Growing up in the Dominican Republic, Magna Pastrano, M.D., got to spend time in a place that most kids don’t get to venture: in a laboratory. Her mother worked as a microbiologist and would often take Dr. Pastrano to her lab. That experience drove Dr. Pastrano’s interest in a career in medicine.

Dr. Pastrano attended medical school in the Dominican Republic and came to the U.S. for her residency in 2013. She travels back home once or twice a year, and her family visits her in New Jersey just as often. 

Her favorite thing about her current home—aside from her New Jerseyan husband and 2-year old son? “Growing up on an island, you’re a little limited. Here, I see so many different cultures on a daily basis,” she says. “I’ve learned about so many different cultures, from Jewish customs to Korean traditions to Indian food and diets. I’m also able to use my Spanish with a lot of my patients, which is helpful because the connection is just stronger when you can speak to a patient in their language.” 

What is your favorite part of your job?

The interaction with so many different people is my favorite part—but also one of the hardest. I love getting to know my patients and the context of their lives. Having that connection and knowing all of that about a person can help me give the best advice and treatment. 

What hobbies do you have outside of work?

My son, John, is 2 years old, so that’s my other full-time job. I love spending time with him. I’m also big into the gym right now. I recently discovered strength training, and I highly recommend it to my patients. When you think of strength training, it doesn’t have to involve really heavy weights. You can get started at any level.

What is your favorite place to travel?

I recently went with my husband to South Africa while my mom watched our son back home. It was one of his bucket list items. We spent time in Cape Town, and it was incredible to get to know the culture there and hear stories about them living through apartheid. We also went on a safari, which was unbelievable. You just can’t shake off a lion roaring right next to you. While we were there, a few monkeys broke into our room and stole my protein bars! 

If you could meet one celebrity, who would it be? 

I have been reading a lot about Michelle Obama—how she grew up, being in the White House and the work she is doing to empower women. I think it would be fun to get to know her and maybe meet one of her daughters.

Next Steps & Resources:

• Meet our source: Magna Pastrano, M.D.
• To make an appointment with Dr. Pastrano or a primary care doctor near you, call 800-822-8905 or visit our website.

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