My Story
Growing up in a Pakistani immigrant community in Brooklyn shaped my understanding of healthcare access and equity from an early age. I witnessed how language barriers, physician shortages, and systemic inequities affected my family and neighbors. With only a few physicians in the neighborhood compared to the dense population, access to quality healthcare is limited, as the system is strained by long wait times and overworked physicians. These firsthand experiences made my commitment to pursuing medicine and public health deeply personal.
I attended overcrowded schools with limited resources to support students' exploration of STEM careers. Despite these challenges, I became drawn to healthcare through the small but meaningful connections I made with my pediatrician each year, which showed me the impact that compassionate, consistent care can have on patients. Motivated by these experiences, I actively sought opportunities to learn more about healthcare systems. Specifically, I volunteered at a local internist's office as a Medical Assistant and later pursued public health internships. These experiences allowed me to see how advocacy, education, and medicine intersect to address barriers faced by underserved communities.
Through the Yalow Scholars Program at Hunter College, I found mentorship and a community that reinforced my commitment to healthcare equity. This guidance has strengthened my passion to become a healthcare provider hoping to bridge gaps in healthcare through pursuing clinical experience, scientific research, leadership, and service with nonprofit organizations that support underrepresented communities across New York City.