Resident Reflections

Natasha Sebastian, M.D.
PGY 5

I chose Danbury Hospital because it provides a large residency volume in a community setting. Choosing a community residency program offers a unique blend of diverse patient populations, hands-on surgical experience, and close mentorship from seasoned surgeons. I value the opportunity to make a direct impact on my community’s health while developing a broad skill set that prepares me for a versatile surgical career. Additionally, the collaborative environment and emphasis on continuity of care align perfectly with my professional goals of becoming a proficient and compassionate surgeon.

Trevor Roush
PGY 4

I chose this residency program because of the genuine sense of community I felt between the residents and attendings. The close relationships foster an environment where teaching is prioritized, and guidance is always accessible. I was drawn to the way residents support one another while also feeling truly mentored by faculty. This culture of collaboration creates a strong foundation for both personal and professional growth. Ultimately, I knew this was a place where I could thrive while being part of a supportive, close-knit community.

Shaidy Moronta
PGY 3

As my medical journey saw me venture farther and father away from my Northeast roots, I never thought I would end up in Danbury, CT – but boy am I happy I did. I have found a family here within the residency, and to my surprise, in the attendings we work with daily. Everyone has been incredibly supportive of my dreams and passions and have truly invested in my becoming a better surgeon. The community we serve is diverse and present with a vast range of pathologies. It is an honor to be involved intimately in their care from the moment they walk into the hospital, intraoperatively, and to the next steps of their recovery. It is even more fulfilling for me in particular, to be able speak to many of these patients in our native tongue (Spanish). I had not experienced that previously, and am thankful for the opportunity to employ this skill here. Danbury has also been an incredible place to further my academic accolades. There is a dedicated research year in which many of the faculty will go out of their way to connect you to leaders in your intended field. Through this, I’ve met influential mentors, published several research articles, and presented at national and international conferences throughout the nation – all with Danbury’s support. I’ve since returned to clinical duties and have been hungry to get back into the OR. It’s a nice welcome back and I am excited to continue to learn all that I can from our wonderful attendings and be back with my co-residents!

Yangyu “Annie” Yang
PGY 2

I feel extremely lucky and happy to be a surgical resident at Danbury. The residents here are very close, and we support one another in ways akin to those of a family. The attendings are kind, approachable, encouraging, protective of the residents, and always willing to teach—making even the most demanding days feel purposeful and rewarding. There are plenty of opportunities for research and academic pursuits, if those are of interest, and a rich, diverse case mix to enhance your surgical education. Every week, I look forward to our protected education days with attendings who share their insights on interesting and challenging pathologies, along with current treatment guidelines. The Danbury surgery residency program fosters not only rigorous clinical and academic growth but also a strong sense of camaraderie and mentorship. I feel surrounded by people who are as invested in my success as I am. Being part of this residency has confirmed that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.

Mariya Riat
PGY 1

During my interview, I could see excitement and passion shared amongst the residents and attendings alike. I could see that this is an environment that nurtures commitment to excellent care but also continued education in simulation sessions, hands-on operative experiences very early on during residency, and a surgical community that fosters curiosity for how to make health care accessible to the community of Danbury. The busy floors and trauma service has proven to be engaging and challenging. At the end of each busy day, I feel an immense amount of camaraderie and support in reflection of complex patient care which has fueled my own growth in becoming an integral member of a multidisciplinary team. I feel incredibly proud to work alongside brilliant and supportive mentors, from my senior residents to nursing staff, social workers and attending physicians from all departments, I have a sense of belonging and purpose which I know will continue to mold me into the surgeon I aspire to be.

One Big Happy Family