VCOM Auburn Yearbook 2020

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

T he Muslim Medical Students Association (MMSA) advocates for Muslim medical students and patients throughout the year by raising awareness of associated religious and cultural traditions. MMSA often holds presentations during dinners like last year’s Road to Rheumatology event featuring Dr. Zarmeena Ali, a practicing rheumatologist at East Alabama Medical Center. Often these speakers give guidance on medical school in general, along with tips on applying for residency. This past year’s MMSA adviser, VCOM- Auburn faculty member Siraj Abullah, DO, also offered tips to students as well. Each year, one of the primary MMSA events is 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 invites everyone to enjoy a night of experiencing this blessed month and the breaking of the fast. The Iftar dinner is usually held in the MPR room with many people attending. The Iftar dinner typically includes a speaker. Last year’s dinner featured a speech by 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 offers a free dinner to those who were fasting and all those who attended. Food is typically catered and often includes items like platters of rice, chicken and lamb kabobs, salads, hummus and pita bread. M SA Muslim Medical Students Association Raydeer Piromari, President; Mazzy Aman, Treasurer; Siraj Abdullah, DO, Faculty Advisor

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