Rodwan Ibrahim

As a Somali immigrant, spent the early years in Somalia before relocating to Syria for three years. During that time, was given the opportunity to attend school, and learned the language and gained the reading and writing skills. Upon moving to America, embarked on a journey of education and personal growth. Currently, pursuing a Master's degree in Biology at the University at Buffalo, with aspirations of attending dental school upon completion of the MA degree. My experiences have shaped my determination and passion for academic excellence, and I am eager to contribute to the field of dentistry in the future.

RESEARCH: 

Oral Biology, Biomedical Engineering & Surgery, University at Buffalo 2/2023-5/25

• Conducting research aimed at creating a laser-assisted atraumatic extractions in osteoporotic elderly patients
• Presented research and final paper in lab meetings and at 3 science symposia

INTERNSHIPS:

UB SUNY, CSTEP Campus Health Educator Buffalo, NY

Jan 2022 - May 2022

• Engaged in a service-learning partnership with ConnectLife, WNY's organ, eye, tissue, and community blood center.
• Led efforts to increase organ donor registry and blood donation participation among campus peers and the Buffalo community.
• As campus educators, we were tasked with creating awareness and educating campus peers and the Buffalo community regarding the importance of blood and organ donation - a critical health issue.
• Organized and conducted lectures on blood and organ donation across campus
• Coordinated blood drives and organ donation awareness events to promote critical health issues.

ACADEMIC PROJECTS:

UB SUNY, VAX WNY Research Consortium Buffalo, NY

Apr 2021 - Jun 2021

• Served as team leader, overseeing data validation processes to ensure accuracy and integrity.
• Researched methods to improve Covid-19 vaccine administration, addressing vaccine hesitancy concerns.
• Provided solutions to increase vaccination rates by addressing concerns and implementing strategies to overcome barriers.

Catholic Health, Buffalo, NY
General Volunteer
Jul 2021 - Aug 2022

• Assisted with office tasks such as message handling, document scanning, and phone inquiries.
• Maintained accurate records of volunteer hours using spreadsheets.
• Facilitated the delivery of test results and other items throughout the hospital.
• Provided support by delivering food to patients' rooms and assisting patient families in locating their accommodations.
• Engaged regularly with patients, offering companionship and support to brighten their hospital experience.
• Ensured a positive environment by conversing with patients, striving to enhance their well-being and bring smiles to their faces.
• Took time during breaks to converse with patients about their day and find ways to improve their happiness during their hospital stay, which consistently brought smiles to both them and me.
• Total hours: 150+

• Language & Computer Skills: Proficient in English, Somali, Mai-Mai; Intermediate in Arabic. Skilled in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Lab Skills: Operating lasers (Er,Cr:YSGG, CO₂, and Diode)
• Interests: Biking, hiking, snowboarding, soccer, basketball, chess, and stand-up comedy.