What’s your role at UCSF and what is your favorite part about it?  I am an Anesthesiologist as well as Medical Director of the Mount Zion Surgery Center and an Associate Chair for Clinical Affairs in my department.  What I love most about UCSF is the amazing people as well as the opportunity to have a varied and rich career as a physician which involves clinical work, teaching, research, and administration.  

What advice would you give to a woman entering your field today?  I feel like some of the keys that helped me with some early career success can be encapsulated in pretty simple concepts--show up, be engaged, follow through, and be a team-player.  As in many things in life, showing up (to meetings, lectures, etc.) is a big first step to success.  If you want to take on more responsibilities, let people know so they can help guide you in the right directions.  And if they see you as someone who is collaborative and follows through you'll find yourself with more opportunities as time goes on.  

What’s an issue you think remains overlooked or under addressed in terms of women in the professional world?  Child-care and child rearing issues are significant for many women and frequently overlooked when it comes to women in the workplace.  Whether that be inadequate paid leave, or challenges in returning to the workplace.  There needs to be more flexibility to allow women to take time off to adjust their schedules as needed and not be penalized (financially or otherwise) in their overall career path.  

What do you like to do outside of work?  Outside of work I love to spend time with my guys (2 little boys and a husband), travel, explore new restaurants, run and do yoga.  

If you could go anywhere for a day, where would you go?  My "happy place" is Tennessee Valley in Mill Valley where I live.  Any day I can spend running or exploring the trails around there is a good one.  

Get to know the rest of our Women of UCSF Health team here.