ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Pediatric Residency Program
Pediatric Chief Residents
Emily Lane, M.D.
Undergraduate: Reed College
Medical School: Oregon Health & Science University
Why did you choose the UC Davis Residency Program?
On my interview day, I was so excited by the breadth of opportunities in advocacy, community engagement, and research at UC Davis. My interviewers were all incredible people who I was excited to meet face-to-face and work together with. I really could see myself working at UC Davis with such a passionate group of faculty and residents.
Clinical Area of Interest: Neonatology
Hobbies: Gardening, food preservation, cooking, podcasts
Michael Jake Petersen, M.D.
Undergraduate: Brigham Young University
Medical School: Rush Medical College
Why did you choose the UC Davis Residency Program?
It was the feeling I had during and after my interview. It was evident that the residents had great relationships with the attendings and sincerely enjoyed working together. The program was also the perfect size for me and would support the career goals I have through mentorship, supported research, and teaching opportunities while also supporting me personally and my family. I also loved that my family and I could live and work in a diverse area where we could enjoy all the outdoor adventures we like to go on.
Clinical Area of Interest: Cardiology
Hobbies: Outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, camping, wake-boarding, skiing, snowboarding, etc. Playing sports and games, watching movies, and spending time with family and friends.
Claire Chin Foo, M.D.
Undergraduate: Brown University
Medical School: Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
After the past 9 years in Providence, RI, I really wanted to be closer to family both in Tahiti and California, and having spent all my summers in Sacramento, I have always considered it my American hometown. During my interview day, I was so happy to meet the many faculty and students there who really cared about making everyone feel welcome and at ease. What really drew me to UC Davis was the focus on resident wellness along with the amazing training and the many opportunities for research, advocacy and volunteering. I finished the interview feeling like UC Davis was such a perfect fit for me and the type of residency environment I was looking for. I am so excited to be joining this program and be closer to family!
Clinical areas of interest: General pediatrics, community health and advocacy
Hobbies: Baking, cooking, dancing, quality time with family and friends
Kelli Derrah, M.D.
Undergraduate: Pomona College
Medical School: Oregon Health and Science University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
On my interview day I was extremely impressed by the warmth, passion, and camaraderie of everyone I interacted with. UC Davis has a wonderful mix of academic medicine, community focus, and advocacy and policy opportunities, all of which were very important to me in a training program. Finally, the location of Sacramento was appealing due to the diversity and many outdoor activities!
Clinical areas of interest: Undecided but include hospitalist medicine, cardiology, and neonatology
Hobbies: baking, running, attempting to surf, crafts/DIY projects
Gagandeep Dhugga, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of California Davis
Medical School: University of California Davis
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
UC Davis has been part of my life since attending undergrad here and I knew that I wanted to continue serving this wonderful community during residency. I love how close Sacramento is to both the mountains and the beach, making it possible to do a lot of fun activities on the weekend.
Clinical areas of interest: Neonatology
Hobbies: Salt-water aquariums, building computers, football, snowboarding and hiking.
Jamie Jiang, M.D.
Undergraduate: Rice University
Medical School: University of Washington School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
The UC Davis Residency Program had an incredibly warm and friendly vibe through the residents, the faculty, and the hospital itself. There is a unique level of comradery, and the size of the program encourages meeting people from other programs which I think helps keep us fresh and open minded. I've always wanted to live in Northern California and in a large city with a small city feel.
Clinical areas of interest: Endocrinology, hospitalist medicine
Hobbies: Thrifting junk and finding new purposes for them. Napping in the sun. Board game or karaoke nights. And I am always open to trying out new hobbies as well!
Jessica Jones, M.D.
Undergraduate: Xavier University
Medical School: Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
On my interview day I was most impressed with all the people I talked to! The faculty were kind and down to earth, and the residents were obviously a close knit group that really supported each other! I thought UC Davis, with its smaller size but strong physician teachers would give me wonderful opportunities in terms of developing my clinical skills and finding great mentors. The focus on teaching and advocacy to the community of Sacramento also really resonated with me. Finally, I've lived my whole life in the mid-west, and Sacramento seemed like a great new city to explore the nearby outdoors from!
Clinical areas of interest: Unsure, but thinking infectious disease or neonatology right now
Hobbies: Hiking, baking, rock climbing, reading
Jessa Li, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Nevada Las Vegas
Medical School: Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at University of Nevada Las Vegas
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
UC Davis is a strong academic residency program that is compassionate, advocates for patients, and has a safe environment for us to learn in, which is what I dreamed of in my program. However, the most important aspect for me was how happy the staff and residents were. Then during UC Davis's interview day, I saw how genuine each individual was and how much they loved the program. I found myself imaging how awesome it would be if the attending/resident were my mentor/senior. It is so great to have my little day dreams become reality in a few months!
Clinical areas of interest: NICU, general pediatrics
Hobbies: Chubs, food, trying to keep my plant(s) alive
Katrina Marks, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Nevada, Reno
Medical School: University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
In looking for a residency, I knew I wanted somewhere I could experience the full range of pediatric specialties. I am interested in possibly pursuing fellowship, but I am not sure and want a program that would give me the most informed choice. I love UC Davis’s blend of academics and community, and their passion for advocacy made it the perfect choice for me!
Clinical areas of interest: Hematology/oncology, hospitalist medicine, LGBT+ care/general pediatrics
Hobbies: Crocheting, rock climbing, Latin dance, painting
Elizabeth Moore, M.D.
Undergraduate: Oregon State University
Medical School: Medical College of Wisconsin
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
UC Davis is such a good training program for primary care which is ultimately what I want to do with my career! I am excited about the program's commitment to diversity, opportunities for child advocacy, and the true sense of comradery, friendship and support.
Clinical areas of interest: Outpatient primary care, child advocacy, quality improvement
Hobbies: Violin, crocheting, embroidery, work out classes (barre/spin/yoga), reading for fun, creative writing, game nights, trivia, and playing with my cat Zazu
Trisha Mulamreddy, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Houston
Medical School: McGovern Medical School
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
My interview day showed me how welcoming and close-knit the faculty and residents are at UC Davis. I was really excited to get the opportunity to do more community and legislative advocacy in the capitol of California. I knew I’d get an amazing pediatrics training with great mentorship and support. Lastly, I thought Sacramento was a wonderful location to be able to explore the outdoors and eat great food!
Clinical areas of interest: Neonatology, community health & advocacy
Hobbies: Embroidering, gardening, playing basketball and volleyball, reading books, testing out new recipes
Jeremy Sanchez, M.D.
Undergraduate: Grinnell College
Medical School: University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose the UC Davis Residency Program for its strength in advocacy. During interview day, it stood out as a program that makes it clear that its proximity to the State Capitol is not taken for granted, and that it is really important to be advocates for our vulnerable patients in particular. I also felt a very welcoming vibe from program staff, and was excited to hear that I matched here!
Clinical areas of interest: Hospital medicine, adolescent medicine, infectious disease
Hobbies: Traveling (both domestic and international!), reading, video gaming, hiking, trying new foods!
Ken Stridiron, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
Medical School: University of Hawaiʻi John A. Burns SOM
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
UC Davis passed the "vibe test" for me. I left the interview day feeling excited about the program. All of my interactions with the faculty and residents felt genuine despite interview being virtual. I appreciate the blend of an academic institution with a strong commitment to community health and advocacy. As someone new to the area a small-medium sized program seemed conducive to a supportive and collaborative learning environment. Sacramento also has a diverse patient population to encourage well-rounded training. Also, moving with a family the city seems very family-friendly with a little bit of everything. Overall, it checked off all our boxes and stood out among other programs.
Clinical areas of interest: General pediatrics, developmental and behavioral pediatrics, community health, medical education
Hobbies: Swimming, running (jogging), cooking/baking, enjoying good food/drinks, spending time with family and friends, traveling to new places
Sunia Suhail, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of California San Diego
Medical School: University of California Davis
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose Davis because I had such a wonderful experience here during my third year and fourth year pediatrics rotations. All of the faculty and residents are so kind and supportive, which fosters a great learning environment. I love how Davis serves such a diverse patient population and offers so many opportunities to get involved in community outreach and legislative advocacy. As a Sacramento native, I am excited that I get to continue to live in my hometown with my family and that I can give back to the community that I grew up in.
Clinical areas of interest: General outpatient pediatrics, allergy and immunology, child psychiatry, community health and advocacy
Hobbies: Playing with my dog, reading, watching Marvel movies, traveling, yoga
Victoria Tran, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of California Davis
Medical School: Albany Medical College
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
After working for UCD, I knew that I would be getting the best pediatric training, I am also excited to move closer to home
Clinical areas of interest: Pediatric gastroenterology, general pediatrics, pediatric cardiology, pediatric sports medicine
Hobbies: Running, baking, trying new recipes, karaoke
Jessica Ahn, M.D.
Undergraduate: Southern Adventist University
Medical School: Loma Linda University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
When I interviewed at UC Davis, I was drawn to the program's wonderful combination of academic medicine, community outreach, and advocacy. I loved the opportunities to serve a diverse and wide catchment area and was excited about the mentorship, teaching opportunities, and research support. On my interview day, everyone from the program welcomed me warmly, and I felt the camaraderie of the faculty and residents. I look forward to joining the UC Davis family and serving our community!
Clinical areas of interest: General pediatrics, pediatric cardiology
Hobbies: Cooking, rock climbing, playing piano, traveling, spending time with family and friends
Thomas Chow, M.D.
Undergraduate: UC Davis
Medical School: UC Davis
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
Best residents and faculty I've ever worked with! Strong sense of comradery between everyone in the department. A lot of emphasis on community health and advocacy.
Clinical areas of interest: General pediatrics, NICU, pulmonology
Hobbies: Video games, working on my car, basketball, playing piano/guitar
Sofia Devers, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Pennsylvania
Medical School: Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
As I learned about UC Davis Pediatrics, I could see that this program would be a great next step in my training. At my interview day, I was struck by the emphasis on integrating physical and mental healthcare. I also enjoyed all my interviews, and the culture of the program seemed genuinely supportive. Finally, as a major referral center for the area, residents gain excellent clinical training by catering to diverse patients with a variety of presentations.
Clinical areas of interest: Primary care, development
Hobbies: Gardening, playing guitar, knitting and other crafts, playing racket sports, watching TV
Elaine Ho, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Pennsylvania
Medical School: Drexel University, College of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because during my interview day, I saw how friendly and supportive the residents and faculty were. I was also excited by the program’s wide breadth of opportunities with a focus on community advocacy and resident wellness. I was looking to broaden my horizons during residency and Sacramento seemed like a great place to do so!
Clinical areas of interest: General pediatrics, developmental and behavioral pediatrics, pediatric hematology-oncology, pediatric allergy-immunology, pediatric gastroenterology
Hobbies: Drawing, skiing, traveling, tennis, swimming, exploring local parks and restaurants, watching the latest Pixar, Star Wars, or Marvel comic universe movies/shows
Kaitlyn (Kaity) Honeychurch, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of California, Los Angeles
Medical School: University of California, Davis
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose to stay for residency because of the UC Davis community. During medical school, I saw how supportive everyone is here from residents to attendings to all the amazing staff. I wanted to continue being a part of the UC Davis family. Another factor was the patient population of the greater Sacramento area. This is my home, these are my people, and I wanted the opportunity to continue to learn from and serve this large and diverse population.
Clinical areas of interest: Hospital medicine, medical education
Hobbies: Hiking, golfing, skiing, working out
Sarah Hurrell, D.O.
Undergraduate: John Carroll University
Medical School: Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I have always wanted to come to beautiful California where the culture is as great as the weather and UC Davis stood out as a program with the best of everything, from the people and education right down to the cafeteria food!
Clinical areas of interest: Pediatric neurology with a focus on epilepsy and headache
Hobbies: Drawing, baking, running, swimming, playing games, and practicing yoga
Mallika Iyer, M.D.
Undergraduate: Loyola University Chicago
Medical School: University of Washington
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I love the strong commitment to advocacy at Davis. I was also drawn to the clinical and learning opportunities present at UC Davis, since it is a major referral center in a large regional catchment area.
Clinical areas of interest: Adolescent medicine, primary care
Hobbies: Embroidery, cooking, baking, yoga/barre/Pilates, 90s TV shows
Tiffany Ju, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of California, Los Angeles
Medical School: Saint Louis University School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
On my interview day, I loved the tight-knit, welcoming, and supportive community of residents and faculty, who emphasized advocating for their patients and for each other. I also love the opportunities and dedication that UC Davis has to advocacy, outreach, and quality healthcare for the diverse community they serve. Finally, I am excited to be closer to home in the Bay Area, and to explore all the restaurants, boba, and nature in or near Sacramento!
Clinical areas of interest: Undecided, but considering general pediatrics, hospitalist medicine, infectious disease, or cardiology?
Hobbies: Figure skating, photography, swimming, hiking, trying new food, Boba!
Sarah Kardos, M.D.
Undergraduate: UC Berkeley
Medical School: UC Davis School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because I wanted a mid-size program with a balance of excellent clinical training, an academic environment with opportunities for teaching, and an emphasis on resident wellness. I enjoyed my time as a medical student at Davis and felt confident that I would continue to have strong mentorship and support for my training here. My partner and I love living in Sacramento and feel that this will be a good place to continue to raise our little one. We love the parks, proximity to Tahoe/Yosemite, and the welcoming and kind people we have gotten to know while living here!
Clinical areas of interest: Developmental and behavioral pediatrics, hospital medicine, general pediatrics
Hobbies: Board games, rock climbing, family park outings, gardening, paint by numbers, kitchen dance parties
Erika Kim, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Nevada, Reno
Medical School: University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
During my interview day, all the faculty and residents I met were so kind and welcoming and it was very clear to me that the program cared about its residents. I could tell that the program would provide great training, mentorship, and support to help me achieve my future career goals. I was also drawn to the diverse patient population and opportunities for community outreach and advocacy that UC Davis provides. Finally, I felt like Sacramento would be a great place to live, with lots of sunshine and great food!
Clinical areas of interest: General pediatrics, hospitalist medicine, community health and advocacy
Hobbies: Reading, cooking, watching Netflix, playing video games, going on walks, weight training, and spend time with my family and friends
Alexandra Moseanko, M.D.
Undergraduate: Walla Walla University
Medical School: Loma Linda University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I wanted to practice in a smaller residency program and participate in advocacy opportunities listed at the interview.
Clinical areas of interest: Cardiology or hospitalist
Hobbies: Hiking, skiing (water and snow), cooking (especially pasta) traveling, reading, macramé, working out, piano, etc.
Rachel Rice, M.D.
Undergraduate: Saint Louis University
Medical School: Anne Burnett Marion, School of Medicine at TCU
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I loved the opportunities for community engagement and advocacy at UC Davis, especially being located in the state capital. I also loved the size of the program and the opportunity to train at a level 1 trauma center. Lastly, I loved the location of the program, being close to home and with ample outdoor activities!
Clinical areas of interest: Hematology-oncology
Hobbies: Hiking, Skiing, Soccer
Alexandra (Ali) Ritter, M.D.
Undergraduate: UC Santa Cruz
Medical School: University of Maryland School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
Several reasons! The location in Sacramento, the focus on advocacy, the X+Y schedule, and people that felt friendly, kind, and that I could see myself working with made UC Davis an easy choice!
Clinical areas of interest: Adolescent medicine, LGBTQ health, mental health
Hobbies: Cooking, swimming, board games, cheering on the USWNT
Zuleica Rodriguez, M.D.
Undergraduate: UC Davis
Medical School: UC Davis
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
During medical school at UC Davis, I enjoyed my time rotating through the different pediatric services. I found all the faculty and residents to be very passionate and friendly. UC Davis serves a very diverse population and offers the opportunity to work with the medically underserved both of which were important to me. On interview day, I knew this was the program for me after hearing more about their commitment to community advocacy. I am very grateful to be able to stay close to family and continue to live in such a wonderful location.
Clinical areas of interest: General pediatrics, adolescent health
Hobbies: Hiking, going to the gym, traveling
Betina Zubieta, M.D.
Undergraduate: N/A
Medical School: Universidad Autonoma de Coahuila, Facultad de Medicina Saltillo
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
Because it has opportunities to develop my passion to take care of and advocate for underserved communities. Also, it is collegial and supportive, offers excellent training, a large and varied caseload, and offers research opportunities.
Clinical areas of interest: Child neurology, neurodevelopmental disabilities, development and behavior
Hobbies: Hiking with my family, reading and cooking. I’m a children’s literature fan and I write reviews of books I love and post them to my Instagram blog, @criando.lectores.
Megan Branson, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Montana
Medical School: University of Washington School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
During my interview day, it was incredibly apparent just how close and tight knit this community was when talking to the residents. I was so happy to find this family feel in my residency!
Clinical areas of interest: Pediatric hospitalist, PICU, pediatrics EM
Hobbies: Reading, playing with my dog, hiking
Arnulfo Cazares, M.D.
Undergraduate: Wayne State University
Medical School: Wayne State University School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
Though the child neurology program is new, it has a reputable pediatrics department to back it. Additionally, this is the program that will allow me to not only work with a diverse population, but also develop into a role model that children with an upbringing similar to mine can look up to.
Clinical areas of interest: Neurology, specifically epilepsy
Hobbies: Weightlifting, gaming, trying out new restaurants
Hanh Do, D.O.
Undergraduate: UC Berkeley
Medical School: Western University of Health Sciences
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
NorCal location, X+Y curriculum, great resident benefits and vibes
Clinical areas of interest: Outpatient pediatrics, neonatology
Hobbies: Swimming, yoga, food venture
Anjali Doshi, M.D.
Undergraduate: Ohio State University
Medical School: Ohio State University College of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I wanted to go to a program that valued advocacy in the community and resident well being. When interviewing I could see how the residents, program director, and faculty all get along so well and how teaching and mentorship is supportive and positive. I also liked that Sacramento has a diverse patient population both for exposing me to different cultures while practicing and enjoying being a part of that community outside of work.
Clinical areas of interest: Adolescent medicine, NICU, advocacy work, and global health education
Hobbies: Art projects, going on walks at the park/beach with my dog, trying coffee shops with friends, baking, Netflix, watching soccer
Virgina (Ginny) Lane, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Central Florida
Medical School: Wake Forest School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
The people seemed really nice, my advisor had nice things to say about the PD as an educator, and the natural beauty of Northern California seemed to be like a fun adventure.
Clinical areas of interest: Medical education, pediatric neurology, neuro-oncology, neuroimmunology
Hobbies: Painting, Board Games, Exploring the Outdoors, Cooking, Reading, Gardening
Maya Matsumoto, M.D.
Undergraduate: Claremont McKenna College
Medical School: University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because I left my interview day feeling like the program really checked all my boxes. Despite my interview day being virtual, I experienced a genuine sense of community present amongst the residents and faculty, which is something that was very important to me when choosing a residency program. I appreciated that the residents are able to serve a diverse patient population and was impressed by the program’s commitment to advocacy and community outreach. Ultimately, I felt that UC Davis would be the perfect environment for me receive well-rounded training to become a great pediatrician for my future patients!
Clinical areas of interest: Endocrinology, general pediatrics, Hospital Medicine, Community Health & Advocacy, Medical Education
Hobbies: Running, hiking, practicing yoga, crocheting, trying new coffee shops and restaurants, watching Korean dramas, traveling
Samuel Matsuura, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Portland
Medical School: Creighton School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I did an away rotation here and enjoyed the Sacramento area and the sense of family between the residents.
Clinical areas of interest: General Pediatrics or Hospitalist
Hobbies: Tennis, pickleball, soccer, fishing
Quinn Navarro, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Redlands
Medical School: University of Nebraska Medical Center
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
The cafeteria's soy chorizo! Well, not entirely... lifestyle considerations aside, I imagine myself training somewhere that is not only well-equipped with unique resources and opportunities to prepare me for fellowship and beyond, but also exemplifies how an institution and residency program ought to value and prioritize (1) the well-being of its residents, (2) the importance and upheld accountability of DEI initiatives, and (3) the continuous need for program improvement alongside the ongoing evolution of US healthcare. Among my options of programs, I perceived the one with the most well-balanced embodiment of these core values to be UC Davis.
Clinical areas of interest: Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Hobbies: Anything outdoors with my dogs (hiking, camping, mountain biking, rock climbing, snowboarding, skateboarding), fantasy/sci-fi franchises, punk rock, In-N-Out
Sarah Nelson, M.D.
Undergraduate: Arizona State University
Medical School: University of Arizona College of Medicine - Phoenix
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I was looking for a program that had opportunities for advocacy, was an academic setting that would allow me to work as both a learner and a teacher during training, and that delivered a wide breadth of care to a diverse patient population. Not only did UC Davis check all these boxes, but I left my interview day feeling that I’d found a community in which I could genuinely see myself thriving over the next 3 years.
Clinical areas of interest: Hospital medicine, gastroenterology, advocacy
Hobbies: Reading, knitting, sewing, thrifting, rewatching Pride and Prejudice (2005)
Elissa Ota, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Hawaii at Manoa
Medical School: John A. Burns School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because I felt that the program would give me the opportunity to train in the setting of academic medicine while serving a beautifully diverse community. In addition to the program's academic focus and dedication to community health, I was drawn to the unique opportunity to get hands-on experience with legislative advocacy. I also felt a welcoming atmosphere from the residents and faculty on my interview day, which made UC Davis stand out as being a program that would both challenge me to grow and support me in becoming the best pediatrician I can be.
Clinical areas of interest: Undecided but considering general pediatrics, hematology-oncology, allergy-immunology, rheumatology
Hobbies: Any kind of dance, watching Korean dramas/movies/TV shows, swimming, eating good food, and spending time with family and friends
Mariama Poquiz, M.D.
Undergraduate: Texas Tech University
Medical School: Texas Tech Health Sciences Center School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because I felt at home during my interview day. The faculty had compiled individual slides about each of the applicants, with personalized reasons of why each of us should choose UC Davis. It was very heartwarming, funny, and had a personal touch that I did not experience at other programs. I also chose UC Davis because I was impressed with their efforts in advocacy and community outreach and knew I would be supported during my pursuit of these same passions. Above all, I had a very positive experience with all of the residents and enjoyed the warm, collegial environment the program fostered between both residents and faculty.
Clinical areas of interest: Advocacy, community outreach, primary care, child abuse prevention, adolescent medicine, medical education
Hobbies: I enjoy reading, drawing, embroidery, tennis, cooking, trying new foods, and getting way too competitive in pub trivia. I also love exploring bookstores, coffee shops, museums, and grocery shopping.
Michael Sparks, M.D.
Undergraduate: UCLA
Medical School: California Northstate University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
As someone who grew up in Sacramento, having the opportunity to train at UC Davis has always been a dream of mine. UC Davis is Northern California's hub for ground-breaking research and top-of-the-line medical care, and I'm thrilled to be a member of the team here.
Clinical areas of interest: General Pediatrics, Gastroenterology
Hobbies: Pickleball, Basketball, Gym
Serena Tseng, M.D.
Undergraduate: UC Berkeley
Medical School: Kaohsiung Medical University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because of the strong academics, diversity and commitment to the underserved, and proximity to family!
Clinical areas of interest: I’m interested in Pediatric Gastroenterology, Allergy/immunology (my son has a lot of food allergies) and Heme/Onc, but open to exploring other fields!
Hobbies: I enjoy cooking, amateur baking, taking my son to the park, reading, and watching Korean dramas!
Hubert Vu, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of California - Irvine
Medical School: University of California - San Diego School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
The faculty I spoke with on interview day reminded me of the faculty at UCSD and were a pleasure to talk to and interact with. I have some close family who live in the Bay area, and plenty of friends and family who enjoy outdoor activities, so geography was also a big factor in my decision in choosing UC Davis. Perhaps the biggest reason, however, was the prospect of more affordable housing options within reasonable proximity to the medical center; if we're going to be working for the next 3 years, might as well choose a place that will give you better bang for your buck!
Clinical areas of interest: Cardiology/Pediatric Cardiology, Medical Education
Hobbies: Video games, TV shows, movies, stargazing
Roland Watson, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Nevada, Reno
Medical School: University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I was drawn to this program because of its clear prioritization of resident well-being and mix of academic and community medicine opportunities. The medium size of the program felt like a great way to develop a strong sense of camaraderie while allowing for a more personalized educational experience. The energy of the residents and faculty on my interview day gave me confidence that this program would help me feel well-supported. I was also drawn to Sacramento’s diverse patient population and its proximity to Lake Tahoe and other fun activities.
Clinical areas of interest: General pediatrics, cardiology
Hobbies: Running, meditating, reading, hiking, eating
How to Reach Us
Contact Information
Residency Training Program
Department of Pediatrics, UC Davis Health
2516 Stockton Boulevard
Sacramento, CA 95817
Phone: 916-734-2428
Email: HS-pedsresidency@ucdavis.edu
