Eating right can be challenging when you're living on a tight budget and working long hours. For students in the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, however, it's easy to get fresh fruits and vegetables at affordable prices. Two UCLA student groups — the UCLA Student Wellness Commission (SWC) and E3: Ecology, Economy, Equity — host regular farmers markets on campus. There are also plenty of other farmers markets in LA that are within walking distance of (or a short drive from) the UCLA hospitals where most medical students work.
Here are just a few options to help students get all the brain food they need:
Bruin Plaza — On campus
UCLA student groups host bi-weekly farmers markets on campus.
Since 2012, E3 and SWC have hosted biweekly farmers markets in Bruin Plaza, an outdoor student activity space in the center of campus. Dozens of local farmers bring fresh produce so students can stock up on healthy meals and snacks. Students are encouraged to bring cash as well as recyclable e-waste. The Farmers Market at UCLA Facebook page details simple but delicious recipes, local food news and updates about upcoming market days.
For students who don't live on campus or don't want to wait for the next event, there are many other farmers markets in LA. Convenient locations include:
Westwood Village Farmers Market — 1083 Broxton Ave, Los Angeles, CA, 90024
Located within walking distance of Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and Mattel Children's Hospital, Westwood Village hosts a market every Thursday from noon to 6 pm.
Brentwood Farmers Market — 741 S Gretna Green Way, Los Angeles, CA, 90049
Just a few miles from UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica, the Brentwood Farmers Market is open every Sunday from 9 am to 2:30 pm. Along with fresh produce, students can purchase baked goods, prepared gourmet meals and handmade arts and crafts.
West LA Farmers Market — 1645 Corinth Ave, West Los Angeles, CA, 90025
Located 2.5 miles from campus, the West LA Farmers Market features live music, international cuisine and activities for the whole family. It's open every Sunday from 9 am to 2 pm.
Success in medical school requires focus, energy and stamina — all of which come easier to students who keep themselves healthy. These destinations are the perfect source of the nutrition they need at convenient locations.
By Taylor Mallory Holland
