SARAH REHMAN

Dedicated pre-medical student with clinical experience as a medical assistant, cardiovascular research experience at the University of Houston College of Pharmacy, and physician shadowing across multiple specialties. Demonstrated leadership through founding Brown Girls Run Club and extensive community service supporting underserved populations. Having financed my education through employment while pursuing academics, research, and service, I have developed the resilience, empathy, and commitment necessary for a career in medicine. I aspire to become a physician dedicated to improving patient outcomes through compassionate, evidence-based care.

• Financed 100% of undergraduate educational expenses through employment while pursuing a full-time degree
• Graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems while completing pre-medical coursework
• Selected for internship opportunities with Optum and LyondellBasell
• Conducted cardiovascular research in the McConnell Laboratory at the University of Houston College of Pharmacy

• Co-Founder and Community Organizer of Brown Girls Run Club, a community-focused wellness organization promoting fitness, inclusivity, and social connection
• Served as a University of Houston Ambassador, representing the university to prospective students and families
• Held multiple leadership positions throughout high school, including Student Body Vice President and Founder/President of the Red Cross Club

• Long-term volunteer with Citizens for Animal Protection
• Provided educational support and mentorship to refugee families through community and masjid volunteer programs
• Participated in food bank and homeless shelter service initiatives supporting underserved populations

• Balanced full-time employment, pre-med coursework, clinical experience, research, leadership activities, and community service throughout college
• Fluent in English, Urdu, and Hindi, enabling communication with diverse patient populations and communities

• American Medical Student Association (AMSA)
• Member
• Participated in physician panels, networking opportunities, and professional development events
• Explored current issues in medicine and healthcare
• Society of Future Medical Professionals
• Engaged with healthcare professionals and medical school representatives
• Attended educational events focused on careers in medicine
• Management Information Systems Organization (MISSO)
• University of Houston

• OSHA Certification
• AutoCAD

Michael D. Kent, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon

Houston, Texas | April 2022 – August 2022

Total Hours: ~ 80 hours

Key Observations:

• Observed patient evaluations, diagnostic assessments, and treatment planning for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions.
• Learned how X-ray imaging is used to diagnose orthopedic injuries and degenerative joint diseases.
• Gained insight into the indications, benefits, and limitations of knee replacement surgery and other orthopedic interventions.
• Observed steroid injections and other non-surgical treatment approaches used to manage pain and improve function.
• Witnessed physician-patient discussions regarding treatment options, risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
• Developed an understanding of how insurance requirements, prior authorizations, and healthcare systems can impact patient care and treatment decisions.
• Observed the importance of patient education, shared decision-making, and long-term management of orthopedic conditions.
• Learned how physicians balance clinical judgment, imaging findings, patient preferences, and healthcare system constraints when developing treatment plans.

Tarek Fakhouri, MD, Dermatologist 

Houston, Texas | August 2023 – November 2023

Total Hours: ~ 65 hours

Key Observations: 

• Observed the diagnosis and management of a wide range of dermatologic conditions in both medical and procedural settings.
• Learned how dermatologists identify suspicious skin lesions through clinical examination and dermatoscopic evaluation.
• Gained exposure to the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.
• Observed skin biopsies, lesion removals, and other in-office dermatologic procedures used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
• Witnessed discussions regarding skin cancer prevention, sun protection, early detection, and patient education.
• Learned the importance of visual pattern recognition and detailed physical examination in dermatologic diagnosis.
• Observed how pathology findings are integrated with clinical assessments to guide treatment decisions.
• Developed an appreciation for the role dermatologists play in both preventive medicine and the early detection of potentially life-threatening disease.
• Witnessed the importance of building patient trust when discussing cosmetic concerns, chronic skin conditions, and cancer diagnoses.

Raza Pasha, MD Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose & Throat)

Houston, Texas | January 2023- February 2023

Total Hours: 30–40 Hours

• Observed the evaluation and management of disorders involving the ear, nose, throat, head, and neck.
• Learned how patient history, physical examination, imaging, and diagnostic testing are used to identify ENT conditions.
• Gained exposure to common conditions including sinus disease, hearing disorders, nasal obstruction, allergies, voice disorders, and sleep-related breathing conditions.
• Observed in-office procedures and examinations used to assess upper airway anatomy and function.
• Witnessed physician-patient discussions regarding both medical and surgical treatment options.
• Developed an understanding of the multidisciplinary nature of ENT care and its impact on quality of life, communication, breathing, and hearing.
• Learned how physicians balance patient symptoms, diagnostic findings, and treatment goals when developing individualized care plans.
• Observed the importance of patient education and long-term management for chronic ENT conditions.

Abou-Khamis Tareq A., MD Rheumatology

Houston, Texas| June 2023- September 2023

Total Hours: 35–40 Hours

• Observed the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, osteoarthritis, and other rheumatologic conditions.
• Learned how laboratory testing, imaging studies, physical examinations, and patient history are integrated to diagnose complex chronic illnesses.
• Witnessed the long-term management of patients with chronic autoimmune diseases and the importance of continuity of care.
• Gained exposure to biologic therapies, immunosuppressive medications, and other treatment approaches used to manage rheumatologic conditions.
• Observed physician-patient discussions regarding treatment plans, medication management, disease progression, and quality-of-life considerations.
• Developed an understanding of the challenges patients face living with chronic pain, inflammation, and autoimmune disease.
• Learned the importance of patient education, medication adherence, and multidisciplinary care in managing chronic illnesses.
• Observed how physicians integrate clinical findings, laboratory results, imaging studies, and patient-reported symptoms to develop individualized treatment plans.

Abigail Rodriguez, MD Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (ACPS)

Houston, Texas| May 2025- June 2025

Total Hours: 25–35 Hours

• Observed patient consultations, evaluations, and treatment planning for both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures.
• Learned how plastic surgeons balance functional outcomes, aesthetics, patient goals, and overall quality of life when developing treatment plans.
• Gained exposure to pre-operative and post-operative patient care, including patient education and recovery expectations.
• Observed physician-patient discussions regarding surgical risks, benefits, alternatives, and expected outcomes.
• Developed an understanding of the role of plastic surgery in restoring form and function following injury, disease, or congenital conditions.
• Witnessed the importance of attention to detail, precision, and individualized treatment planning in surgical specialties.
• Learned how surgeons build trust with patients when discussing highly personal concerns related to appearance, reconstruction, and self-confidence.
• Observed the integration of anatomy, surgical technique, and patient-centered care in achieving optimal outcomes.

Henry A. Patronella, MD Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery (ACPS)

Houston, Texas| May 2025- June 2025

Total Hours: 10 Hours

• Observed patient consultations and surgical treatment planning in a plastic and reconstructive surgery practice.
• Learned how surgeons evaluate patient goals, medical history, and anatomical considerations when determining appropriate treatment options.
• Witnessed discussions regarding surgical risks, benefits, expected outcomes, and informed consent.
• Gained exposure to both reconstructive and aesthetic aspects of plastic surgery and their impact on patient quality of life.
• Observed the importance of attention to detail, precision, and individualized patient care in achieving successful surgical outcomes.
• Developed an understanding of how plastic surgeons balance functional needs, aesthetic considerations, and patient expectations.
• Learned about the significant role physician communication and trust play in helping patients make informed healthcare decisions.
• Observed the multidisciplinary nature of surgical care, including patient evaluation, procedure planning, and post-operative management.