Cole Linzmeyer, DO

Why UNM is My Choice for Residency: After all of the interviews, notes I had scribbled down, and stress of the interview process was all coming to an end, I had to rank the programs. It turns out, UNM was my first choice because of a raw feeling. Sure, it checked off several boxes I had - including being a large academic institution, having a wide patient population, and also providing a wonderful culture outside of its walls - but when I got there on interview day, things were just different. The amazing landscape hooked me from the moment I entered that 6th floor conference room. Then, the welcome given by the chief resident was catered to have each applicant's information weaved in throughout her presentation, which really made it personal and blew me away. What was most surprising, however, was how genuine and friendly the other residents were. Coming from Southern California, I can easily tell when someone is being nice, but in a way that they don't really want to delve deeper than some superficial interaction. At UNM, the people really wanted to know who I was underneath the "just-keep-smiling-while-interviewing" face. At first, I was a bit skeptical because I'm not very accustomed to that and figured it was probably a one-off thing, but it kept happening. Again. And again. It was really incredible how supportive and kind everyone was, and it was that feeling that swayed me to rank UNM as my #1 choice. I knew I wanted to be a part of that family and that culture, and I haven't looked back since!