2025-2026 Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesiology Fellow Physician Profiles

Paul Pantapalangkoor, MD, MS

Hometown: North Hills, CA
Undergraduate: University of California, Riverside
Graduate: University of California Riverside/Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science 
Medical School: Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science 
Why I chose UCLA: It is a dream to complete my final year of training at the UCLA Adult Cardiothoracic Anesthesia Fellowship. After following an atypical, non-traditional path to medicine, I'm deeply grateful for the opportunity to return home and finish my training at an institution as exceptional as UCLA. Beyond the personal joy of being closer to family, what draws me most is the program's strong emphasis on education and its diverse, high-acuity case exposure. I am confident that UCLA will provide world-class training and prepare me to excel in the field, all while allowing me to reconnect with home after nearly a decade away.

Outside of anesthesia, I'm really passionate about mentoring and teaching. I've had so many people help guide me through my own non-traditional path into medicine, and I love being able to pay that forward by supporting others as they work toward their goals. In my spare time, I like to stay active with tennis, badminton, and weightlifting, ”when time allows. One thing I always make time for, though, is my annual trip to Thailand. It's something I look forward to every year.

Stephanie Lam, DO, MS

Arpine Galstyan, MD 

Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Undergraduate: University of California, Los Angeles
Medical School: UCSF - School of Medicine
Why I chose UCLA: UCLA offers exceptional clinical exposure to complex cardiothoracic cases, advanced training in perioperative TEE, and mentorship from nationally recognized faculty. With strong research opportunities and a collaborative academic environment, it provides comprehensive preparation for a career in cardiac anesthesia all within a top-tier medical center in a vibrant, diverse city.

Dr. Arpi Galstyan is a Los Angeles native who has a passion for health, wellness, and exploration. She enjoys spending time outdoors, staying active with Solidcore and Pilates, and traveling whenever she can. She is also a dedicated foodie who loves discovering new restaurants and cuisines around the world. She is excited to be back in Los Angeles after an eight-year hiatus, where she can spend more time with her family and her French bulldog, Lucky.