Texas Children's Hospital Fellows College
With advanced trainees in every pediatric subspecialty, our fellows work and learn alongside colleagues with an incredibly broad range of experience and expertise.
First-Year Fellows
Alexander Alexander, First–Year
I chose a BCM/TCH fellowship because: Every person I met during my interview was just so kind and helpful, while also being passionate about their interests. That, combined with the exposure that a place like BCM/TCH provides, made it an easy choice!
Outside of work, I spend my time: Reading, hiking, watching mid-2000s network television shows, spending time with my dog, watching musicals, exploring Houston coffee shops.
Hometown: Houston, TX
Communities I identify with: Med-peds, dog people, Texans, readers, F1 enthusiasts, mediocre skiers
Kaitlyn Bates, First–Year
I chose a BCM/TCH fellowship because: I wanted to train at a large institution with a diverse range of pathologies and comprehensive training opportunities. I wanted a place where I would be supported but also challenged. As someone who is new to the area, I was truly impressed by the warmth and friendliness of the team here. The community is amazing- I love hanging out in the fellows office and everyone is so supportive!
Outside of work, I spend my time: exploring Houston (museums, sporting events, concerts/plays- there is always something going on), petting my cats, attempting to convince my fiancee that he too should join the fantansy book club train, in search of a good happy hour or brunch spot, hunting for a good pair of cowboy boots that I can wear on boot Friday with all the other fellows
Hometown: Mount Clemens, MI
Communities I identify with: aspiring plant parents, former peds-chiefs, Midwesterners who hate the cold, forever hopeful Detriot Lions fans, themed book club participants, partners not in medicine, lovers of all things Harry Potter
Lauren Ferrino, First–Year
I chose a BCM/TCH fellowship because: of the diversity of the patient population and program. I love being able to see patients from all over the country and even world. I loved the family atmosphere of the fellows’ office and program leadership. I also wanted to be in a program that was focused on fellows’ professional development and education, which has definitely been the case here.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Eating delicious food, seeing family and friends, visiting parks/museums, reading novels, watching Netflix, going to outdoor markets, traveling as much as possible
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Communities I identify with: BookTok girlies, foodies, parents/moms
Mercy Ng’eno, First–Year
I chose a BCM/TCH fellowship because: Between the world-class training, the ethos of excellence that is so tangible, a diverse patient population that keeps you grounded, a faculty deeply dedicated to their trainees, and the institution’s bold commitment to global health, I knew this was where I wanted to grow both professionally and personally. However, it was the fellows I met during the interview process who sealed the deal for me, a group of brilliant, kind, and slightly hilarious dreamers who genuinely care for each other and actually love working at TCH. And as for Houston... well, it might take me a minute to adjust, but with its food, culture, and endless surprises, I have a feeling it’s going to win me over one taco at a time!
Outside of work, I spend my time: Turning everyday chaos into tiny moments of joy with my boys and swapping sensory-friendly hacks with fellow parents of neurodivergent kids. When I’m less sleep-deprived, you’ll find me trying out new restaurants, curating the perfect playlist for every mood (melophile problems), and pairing the right wine with the right kind of week. I travel every chance I get; being a global citizen is both my mindset and my happy place
Hometown: Nairobi, Kenya
Communities I identify with: Working moms, parents of neurodivergent kids, inclusion advocates, global citizens, Kenyans in the diaspora, foodies, melophiles, wine aficionados, underrepresented in medicine
Tyler Novy, First–Year
I chose a BCM/TCH fellowship because: I could tell very clearly that the fellows at TCH worked very well with one another and supported each other on an educational and personal level. The fellows genuinely enjoy being around each other and in a complex field like pediatric cardiology where you are expected to learn a lot of new information coming out of residency, it was very encouraging to see this relationship. Additionally, the faculty at TCH are some of the best in their fields. Coming here, you have the opportunity to learn from and work with pediatric cardiologists who are known on a national and international level. I also have lived in Texas for my entire life and while I did not grow up in Houston, I did eventually come here for my medical training and have loved it ever since. I love living in Houston and I especially appreciate being in a fellowship that cares about both my personal and professional growth.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Trying new cooking recipes, reading or listening to podcasts, visiting Hermann Park and/or the Houston Zoo, streaming any movie or TV show that someone even remotely recommends
Hometown: Ennis, Texas
Communities I identify with: Houston foodies, Dallas sports fans, husbands, dog owners, frog owners, non-fiction readers, history enthusiasts, musical theater nerds, amateur sourdough bakers, beginner Mahjong players
Harris Onugha, First–Year
I chose a BCM/TCH fellowship because: I was drawn to the incredible clinical training and breadth of opportunities, but what truly set this fellowship apart for me was the warm and collaborative environment throughout the hospital—especially within the cardiology fellow work room, the positive energy is infectious.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Exploring new restaurants, watching nostalgic movies, traveling, staying active outdoors, and spending time with family and friends.
Hometown: Bradenton, Florida — home to Snooty, the beloved manatee who was the biggest celebrity in my town and the world-renowned Ringling Museum of Art.
Communities I identify with: Medical education, mentorship, and those committed to advancing diversity and inclusion in medicine.
Zofia Zdanowicz , First–Year
I chose a BCM/TCH fellowship because: I was drawn to the excellent training in cardiology from a humble and approachable community of mentors! The culture of Heart Center is a welcoming place that I believe will be able to foster a collegial environment for me to grow as a pediatric cardiologist.
Outside of work, I spend my time: running, reading, planning backpacking trips, trying new coffee spots, perfecting the croissant, finding the best tacos in town, and coming up with any excuse to be outside with friends!
Hometown: Portland, Oregon
Communities I identify with: Domers, hikers, make-your-own granola-ers, people who talk about signing up for the marathon but never do, people who actually run reasonable distances, swammers, west-coasters, coffee afficionados, first-time Texans
Second-Year Fellows
Travis Bishop, Second-Year
I chose a BCM/TCH fellowship because: The community - meaning relationships between fellows, faculty, all the way up and down the ladder. The atmosphere in the fellow room is one of mutual respect and support. Everyone understands that fellowship training is difficult, and that each person is working hard. There is also a clear sense of ownership of the patients as the fellows have their own clinics and are the face of the program to patients. People care about and for each other and their patients while maintaining a high expectation of competency and commitment.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Running, playing basketball and sand volleyball, reading medical papers in between novels, fixing/upgrading my house, serving with my church, making cortados for my wife, playing games (card, tabletop and video), planning my next trip to Central/South America
Hometown: Austin, Texas
Communities I identify with: Med-peds, athletes, musicians, old-school Austinites, Christians, coffee snobs, techies, outdoorsmen, Aggies, DIY-ers, readers
Alex Dennee, Second-Year
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: The people! As a resident at BCM, I had an inside look at what makes this program so special. The energy in the fellows’ workroom is contagious and the support from the faculty is unmatched.
Outside of work, I spend my time: exploring new restaurants and coffee shops, playing pickleball and sand volleyball, streaming the newest crime or HGTV show, and spending quality time with family and friends
Hometown: Appleton, Wis.
Communities I identify with: Midwesterners, amateur pickleballers, cat lovers, foodies, Swifties, Packer fans
Stevan Lukich, Second-Year
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: Exceptional training and the best culture that feels like family but is also professional
Outside of work, I spend my time: Hanging with my fiancé and golden retriever puppy, gym and cycling, bass fishing, hiking and hunting, snowboarding, playing the violin and guitar, cooking, exploring local breweries and wineries, watching F1, autocross/SCCA events/cars and coffee
Hometown: Peoria, Ill.
Communities I identify with: Catholics, outdoors lovers, F1 enthusiasts, dog lovers, audiophiles, midwesterners
Emily Masterson, Second-Year
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: Everyone I met on my interview day and second look visit was so kind, humble, and thoughtful. The TCH cardiology program was the best place for me to grow as a physician and person. I also appreciated the possibilities for collaboration with the engineering schools and biodesign institutes in the Houston area. Houston’s warm weather and affordable housing were big draws for me as well.
Outside of work, I spend my time: You can usually find me doing something active (swimming, biking, Peloton-ing, rock climbing, yoga-ing, walking my dog Dolly, playing volleyball, etc.). I also enjoy tinkering with different granola recipes and reading.
Hometown: Gilbert, Ariz.
Communities I identify with: First- time Texans, volleyball players, ex- peds chiefs, nomadic medical trainees, rescue dog moms, engineers, vegetarians who appreciate BBQ, Peloton enthusiasts
Ashwin Srivatsav, Second-Year
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: The amazing culture of the Heart Center immediately pulled me in. Everyone is incredibly supportive, welcoming, and kind. This creates an environment that I knew would encourage me to be the best I can be, both professionally and personally.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Reading (fantasy and sci-fi), watching/playing sports, exploring Houston’s food/coffee scene, and spending time outdoors (except from June to August)
Hometown: Dallas, Texas
Communities I identify with: Dallas sports fans, Bollywood fans, mediocre pickleball and ultimate frisbee players, Swifties, Peloton
Sarah Tucker, Second-Year
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: This program has the best combination of incredible people and excellent training. TCH has a very tight-knit community of people with diverse backgrounds, experiences and interests. I wanted a program that would challenge me yet be supportive, and wanted to see a wide variety of patient complexity and acuity so I could leave fellowship feeling confident in my clinical skills.
Outside of work, I spend my time: walking my pup, Ollie; doing triathlons; playing pickleball; participating in book clubs; exploring Houston’s incredible food scene; board game nights (Wingspan, anyone?); going to the Houston symphony; cooking for friends
Hometown: Houston, Texas
Communities I identify with: Dog-moms, plant moms, people who get sucked back into Texas, wannabe triathletes, ice cream lovers, bookworms, board gamers
Jonathan Wheeler, Second-Year
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: The world-class training and endless opportunities for innovative research at TCH are what initially attracted me to the program but what really sold me was the incredibly personal atmosphere and inclusive culture I felt during my interview and visit. My family and I relished the opportunity to take a leap of faith and move across the country to experience all that Houston has to offer and become a part of the TCH family!
Outside of work, I spend my time: Evening walks with my wife, strength training / powerlifting, convincing my wife how important various sports teams are, community gardening, trips to the gulf, amateur soccer leagues, hiking / camping, DIY-ing
Hometown: Zionsville, Ind.
Communities I identify with: Indiana Hoosiers, Midwesterners who say “ope”, disappointed Manchester United supporters, partners of grad students, retired athletes that refuse to act retired, backcountry enthusiasts, Disney adults, Christians, husbands, bike commuters, saltwater fishers
Third-Year Fellows
Chelsea Boyd, Third-Year
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: I thought it was the best combination of exceptional training and exceptionally fun people.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Dabbling in Crossfit and squash, finding new disc golf courses, writing limericks (the highest form of poetry)
Hometown: Randolph, New Jersey
Communities I identify with: Aspiring unicyclists, Banana Saver™ enthusiasts, Rhode Islanders, hikers who complain within the first mile, Med-Peds, N64 purists
Carlos Lodeiro, Third-Year
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: The people. I had the opportunity to get to know the fellows and faculty during residency, and I was impressed by how close the fellows were to each other and to the faculty. It was evident that faculty were invested in the fellows' growth as cardiologists, researchers, and also as people. The environment in the fellows' workroom also stood out - it felt like a big family that supported each other and cared about each other. It was a group I could see myself working and spending time with for the next 3 years.
Outside of work, I spend my time: with my wife, 2-month-old son, and dog – exploring new restaurants, going on walks, going to parks, cooking. Playing/watching/talking soccer. Watching movies, Broadway shows, Ted Lasso (BELIEVE), playing board games.
Hometown: Caracas, Venezuela / Katy, Texas
Communities I identify with: Fathers, Real Madrid, Latinx, Real Madrid, partners who are in medicine, Real Madrid, F45, Venezuelans, Dog owners (Aussie), Real Madrid
Mary Jenkins, Third-Year
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: My niece with Ebstein anomaly was treated here many years ago, and I remembered the feeling we had as a family that she was getting the best care in the world. I wanted to learn from the best so I can pass along that blessing to other families.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Cooking for my friends, working out, reading, traveling, watching all-things Bravo, and exploring the culture of the city
Hometown: Vienna, Va.
Communities I identify with: Med-Peds, East-Coast transplants, teachers, coaches, physicians, advocates for health equity, Catholics
Jasmine Moreno, Third-Year
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: The feeling of comradery and community you get walking into the fellows' office and the genuine interest of the faculty in teaching and caring for their patients compassionately. I am also interested in the health disparities research opportunities and the diverse patient experience.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Exploring the Houston food scene, traveling, learning Portuguese and Italian, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Hometown: El Paso, Texas
Communities I identify with: Latinx, Mexicans, foodies, coffee and gelato aficionados, Catholics, soccer fans
Elliott Moss, Third-Year
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: The people and the pathology. As someone who did residency here, I have had ample time to see cardiology at TCH from various perspectives. Every attending and fellow here truly loves cardiac disease and cares about training the next generation of cardiologists. There is a culture of learning and teaching for anyone who shows the slightest interest. The team is large enough that you can always find the person with similar life/research/clinical interests as you who will help you reach your goals. Apart from the people, there is literally no disease process you do not see here in bunches so there is no better place to train, regardless of your career goal.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Hanging out with my wife and kids, traveling, watching sports, listening to books/podcasts, streaming whatever new action/crime series is on, working on projects around the house.
Hometown: Woodland, Washington
Communities I identify with: Fathers, Christians, football fans, west coasters, movie fans, amateur DIYers
Donnchadh O'Sullivan, Third-Year
I chose BCM/TCH pediatric cardiology fellowship because: Its renowned reputation for excellence in the field. The program's commitment to innovative research and comprehensive clinical training align perfectly with my career aspirations in pediatric cardiology.
Outside of work, I spend my time: I find great joy in music, food, traveling and immersing myself in different cultures, which broadens my perspective and enriches my understanding of diverse patient populations. I am deeply passionate about applying artificial intelligence to enhance pediatric care.
Hometown: Cork, Ireland
Communities I identify with: I actively engage in socializing and nurturing meaningful connections with various communities. I try to find time to practice Spanish and Farsi, speak some French and enjoy any opportunity to speak Irish.
Bita Salamat, Third-Year
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: The amazing people and patients! As a Baylor pediatric resident, I saw how close the cardiology fellows are with one another - they are truly a family (2 words: fellows' workroom). Not only is there a diverse and huge variety of pathology, but you are exposed to many different sub-specialties within cardiology led by invested faculty members who are dedicated to teaching. Houston is also a wonderfully diverse city with so much to do and explore. Staying home at BCM/TCH is the easiest decision I ever made!
Outside of work, I spend my time: Doing yoga and dance classes, reading epic and high fantasy novels, going to book club, exploring different foods, and spending time with family and friends!
Hometown: Corpus Christi, Texas
Communities I identify with: Persians, yogis, nature lovers, fantasy book worms, Swifties, plant moms, cat lovers, Disney Enthusiasts, people who can’t escape Texas (thanks for that one, Patrick)
Fourth-Year Fellows
Nathan Beasley, Fourth–Year (Cath)
I chose a BCM/TCH fellowship because: They are one of the top programs in the country for interventional pediatric cardiology. Everyone I interviewed with was very kind and knowledgeable and it felt like a program I would be able to thrive in.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Going with my wife, son, and golden retriever to various parks, and co-managing a small scale Etsy shop in woodworking.
Hometown: Ozona, TX / San Angelo, TX
Communities I identify with: Native Texans, Baylor Bears, Christians, Fathers, First-Generation Physicians, Dog Owners, Band Nerds
Brock Karolcik, Fourth–Year (EP)
I chose a BCM/TCH fellowship because: I really enjoyed getting to know the amazing EP crew at TCH at our HRS and learned from amazing mentors at my categorical fellowship that trained at TCH. It is an incredible program with a wealth of exposure and experiences that I felt would help best prepare me as an electrophysiologist (great mentors and lots of hands-on experience).
Outside of work, I spend my time: Running with my dog, playing hockey, pickleball, snowboarding, and playing board games with my wife (usually losing)
Hometown: Morgantown, WV
Communities I identify with: Appalachian, Carpatho-Rusyn (more mountains), Byzantine Catholic, Hockey lovers (go Pens!), Yinzers, Dog lovers (chow chow mix owner), Bowties, engineers (ChE)
Yazan Kherallah, Fourth–Year (ACHD)
I chose a BCM/TCH fellowship because: We have a large and complex ACHD patient population, who have had surgeries dating back to the Denton Cooley (how cool is that?!). Here, I get to see the full spectrum of ACHD at a high clinical volume. The exposure to ACHD heart failure is unique, particularly with regards to mechanical circulatory support. There is also a healthy dose of genetics and aortopathies, which I enjoy. There is amazing cardio-OB exposure. We have sub-sub specialists in fields like ACHD EP. Most importantly, I chose BCM/TCH because of the people. I love all of our faculty. They are down-to-earth, accomplished, and clinically astute people who I see as role models, friends, and mentors. This is a place that can tailor the fellowship experience to each individual’s interests, one that invests in your clinical and academic development, but also you as a person.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Playing with my daughter, making fancy meals with my wife, and rock climbing.
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Communities I identify with: Third culture kids, climbers, people who own ooni ovens.
Alex Kiener, Fourth-Year (Advanced Imaging)
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: of the people. Texas Children's clearly has the high volume and world-renowned leaders of our field, but what surprised me was how approachable everyone was and how collaborative the environment felt. The fellow’s office exemplifies this well. Everyone is so intelligent and hardworking, but often the office feels just like a hangout with friends.
Outside of work, I spend my time: I love exploring parks, museums, and coffee shops/restaurants/breweries with my wife and our ~2 year old son. I also enjoy playing pretty much any sport/outdoor activity but specifically like running, soccer, golf, and hiking.
Hometown: North Potomac, Md.
Communities I identify with: fathers, partners who are in medicine, native east coasters, nomadic medical trainees, Arsenal supporters (aka gooners)
Derek Norton, Fourth-Year (Advanced Imaging)
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: of the people. The world-class quality of training at BCM/TCH is no secret, but even through virtual interviews the positive energy and supportive atmosphere impressed me more than anything else. Fellowship is hard, regardless of where you do it, so it was very important to me to find a place where I would feel supported not just as a fellow physician, but as a human. So far, this program has delivered beyond expectations. Every day I am surrounded by brilliant and kind people who are more than happy to help mold this lumpy ball of clay that knows nothing into a capable pediatric cardiologist.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Cooking, home brewing, patronizing some of the many restaurants and breweries in the city (let's call it "field research"), vibing at concerts, losing my voice at sports events, golfing, yoga-ing (poorly), and dreaming of completing a triathlon. I also absolutely love games in so many forms: table-top games (Gloomhaven, DnD, Quacks, Settlers, etc.), card games (think MtG), video games, and more.
Hometown: Prior Lake, Minn.
Communities I identify with: Midwesterners, LGBTQIA+ allies, first-generation physicians, folks with no prior ties to Houston/Texas, sports enthusiasts (hopelessly devoted to the torture of MN pro sports), Manchester City supporters aka Cityzens (LOL sorry Alex), hobbyists (home cooks and home brewers), people still trying to figure out adulting.
Mounica Rao, Fourth-Year (Advanced Imaging)
I chose BCM/TCH fellowship because: Not only is it one of the best heart centers in the world, it is also one of the most personable. Everyone I’ve met, from the cardiologists to the cardiac surgeons to the staff in the echo and cath labs, genuinely want to learn more about me and what they can do to help foster my professional and personal interests. And I can’t say enough about the support and guidance my co-fellows give me daily. We are a tight-knit crew and that is incredibly important to me.
Outside of work, I spend my time: Exploring new restaurants and discovering new cuisines! Houston is home to so many diverse cultures, so I never get bored exploring.
Hometown: Houston, Texas and Chandler, Ariz.
Communities I identify with: Women in Medicine, LQBTQ+ Allies, True Crime Junkies, Board Game Enthusiasts, Coffee Aficionados, Foodies, West Coasters, Nature/Hiking Lovers, Plant Moms, Dog Lovers
