Cristina Villalpando, M.D.

I will be pursuing a career in Emergency Medicine. My academic interests include health policy, underserved medicine and social emergency medicine. During my free time I enjoy running, playing volleyball, yoga and HIIT workouts.

Instagram: @cristyv19

Why did you choose UCLA for Residency?

I love the split between a county hospital and academic center for training. I grew up in LA county and my family is currently residing in Hawthorne. Having my family close by is important to me since they are my biggest support system. I have been a Bruin since undergraduate and it’s a dream come true to now be training as a Resident Physician here. I have found amazing mentors at UCLA who continue to support my interests in underserved medicine, public policy, and pipeline programs. I am looking forward to an amazing four years serving the patients of LA county.

What is your favorite place to visit/thing(s) to do in/memory from living in LA? If you have never lived here before, what are you most excited about?

Olvera street, Venice canals, and the Hollywood Bowl!

What do you do in your free time? What hobbies do you have? 

Hangout with my niece Natalia, beach volleyball, run along the strand, peloton, HIIT workouts!

What are your areas of interest within EM or future career plans? 

Academic EM, Social EM, Healthy Policy and Advocacy, Underserved Medicine, Diversity and Inclusion, Mentorship

What is your go-to song to get pumped up on shift?

Bidi Bidi Bom Bom- Selena...but really anything Selena!

Where would we find you if not in the department (ie. couch, beach, wilderness, climbing, etc.)?

visiting family, sharing a meal with friends, running at the beach

Next vacation stop?

camping in Big Sur and Redwood National Park

What is your spirit animal?

Dolphin