Meet Dr. Namrata Paladugu, South Carolina native and internal medicine intern. Here, Dr. Paladugu shares what brought her to Mississippi, small things that make her day better, and a bit about what makes her tick.
Tell us about you.
My name is Namrata but most people call me Nim. I was born in Vijayawada, India and raised in Fort Mill, South Carolina. I’m a Carolina girl at heart and went to Clemson University (go Tigers!) for college and Medical University of South Carolina for medical school.
Why did you choose UMMC for residency?
When going through the interview process last year, I was unsure of the kind of program I was looking for. I was unsure if I wanted to stay close to home, if I wanted to be a part of a large program, and if I wanted to go to an academic vs. community program. The second I finished my interview with UMMC, I knew it was the program for me. My interviewers genuinely seemed like family, and they seemed to really care about me and my goals and aspirations. I felt like UMMC offered the supportive and encouraging environment that I needed to grow into a confident physician.
What could you give a 40-minute presentation on with absolutely no preparation?
I could give a presentation on popular rom-com books. I love to read fiction when I’m not at the hospital!
What are some small things that make your day better?
Cups coffee in the afternoon can turn my day around!
Where could we find you when you are not at the hospital?
You can usually find me at Orange Theory after work, but I also love trying out new restaurants in the Belhaven area of Jackson on my days off!
What profession would you have chosen if you weren’t a physician?
I always say that if I wasn’t a physician, I would be a travel blogger. Getting paid to travel and explore new places sounds like a dream!


