Where Purpose Meets Possibility

Natella Maglakelidze, MD, PhD
Graduate Education
Penn State College of Medicine

For medical and graduate student, Natella Maglakelidze, MD, PhD, medicine was always personal. Born in Russia, she grew up watching her father, a surgeon, care deeply for his patients and participating in conversations at home filled with science and service. These themes were the cornerstone to shaping her future.

After joining a research lab in undergrad, her curiosity was unlocked. She turned her sights to the MD/PhD Medical Scientist Training Program. Penn State College of Medicine, with its supportive, empathetic environment, became the clear choice.

“It felt like home. I found the space to grow, to build resilience and discover who I wanted to be as a physician scientist. My education allows me to approach patient care through both scientific rigor and human connection, which has been immensely rewarding,” said Dr. Maglakelidze.

After eight years of calling the College of Medicine home, she now prepares for a dermatology residency and the opportunity to pursue research on autoimmune skin diseases. While looking forward to the next chapter, her experience in Hershey will always hold a special place in her heart.

“It gave me the right tools and people to help me succeed. And that made all the difference,” said Dr. Maglakelidze.

It’s stories like these that drive our purpose.