Growing up, Leslie Walden (MS/MLS '26) was always the one on her softball team who carried the medical bag, ready to assist her teammates with headaches, blisters, and other small injuries.
“I liked being able to help people in those small moments when my teammates needed someone to be there,” she said.
Upon graduation, Walden will become more than just someone with a desire to help people; she will have a Master's in Medical Laboratory Science in the bag.
Diagnosed with a heart condition in middle school and passionate about science, she initially aspired to be a doctor or nurse, but as a pre-med Biology major in college, she was exposed to various healthcare fields and career pathways that broadened her perspective.
She was drawn to PCOM Georgia's Medical Laboratory Science program not only for its strong emphasis on clinics and preparing students for real-world laboratory work, but for the flexible hybrid format that allowed her to pursue her degree without having to relocate.
“That balance really worked for my situation. When I combined my faith, the flexibility of the program, and the strong clinical training, it really felt like the right place for me to grow both personally and professionally.”
During her time at PCOM Georgia, Walden engaged in clinical training, leadership, community service, and received awards for academic recognition. She was most recently awarded the 2026 Laboratorian of the Year Award, a peer and supervisor nominated award for laboratory leadership. She also received a hospital scholarship to support the completion of her degree, and was inducted into Lambda Tau Psi Gamma, the honor society for Medical Laboratory Scientists, which recognizes academic excellence.
“Overall, PCOM didn't just help me get my foot in the door, it prepared me to step into the field confidently, grow quickly, and succeed once I got in.”
Inspired by those who lead with purpose, service, and integrity, one person who has had a major impact on her personally and professionally is her program director, Karen Giddens, MLS (ASCP).
“She inspires me to dig deep and keep pushing no matter what circumstances or obstacles I may face,” Walden said.
Her biggest advice for those coming behind her is to stay consistent, ask questions and stay open-minded.
“I originally thought I would go straight into becoming a physician, but being exposed to different areas of health care, especially the laboratory side, completely changed my path in a really positive way. Sometimes the opportunities you don't expect end up being the best fit.”
Joy Williford
Assistant Director, News and Media Relations
Office of Marketing and Communications
Email: joyde@pcom.edu
Office: 470-572-7558
Established in 1899, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has trained thousands of highly competent, caring physicians, health practitioners and behavioral scientists who practice a “whole person” approach to care—treating people, not just symptoms. PCOM, a private, not-for-profit accredited institution of higher education, operates three campuses (PCOM, PCOM Georgia and PCOM South Georgia) and offers doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, and school psychology. The college also offers graduate degrees in applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, physician assistant studies, and school psychology. PCOM students learn the importance of health promotion, research, education and service to the community. Through its community-based Healthcare Centers, PCOM provides care to medically underserved populations. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 215-871-6100.
For general media inquiries, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at 215-871-6300 or communications@pcom.edu. Visit our media relations page to view contact information for public relations personnel.
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