Daniela Alarcon, M.D.

Creating new craft cocktails and perfecting my version of a whiskey sour. Reading, writing, and reciting poetry. Discovering the most unique, hidden-gem restaurants wherever I travel. Biking to work and cheering on local sports teams. Making the best summer pies with my famous crust

Instagram: @small.girl.suenos

Why did you choose UCLA for Residency?

I chose UCLA because it is not only an incredible EM program but also a program that is leading in the world of social emergency medicine. Despite things being virtual, interview day made it very clear that UCLA has the most amazing, welcoming people who made me want to be apart of the Bruin family.

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?

Things that make me most excited about living in LA:

1. Food
2. Sunshine
3. Beach
4. Tacos

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

When I have free time, I try to be outside as much as possible, and you can find me biking, running, hiking, etc. My favorite thing to do is try new restaurants and discover the best hole-in-the-wall spots for great food and unique atmospheres. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I love to cook, try new wines, and create interesting cocktails.

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

I hope to enter the field of social emergency medicine with a focus on improving healthcare equity, quality, and outcomes within the Latinx population

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

IV. Sweatpants by Childish Gambino

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

Beach or people-watching/window shopping at a flea market

Next vacation stop?

Asheville, NC for hiking and brews

What is your spirit animal?

Pizza