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Salma Abdilahi

875

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

Hello! My name is Salma Abdilahi, and I am excited to begin my journey toward earning a Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies this upcoming academic year. I graduated from the University of California, San Diego, in June 2022 with a degree in Human Biology and a minor in Global Health. My academic and personal experiences have sparked a passion for understanding the human body, promoting community health, and advancing healthcare equity. As a first-generation Somali immigrant, I’ve cultivated the resilience and determination needed to break barriers and inspire my seven younger siblings to reach new heights. My journey has strengthened my commitment to becoming a Physician Associate, particularly in underserved communities where I believe I can make meaningful impact. Outside of academics, I love sharing my culinary creativity on my food page, Saleats_ on TikTok, where I record recipes and content that inspire others to explore diverse flavors and fusion foods. I also enjoy freelancing as a henna artist, blending my cultural heritage with artistry. I am immensely grateful to Bold.org for offering scholarship opportunities that will help me continue my path toward making a difference as a future Physician Associate, providing compassionate care and extending access to care.

Education

University of California-San Diego

Bachelor's degree program
2018 - 2024
  • Majors:
    • Human Biology

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Master's degree program

  • Graduate schools of interest:

  • Transfer schools of interest:

  • Majors of interest:

    • Medicine
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Medicine

    • Dream career goals:

      I aspire to become a primary care Physician Associate (PA) focusing on increasing health literacy to promote community health and wellness in underserved and marginalized communities.

    • Home Health Aide

      ARS Accredited
      2019 – 20201 year
    • Intern

      Lenox Hill Neurosurgery
      2020 – 2020
    • Research Assistant

      UCSD Moores Cancer Center
      2020 – 20211 year
    • Medical Scribe

      Southern California Liver GI Center
      2021 – 20221 year
    • Clinical Research Assistant

      West Dermatology Research Center
      2022 – 20242 years

    Research

    • Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions

      UCSD Moores Cancer Center — Research Assistant
      2020 – 2021
    • Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions

      West Dermatology Research Center — Clinical Research Assistant
      2022 – 2024

    Arts

    • Freelance Henna Artist

      Drawing
      2018 – Present

    Public services

    • Advocacy

      Hanana Community Center — Volunteer Program Coordinator
      2019 – 2021
    • Volunteering

      Sharp Grossmont Hospital — Mentor and Volunteer
      2017 – 2019
    • Volunteering

      UCSD PATHS Program — Pre-PA Mentor
      2023 – Present
    • Volunteering

      Reality Changers — Alumni Volunteer
      2023 – Present

    Future Interests

    Advocacy

    Volunteering

    Philanthropy