Dr. Avaylon attended medical school at the California Northstate University, College of Medicine. Dr. Avaylon completed his intern year with the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine as part of the integrated internship. 

Why did you choose the University of Kentucky Residency Program? I chose UK for a multitude of reasons all of which closely tied to what I was seeking in a residency program: a strong sense of community, rigorous clinical and surgical training, and supportive and invested faculty. My co-residents, whom I now happily call my friends, are some of the most talented and down-to-earth people I know. The resources at UK are second to none and enable us to see a high degree of complexity that will provide the skills and confidence needed for a successful practice in the future.

What do you like about the Residency Program? What I like about my program closely aligns with why I chose UK. The tight-knit community provides the necessary foundation for positive growth. The faculty here are incredibly invested in our success and provide the support necessary for us to pursue any pathway we choose. Our program is highly receptive to feedback and quickly enacts changes that enhance our training experience. The early exposure to procedures and the OR enable us to hit the ground running and hone our craft over time. I am also proud to be a part of our Global Ophthalmology tract. UK GO instills the knowledge, values, and skill set needed to provide high-quality care for underserved populations both at home and abroad.

What are your hobbies and interests? My current hobbies include exploring national parks, hitting the Pickleball courts, and teaching David everything he knows about golf.

Dr. Jordan attended medical school at Florida State University, College of Medicine. Dr. Jordan completed her intern year with the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine as part of the integrated internship. 

Why did you choose the University of Kentucky Residency Program? I chose UK because I was captivated by the charm of Lexington, Kentucky. Hailing from a small town myself, Lexington struck the perfect balance in size - neither overwhelming in its scale nor lacking in vibrancy and opportunities. It boasts an array of offerings, from boundless outdoor escapades awaiting at Red River Gorge to the inviting allure of its downtown area, all complemented by delightful weather. Furthermore, my time as a visiting medical student made a significant impression on me--I felt a strong resonance with the program's culture and sensed that it would provide excellent training.

What do you like about the Residency Program? I enjoy the camaraderie and approachability evident throughout the program's staff, faculty and residents, as well as the rich tapestry of our patient community and the abundant opportunities for exposure to diverse pathologies.

What are your hobbies and interests? In my free time, I enjoy knitting, crocheting, or sewing while listening to a captivating audiobook. I also enjoy rock climbing, mountain biking, and aviation. I am also often found working on various projects involving upcycling, building, or repairing things. And, of course, I love spending time with my husband and our beloved pup.

Dr. Laureano attended medical school at the University of Kentucky, College of Medicine. Dr. Laureano completed his intern year with the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine as part of the integrated internship. 

Why did you choose the University of Kentucky Residency Program? Kentucky (and UK specifically) is home. I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to serve and learn from the people of my state. Additionally, Lexington is a great city, and I think has everything you need (or at least I need) to enjoy life outside of residency.

What do you like about the Residency Program? The people. From my time spent with the program during medical school and interviews, I knew that UK had a great group of people that I could fit in with immediately. Also the location – having a catchment area that comprises most of the state allows for a great diversity in pathology to be seen.

What are your hobbies and interests? Golf - Lexington even has a municipal Pete Dye course. Watching movies - new or old, especially at the Kentucky Theatre. Making pizza - Neapolitan style is the best!

Dr. Templeton attended medical school at the University of Tennessee, College of Medicine. Dr. Templeton completed his intern year with the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Kentucky College of Medicine as part of the integrated internship. 

Why did you choose the University of Kentucky? The University of Kentucky was my top choice for residency for a lot of reasons, but in short, Lexington is a mid-sized town with lots to do and draws a diverse patient population from all over eastern KY. UK's main hospital is well updated with multiple new sections and essentially all specialties present. Having now spent almost a full year in Kentucky, I am very happy with my choice of program and am excited for the next several years!

What do you like about your program? From the start, UK was warm and welcoming, which I think is a strong representation of the type of people who make up the core of the program. From the top with our chair Dr. Pearson, to our PD Dr. Moore, to all of my co-residents, everyone is down to earth and available to answer questions about work or just talk about anything. In addition, the clinical training here is unmatched with a great diversity of pathology and as many learning opportunities as you'd want.

What are your hobbies? Trying new foods, watching sports, running, disc golf, and taking my two dogs to the dog park or on a walk is how I spend most of my time. Also routinely beating my co-interns Jack and Jaycob on the golf course. Lexington has been a great spot to explore breweries/distilleries with a few of my favorite spots being West Sixth, Mirror Twin, and Buffalo Chase.