Jessie Koljonen, MD, MS

Without a doubt, SIU was my top choice. I was looking for a program that offers diverse clinical volume, early exposure to plastic surgery, and graduated autonomy with training in all areas of plastic and reconstructive surgery in a tight-knit, collaborative community. Beyond that, the unique mentorship model, robust didactic curriculum, and resources like our skills and micro labs were also big draws of the program for me. In the month I spent getting to know the faculty, residents, and staff as a fourth year visiting medical student, I felt like I had found my family, and could tell from day one that the supportive environment is one in which I will thrive. I knew I had found my home and the people I wanted to spend the next 6 years with. I’m so lucky to have matched at such an amazing and highly respected plastic surgery program!