VCOM Auburn Yearbook 2019

MMSA MuslimMedical Students Association

Hani Alayoubi, President; Odaye Al-Shammary, Vice President; Junaid Ahmed, Secretary; Siraj Abdullah, DO, Faculty Advisor

The Muslim Medical Students Association (MMSA) advocates for Muslim medical students and patients throughout the year by raising awareness of associated religious and cultural traditions. This past year, as part of the Road to Rheumatology event, Dr. Zarmeena Ali, a practicing rheumatologist at East Alabama Medical Center, spoke to members about her journey to becoming a doctor in the United States. Ali started her journey in Pakistan but had a dream to move to the United States and start a family. Ali included a very informative presentation on match statistics and how she was able to obtain a position in her specialty. Ali gave guidance on medical school in general, along with tips on applying for residency. MMSA adviser Siraj Abullah, DO, also chimed in many times to offer tips to students as well. Dinner was served, and afterwards, MMSA members were able to talk to Dr. Ali

personally and ask questions.

For 2019, MMSA events mainly included the Annual Ramadan Iftar Dinner. This event takes place during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. For this event, MMSA opens its arms to all VCOM faculty and students. MMSA invited everyone to enjoy a night of experiencing this blessed month and the breaking of the fast. The Iftar dinner was held in the MPR room with 130 people attending. The Iftar dinner speaker was Dr. Mark Dougherty from the Auburn Islamic Center (AIC). Dr. Dougherty spoke about the spirituality and history of why Muslims fast during the holy month. MMSA offered free dinner to those who were fasting and all those who attended. Food was catered from Columbus, Georgia with platters of rice, chicken and lamb kabobs, salads, hummus and pita bread.

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