As graduation day approaches on June 21, our three chief residents reflect on their experiences, share what’s next in their careers, and offer advice to those following in their footsteps. We are proud to celebrate their accomplishments and the lasting impact they’ve had on our department and the field of anesthesiology.
Karam Atli, MD
Next steps
I’m headed to Stanford to complete an adult cardiothoracic anesthesiology fellowship.
Residency highlights
It is hard to narrow it down to just one experience. Overall, the best part of residency has been the camaraderie, mentorship, and support I have both received and had the privilege to provide over the past four years. I have found some of my closest friends and greatest mentors here. As residency draws to a close, I feel incredibly fortunate to have trained at WashU Medicine. The education, mentorship, and sponsorship provided by the department have been foundational in shaping our confidence for the next stage of our careers. WashU will always feel like home to me.
What I love about St. Louis
One of my favorite parts about living in St. Louis is Forest Park. I consider it one of the crown jewels of the city—an oasis that has brought me comfort and joy in both good times and bad.
Parting advice
Don’t be afraid to ask for help, support, or clarification. These four years are the foundation of your career—take full advantage of every learning opportunity, lean into your growth, and invest in the people around you. The friendships and mentorships you build here will carry you far.
Ryan DeAngelis, MD
Next steps
I will continue my training at WashU Medicine as a fellow in cardiothoracic anesthesia!
Residency Highlights
The best experience I had in residency was training alongside my co-residents. Seeing our cumulative growth over these past four years has been incredible.
What to love about St. Louis
My favorite part about living in St. Louis is the restaurant scene—delicious food and interesting drinks are always close by. The variety of live music venues is also great.
Parting advice
My parting advice for residents is to be open-minded and absorb as much information as possible during your four years in residency, but also remember to take time to relax!
Parita Jani, MD
Next steps
I am staying here at WashU Medicine for the cardiothoracic anesthesia fellowship program.
Residency highlights
The best clinical experience in residency was my firefighter rotation. It gave me the opportunity to grow as a senior resident—managing complex cases, exercising clinical judgment, and supporting my co-residents throughout the day. Working together with friends is one of my highlights of residency!
What to love about St. Louis
St. Louis has a great mix of affordability, culture, and community. Summer picnics on Art Hill is something I look forward to, and the local food scene—especially the hidden gem restaurants and farmers markets—really surprised me. I also love how easy it is to find things to do outside of the hospital, whether it’s catching a concert, exploring new neighborhoods, or visiting a new coffee shop.
Parting advice
Take every opportunity you can to learn. You’re only a trainee once, so push yourself, stay curious, and take advantage of the valuable resources and faculty you have around you!