Thomas Akie, M.D.

Hiking, Trail Running, Ski Mountaineering, Playing hide and seek with our toddler

Why did you choose UCLA for residency?            

The people, first and foremost. During my interview, I was struck by the incredible culture of the residents and faculty, and their ability to be great doctors and teachers without sacrificing the rest of their lives. I also valued the somewhat unique ability to train in both a large academic center and county environment. Plus, people have told me the weather here is supposed to be decent.

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

I'm interested in clinical and translational research and medical education.

If you have never lived here before, what are you most excited about?

Exploring the surrounding wilderness. I'm still amazed at how close the mountains are to this giant metropolis and how accessible the terrain is. And I'm pretty excited about the food. There's so many delicious options here in LA, it's almost overwhelming.

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

Most days you can find me hanging out in our backyard with my family and our dog, Ginger. When I'm not doing that, I'm usually getting in some trail running or ski touring around in the mountains.