Neharika Marupudi has spent the past four years at the University of Georgia pushing boundaries and embracing every opportunity for growth—culminating in the incredible honor of being named her class’s valedictorian and convocation speaker. Originally from Milton, GA, Neharika has long nurtured a passion for pharmaceutical sciences and healthcare since high school. While at UGA, she held several distinguished leadership positions, including Chair of the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists, Vice President of the Lamar Dodd School of Art Ambassadors, and Student Ambassador for the College of Pharmacy. She also conducted impactful research in Dr. May Xiong’s lab beginning in her sophomore year, leading to the publication of her review paper in March. After graduating May 9th with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences and a minor in Art History, Neharika now sets her sights on medical school at the Medical College of Georgia, where she plans to pursue a surgical specialty.
In a recent Q&A session, she shared reflections on her academic journey, her dedication to research, and her commitment to improving patient care.
What sparked your passion for your major, and how did that passion evolve throughout your time here at the college?
My interest in the pharmaceutical industry began in high school, inspired by family members working in the field and an internship I completed with a pharmaceutical company before the COVID-19 pandemic. When I started at UGA, I knew I wanted to pursue medicine but didn’t want to follow a typical pre-med path. I almost majored in Art History until I discovered the BSPS program during orientation the summer before my freshman year. It offered a perfect way to explore my passion for pharmaceuticals while gaining a unique insight into the healthcare industry before starting medical school.
Since then, my understanding of the field has grown tremendously. I’ve come to appreciate the vast scope of pharmaceutical sciences—from drug development to biological therapeutics—and how essential this field is to healthcare. The BSPS program has given me a unique perspective on medicine and a deeper understanding of the science behind the medications I may one day prescribe.
Were there any professors or mentors who significantly influenced your journey? How did they impact you?
My research mentor, Dr. Xiong, has been an incredible influence throughout my journey at UGA. She gave me the opportunity to pursue an independent research project that ultimately led to a publication of my own—an opportunity few undergraduate students experience. Through my time in her lab, I’ve gained invaluable skills, learned countless lessons, and discovered a true passion for research. Her mentorship has inspired me to continue conducting research in medical school and beyond as a clinician scientist.
How did you feel when you were announced as the valedictorian and speaker for convocation? What did this honor mean to you?
I was honestly really surprised when I found out I was valedictorian! My cohort of fellow BSPS students is filled with intelligent, academically driven, and hardworking individuals, and I’ve learned so much from the years we’ve spent together in the College of Pharmacy. It has been such a blessing to be part of a small class because I feel like I’ve truly gotten to know everyone. This recognition means a lot to me—it feels like the culmination of four years of dedication to the program. As valedictorian, I see myself as a representative of the UGA College of Pharmacy, which is an honor I’m proud to carry. I look forward to representing the school and this incredible program to future students and throughout my career!
