Michael Russo, DO - Chief Resident

Michael Russo, DO
Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific - Pomona Campus
Program: 
University Campus Residency
Resident Status: 
Alumni
Class of: 
2021

Where are you from?

Tucson, Arizona. Born at UMC! Go Cats!

What are your personal interests/hobbies?

Climbing, backpacking/camping, traveling, board games, looking at and petting dogs, target shooting, brewery touring, pub trivia, eating Eegees and Sonoran hotdogs at El Güero Canelo, live music, UA sporting events, and movies and binging Netflix shows.

What are your professional interests?

EMS, Sports Med, and administration.

Why did you choose UA EM?

The UA EM program is essentially the complete package and where I knew I would be the happiest. UA was the interview where the people and program culture stood out the most. The residents are engaging, fun, and interesting. The program boasts a great reputation due to amazing faculty committed to resident education, a comprehensive curriculum, and numerous fellowship opportunities. There is emphasis on resident support and wellness. The balance between the University and South campus offers unique and diversified patient experiences. Oh, and most importantly, a food allowance! Beyond the program, if you can handle (and ideally, embrace) the heat, there is so much to love about Arizona, Tucson, the Sonoran desert and outdoor opportunities, and southwest culture as a whole. Finally, I couldn't beat being home with family and friends, and becoming a Wildcat again was a major perk.

What's your ideal vacation?

Anywhere a bit off the beaten path that has a blend of history/art/architecture, a balance between mountains and beaches, great food and drink, and of course, world-class climbing. Next on the list is climbing the Mediterranean coast from France to Greece, or simply exploring more of America's national parks.

What are your non-medical goals during residency?

Break into a new climbing grade, establish and record the first ascent on a new route on Mt. Lemmon, road bike to the summit of Mt. Lemmon, adopt and train the ultimate outdoor pup, experiment more with cooking, learn to play guitar (did someone say Wonderwall?), and improve my Spanish.