Current Residents

Clay Blanchett, M.D.

PGY-IV Resident Physician, Chief Resident

Medical School: ETSU Quillen College of Medicine, Johnson City, TN
Undergraduate School: University of TN, Knoxville, TN 

In my spare time, you’ll find me with my wife, five-year-old daughter, and three-year-old son, spending time outdoors enjoying the beautiful Smoky Mountains. I was previously a professional guitarist for many years as well, and still love to play music.  

ETSU Psychiatry is a perfect fit as it serves the region I have always called home. The faculty, staff, and residents here have made me feel like part of an even bigger family!  

Jeuel Paña, M.D.

PGY-IV Resident Physician, Chief Resident

Medical School: St. George’s University, Grenada, West Indies
Undergraduate School: Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada 

I have a huge passion for keeping up with fitness, especially strength training, which gives my mind and body a chance to reset. It is actually more than just a hobby; it is a lifestyle. I enjoy watching horror films, which give me a rush of adrenaline in entertainment. During my spare time, I look forward to traveling, and many of my favorite cities to visit are in Europe. I am also someone who never says no to karaoke! 

I chose to train at ETSU because of how close-knit everyone is within the residency program. It makes training a fun experience, not to mention our adventures in the scenic and endless outdoors! 

Katelyn Cserjes, M.D.

PGY-IV Resident Physician

Medical School: St. George’s University, Grenada, West Indies
Undergraduate School: University of West Georgia, Carrollton , GA 

I mainly chose this program because of the people. You get so much support here from staff and attendings that you do not feel overwhelmed. My closest family lives a four hour drive away, which is the perfect distance for long weekend trips but not, as my mother says, "close enough for Sunday dinners." The residents here became my family away from family (you know, like home away from home?). In terms of the location, the area here is absolutely beautiful and provides you with a lot of outdoor activities. There are multiple hiking, camping, and bike riding places within a reasonable distance. An attending offers a chance to go spelunking once a year (completely worth it, by the way). You can even rent a boat and chill out on the lake for a day. There is something for everyone. 

Praveen Fernandopulle, M.D.

PGY-IV Resident Physician

Medical School: American University of Antigua College of Medicine, Antigua and Barbuda
MSC in Bioinformatics: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, New York, NY
Undergraduate School: University of Texas, San Antonio, TX 

As a US Air Force veteran myself, I love the opportunity to work for my fellow veterans at the Mountain Home Veterans Affairs Medical Center. ETSU’s affiliation with one of the largest VA hospitals in the nation was amongst many reasons I chose this program. 

Johnson City is surrounded by beautiful mountains, a nice break from the busy life of big cities. In my free time my wife and I like to go on hikes, explore new cuisines, and continue to add to our ever-expanding list of international destinations.  

Sarvatit Patel, D.O.

PGY-IV Resident Physician

Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University, DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harrogate, TN
Undergraduate School: State University of New York, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY 

I chose ETSU because of the natural beauty of the area, the affordability, and the sense of well-being that the residents of the program emanated. 

My hobbies include hiking, white water rafting, biking, traveling/road trips, gardening, exploring small cities and towns, discovering new foods/eateries, playing pickup basketball, watching NBA, and tech. I am also an electronics enthusiast. I am an avid car enthusiast and would love to one day have a blog/website/YouTube channel where I can test drive and write reviews on anything from a Ford to a Ferrari.  

Phillip Glass, M.D.

PGY-III Resident Physician

Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine, Grenada
Undergraduate School: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 

Johnson City is nestled in the Ridge Valley Region of the Appalachian Mountains, which makes for pretty amazing outdoor activities. After four years of intense study in medical school, it has been great to live in an area where you can really delve into some unique outdoor adventures. Mountain biking is a very popular hobby in the area, though I enjoy long hikes with my wife and our dog. We have been able to explore beautiful waterfalls, crystal clear streams, and richly-scented hemlock forests.  

Aside from the breathtaking natural beauty, the program has been truly welcoming. Starting a residency in the midst of a global pandemic is certainly a challenge, but our administrators have made it as smooth as possible. Our COVID procedures are regularly updated with policies that take into consideration the ever-changing environment. I appreciate that we have a program that takes residents into consideration as it develops policies for the hospitals and clinics. 

James Kim, M.D.

PGY-III Resident Physician

Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine, Grenada
MA in Medical Sciences: Boston University, Boston, MA
Undergraduate School: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD

Coming to ETSU was a pretty big change and a decision I am so glad to have made. I am originally from NYC, so the move to TN was a pretty dramatic one. The changes from big city life to a quieter town were definitely something to get used to. But ETSU and Johnson City grow on you really fast, and with the friendly people, both in the psychiatry program and all over town, that transition was so much easier. I came to value the program for the close support that you could immediately feel among the residents and with the faculty.  

When I’m not being a psychiatry resident, I’m usually hanging out with my two kids, aged 3 and 8 months. They’re definitely a bundle of energy, but the many parks and nature trails keep them well and busy. 

Hemraj Persaud, M.D.

PGY-III Resident Physician

Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine
Undergraduate School: York University, Toronto, Canada 

I chose ETSU because of the amazing teaching faculty and the camaraderie amongst residents.  Johnson City is a beautiful, captivating, serene area, with so many friendly and hardworking people and unlimited activities to do. ETSU has a bright and lively atmosphere that keeps me feeling young, healthy, and mentally refreshed. My hobbies include playing/watching basketball, working out, and watching movies.    

Trishna Sharma, M.B.B.S.

PGY-III Resident Physician

Medical School: Nepal Medical College, Nepal
MPH: Univeristy of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN
Undergraduate School: Nepal Medical College, Nepal  

I am from Nepal and the landscape of Johnson City reminds me of home. It’s a beautiful place to explore outdoor activities, and I have been living here with my family for a year now. I chose ETSU Psychiatry because during interviews it was reflected upon me that everyone in the program looks out for one another. As I start my training, I can definitely tell that is true, because I feel connected and heard. 

Sean Swerdan, M.D.

PGY-III Resident Physician

Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica
MA in Biomedical Sciences: Midwestern University of Osteopathic Medicine, Downer's Grove, IL
Undergraduate School: Youngstown State University, Youngstown, OH  

I’m from Youngstown, Ohio, and my brother is a navy pilot. I've been a student forever and have amassed 4 degrees: BA Criminal Justice, BA Biology/Pre-med, and Biomedical Sciences Masters. My hobbies entail going to the gym, which is my happy place and mental recharging time, running, yoga, jump stretch classes, playing basketball, hiking, riding motorcycles, reading, playing Smash Brothers on Nintendo Switch, and watching Ohio State football. I’ve been playing Magic: The Gathering since 1998. 

What really stood out to me about this program? I was nervous and felt overwhelmed on interview day, but meeting some of the residents the night before and getting to see a bit of the town really sold me. The town and campus are beautiful, and everyone whom I came in contact with during the interview was really great. Every program has stuff to hang their hat on, what I was looking for was "can I see myself living here? And can I see myself working in this program?" I was doing psychiatry electives at another location at the time of my interview and when I interviewed and toured here, I became envious. ETSU was my #1 choice. 

Geetha Vyas, M.D.

PGY-III Resident Physician

Medical School: American University of Antigua College of Medicine, Antigua and Barbuda
Undergraduate School: University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL

I chose ETSU because of the people. When I first interviewed here, I immediately saw myself really enjoying and learning the ins and outs of psychiatry with the people of Johnson City because they were very welcoming. As an intern, everyone in the program has been very kind and encouraging and takes the time to help us learn and adapt to the practice of psychiatry. It has been great working here so far and I’m grateful to be working with great colleagues and the people of Johnson City.  

I love that Johnson City is nestled among the mountains. Going to work every day and seeing the sun rise above the mountains is one of the reasons I like being in Johnson City, having never lived near the mountains. I enjoy having the opportunities to really explore the wonders of nature, and look forward to seeing everything Johnson City as to offer.  

Whenever I have time, I enjoy trivia nights, collecting old toys, watching movies, listening to music, and spending time with family and friends. 

Bryan DeFelice, D.O.

PGY-II Resident Physician

Medical School: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine, Glendale, AZ
Undergraduate: University of Montana, Missoula, MT, BA

Originally from Spokane, WA, I was drawn to Johnson City for its plethora of outdoor activities. With its moderate climate and diverse landscape, Tennessee offers its inhabitants the opportunity to hike, bike, explore and spelunk. I personally like to mountain bike, trail run, golf and disc golf. I also enjoy any opportunity to hang with my friends and residents, barbeque and explore the East Tennessee area.

I chose ETSU for the camaraderie it offered. Even during virtual interview season, you could tell the residents were all friendly and interacted with each other frequently. After starting here this is more evident than ever, with frequent get togethers and outings. Fellow residents are never more than a phone call away and willing to help, making the transition from medical school an easy one. Faculty take great pride in our experience, giving us dedicated time to voice any concerns during our didactics. ETSU may be in a smaller city but offers a large learning experience from child psych to addiction, and gives you the opportunity to work both in the community and with veterans. I searched residencies with the goal of becoming a capable and competent physician while having the ability to get outside and away from medicine. ETSU and the east Tennessee area easily achieve this balance, and I am proud to be a resident in their psychiatry program.

Donika Hasanaj, M.D.

PGY-II Resident Physician

Medical School: Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
Undergraduate: Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, BS

I chose ETSU for many reasons, but the most important reason was because I could tell that the faculty here are sincerely invested in the residents and teaching, and the learning environment is very supportive. It was very important for me to train at an institution with diverse training sites and faculty who were passionate about teaching, and already it is clear that ETSU stands out at this. Not only this, but the residents who train here are also very supportive of one another and truly treat each other like family. This makes for a much more fun and enjoyable work-day because you look forward to spending time with your friends while caring for patients. I also love how everything in Johnson City is so close and accessible. Every store or location you want to go to is within a short 10-15 minute drive, and traffic is very minimal. This has made transitioning to residency a lot easier, especially coming from a rural town in NC where I lived 30 minutes from main shopping centers and grocery stores. The weather and mountains are absolutely beautiful and I have thus far bicycled on The Tweetsie Trail and enjoyed the outdoor live bands that happen almost every weekend downtown. There is also no shortage of great restaurants and breweries to choose from in Johnson City, which means there is plenty to do with your co-residents on your off days. I am excited to train at a program that I know will prepare me to be an outstanding psychiatrist, and to do so in a place that is as comfortable to live in as Johnson City.

Neetu Scariya, M.D.

PGY-II Resident Physician

Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica
Undergraduate: University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, AL, BS

I chose ETSU because of the camaraderie between residents and the friendliness of the people in Johnson City.  I grew up in Huntsville, AL and though I did rotations throughout the US, I always knew I wanted to come back to the South. Southern hospitality is definitely a big part of the culture here. With virtual interviews, I was a little apprehensive about whether the program would be the same way in person. Luckily, everyone was super supportive starting from Match day. We meet every week as residents to talk about how rotations are going and whether anything needs to be changed. 

Also, Johnson City is gorgeous and during the pandemic I got into hiking and I can't wait to explore more of the trails nearby. My other interests include Indian classical dance, exploring food options, and watching an unhealthy amount of Netflix. 

Jared Shelton, M.D.

PGY-II Resident Physician

Medical School: American University of Antigua College of Medicine, Antigua and Barbuda
MS in PA Studies: A.T. Still University, Mesa, AZ
Undergraduate: Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, BS

I chose ETSU for several reasons. As a non-traditional student with a wife and children, it was important to me to go to a residency program located in a family friendly area with good schools. Johnson City and the surrounding areas offer those options. During both the interview process and my time spent in the residency program, I have felt very welcome at ETSU. The program is very supportive of my training and goals. I also really appreciate the strong camaraderie amongst the residents, attendings and staff. The program has created a nice, friendly atmosphere where we can receive high quality in-depth training. Additionally, I appreciate that there are multiple training sites all in close proximity which provide for a wide breadth of training and a broader variety of cases. I love the opportunity to give back to those that gave so much while serving our country through training at the VA hospital. 

My family and I have really enjoyed Johnson City. The weather is nice, the people are very friendly, and the low cost of living makes it a great place to raise a family. We have been impressed with the large presence of several medical specialties in the area. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to do that keep us well entertained such as parks, camping, hiking, swimming, mountain biking, and visiting different lakes. 

My hobbies include small DIY projects around the house, spending time with my wife and children, following sports, participating in church activities, outdoor activities and keeping my kids laughing and smiling. 

Kenn Vattathara, M.D.

PGY-II Resident Physician

Medical School: Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO
Undergraduate: Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, BS

I chose ETSU because I got the impression that everyone at the program really looked after one another. It was apparent from my interview and time here that residents spent time together outside of the work atmosphere as well. Moveover, our program administration loves to hear the voices of all its residents. One of my favorite things about Johnson City is the many outdoor activities and beautiful attractions you can explore. Vewing the mountains on your way to work every morning is very relaxing. I am from St. Louis, MO, and I love playing basketball, soccer, and volleyball. I recently got into snowboarding and I am looking forward to traversing the slopes near the area in the winter!

Sukhvinder Cheema, M.D.

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences, St. Kitts and Nevis
MA: University of Houston, Houston, TX - Psychology
Undergraduate: University of Houston, Houston, TX, BS

I chose ETSU after several interactions with them at conferences, open houses and then finally interview day!  I repeatedly heard about how Dr. Chandraiah and the rest of the staff/faculty were very supportive and committed to improving training for their residents, which is exactly what kind of atmosphere I was looking for. The residents were very easy to get along with virtually and I sensed great personalities with everyone I spoke to.  I appreciated the curriculum and in-depth experiences that a resident gets here, which will prepare them very well once they graduate.  Through my short time here, I have experienced warm welcomings and positive vibes from everyone in the program and in Johnson City!

Coming from Houston, Texas I am most excited about living in the mountains and the hiking adventures. I love being outdoors and the greenery here is just breathtaking. I also enjoy staying active so I like to run, walk, bike, dance (Giddha/Bhangra), lift weights and do yoga. My other interests include: watching sunsets, drinking way too much chaa & coffee, trying out new food recipes, chilling on roof tops, spending time with my family, trying to sing and listening to Punjabi music especially Sidhu Moosewala.

Gregory DeRoo, M.D.

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: ETSU James H. Quillen College of Medicine
MBA: East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN
Undergraduate: Middle Tennessee State University, BS
University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa, BBA

Being an ETSU Quillen College of Medicine graduate, I was already familiar with the program and wished to remain in the area whilst completing residency training. My wife is currently a medical student here and will be graduating in 2024. My wife and I have two children, and we have found living in this area to be a huge benefit for us as a family. There are great schools, parks, and entertainment opportunities for families here as well as within a short drive from here. Having two parents in the medical field is challenging, but we have received a significant amount of support from the program as well as the College of Medicine.  ETSU Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences has a very supportive environment, and everyone has been a pleasure to work with. I consider myself fortunate to be able to attend this program. 

Joseph DiFrancesco, M.D.

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: ETSU James H. Quillen College of Medicine
MBA: American Public University; American Military University, Charles Town, WV
Undergraduate: United States Military Academy, BS

After 10 years in the Army, I was blessed to have the opportunity to go to Medical School here in Johnson City at the Quillen College of Medicine.  I fell in love with the area, the patients, and the faculty.  I got the opportunity to stay when I matched here into ETSU Psychiatry.

In my free time, you'll find me with the love of my life.  We'll be out paddle boarding, ice skating, hiking, skateboarding, or tackling home projects. The Tri-Cities truly is a playground for outdoors enthusiasts.  I am proud to call this home.

Michael Napolitano, D.O.

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Pomona, CA
Undergraduate: University of Oregon, Eugene, OR BS

When I applied for residency programs my main focus was finding a program where I felt like I was a part of a family. I wanted to wake up excited to go to work every morning, surrounding myself with incredible people who bring out my best qualities. I can truly say that ETSU has given me that in more ways than I could ever imagine. The people are genuine, caring individuals who simply love to help others. As someone who was coming from California and is typically very shy, I immediately felt immersed and welcomed into the program within the first days. When interviewing, this sentiment was radiating from everyone I spoke to but it wasn’t until I got to Johnson City did I really see this sincerity firsthand.  

I wanted to find a low-stress, down-to-earth home where I can raise a family and establish a lifelong career as a Psychiatrist. Johnson City offers a small-town, welcoming home with tons of adventure and lively culture. As someone who loves fitness and exploring the outdoors with my family and huskies, this is definitely somewhere that I can see myself living long after my four years of residency. 

Zachary Pierson, D.O.

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University - DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Pre-Med: Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
Undergraduate: College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA, BS

I lived in central VA in one place or another for my whole life before coming to Tennessee for med school and first experiencing "The Volunteer State". From there ETSU and Johnson City were obvious choices since I wasn't too far away and also got to interact with ETSU residents/sites while on my clinical rotations.

My major draws to the area were the opportunities for outdoor recreation and the healthy lifestyle they encourage, as well as the low cost of living while still having great options for leisure activities and restaurants/bars.

The program itself does a fantastic job of making you feel welcomed and supported. As a resident the expectations and responsibilities start to ramp up, and the best thing you can ask for are program faculty and fellow residents that are readily available to give you all the help you need to succeed.

When I'm not on the job or stretching my legs outside I enjoy reading, poker and other strategy games, investing, and other sporadic creative projects.

Kenneth Pomeroy, M.D.

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: University of Queensland School of Medicine, Australia
Undergraduate: University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, BS
El Camino Community College, Torrance, CA, AS

Growing up in Redondo Beach, California I played a lot of sports and enjoyed outdoor activities like snowboarding, surfing, skateboarding, wakeboarding, rock climbing, hiking, and camping. As a kid my parents took my brother, sister, and me camping frequently. As I grew up, pursuing education, I always tried to end up in places that were close in proximity to nature, where I could continue to play outside.  

For the past 10 I have moved around a lot, from Los Angeles to San Diego to Australia and then to New Orleans, dragging my partner along while she supported me through the challenging road of medical school. We had spent time in Tennessee before, visiting family, and fell in love with the natural beauty. Having family and friends nearby and being able to enjoy our favorite outdoor hobbies, it just made sense to join ETSU.  

Megan Taylor, D.O.

PGY-I Resident Physician

Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Blacksburg, VA


Undergraduate: University of Virginia's College at Wise, Wise, VA, BS

I am originally from Southwest Virginia, just outside of East Tennessee. I grew up learning how to appreciate nature, especially in the mountains. Outside of medicine, I enjoy hiking, kayaking, and camping. The majority of my friends and family live in the area, so my weekends usually include Sunday dinner back at home.

I chose ETSU because I have a passion for rural medicine. Being from the area, I never had an interest in leaving. Between the beauty of the mountains and the culture of the Appalachian region, I knew this is where I wanted to pursue my career. Being a part of such a supportive resident cohort is just an added bonus!