Chief Residents

Internal Medicine Residency Program
Chief Residents 2024-2025

University Hospital

Juan Bello, MD

Chief Resident, University Hospital

Medical School: Instituto Tecnológico de Santo Domingo
Future Plans: Cardiology

Born and raised in Santo Domingo, Juan developed a deep love for baseball from a young age and excelled as an outfielder for both his high school and university teams. His intentions of becoming a professional athlete unexpectedly changed when he joined the American Medical Student Association. It was during that time when he discovered a passion for medical education and community outreach. After relocating to the U.S., Juan has dedicated his research efforts to preventive cardiology and electrophysiology. In his leisure time, he delights in following the Yankees' games, discovering new sports and outdoor pursuits, and enjoying a diverse selection of audiobooks.

Zachary Pierce, DO

Chief Resident, University Hospital

Undergraduate: University of Connecticut
Medical School: New York Institute of Technology - College of Medicine
Future Plans: Rheumatology

Zach's journey began in Connecticut, where he earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut. After graduation, he spent two transformative years at an outpatient geriatric clinic as a medical assistant, gaining invaluable experience and personal growth. It was during this time that he also met his future wife. Driven by his passion for medicine, Zach pursued his medical education at NYIT-COM. Outside of medicine, he enjoys staying active with fitness and soccer, and he's an avid fan of UConn and Liverpool sports teams. His journey reflects a genuine commitment to healthcare and a balanced approach to life's passions.

Veterans Affairs

Helen Hyun Jung, MD

Chief Resident, East Orange VA Medical Center

Undergraduate: The University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: The University of Texas at Austin - Dell Medical School
Future Plans: Hospital Medicine

Helen's journey began in Seoul, Korea, before she relocated to Austin, Texas with her family at the age of twelve. Immersed in the vibrant culture of the Live Music Capital of the World, she discovered a passion for visual arts and choir. Her fascination with the sciences was ignited when she stumbled upon a TedTalk by Professor Bassler on “How Bacteria Talk,” sparking a deep interest in microbiology. Helen pursued a diverse academic path at The University of Texas at Austin, studying Biochemistry, Plan II, and Asian Studies. Engaged in community service projects with the American Red Cross, she became acutely aware of health disparities and the crucial role of patient education, which inspired her to pursue medicine and public health at Dell Medical School. Committed to serving underserved patient populations and advancing medical education, Helen has brought her dedication to Newark. She aims to build a career in hospital medicine, driven by a passion for improving healthcare access and outcomes. Outside of her professional endeavors, Helen finds joy in the company of her dog Biscuit, indulging in watercolor painting, swimming, skiing, and sharing her baking creations with her co-residents.

Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center

Alexander Le, MD

Chief Resident, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center

Undergraduate: University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Medical School: SUNY Downstate College of Medicine
Future Plans: Gastroenterology

Alex's journey began in a small town in Maryland before he ventured to the University of Michigan, where his passions for mentorship, education, and healthcare flourished. While studying biomolecular sciences, he dedicated himself to guiding underserved Detroit high school students toward higher education, teaching elementary students science, and leading the Pre-Health Honor Society, Alpha Epsilon Delta. Following his undergraduate studies, Alex delved into HIV vaccine research at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland before heading to SUNY Downstate. During medical school and residency, Alex integrated his interests in education and health, founding an Evidence Based Medicine club and creating a Medical Humanities course. Beyond his professional endeavors, Alex thrives on training for marathons and triathlons, exploring philosophy through writing, and volunteering with Achilles International- an organization empowering disabled athletes through athletic achievements and social connection.

Paul Lee, MD

Chief Resident, Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center

Undergraduate: University of Alabama - Birmingham 
Medical School: University of South Alabama
Future Plans: Cardiology

Paul's story begins in Edison, NJ, where he spent his childhood before moving to Alabama at the age of 14. For the next 14 years, he called Alabama home, interspersing his time with gap years during which he worked as a nursing assistant and chromatographer. While he developed a fondness for Southern BBQ and the warm weather, Paul applied widely for residency and was thrilled to match back in his home state of New Jersey, where he could easily indulge in H-Mart and Korean BBQ (undoubtedly the superior BBQ). Outside of medicine, Paul enjoys exploring the city's vibrant restaurant and bar scene, staying active with workouts, and shooting hoops on the basketball court.