Graduating fellows in the Department of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery have spent the past year completing intense surgical training with their specialty mentors. Here they share their future plans and some thoughts on their fellowship experience. Please join us in congratulating these new specialists.
Zaid Al-Qurayshi, MBChB, fellow in advanced head and neck surgical oncology and microvascular reconstruction
Next step?
I have accepted a faculty position in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at University of Iowa.
Highlight of your fellowship?
The highlight of my fellowship was being mentored by such outstanding head and neck surgeons.
Most important thing you learned during fellowship?
Witnessing groundbreaking advancements in patient care was a key part of my fellowship year.
What will you miss the most about St. Louis?
I will miss all the excellent people I’ve met and Forest Park.
Sai Challapalli, MD, fellow in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery
Next step?
I will be joining a private practice in San Francisco, CA.
Highlight of your fellowship?
The highlight of my fellowship year has been working with such wonderful residents and attendings.
Most important thing you learned during fellowship?
No two rhinoplasties are the same!
What will you miss the most about St. Louis?
I will definitely miss the experience of having four seasons every year, and of course all the people I have come to know.
Ashley Lloyd, MD, fellow in pediatric otolaryngology
Next step?
I will be heading to Long Island, New York as an assistant professor in pediatric otolaryngology at Cohen Children’s Medical Center – Northwell Health.
Highlight of your fellowship?
Managing neonatal difficult airways has been the highlight for me. Some memorable patients include securing a difficult airway in the delivery room right after birth and intubating a premature newborn who weighed less than 1 pound.
Most important thing you learned during fellowship?
The most important thing I learned was collaboration. Discussing difficult cases with colleagues is invaluable. I have learned how to work as a team in complex situations to care for medically complex patients.
What will you miss the most about St. Louis?
I will miss being footsteps away from Forest Park. I love an evening stroll after work or a weekend exploring the park and all the endless activities to do there!
Tara Mokhtari, MD, fellow in advanced head and neck surgical oncology and microvascular reconstruction
Next step?
I have accepted a position as an attending head and neck surgeon at University of South Florida.