Meet the Residents: Why I Chose Johns Hopkins

Published in Winter 2018

Wilmina Landford

During my visit to Johns Hopkins, I became intrigued by the Plastic Surgery program’s robust variety of cases, camaraderie among residents, faculty mentorship and support for intellectual curiosity. I was eager to join an institution that prioritized excellence, innovation and diversity. The program’s mission aligned with my own career aspirations.  As a woman of color, I saw the potential of being an advocate for the surrounding community—a community similar to mine. Undoubtedly, I then knew that this program would equip me with the necessary tools to be an influential leader.

Brian Cho

brian cho

The program provides unparalleled training in all areas of plastic surgery by expert surgeons in a variety of practice models that range from one-on-one mentorship at private or community practices to team-based practices at large academic centers. No matter the subspecialty or practice setting, graduates feel confident and capable when joining the work force. Additionally, faculty are fully supportive of innovative ideas and encourage us to push the boundaries of both clinical and basic science research through teamwork and collaboration. This balanced combination of clinical training and research prepares residents well to become the plastic surgery leaders of the future.

Melanie Major

melanie major

I chose Johns Hopkins because I find continual inspiration from the faculty, staff and patients. From the moment I walked into the Dome as a first year medical student, I was impressed by the institution’s rich history and commitment to excellence in patient care. The hospital consistently ranks as one of the best in the country, attracting a diverse patient population that is essential to a well-rounded surgical residency program. Johns Hopkins brings together some of the brightest minds in medicine, creating unparalleled opportunities to pursue my interests, both clinically and in research.

Adekunle Elegbede

adekunle elegbede

First, the program is citywide, and the other surgical departments are excellent and constantly pushing the envelope. This provides a high volume of patients with complex reconstructive needs. Therefore, residents get a high volume and a great mix of routine, unusual and truly rare cases. Second, the large and diverse faculty offers very broad training as well as opportunities for clinical, research and career mentorship. Third, the other medical and nonmedical disciplines within the institution are very strong, thereby providing limitless opportunity for interdisciplinary research/product development collaborations.

Sashank Reddy

sashank reddu

I chose our program for its clinical and scientific excellence. The clinical resources at Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland, Curtis National Hand Center and beyond are enormous. I feel one can be well trained in any area of plastic surgery here. The scholarly opportunities are equally abundant as reflected in the numerous papers, presentations, patents and even companies that have emerged from our residents. A wonderful surprise has been the great culture among residents and faculty. And the city of Baltimore has undergone a renaissance since I was an undergraduate here, with beautiful new housing and development on the water.

Melissa Mastroianni

melissa mastroianni

When I interviewed at Johns Hopkins, it was clear that this was a unique program. Residents rotate through top hospitals and centers for excellence where they train with top surgeons in their field—places like Johns Hopkins, Shock Trauma, the National Hand Center, Walter Reed and the Dellon Institute for Peripheral Nerve Surgery. I knew that I would not find a better experience or see more challenging cases besides the Johns Hopkins Plastic Surgery Program. I felt like this program would be the best to train me for any career I would choose.