Mostafa Salama, M.B., B.Ch.

Medical school: Alexandria University Faculty of Medicine
Residency: American University of Beirut Medical Center

What attracted you to pediatric endocrinology? 
I chose to pursue pediatric endocrinology because it is very rewarding to see a child's quality of life dramatically improve with the perfect combination of science and medicine. The most unique part of training at Mayo Clinic is the exposure to a wide variety of patients, not only the common pediatric endocrinology disorders but also the rare disorders that I previously had only had the chance to know about from books. The quality of patient care that I have witnessed at Mayo exceeds expectations in terms of outstanding patient-centered care, professionalism, respect, compassion, and support.

Kaitlin Leopold, M.D.

Medical school: Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine
Residency: Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science

What attracted you to pediatric endocrinology? 
I became interested in pediatric endocrinology after my rotation through the specialty as a resident. I love the focus on physiology and the variety of pathology you get to see as a pediatric endocrinologist. The longitudinal relationships you develop with patients in pediatric endocrinology is very rewarding, and I enjoy seeing the improvement patients have with the interventions we have to offer. The work is intellectually stimulating and it has been exciting to see and use the technology and medication advancements that are being made for taking care of patients with endocrine disease.

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for fellowship training/ special interests?
I was attracted to training in pediatric endocrinology at Mayo because of the exceptional support and mentorship offered by the faculty. There is such a collaborative nature to caring for patients in this program, and I learn so much every day because of the conversations I can have or be a part of with the faculty. Our program has a focus on clinical exposure and care, and I have already been exposed to a variety of common and uncommon clinical conditions and am becoming comfortable with their management after only a few months. I am still exploring all endocrinology has to offer, and have had the support of the faculty through projects and cases to take a deep dive into the different facets of pediatric endocrinology.

What is living in Rochester, Minnesota, like for you?
Rochester is such an easy place to live, with a reasonable cost of living, excellent food options, and plenty of outdoor adventuring opportunities to keep me busy. Commuting is a breeze and I’m able to get from my back door to my desk in 15 minutes, including parking. I’ve enjoyed calling Rochester home for many years, and am happy to spend a few more here during fellowship.

What are your favorite things to do in Rochester?
I love the quick drive to multiple state parks and enjoy spending time in the warm months hiking, watching birds, and taking my dog on long walks. In the winter, I use the multiple free-groomed skiing trails throughout Rochester and beyond to get outside and cross-country ski. On weekends, I enjoy spending time with my husband at one of the local coffee shops, working on home improvement projects at our beautiful-but-old home, or spending time with friends listening to live music at one of Rochester’s many award-winning breweries. 

Rayane El Mouallem, M.D.

Medical school: Holy Spirit University of Kaslik
Residency: American University of Beirut Medical Center