PGY-1 Resident Profiles
Christopher Anigwe, MD
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
Undergraduate: Arizona State University, BS Biological Sciences
Medical School: University of California, San Francisco School of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: The residents were all incredibly happy and seemed to have a strong sense of community. I could tell that was a result of the culture within the Anesthesia department. I was also extremely confident that I'd be exposed to a high variety of cases with a diverse patient population and all the other fixings of an excellent program. And, the opportunity to live in sunny LA couldn't be passed up on.
Hobbies/Interests: Playing basketball, beach/court volleyball, bowling, golf, snowboarding, videogames, traveling, NBA (LeBron or Phoenix Suns), NFL (Cardinals), Formula 1 (Lewis Hamilton), watching TV/movies, and collecting sneakers!
Jaspal Bassi, MD
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Monrovia, California
Undergraduate: UCLA, BS Biology
Medical School: UC Irvine School of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I really enjoyed talking to and working with everyone at UCLA. The faculty are amazing mentors and the residents feel like family. I wanted to have a fun and well rounded training experience and knew UCLA was the place to be. Not to mention Los Angeles is my favorite city and my home!
Hobbies/Interests: When not in the hospital, I enjoy exploring local pawn shops and yard sales for unique things I think are cool. I also love woodworking, working on old cars, exploring local restaurants, going to concerts, and camping/hiking. Most importantly, I love spending time with family and friends.
Joseph Bello, MD, MS
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Santa Ana, California
Graduate: UCF, MS Nanotechnology
Medical School: Dartmouth Medical School
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I did visiting student rotation at UCLA and absolutely loved it! The residents, faculty, and clinical education staff were all so friendly and genuinely cared about my experience while I was there. I knew that UCLA would offer me both exceptional training as well as a wonderful work environment with inspiring teachers and colleagues.
Hobbies/Interests: I love picking up new hobbies every 6 months or so! Some of the more recent ones have been working towards earning my pilots license, meditation, motorcycles and solo traveling.
Brionna 'Brie' Bulgarelli, MD
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Golden, Colorado
Undergraduate: University of Oklahoma, BS Multidisciplinary Studies, Minors in Biology and Chemistry
Medical School: University of Colorado School of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I wanted to attend a residency program that would not only make me a fantastic anesthesiologist, but one that would feel like family. I also love the diverse clinical sites and rotations that UCLA has to offer their trainees. Also, the weather and the abundance of activities to do outside of work are an added perk!
Hobbies/Interests: Snowboarding, hiking, trying new restaurants, playing soccer, podcasts and audiobooks, Peloton, travel
Lauren Calvert, MD
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Forest, VA
Undergraduate: University of Virginia, BS Biology
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I absolutely loved my interview day and the overall vibe of the program. I knew I would get an incredible training while also being supported each step along the way.
Hobbies/Interests: Staying active (running, taking group exercise classes, etc.), cooking, baking, reading
Abdisalam Hassan, MD
Hometown: San Diego, CA
Undergraduate: University of California, Berkeley, BA Public Health
Medical School: University of California, Davis School of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: Great training, physician leaders, and location
Hobbies/Interests: Outdoor activities such as hiking, basketball, football
Samir Hassanin, MD
Pronouns: He/Him
Hometown: Fremont, CA
Undergraduate: University of California, Berkeley, BA Public Health
Medical School: Rutgers, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: Throughout my visiting sub-internship, I was constantly learning in a supportive and positive environment. From the residents to the department leadership, everyone was invested in both teaching and providing the highest level of patient care. Because of this rotation, I was able to grow both personally and professionally in just a few short weeks. This experience combined with the opportunity to care for the wonderful and diverse patient population in Los Angeles solidified UCLA Anesthesia as my top choice program!
Hobbies/Interests: Swimming, traveling, competitive gaming, playing guitar, and going to music concerts/festivals.
Adrian John Jones, MD
Pronouns: He/Him
Hometown: Las Vegas, NV
Undergraduate: UCLA, BS Psychobiology
Medical School: Drexel University College of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: UCLA had everything I was looking for in residency: top-tier clinical training and exposure, ideal location close to family and friends, and supportive culture amongst everyone here. I really enjoyed my rotation here and appreciated how invested residents and faculty were in our success. I was also ecstatic to come back to UCLA, a place I consider home and where I've invested a lot as an undergrad.
Hobbies/Interests: Hip-hop dance—I used to dance on a team here at UCLA (shoutout to Samahang Modern!) and now enjoy taking classes at local dance studios. I'm also an avid NBA and basketball fan and am always down to play.
Soroush Kazemi, MD
Pronouns: He/Him
Hometown: San Pedro, CA
Undergraduate: University of California, Santa Barbara, BS Biopsychology
Medical School: University of California, Davis School of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: Culture, mission, and location. During both interview day and resident social hour, I could tell I found my people when I saw how well the residents meshed. They genuinely enjoyed spending time together and loved their time at UCLA. Additionally, I admired the anesthesia department's STEM outreach with local elementary and high schools through Project Lead the Way. As a prior member and employee of the Boys & Girls Clubs of LA Harbor, I knew our shared mission made us a great fit. It also doesn't hurt that I grew up in LA. Now I will be living closer to my partner, family, and childhood friends!
Hobbies/Interests: Golf, basketball, hiking, snowboarding, travelling, and backgammon.
Jessica Mehta, MD
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: San Diego, CA
Undergraduate: UC San Diego, BS Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Minor in Social Issues in Health Care
Medical School: Drexel University College of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I chose UCLA first and foremost for the strong sense of community and camaraderie among residents and anesthesia family. Additionally, I knew I would be receiving excellent clinical training, and have access to immense academic resources and research opportunities at UCLA.
Hobbies/Interests: In my free time, I enjoy golfing and soaking up the sun on the beach with my family and friends!
Jennifer Kim, MD, MS
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: South Pasadena, CA
Undergraduate: University of Southern California, BA Health and Humanity
Graduate: Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, MS Biomedical Sciences
Medical School: Chicago Medical School
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: My away rotation experience solidified my decision. I remember leaving the hospital everyday feeling energized and inspired by the interactions I had with the people at UCLA. By the end, I knew this was the community that I wanted to grow alongside with during my residency training.
Hobbies/Interests: Pottery, painting, photography, hiking
Bridget Krol-Prabhu, MD
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: San Diego, CA
Undergraduate: Elon University, BS Exercise Science
Medical School: Wake Forest School of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I did a subI rotation at UCLA and I was impressed by how prepared the residents were and how much autonomy they were given. What really stood out to me was the kindness of the residents and their willingness to teach. Of course the So Cal weather and amazing food is a big plus!
Hobbies/Interests: Running, hiking, gardening, traveling, eating
Jacqueline Labins, MD
Preferred Name: Jacky
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Oakland, CA
Undergraduate: University of California, Davis, BS Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Medical School: Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I chose UCLA because of the institution’s unwavering commitment to patient centered care and location close to home. By training at an institution that consistently prioritizes patient well-being and satisfaction, I am empowered to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those I serve. UCLA is the perfect place for me to grow as a compassionate, skilled anesthesiologist who truly makes a difference.
Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy learning new recipes, gardening, reading, playing table tennis, and staying active.
Christina Le, MD
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland
Undergraduate: University of Michigan, BS
Medical School: David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I chose UCLA for the tight knit and supportive community. Everyone was down to earth and truly cared about each other. It definitely felt like a true family!
Hobbies/Interests: Skiing, eating out at different restaurants, pilates
Danny Le, MD
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Fountain Valley, CA
Undergraduate: University of Southern California, BS, Biological Sciences; Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
Medical School: David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: As a UCLA Medical student, I had the unique opportunity to develop strong relationships with our faculty and residents on clinical, educational, and research fronts. Many of whom have become my personal advocates, mentors, and unconditional supporters. Joining the UCLA Anesthesiology family, I am confident that I can reach my greatest potential as a clinician to impact positive change for our patients and community.
Hobbies/Interests: Yelp Elite Food Reviewer, Real Estate House Hacking, Cooking and Failing Vietnamese Recipes, Traveling andRunning
Matthew Leon, MD, MMSc
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Undergraduate: Brown University, BS/BA, Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Portuguese and Brazilian Studies
Graduate: Harvard University, MMSc
Medical School: Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I was drawn to UCLA's program because of their robust solid organ transplant program and complex pediatric cases which are not always readily available at other programs. Additionally, UCLA Anesthesiology has a strong critical care program which is an area that I am interested in. What sealed it for me was my experience on interview day in my interactions with both faculty and residents. My personality and interests aligned well with those who had trained at UCLA before me. Outside of the program, UCLA's location in Southern California allows me access to many of the outdoor activities I enjoy in my free time as well as close proximity to my siblings who live in Los Angeles and San Diego.
Hobbies/Interests: Traveling, Golf, Ice Hockey, Skiing, Surfing, Fishing, Hiking, Camping, Foreign Languages
Justin Mitchell, MD
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Dayton, Ohio
Undergraduate: Ohio University, BS, Biology
Medical School: Ohio State University College of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I chose UCLA because of the conversations I had with the residents and faculty during both the interview day and second look events. In addition, initiatives like Project Lead The Way showed me this program was invested in making a meaningful difference in the surrounding community. Finally, the city of Los Angeles has some of the best food, culture, and things to do making it an easy choice.
Hobbies/Interests: My hobbies/interests include: barbequing, cooking with friends, discovering new music, going to concerts, and running
Eileen Nguyen, MD, PhD
Hometown: Fullerton, CA
Undergraduate: UCLA, BS, Neuroscience
Graduate: University of Pittsburgh, PhD, Neuroscience
Medical School: University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: After meeting with the chair, program leadership, and potential research mentors, it was obvious to me that UCLA is the place where I would thrive best (both personally and professionally) while growing my clinical and research skills. LA also has the very best food and my husband and I are thrilled to be back near my family.
Hobbies/Interests: Turtles, skiing, consuming spicy food all over the world
Eric Nguyen, MD
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Las Vegas, Nevada
Undergraduate: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, BS Biological Sciences
Medical School: University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I completed a sub-internship at UCLA and felt at home with the faculty, residents, and staff. It was a great opportunity to get to know the people at UCLA and see myself working here. With my extended family located in Southern California, I was fortunate to have found my match!
Hobbies/Interests: Playing piano, taking care of aquariums/aquascaping, weightlifting, trying new food and dessert spots
Francis 'Frank' Perkins, MD
Preferred Name: Frank
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Undergraduate: University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee, BS, Microbiology
Medical School: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: It’s a great program in a large, diverse city! Being a Cheesehead is cool, but I wanted to explore culture outside of the Midwest and thaw out for a bit.
Hobbies/Interests: Guitar, bicycling, concerts, boarding, tennis
Thibault Philippine, MD
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Oakland, CA
Undergraduate: University of California, Berkeley, BS, Bioengineering
Medical School: David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I chose UCLA for the culture of the residency program, for its excellent preparation and training, and because of its proximity to the mountains and beaches of California.
Hobbies/Interests: Rock Climbing, Hiking, Backpacking, Skiing, Fencing, Boardgames, Videogames, Vegan Cooking
Cecilia Garcia, MD, MPH
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Bellflower, CA
Undergraduate: Loyola Marymount University, BS, Biochemistry
Graduate: UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, MPH Health Policy and Management
Medical School: David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: As a native Angeleno, I always envisioned myself giving back to my community, and serving a diverse patient population. I also found incredible mentorship and support from many prestigious and inspirational UCLA clinicians. Given UCLA's location, I enjoy the opportunities to eat foods from a vast array of cultures and enjoy the beautiful SoCal weather.
Hobbies/Interests: Outdoor activities like hiking, riding my bicycle, relaxing on the beach, playing volleyball; singing in my church choir; dancing.
Michael Rothberg, MD
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Undergraduate: Harvard University, BA, Cognitive Neuroscience & Evolutionary Psychology; Visual & Environmental Studies (Art)
Medical School: David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: Having grown up in Los Angeles, I was thrilled to be able to come back home for medical school and stay here for residency! LA is basically a giant playground for people who love hiking, climbing, eating, and good music, so it really caters to everything I’m into. I am also so fortunate to be spending residency in the same city as many of my friends and family. While LA itself offers so much, I chose UCLA Anesthesiology for its strong sense of community and friendly culture.
Hobbies/Interests: Climbing, hiking/backpacking, guitar, cooking, art
Charnise Taylor, MD, MSCR
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Undergraduate: Loyola Marymount University, BS, Biochemistry
Graduate: UCLA, Master of Science in Clinical Research: Bioinformatics Track
Medical School: David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA/Charles Drew PRIME-LA
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: UCLA's commitment to diversity and inclusion is at the forefront of their mission. This, along with the supportive leadership I knew UCLA was the place for me!
Hobbies/Interests: Avid salsa dancer for the past 5 years. I also enjoy pilates, and traveling to new countries When I'm home I love spending time with my two cats, Drake and Rihanna.
Bernie Wu, MD
Hometown: Taiwan
Undergraduate: UCLA, BS, Physiological Science
Medical School: Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I chose UCLA for its outstanding clinical training, cohesive culture, and prime location.
Hobbies/Interests: Golf, Cars and motorsports, Traveling
Mohammed Yassin, MD
Hometown: Ventura, CA
Undergraduate: University of California Santa Barbara, BS, Biochemistry
Graduate: Eastern Virginia Medical School, MS, Biomedical Sciences
Medical School: Eastern Virginia Medical School
Residency: Anesthesiology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Why I chose UCLA: I chose UCLA because of the outstanding quality of training and the proximity to my family and hometown. Additionally, the faculty at UCLA are supportive and committed to resident success, so I knew I would thrive here.
Hobbies/Interests: I enjoy riding my dirtbike, surfing, and skateboarding. I also enjoy playing guitar, hiking with my dogs, and fixing cars in my free time.