgery cases provided invaluable learning opportunities, spanning routine procedures and specialized referrals from across the region.
"There is a huge variety in complexity, pathology and approaches to vascular surgery that I think is a unique gem amongst training programs," Samra said. "You get the breadth of training but also multiple different perspectives because each surgeon has their own niche."
Kara Allen, MD, who remained in the department for vascular surgery fellowship after completing general surgery residency, found the program's depth of experience and supportive environment made staying an easy decision.
"I had observed several other trainees go through vascular fellowship and receive incredible training," Allen said. "I knew that if I stayed here for fellowship, I would be more than adequately trained to handle any situation and feel supported along the way."
Mentors who shaped careers
Mentorship also played a defining role in many trainees' journeys. Rafaella Genova, MD, MS, a graduating plastic and reconstructive surgery chief resident, sought a program that would support her goal of pursuing pediatric plastic surgery while providing invaluable experience at Riley Hospital for Children.
"I was fortunate to have Dr. Borschel, a world-renowned pediatric plastic surgeon, as a mentor," Genova said. "I still remember his presentation on pediatric facial reanimation and corneal neurotization, which helped shape what I hope to focus on in my own practice."
For cardiothoracic surgery chief resident Chelsea Loria, MD, some of the most memorable experiences came while caring for critically ill patients at IU Health Methodist Hospital.
"My most memorable moments have been on the adult cardiac service where we care for some of the sickest patients in Indiana," Loria said. "Working with such an excellent team to care for these complex patients is extremely rewarding."
A second family
While the clinical training experience was a highlight, many graduates say the relationships they formed are what they will carry with them long after leaving the Department of Surgery.
"My co-residents were truly the greatest support here," Kim said. "I found my second family among them. I've become an aunt to my co-residents' children, and I know I can go to them with any problems."
Those bonds extend beyond the hospital and into lifelong friendships.
"Some of my closest friends to this day are my co-residents," Samra said. "From group dinners to sporting events or just hanging out at the hospital, the camaraderie between the trainees is unparalleled."
Allen echoed that sentiment, describing the people as one of the program's greatest strengths.
"I work with a bunch of kind, brilliant people who care about me as a trainee and about our patients," Allen said. "I made incredible friends during residency who have become part of my family."
Life in Indianapolis
Outside the hospital, Indianapolis provides a welcoming backdrop during years of demanding surgical training. Graduates highlighted the city's affordability and quality of life as key benefits.
"It's a big city with a small-town vibe," Samra said. "The cost of living is great, the food scene is amazing, and the city is incredibly easy to get around. I love living here."
Allen appreciates the versatility Indianapolis offers.
"You can find whatever you want out of living in Indianapolis," she said. "You can live downtown and get a city feel or live in the suburbs and have space to enjoy hobbies, gardening and family life."
Looking ahead
As they prepare for fellowships, academic careers and surgical practice across the country, these graduates say IU Surgery has given them far more than the necessary skills to be successful surgeons. It has provided mentorship, lifelong friendships and the confidence to take the next step.
"I would recommend IU Surgery for its breadth of operative experience, mentorship and supportive culture," Genova said. "I feel very well prepared for the next stage of my training."
For Loria, the department's greatest strength ultimately comes down to its people.
"The attendings care equally about training great surgeons as they do great people," Loria said. "That's what makes this place special."
