For Hebah Reda, the pre-med, biological sciences senior, her upbringing in what she describes as a “multicultural mosaic” has fostered her mission to ensure that all voices are represented and heard. Growing up in Queens, New York, later attending a German International School in Lebanon, and eventually relocating to Michigan, Reda says her exposure to various cultures sparked a passion for advocacy. And the UM-Dearborn curriculum reinforced her interests. “After completing a project on mass incarceration for an honors writing course, it became evident that I had an interest in justice and politics,” Reda says. “The following semester, I took on a minor in law and society and my passion for medicine in a different light, slowly grew.” Reda intends to use her minor to make her a more well-rounded, compassionate physician and eventually, plans to make a global impact. “A dream of mine would be to work at the United Nations where I can take my passion for community health on a global scale and develop policies and programs that incorporate multiculturalism into healthcare provision and access.”

Hebah, in her own words

On embracing diversity and inclusion. “My passion for diversity largely stems from my background. Growing up in New York, moving to Lebanon, and finally moving to Michigan, I have been actively engaged in multicultural and diverse communities. It was in meeting others of different identities that I realized that every identity, every narrative, deserves to be heard. As a student that aspires to become a physician, what better outlet is there than medicine for me to connect with other human beings?”

On honing her leadership skills. “Engaging in opportunities on and off campus have helped me grow into the leader I aspire to be. Being a part of student organizations provided me an outlet to explore my leadership abilities, communication skills and passion for community work. Being a part of an international entrepreneurship program allowed me to engage in cultural diversity, connect with other human beings and develop qualities of cultural competency and humility. Engaging in clinical research has solidified my desire to pursue medicine and has given me a platform to express creativity and critical thinking. University is a stepping stone to a lifelong career, and you need to be prepared for it. What better a way to prepare than to challenge yourself to be the best version you can be and maximize the opportunities that you have been blessed with?”

On skills harnessed outside of the classroom. “Partaking in the Michigan Model Arab League not only solidified my passion for global health and social justice, it restructured my passion for medicine. Through this experience, I gained skills I am incredibly humble for. Public speaking, diplomatic mindfulness and teamwork were all essential to a successful experience at the conference, and they are skills that I have gratefully developed therefrom. The conference demanded critical thinking, self-evaluation and adaptability, as we were expected to make sudden decisions and develop solutions to global crises and international tensions. Working with diplomats from different countries was a reminder of the importance of humanity amidst division. As an aspiring physician, I hope to utilize these qualities for the betterment of others.”