Welcome to the Pediatrics program here at the Children’s Hospital of Illinois.  It was not long ago that I was researching residency programs, perusing websites, and making lists to try and determine the best program for me.  I found myself traveling throughout the Midwest, visiting everything from large academic medical centers to small community programs.  In the end, I can truly say that I found everything that I was looking for here in Peoria. 

When I started looking at programs, I knew that there were certain aspects that I wanted to have.  First, it was important to find a program that emphasized academic medicine and evidence based practice while at the same time molding me into a good clinician.  Next, I wanted a program that would give me an opportunity to teach and interact with medical students.  Finally, I wanted to be at a place where people treated each other like family both while at work and outside the hospital. 

When Match Day arrived, I could not have been happier to open my envelope and find I would be coming to Peoria.  I knew after interviewing and spending time with the residents that Children’s Hospital of Illinois had all the factors I had been looking for.  And after my first few days, I discovered more.  The spectrum of disease here is immense and I found myself encountering interesting and challenging pathology.  There is a diverse patient population both in my personal ambulatory clinic and inpatient.  I also feel that the electives I have been able to take as an intern have given me a head start into considering a career in a subspecialty.   

In addition, Peoria is a great community.  When not at the hospital (yes, there is such a thing as having a life during residency) there are so many things to do.  You can enjoy the riverfront, choose to dine at anything from casual to chic restaurants, catch a Bradley basketball game or off-Broadway show, or drive to near-by Chicago or St. Louis.  Peoria is also a place where you can afford a nice house or start a family.  Overall, I could not ask for anything else.  I really believe this program has so much to offer and hope that you take some time to consider Peoria and find it to be everything you are looking for too. 

--Terry Ho, PR-1

My experience as a Pediatric Resident here at University of Illinois College of Medicine-Peoria/Children’s Hospital of Illinois has been phenomenal.  One of the best aspects of our program is that every faculty member is dedicated to teaching and is focused on resident education.  Being based at a large tertiary referral center, we see an amazing amount of pathology every day.  Our educational experience here is truly second to none.   

Our Pediatric Program is really a family of its own.  Our residents, faculty and staff are friendly and work as a cohesive team to get the job done.  On the other hand, we do know how to have a good time and each month we have resident get-togethers, from barbecues to baseball and hockey games, or other events.  We have baby showers, a bowling league, softball teams, girls’ nights,  happy hours, and Illini basketball parties.  This program is everything I ever expected in a residency and more. 

--Misty Good, PR-2