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Department of Pediatrics: Allergy and Immunology Fellowship Program
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  1. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
  2. College of Medicine
  3. Department of Pediatrics
  4. Education
  5. Fellowships
  6. Allergy and Immunology Fellowship Program
  7. Fellows

Fellows

Allergy-Immunology Fellows

(2026-2027)

Jessica Rodriguez, M.D.
First-Year Fellow Physician

Hometown: Hato Mayor del Rey, Dominican Republic

Things that make me unique are: I grew up in the Dominican Republic and later moved to the U.S., which has shaped how I see things and approach challenges. I stay focused, work hard, and keep moving toward my goals.

I'm not only a doctor, I also like to: To dance! Give me some merengue or bachata and I’m ready. When I’m not dancing, I enjoy board games and a little friendly competition. I’m always up for good music, good company, and a fun game night.

To get myself motivated I think of: My family and my goal of making them proud, and I also look forward to a small treat like chocolate at the end of the day.

My favorite movies or tv shows include: Romances and comedies. Bridgerton and The Four Seasons, and the classics like Titanic.

The hours I spend with a book I'm reading: When I’m not studying, I enjoy reading romantic novels. It’s one of my favorite ways to relax and disconnect from the demands of medicine. I enjoy getting lost in a good story and following the characters’ journeys.

I chose this UAMS Fellowship Program because: I immediately felt welcomed and comfortable on interview day. The program stood out for its supportive environment and strong training in Allergy and Immunology, and I left with a very positive impression of the people and culture.

Nadia Makkoukdji, MD Allergy and Immunology fellow
Nadia Makkoukdji Despille, M.D.
Second-Year Fellow Physician
Email: NMakkoukdji@uams.edu

Hometown: Lecheria, Venezuela

When I study medicine, I most enjoy learning about: Embryology because it was incredibly exciting to learn how a single egg begins to divide and develop into an embryo and eventually a fetus.

Things that make me unique are: I'm always there for my people - my friends and family know they can count on me. I also love bringing something when I visit, usually a homemade treat, because giving is one of my love languages. PS: My brownies are kind of famous among my loved ones!

I'm not only a doctor, I also like to: Explore local coffee shops (I'm a huge fan of supporting small businesses!), capturing moments through photography, and spending time outdoors. Whether it's hiking or being in nature, I find it helps me reconnect with myself and stay grounded. 

To get myself motivated I think of: The next national park I'm planning to visit!

My favorite movies or tv shows include: Pride and Prejudice, This Is Us, Gossip Girl, The Vampire Diaries

I chose this UAMS Fellowship Program because: The faculty was incredibly approachable, thoughtful, and welcoming - they gave me such a warm impression from the very first day of my interview. I remember calling my husband afterward, and he could tell how genuinely happy I was. He said, "I can it in your voice - this is the right place for you." That moment confirmed what I was already feeling. I was also drawn to the incredible research opportunities and the highly accomplished faculty who have made meaningful contributions to the field. I knew I wanted to learn from them and grow in that envrionment!

From Fellowship to Practice

  • Samer Abdelkader, DO (2024-2026) – University of Oklahoma Health Science Center
  • Lina Mahmood, MD (2023-2025) – Dell Children’s Medical Center
  • Dieu Doan, MD (2022-2025) – University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences/Arkansas Children’s Hospital
  • Adam Price, MD (2021-2023) – Little Rock Allergy & Asthma
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Phone: (501) 686-7000
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