Katelyn Jackson
Katelyn Jackson
B.S. Biological Sciences, Pre-Med, 2020
“I chose Mississippi State University without a second thought. There was simply no other place I could imagine calling home,” said Katelyn Jackson, a 2020 Mississippi State graduate. “I spent a summer in high school as a Rural Medical Scholar, and lived in Hull Hall, waking up each morning to the chapel bells ringing and spending my days taking pre-med courses while soaking in what college life encompassed. Experiencing the campus firsthand didn’t just show me what it meant to be a student, it revealed the path I wanted to follow as an undergraduate. I knew the College of Arts & Sciences was going to prepare me for medical school and to be a great doctor.”
Though many experiences at MSU had great impact on Jackson, she believes her research was the most impactful during her time in college. “Before I even enrolled, I began working in a lab under Dr. Justin Thornton while still in high school, and I continued that work throughout my undergraduate years. That experience not only sparked my interest in research but also opened doors to incredible opportunities, including two summer research programs in New York City at New York University and Weill Cornell, where I now work. Having a mentor who believed in me and encouraged my growth made a lasting difference and helped shape my career path,” said Jackson.
Jackson also spoke highly of her experience studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain, and said, “Experiencing a different culture while continuing my education challenged me to
step outside of my comfort zone and helped me grow in confidence and independence.”
Mary Celeste Reese, Jackson’s academic advisor and mentor, played a crucial role in shaping her career path in a lasting way. “From meeting her at MSU’s Spring Preview Day in 2016 to her watching me walk across the stage to become a doctor at my medical school graduation, she has been a major part of my journey. As my academic advisor and mentor, she was always available to help steer me in the right direction. Even today, I still call on Dr. Reese and she is always there to help guide me and push me to be as successful as I can be,” said Jackson.
Upon her graduation in 2020, Jackson attended medical school at the University of Mississippi School of Medicine in Jackson, Miss. In 2024, she graduated from UMMC as a doctor. That same year she matched in pediatrics at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell in New York City, where she began her residency. She is currently a second-year pediatric resident and is continuing her training.
“The professional achievement I’m most proud of is becoming a first-generation physician and matching into a pediatrics residency at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell,” she said.
Jackson believes that her CAS education prepared her for her life and career by “fostering critical thinking, problem-solving and resilience.”
During her time at MSU, Jackson also had the opportunity to serve as the vice president of the Biological Sciences Ambassadors and as a College of Arts and Sciences Ambassador, which allowed her to work closely with administrators, strengthening her leadership and public speaking skills while building lasting connections with both MSU faculty and alumni. “MSU provided me with the mentorship, opportunities, and experiences that laid the foundation for my career and prepared me to succeed as a physician and mentor today,” said Jackson.
Jackson currently lives in New York City with her two-year-old Maltipoo, Van Gogh. She enjoys exploring different neighborhoods around the city, trying new spots, shopping, and spending time with friends. She enjoys volunteering in her community and plays the violin, flute, and guitar in her free time. When she comes back home to Mississippi, she spends much of her time with family, especially her nieces and nephews, and captures many photos during their Sunday dinners.
She remains connected to her community and to MSU through several outlets. She currently serves as a member of the Bulldog Mentorship Program, she attends New York City chapter alumni events, staying connected to fellow Bulldogs and celebrating the MSU community. “Today, as a physician and mentor, I carry MSU with me in every patient interaction and with every student I guide. I’m also creating a medical scholarship for MSU students aspiring to become physicians—paying forward the support and belief I once received,” said Jackson.
“The advice I would give to today’s Mississippi State students is to step outside of your comfort zone and be open to trying new things. Get involved in organizations, introduce yourself to the person sitting next to you in class, and take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way. Some of the most meaningful friendships and experiences come from moments where you push yourself just a little beyond what feels comfortable. Those are the memories you’ll carry with you long after your time at MSU,” said Jackson.