Meet Angeline Sawaya, MD
Name: Angeline Sawaya
Hometown: Westland, Mich.
Medical School: University of Michigan Medical School
Professional Interest: med/peds hospitalist, transitions of care, global health, local health disparities, healthcare for Spanish-speaking patients
Residency Program Experience:
What was the most inspirational thing you witnessed while working at the hospital? All of my co-residents are so helpful, and we really are a team. Even when I am feeling stressed or having a bad day, they are there to help me out in any way they can, and I know I am not alone.
What is the biggest sacrifice you have made in your medical training so far? Having less time to spend with family
What trait do you most admire in talented physicians? Their ability to break down complex medical diagnoses into empathetic conversations the patients can understand
One thing I wish I knew before starting the residency program? Not to be so nervous about starting intern year. You have so much support.
What was the most difficult thing during your intern year? So far it has been becoming more efficient with the EMR and a new hospital system
At work I never… Complain about things going on in my own life. Does not make for good work vibes.
What is the key to making the best of this residency program? Have a positive attitude and go into each rotation with an open mind.
What is the one item somebody starting residency should absolutely invest in? Comfortable shoes. I love my Danskos, but anything you can see yourself standing in comfortably for lots of rounding.
What's the best advice you've been given? Don't let a bad day or bad interaction bring you down, remember all of the good you have done for your patients and focus on moving forward.
A Few Words About Cleveland
How would you describe Cleveland to somebody who has never been here? It truly has something for everyone. If you're a foodie, we've got you (too many amazing restaurants to name). If you like the arts, there's the Cleveland Orchestra, the art museum, and so much more. If you like sports, we've got the Browns, the Indians, the Cavs. If you like nature, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is right here, and the city itself has lots of green space. There is always a different neighborhood with a different vibe to explore: Ohio City, Tremont, Little Italy, the Flats, just to name a few. Cleveland has all of the amenities of a big city without the high prices.
What neighborhood do you live in? I live downtown (about a 15 minute drive from UH) and I LOVE it.
What are some of the spots to go to fall in love with Cleveland? West Side Market, E. 4th Street, Wade Oval, Edgewater Park, so many more.
Best kept secret about Cleveland is… Heinen's Downtown for groceries.
Your favorite spot for a quick bite around the hospital: Einstein's (it's open late)
A good burger: Town Hall in Ohio City
Dinner with friends: Anywhere on E. 4th, I like Greenhouse Tavern and Butcher and the Brewer.
Great patio: Guarino's in Little Italy.
A night on the town: E. 4th Street, the Flats, W. 6th, and W. 25th Street
How-Tos
Cope with sleep deprivation: Focus on wellness when you are not at work (and coffee)
Avoid burn out: Do not give up the things that are important to you, whether it's cooking, exercising, or reading for fun. Going to church every week means a lot to me, and if I prioritize this, I always feel better.
It's a Toss-Up
East Side or West Side: So hard to choose, both have so much to offer. I have to say East Side since that's where I work/spend most of my time
Staying in or going out: Depends on the night/whether I'm on a golden/silver/black weekend
UH or VA: UH, but they both have their pros.
CICU or MICU: MICU and its large variety of medical complexity
Sushi or tacos: Definitely tacos. So many great places in CLE.
Lease or buy a car in Cleveland: I bought my car, but residents do both.
Own or rent a house in Cleveland: I rent, but one of the great things about CLE is that it is affordable to buy.
Getting Personal
On my bucket list: Basically all travel related, hopefully Machu Picchu is next
I can't live without: My cat
Bad habit: Eating excessive amounts of chips and salsa
If you were given three additional hours a day, what would you do with them? Exercise more
Fun fact most people don't know about me is: I took Hawaiian dancing lessons for eight years.
When I'm not on call you will find me: Exploring my city. There is an endless amount of restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and festivals. I have not been bored yet.