"I hope to prove to my cultural community that women can be doctors too. ”
Michelle has an undergraduate degree from McDaniel College. Her hometown is Westminster, Maryland.
What inspired you to pursue a healthcare career?
I was inspired by my passion for the STEM field and my desire to help people increase their wellness using science and dental medicine.
How did your background and history factor into your career choice?
I am the first in my family to attend a graduate program, especially in the healthcare professions. I will be the first female clinician, let alone dentist, in the entire family. Pursuing a field in healthcare has always been a goal for South Asian children from a young age. My culture has historically supported males in pursuing these challenging doctoral careers. When I told my parents I wanted to become a dentist, they supported me as they challenged Pakistani social norms. They knew that I always enjoyed learning and working with others and that my stubborn personality would not allow me to settle for anything less. I hope to prove to my cultural community that women can be doctors too. I appreciate Midwestern's efforts to support students creating history in every way possible.
Why did you decide to attend Midwestern University?
I made the big move from Maryland to Arizona for the Biomedical Science master’s degree program. While it was a big adjustment away from family and an undergraduate program, the open-door policy and genuine foundation the school provides are why I chose to stay in Arizona for the dental program. The rigorous science courses taught here ensure that the students are prepared with a solid background once in the clinic. The dental program requires meticulous work that allows graduating dentists to be even more comfortable and excelling in practice than their peers from other dental programs. Besides, who does not want to avoid plowing snow in Maryland and enjoy sunny days here in Arizona?
What about a Midwestern University education do you want to carry forward in your career?
The unconditional and consistent support the professors and faculty provide to their students is the example I use to become the dentist I strive to be for all my patients. The advancements in technology and the teachings with diverse research-based evidence educate us to seek nothing less than the best in practice. It is clear that Midwestern puts a great deal of resources toward our education and ensures that all clinicians graduate with the comfort of knowing their school did not cut corners in their schooling.
