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

What attracted you to pediatric endocrinology?
I became interested in pediatric endocrinology during my first year of residency training. What attracted me to this specialty is the complexity of the hormonal system, the diversity of endocrine disorders, and the significant impact they can have on a child’s life. Pediatric endocrinology gives me the opportunity to build long-term relationships with patients and their families, guiding them through their challenges and celebrating their progress. Ongoing advancements in research and treatment of endocrine disorders is fascinating, and being a part of an evolving field is challenging and rewarding.

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for fellowship training?
I was attracted to Mayo Clinic for my pediatric endocrinology training because of its commitment to a collaborative learning environment and patient-centered care. I was also impressed by the program’s emphasis on mentorship and research opportunities. Additionally, the diverse patient population at Mayo provides a rich training experience, exposing me to a wide range of cases. Overall, Mayo Clinic feels like the ideal place to deepen my knowledge and skills in pediatric endocrinology while making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and their families.

What are your favorite things to do in Rochester?
Rochester offers beautiful outdoor spaces for hiking and biking. In the warmer months, I enjoy hiking the scenic trails and having picnics with my friends in one of the parks or by the water. Another thing I enjoy is the local food scene. Rochester offers a variety of restaurants and cafes, from casual eateries to fine dining.

Talha Hepsen, M.D.

Medical school: Karadeniz Teknik Universitesi Tip Fakultesi
Residency: Hamad Medical Corporation and Sidra Medicine

What attracted you to Mayo Clinic for fellowship training? Do you have any special interests within the Peds (your specialty) program?
I was drawn to Mayo Clinic for its outstanding reputation in patient care and research in pediatric endocrinology. The chance to work with leading experts in a collaborative environment aligns perfectly with my career goals.

I have a particular interest in managing obesity and diabetes in children, as well as the psychosocial aspects of chronic endocrine conditions. Mayo’s comprehensive training offers an ideal platform for developing my skills and making meaningful contributions to the field.

How is your fellowship at Mayo Clinic going?
My fellowship at Mayo Clinic is going incredibly well! I'm really enjoying the hands-on experience and the chance to work with such a diverse patient population. The faculty are supportive and knowledgeable, which has made the learning curve both challenging and rewarding. I’m gaining a lot of exposure to various endocrine disorders, and I appreciate the emphasis on a multidisciplinary approach to care. Overall, I feel like I’m growing both professionally and personally, and I'm excited for what’s ahead!

Leslie Saba, M.B.B.S.

Medical school: University College Dublin School of Medicine
Residency: Mayo Clinic Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine

What attracted you to pediatric endocrinology?
Pediatric endocrinology is the perfect mix of interesting pathophysiology and diverse cases – no two days are ever the same. I also really appreciate the opportunity to follow patients longitudinally, build relationships with them and their families, and see their progress over time. It’s an incredibly fulfilling field, and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else!

How is your fellowship at Mayo Clinic going?
Fellowship has been a great experience so far! I feel very fortunate to be learning from a wonderful group of experts who truly live by Mayo’s mission of putting the needs of the patient first. I’m also grateful for a program that genuinely prioritizes my growth, both professionally and personally, and makes me feel supported every step of the way.

What are your favorite things to do in Rochester?
I love exploring the local trails, trying out new restaurants and coffee shops, and spending time with my co-fellows.