Student strengthens surgical skills through University Hospital research experience

Humza Akbar is a second-year College of Medicine student from Cleveland, Ohio. He completed a summer research experience at University Hospitals.

Can you describe your summer experience?  

My summer research was primarily wet lab work. I had the unique opportunity to develop my surgical skills under a microscope for dissections in animal models. This emersion was a great foundation to this work, and I am looking forward to continuing to contribute when I have time throughout the year.

What did you learn from this experience and how will it impact your career?

We used a lot of tools under the microscope, so I learned a lot about precision and coordination at a small scale to complete the surgeries. It was intimidating to work at this level where a mistake would mean destroying the part of the brain we were studying. The neuroanatomy foundations we learned throughout the first year were incredibly helpful in preparing me for this work.

How did you find and obtain this experience?

I met with several faculty in NEOMED’s Anatomy and Neurobiology Department to learn about potential opportunities at NEOMED and in the surrounding area that aligned with my interests. One of the faculty recommended this opportunity to me. We are lucky to have faculty that are not only teaching us in the classroom but also involved in their own research and sharing it, which makes them very knowledgeable about other projects.

Do you have any advice for students interested in something similar?

Definitely be open to all opportunities, even if they do not perfectly align with your current goals. A lot of the first few years is focused on strengthening our knowledge and skill base while also experiencing new things that can dramatically change our trajectory. Some experiences can be stepping stones while others can completely change your path, so always going in with a fresh attitude can help you have a positive experience.

SHARE YOUR SUMMER EXPERIENCE

Did you have summer research experience? Share it with the Pulse! Send your reflection with a photo to thepulse@neomed.edu or submit online.