Meet the Class of 2028: Elias Asmar

In just one more week, we’ll welcome the College of Medicine Class of 2028 to NEOMED! The Pulse invited our new students to introduce themselves. Meet Elias Asmar from Strongsville, Ohio. Elias earned his bachelor’s degree in biology from Cleveland State University.

Why did you choose NEOMED?

I chose NEOMED because of the success of their alumni, excellent residency match prospects and affiliations with major hospital systems in Northeast Ohio. 

What specific career do you hope to pursue? What inspired your choice?

I am not yet sure what specific career I hope to pursue, but I would love to have a hands-on or procedural aspect to my career if possible. Taking a human gross anatomy cadaveric dissection course helped inspire my passion for hands-on work. 

When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I've wanted to be a doctor since I was 5 years old (and an NBA player as a young kid). 

Attached is an image of an assignment I did when I was 5 years old showing my goal of becoming a doctor. Also attached is another image of me with my acceptance letter to NEOMED with this same picture, a truly surreal moment. 

What do you do better than anyone you know?

Reverse parking is an odd skill that I have. I don’t remember the last time I parked forward!

What book or movie are you currently recommending to friends? Why?

I am currently recommending the movie "The Truman Show" to friends. It is a mind-wrenching movie that all comes together at the end and is most definitely worth watching.

You are handed a plane ticket to anywhere in the world. Where are you going? Why?

I would pick Japan! The balance of a rich history with cutting-edge technology is something I would like to experience. Also, Japanese food is one of my favorites and I couldn’t get enough of the sushi and fresh seafood. 

If time and resources were no object, what skill or hobby would you pursue? Why?

I would love to travel to as many countries as possible. There are so many incredible experiences all around the world that are just waiting to be had, and it would be an injustice to let those pass by. 

What’s your hype song? Why?

"We Own It" by 2 Chainz and Wiz Khalifa. The beat in that song always causes an adrenaline rush. 

What’s one thing you believe everyone should try at least once?

As per my previous responses, I believe traveling to new countries and embracing their culture is something that everyone should try at least once. 

What would people be surprised to know about you?

People would be surprised to know that I earned a Black Belt in Karate when I was 12 years old.

Share your story!

Are you a new student in the College of Medicine, Pharmacy or Graduate Studies? We’d like to get to know you. Introduce yourself through The Pulse! You’ll find some questions in the Class of 2028 Facebook group, or email thepulse@neomed.edu and we’ll send them to you.