In this month’s Resident Spotlight, we feature Ami Patel, DO, a third-year Internal Medicine Resident on the research track. We recently caught up with Dr. Patel to learn more about her clinical and research interests, what makes UMass Chan a great place for residency, and her favorite things to do in the Worcester area!   
  
Hometown? 
Toronto, CA  
 
What are your clinical and research interests? 
I have always been very passionate about healthcare disparities, which led me to obtain my master’s in public health prior to starting medical school. My current research interests are geared towards post-liver transplantation outcomes in marginalized populations, including women’s health, which is historically understudied. Clinically, I am currently applying to a gastroenterology fellowship and would like to pursue an advanced transplant hepatology fellowship afterwards.  
 
Are you involved in any other groups or activities at UMass Chan that you’d like to highlight? 
I am a part of the research track and have had the opportunity to work with multiple gastroenterology and hepatology faculty on research projects and mentor residents and medical students along the way. I am also involved in the Women in Internal Medicine group. It has been a great way to connect with my peers and build relationships that will last beyond residency. Lastly, I have been involved with the Wellness Committee and helped kickstart the ‘Wellness Wednesdays’ program, which was designed to help internal medicine residents take structured breaks while encouraging social interaction, creative thought, and reflection.  
 
What makes UMass Chan a great place for your residency? 
UMass provides excellent clinical training with exposure to a broad range of subspecialty care while fostering a collaborative and supportive environment that allows residents to grow both personally and professionally. I have also been fortunate to work with outstanding mentors at UMass who have played a pivotal role in my career development. With their guidance, I was honored to receive the AASLD Emerging Liver Scholar Award and the TPIO Travel Grant (shout out to Dr. Deepika Devuni).

Favorite Hobbies?  
I enjoy traveling to different countries and trying different cuisines. In the summer, I also enjoy playing pickleball and spending time outdoors. 

Favorite thing to do in Worcester/Worcester area? 
Spending time with my husband and co-residents, trying new restaurants in Worcester, taking day trips to nearby towns in New England, and hosting pizza parties in our backyard. 

What topping does not belong on pizza? 
I would call myself a pizza connoisseur, and pineapple does not belong on pizza.  

Favorite holiday? 
Christmas, because I can enjoy all the desserts I want and use the excuse of the “holiday season”. 

Favorite guilty pleasure snack? 
All Dressed Ruffles chips.