Education Residency

Next steps for chief residents

photo of graduating chief residents
Graduating chief residents, standing, from left: Ethan Craig, MD, MPH, and Zachary Douglas, MD. Sitting, from left: Ricardo Ramirez, MD, MSCI, Jake Lee, MD, MSCI, and Sebastian Sciegienka, MD.

As they prepare for graduation on June 23, five chief residents in the Department of Otolaryngology at Washington University School of Medicine share their post-graduation plans, reflect on highlights of their training, and offer parting words of advice for their junior colleagues. Please join us in celebrating their successes and many contributions to the department and the field of otolaryngology.

photo of Ethan Craig, MD

Ethan Craig, MD, MPH

Next step

I will be going to Kansas University for a Head and Neck, Reconstructive fellowship

Highlight of residency

The highlight of my residency has been working with junior residents and medical students. I have enjoyed helping others find the joy in operating as my mentors helped me.

Parting advice

Every person in the hospital, from attending surgeon to patient family member to floor nurse, will teach you something, if you listen. Remember how hard you worked to match and take advantage of your time here.


photo of Zachary Douglas, MD

Zachary Douglas, MD

Next step

I have accepted a position as a comprehensive otolaryngologist at Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

Highlight of residency

The highlight of my residency has been working with a such a dedicated and talented group of residents and faculty and the relationships I’ve formed with all these mentors and colleagues.

Parting advice

Lean in to residency and take advantage of every opportunity you can. For better or worse, residency isn’t forever, and you will one day miss this incredibly rich learning environment.


photo of Jake Lee, MD

Jake Lee, MD, MSCI

Next step

I will be starting a fellowship in Head and Neck Oncology & Microvascular Reconstruction at the University of Pennsylvania.

Highlight of residency

Other than the obvious answer of seeing myself grow to become a better physician, surgeon, and individual, I take great pride in helping to build up the social aspects of the residency, including monthly socials, pool parties, March Madness pools, interactive interviewee socials & tours, and unofficial graduation celebrations during the pandemic. Props to my social co-chair, Ricardo.

Parting advice

Most of the time, life isn’t as serious as you think. Although you will be challenged at various points in your training, know that there is no personal agenda against you. It is okay to laugh at yourself, learn from your mistakes, embrace feedback, show your personality, and have a sense of humor.


photo of Ricardo Ramirez, MD

Ricardo Ramirez, MD, MSCI

Next step

I am headed to New York for a microvascular reconstructive fellowship at Mount Sinai.

Highlight of residency

There are so many highlights. The most memorable moments were those spent with my fellow residents celebrating the small wins.

Parting advice

Cherish your time in residency and learn as much as you can. Listen closely to your patients’ stories and keep an open mind. Lastly, remember that feedback is a gift.


photo of Sebastian Sciegienka, MD

Sebastian Sciegienka, MD

Next step

I will be starting a facial plastic and reconstructive surgery fellowship at Vanderbilt.

Highlight of residency

The highlight of my residency has to be the relationships I have formed with both faculty and my co-residents over the years.

Parting advice

Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today. You might end up seeing it as a missed opportunity.