CA-1 Christa Saelinger, MD

Medical School: University of Kentucky

Undergrad School: University of Kentucky

Hometown: Villa Hills, Kentucky

Hobbies: Playing pick-up sand volleyball and pickleball, hiking, running, watching just about any sporting event, reading

Why did you choose anesthesia?

Anesthesia uniquely blends intellectual reasoning, procedural skill, and a highly acute, complex environment. I was gratified by the immediate impact of the care I provided. Anesthesiologists are entrusted with the care and comfort of vulnerable patients. Their vast knowledge and skills allow them to collaborate with nearly every specialty in medicine – something unique to anesthesiology. Most importantly, they are HAPPY and fulfilled in their work!

Why did you choose Cincinnati?

As a native of the Greater Cincinnati area, I was eager to move back home after completing undergrad and medical school. Cincinnati has it all – great food, scenic parks, accomplished professional and collegiate sports teams, four distinct seasons, a welcoming Midwestern atmosphere, and more. During an away rotation at UC in my fourth year of medical school, I was instantly impressed by the caliber of the program and the relaxed, close-knit environment of the residency program. Additionally, UC serves some of the sickest, most vulnerable populations in the country, ensuring a challenging educational experience.

CA-1 Ketty Consuegra, MD

Medical School: Florida State University

Undergrad School: Florida Gulf Coast University

Hometown: Naples, FL

Hobbies: Spending time with my family, re-watching my favorite TV shows, Reading, Cooking, 1000+ piece puzzles

Why did you choose anesthesia?

I loved my rotations in Anesthesia. I loved the fact that I got to be part of a team while also having my own work space. Patient interaction is also very unique in Anesthesia and can have a detrimental effect on a patient’s experience in the operation room. As a Spanish speaker I especially enjoyed my interactions with patient’s who could only communicate in Spanish and how much of a difference I made in their experience. The hands-on component and seeing the real-time effect of your interventions also attracted me to the field.   

Why did you choose Cincinnati?

I was looking for a program where I would be exposed to complex cases as I wanted to leave residency prepare for practice in whatever setting I choose. I was also looking for a program that would take care of residents, see them as people rather than just a number and a place where residents seemed to truly care for one another. During the many open houses I attended, Cincinnati was by far the one that stood out the most. You could feel that the vibes were good between residents and that they actually enjoyed each other’s company both inside and outside of work. During my interview day and second look I was once again pleasantly surprise and blown away by the resident camaraderie and the volume of complex cases (trauma and transplant, especially liver transplants) seen at this institution. On a more personal level, I was also looking for a program that was close to my fiancée, who attends school in Ohio, and had easy access to an airport so UC and the city of Cincinnati were a no brainer.  I am incredibly excited to be here and can’t wait to see what else Cincinnati has to offer.

CA-1 Garrett Gordon, MD

Medical School: University of Cincinnati

Undergrad School: Miami University- BS Kinesiology; Ohio State University- DPT Physical Therapy

Hometown: West Chester, Ohio

Hobbies: Tennis, pickleball, coaching youth basketball, parks and hiking with my golden retriever

Why did you choose anesthesia?

I chose anesthesia because it combines my affinity for anatomy and physiology in a fast-paced environment. It has a great mix of procedures and medicine, providing the balance I was seeking in a specialty. I also appreciate the versatility that it offers, as anesthesiologists can be specialists in several practice settings spanning from critical care to interventional pain.

Why did you choose Cincinnati?

I chose the University of Cincinnati for anesthesia because the program provides outstanding clinical training in a supportive work environment. Everyone in the department cares about your success, and the relatively small cohort size ensures that your training is tailored to your individual goals. Most importantly, Cincinnati is home, and the opportunity to train close to our friends and family was a priority.

CA-1 Rachel Kidwell, DO

Medical School: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine

Undergrad School: Georgetown College

Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

Hobbies: Running, weightlifting, watching college football, cooking and baking, finding new parks, spending time with my family and dogs.

Why did you choose anesthesia?

I chose anesthesia because I've always had a strong interest in pharmacology and physiology.  I really enjoy working in the operating room, recognizing and treating acute problems.  Being able to provide comfort and reassurance to patients during a high stress time is also an incredibly rewarding responsibility.

Why did you choose Cincinnati?

Being a Cincinnati native, I knew I always wanted to return home.  Not only am I surrounded by the love and support of my family and friends, but the community at UC is unmatched.  There is an overwhelming sense of belonging and camaraderie among residents, attendings, departments, and staff.  The level of care is known for exceeding expectations, and I knew my training here would well prepare me for my future in anesthesia.

PGY-1 Alexis Walker, DO

Medical School: Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine

Undergrad School: University of Vermont

Hometown: Essex, Vermont

Why did you choose anesthesia?

I always knew I wanted to pursue anesthesia because I felt it was the perfect combination of pharmacology, physiology, and compassionate patient care. Throughout my education, I directly witnessed the impact an anesthesiologist can make on patient comfort through seemingly simple actions. I was drawn to the necessity of making quick yet meaningful connections with your patients, guiding them through nerve-wracking situations. I also loved the teamwork involved and the fast-paced environment of the field. It always felt like the natural fit for me and my personality!

Why did you choose Cincinnati?

 I applied because on paper, Cincinnati has everything I wanted in a program: good case volume, complex learning opportunities,  and direct access to various fellowship opportunities. The city itself drew me in because there is something for everyone. As someone who loves trying new food, festivals, and live music, it felt like the perfect place. After my interview, I fell in love with the people and quickly realized that my goals and learning would be well supported here at UC by everyone involved in my training!