ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Pediatric Residency Program
Pediatric Chief Residents
Rachel Rice, M.D.
Undergraduate: Saint Louis University
Medical School: Anne Burnett Marion, School of Medicine at TCU
Why did you choose the UC Davis 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 Area 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 the UC Davis 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 Area of Interest: Adolescent Medicine, LGBTQ Health, Mental Health
Hobbies: Cooking, swimming, board games, cheering on the USWNT
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
Christopher Jedel , M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Gothenburg
Medical School: Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because I wanted to train in a setting that provides its residents with a broad and varied clinical exposure while caring for a diverse patient population. I was also drawn to the program’s strong emphasis on patient advocacy and resident wellness. As an added bonus the Sacramento area offers abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation which is a big plus.
Clinical areas of interest: General Pediatrics, Endocrinology, preventive medicine.
Hobbies: Outdoor activities, swimming, books
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
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
Brighton Alvey, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Utah
Medical School: University of Utah
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I immediately felt the warmth of the faculty and residents through my virtual interview and could tell that UC Davis would be an amazing fit for me and my partner. I was especially drawn to the opportunity to work in my own continuity clinic at a FHQC to further serve underserved patient populations, along with the opportunities to explore global and tribal health. Also a wonderful perk, Sacramento will be a lovely change of scenery for my partner and I who love the outdoors and the sense of community that Sacramento brings.
Clinical areas of interest: Critical Care, Gastroenterology, Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Hobbies: Rock climbing, biking, snowboarding, gardening, reading, and traveling
Brooke Barton, M.D.
Undergraduate: Washington State University
Medical School: Washington State University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I am thrilled to be joining the UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program! I chose UC Davis because of the camaraderie and joy that I felt on my interview day. My UC Davis interview was one that I continued to reflect on because of the authenticity in empathy, advocacy, and excellence that I gleaned from my interviewers. I knew that I was going to become very well rounded and proud of the pediatrician I became through this program! Not only that, but the city of Sacramento, CA feels like home to me with access to lakes, mountains, beaches, and good weather which makes having fun outside of work that much easier.
Clinical areas of interest: General Pediatrics, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, NICU - only time will tell!
Hobbies: Reading, running, group fitness, trying new cafes or restaurants, skiing, walking my dog, planning weekend adventures, board games
Sydney Burger, M.D.
Undergraduate: UC Davis
Medical School: UC Irvine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis for residency because I am excited to return home to Northern California and care for a large catchment area with a diverse population of patients. I also appreciated the program’s commitment to community advocacy and outreach. I was impressed during my interview by the supportive environment and the close-knit residents.
Clinical areas of interest: General Pediatrics, Primary Care, Hospital Medicine, and community advocacy
Hobbies: Camping, backpacking, soccer, pickleball
Yamiko Chanza, M.D.
Undergraduate: Oakwood University
Medical School: Loma Linda University School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because of their commitment to investing in the surrounding community and the incredibly kind people I met on the interview trail!
Clinical areas of interest: Neuro-Oncology
Hobbies: My hobbies include running, cooking and listening to Afrobeats.
Nellie Chen, M.D.
Undergraduate: Rice University
Medical School: Duke University School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
The UC Davis pediatrics residency offers an incredible combination of academic medicine, community focus, wellness, and advocacy opportunities. It was important for me to find a program that is clearly invested in serving its patient population. Additionally, it is evident that residents and faculty truly support one another, and they create a wonderfully welcoming environment to learn and train in. Lastly, Sacramento is close to home for me, and I am so excited to return to California for my residency training!
Clinical areas of interest: General Pediatrics, Outpatient Primary Care, Newborn Nursery, community advocacy
Hobbies: Traveling, skiing, indoor cycling, trying new restaurants and eating great food!
Enrique Coca Frias, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Utah
Medical School: Oregon Health and Science University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
The program had everything I wanted, but the distinguishing factor was the community that I could feel existed between the residents. All the staff I met really seemed to care and be invested in their role within the program. Plus, the strong advocacy curriculum of the program really caught my attention as someone who wants to continue advocacy work during residency.
Clinical areas of interest: Pediatric Cardiology, Immigration Health, NICU, Peds EM, Gen Peds
Hobbies: Going on adventures/trying new restaurants with my family, riding bikes together, going to the beach and having impromptu dance parties at home.
Shantalle Diaz Cruz, M.D.
Undergraduate: Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra
Medical School: Pontificia Universidad Católica Madre y Maestra
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I have always wanted to be part of a residency program that grows with me while I grow not only academically but also as a human being. I have longed for a team that feels like a family and is willing to work as a symphony toward a common goal. I have found this growth, human quality, joy, passion for service, and hope in the UC Davis Residency Program.
Clinical areas of interest: Surgical Epilepsy, Genetics, Quality Improvement, Movement Disorders, Neurointerventional
Hobbies: Salsa and Merengue dance, sing Acappella songs, hike, or find a new walking trail.
Jacob Gilbreth, M.D.
Undergraduate: California Polytechnic State University
Medical School: Georgetown University School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because I wanted to come back to California to be closer to my family and train in a community that feels like home. Davis offers the perfect balance—an incredibly supportive learning environment, a diverse patient population, and strong mentorship, all while being close to both the coast and national parks for when I need to recharge. I’m excited to grow as a pediatrician in a place that values collaboration, education, and community-centered care
Clinical areas of interest: Primary Care
Hobbies: Rock-climbing, video games, piano, hiking, skiing, photography, videography, film
Muhammad Hasnain, M.D.
Undergraduate: Punjab College of Science
Medical School: Faisalabad Medical University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
Choosing UC Davis was never about a single reason—it was about finding a program whose values closely reflect my own. I was drawn to its commitment to exceptional clinical training, collaborative learning, academic curiosity, innovation, and compassionate, family-centered care. With a long-term interest in pediatric cardiology, I was especially inspired by the strength of the Pediatric Heart Center and the opportunity to learn in a multidisciplinary academic environment. I am grateful to begin this next chapter at UC Davis and to become part of a community that I know will continue to challenge, support, and inspire me. Above all, I hope to carry forward the same curiosity that first led me to medicine by transforming it into compassionate care for every child and family I have the privilege to serve.
Clinical areas of interest: Pediatric Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology
Hobbies: Movies, TV series, hiking, traveling
Dariya Kozlova, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Iowa
Medical School: Carver College of Medicine (University of Iowa)
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I was excited by the balance of advocacy and research opportunities offered at UC Davis!
Clinical areas of interest: Pediatric Endocrinology
Hobbies: Hiking, knitting, sewing, reading, figure skating
Madison Leong, M.D.
Undergraduate: Vassar College
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because of its friendly and supportive atmosphere, medium size program, and focus on primary care. Additionally, as a California native moving back from Boston, I’m looking forward to being able to drive home and to not experiencing any more east coast winters!
Clinical areas of interest: Primary Care, Integrative Medicine, Adolescent Medicine
Hobbies: CrossFit, reading, cooking, watching sports
Aimee Miller, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of California Santa Cruz
Medical School: California Northstate University College of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because I loved my acting internship here. The strong sense of community among residents and faculty, the program’s commitment to advocacy, and the opportunity to care for diverse patient populations made it the perfect fit for me. I saw firsthand the dedication to education and patient care, and I knew this was where I wanted to train to become the best advocate and pediatrician for my future patients.
Clinical areas of interest: Pediatric Critical Care or Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Hobbies: Camping, mountain biking, hiking, surfing, trying new restaurants, concerts, basketball, and reading
Noa Moshkovitz, M.D.
Undergraduate: Tel Aviv University
Medical School: Tel Aviv University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I knew I wanted a program that combined strong clinical training with a deep commitment to advocacy and community health, and UC Davis felt like the perfect fit. On my interview day, I was struck by how kind and welcoming everyone was: the residents, faculty, and staff all made it clear that this is a place where people genuinely support each other. I was especially drawn to the program’s dedication to serving diverse and underserved communities, including immigrant and refugee populations. The welcoming environment, emphasis on mentorship and teaching opportunities, and focus on resident well-being made UC Davis stand out. Plus, being close to my parents makes Sacramento feel like home.
Clinical areas of interest: Undecided yet, but interested in Allergy Immunology, General Pediatrics, Adolescent Health, Community Health, advocacy, and refugee and immigrant health.
Hobbies: Listening to audio books, drawing, cooking, hiking, enjoying Broadway musicals, and spending quality time with my husband, family, and friends.
Madeline Murray, M.D.
Undergraduate: UC Davis
Medical School: UC Davis
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
So far, I am a UC Davis lifer! Despite being open to new experiences or the possibility of training at programs in other states, while interviewing I realized that what no other program could offer me was the chance to be close to my support system. I am so excited and grateful for the chance to have the excellent training that UC Davis can provide while remaining close to the community I've been blessed with in my family, friends, church, and mentors.
Clinical areas of interest: General Pediatrics, rural medicine, global health
Hobbies: Music: singing, piano, acoustic bass; reading
Sidney Owen, M.D.
Undergraduate: UC Santa Cruz
Medical School: Stanford
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
Great training, great location, close to family
Clinical areas of interest: Primary Care, Hospitalist
Hobbies: Cooking, exercise, sports, family
Natalie Alvarado, M.D.
Undergraduate: UCLA
Medical School: USC Keck School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
UC Davis provides so many opportunities for its residents, I was especially drawn to the opportunity to continue to serve diverse patient populations at their FQHC clinic and explore opportunities in community advocacy and global health. When at my virtual interview, I also immediately felt the camaraderie between the residents and could tell the program would be the perfect place for me to learn and grow as a physician. I not only felt welcomed by the residents I met, but also by the faculty. I knew this program would offer me a great sense of community and support, all while helping me become the most well-rounded physician for my patients.
Clinical areas of interest: General Pediatrics, Adolescent Medicine, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics
Hobbies: Crocheting, traveling/road-trips, exploring new restaurants!
Diana Arredondo, M.D.
Undergraduate: UC Davis
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
UC Davis felt like the right fit for me both personally and professionally. After spending time at UC Davis Health during my gap year and coming back for an away rotation in my fourth year, I got a real sense of the community and knew it was somewhere I could see myself training. I really appreciated how supportive and down-to-earth everyone was, along with the program’s focus on caring for a diverse patient population and opportunities to get involved in advocacy. Being back in Sacramento also means being close to my family and support system, which was really important to me. Overall, it just felt like a place where I’d be happy, supported, and able to grow.
Clinical areas of interest: Critical Care, Hematology/Oncology, Pulmonology
Hobbies: Animals, travel, film photography
Aaron Briggs, M.D.
Undergraduate: Dartmouth College
Medical School: Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because of the program’s commitment to advocacy, community health, and resident wellness. UC Davis’ proximity to California’s State Capitol and Department of Public Health, and the opportunity for residents to hold continuity clinic at an FQHC, also appealed to me because I have a passion for public health, health equity, and serving underserved communities. Additionally, I got the sense that residents have a strong community amongst themselves and supportive relationships with faculty.
Clinical areas of interest: General Pediatrics (Primary Care), Infectious Disease, Community Health and Advocacy, Public Health and Health Equity
Hobbies: Boxing, sailing, paddleball/tennis
Raeven Chung, M.D.
Undergraduate: California State University Long Beach
Medical School: University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
Cheerful, personable, and passionate. These were the three words I wrote down after my UC Davis interview day. Even through a screen, I was struck by the genuine warmth and enthusiasm of everyone I met. It was clear that this is a community where people truly enjoy working and learning together. Beyond the people, I was drawn to UC Davis’s strong commitment to advocacy in its many forms, the opportunity to grow as an educator, and its intentional focus on resident wellness and work-life balance. These values align closely with the kind of physician I hope to become. Just as importantly, UC Davis offers me the opportunity to be back in California, close to my family—and, of course, within reach of Disneyland.
Clinical areas of interest: General Outpatient Pediatrics, Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Sports Medicine, and Endocrinology
Hobbies: Baking, reading, crocheting, trying new cafes and restaurants, rotting of the couch watching Netflix, watching football, attending concerts, and snuggling with my dog.
Arshiya Jain, M.D.
Undergraduate: UC Santa Barbara
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I was looking for a program that not only provided excellent clinical exposure, but also one that served a diverse patient population with advocacy at its heart. At UC Davis, I see myself growing into a strong clinician in a supportive environment, capable of providing complex medical care as well as becoming a voice for the children I serve. Additionally, coming back home to California and having the support of family nearby during residency was very important to me!
Clinical areas of interest: Critical Care, Cardiology, Hospital Medicine
Hobbies: Taking my dog on hikes, cooking and baking vegan food, doing my nails, exploring cafes, watching movies and TV, and cozy games
Maria Kiesewetter, M.D.
Undergraduate: The University of Texas at Dallas
Medical School: Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, Foster School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I felt like my values fit well with those of the program, and everyone I met during my interview seemed very welcoming!
Clinical areas of interest: Child Neurology, Neurogenetics, and Neurodevelopment
Hobbies: Violin, arts/crafts, hiking, cooking, and tabletop games
Ah-Young Kim, M.D.
Undergraduate: Yonsei University
Medical School: Yonsei University College of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because I was looking for a program where I could experience the full spectrum of pediatrics while keeping my future options open for fellowship. From the time I spent here working as a researcher in pediatric cardiology, I was able to see firsthand the strength of mentorship, teaching, and research support.
Beyond academics, what stood out most to me was the sense of camaraderie among the faculty and residents. It felt like a close-knit community where people genuinely support each other, while still maintaining a strong academic environment.
This area has also become home for my family, which makes the program even more meaningful to me. UC Davis’s strong commitment to advocacy and caring for underserved populations really resonates with my own values, and it is a place where I can see myself growing both professionally and personally.
Clinical areas of interest: Pediatric Cardiology, heart failure in children, Congenital Cardiac Intervention
Hobbies: Yoga and running
Annika Li, M.D.
Undergraduate: Southern Adventist University
Medical School: Loma Linda University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I wanted to be at a program that had great camaraderie between residents and faculty, offered great clinical training, and served a diverse patient population! It was also clear that the program and institution prioritized resident wellbeing, which was very important to me. Sacramento seems like a great place to live, and since I couples matched, it was a huge bonus to be closer to his side of the family!
Clinical areas of interest: General Pediatrics, Hospitalist, Palliative Care
Hobbies: Traveling, board games, cooking, baking, trying new restaurants/cafes
Jennifer Lozano, M.D.
Undergraduate: California State University Fresno
Medical School: UC Davis School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because I completed my medical school training here and quickly realized there is no place I would rather be. Throughout my time here, I have felt consistently supported, encouraged, and valued. The environment fosters curiosity and collaboration—I have never been afraid to ask questions or seek guidance. Even as a medical student, I felt like a true member of the team. That sense of belonging has been incredibly meaningful to me, and it is a culture I hope to contribute to as a resident. I am excited for the opportunity to continue my training at UC Davis and to pay forward the mentorship, support, and teamwork that have shaped my growth.
Clinical areas of interest: Primary Care
Hobbies: Weight lifting, bible studies, and cooking
Sam Nelson, M.D.
Undergraduate: UNC Chapel Hill
Medical School: Morehouse School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I liked the diversity in the patient population, as well as the opportunities for advocacy with Sacramento being the capital. I also appreciated the small class size and the overall good vibes I got during my interview day.
Clinical areas of interest: Cardiology, Hematology/Oncology
Hobbies: Running, hiking, cooking and baking, trying restaurants and coffee shops, reading
Tiffany-Amber Obika, M.D.
Undergraduate: University of Texas at Arlington
Medical School: Loma Linda University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose the UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program because of its evident commitment to both resident well-being and the development of culturally humble, clinically excellent physicians. I am drawn to UC Davis’s ability to expose me to diverse patient populations and challenge my current perspectives. I believe that UC Davis will help me strengthen my clinical weaknesses and also equip me with the tools to be a lifelong advocate for children and a leader in my community.
Clinical areas of interest: I am entering residency with an open mind, though I find myself particularly drawn to Endocrinology, GI, and reproductive health.
Hobbies:Watching YouTube when free time is available
Marthena Phan, M.D.
Undergraduate: Florida International University
Medical School:Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because of its accomplished yet supportive and down-to-earth faculty, kind and happy residents, welcoming staff, abundant educational resources and career opportunities, dedication to community service, and strong emphasis on resident wellness. All of these features were showcased not only during my interview day, but also when I first received the interview invitation and even more so now that I have matched here. Furthermore, I have always dreamed of returning to the beautiful West Coast (especially California where I have lots of family and fond memories) after my medical training—this dream is now a reality thanks to UC Davis!
Clinical areas of interest: Neurodevelopmental Disabilities, Neonatal Neurology, General/Comprehensive Child Neurology
Hobbies: Playing guitar and ukulele, singing, hosting solo Spotify jam sessions, rollerblading, biking, swimming, hiking, going to beaches and parks, reading, writing stories and essays, making my own boba and matcha drinks, and trying new restaurants!
Cinthia Ramirez Avila, M.D.
Undergraduate: UCLA
Medical School: UC Davis School of Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose to stay at UC Davis for residency because of the strong sense of community I experienced during medical school. I was consistently struck by how supportive and collaborative the environment is, which made it a place where I felt I could grow both personally and professionally. I’m excited by the opportunity to train in an academic setting while caring for a diverse patient population. I also value the program’s emphasis on community engagement and advocacy, and being in the state capital offers unique opportunities to be involved in meaningful work. Resident wellness was also an important factor!
Clinical areas of interest: General Pediatrics, Medical Education, Immigrant Health, Community Health and Advocacy
Hobbies: Live music/concerts, painting, watching movies and tv shows
Felicia Yen, M.D.
Undergraduate: UC Davis
Medical School: Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I chose UC Davis because I enjoyed my visiting clerkship here, and wanted to return home to Northern California to be closer to my family and friends! The sense of community, the wide catchment area, emphasis on community advocacy, and the opportunity to work with diverse patient populations, including patients with neurodevelopmental disorders, made it clear that this program was the right fit for me and that I would receive strong clinical training to become a well-rounded pediatrician.
Clinical areas of interest: Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics, Adolescent Medicine, General Pediatrics, Community Health and Advocacy
Hobbies: Photography, cross stitch, pickleball, 4-hand piano covers, jigsaw puzzles, hiking, cooking, coffee shop hopping and trying new foods, mahjong game nights, watching TV shows and dramas
Fatima Yusuf, D.O.
Undergraduate: UC Irvine
Medical School: California Health Sciences University - College of Osteopathic Medicine
Why did you choose UC Davis Pediatric Residency Program?
I grew up in Elk Grove, CA, just outside Sacramento, and have always dreamed of working at UC Davis Children’s Hospital. My family immigrated to the United States, and I first came to the Children’s Hospital as a patient when I was very young. Experiencing the compassionate, knowledgeable, and culturally aware care my family received showed me the positive impact of UC Davis’ mission to serve children from all backgrounds. Returning as a resident feels like a full-circle moment.
I was drawn back to UC Davis’ commitment to Sacramento’s underserved and diverse pediatric populations, including refugee communities, and its focus on advocacy and academic medicine. Training here allows me to give back to the community that raised me while growing as a pediatrician and pursuing my interests in advocacy, education, and research.
Clinical areas of interest: While I am still exploring, I have an interest in Pediatric Critical Care, Cardiology, Refugee Health, and Global Medicine.
Hobbies: Outside of medicine, I enjoy creative writing, Urdu poetry, photography, fashion, interior design, making elaichi chai, snowboarding, Pilates, and cheering on the Sacramento Kings.
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: pedsresidency@health.ucdavis.edu
