Doha, Qatar – Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) recently concluded its fall Medical Career Seminar series, offering valuable insights into diverse medical specialties for both foundation and pre-medical students. The seminars, featuring distinguished alumni and faculty, aimed to guide students as they explore potential career paths within the evolving field of medicine. This year’s format also included an innovative “mystery” medical case component to enhance student engagement.
The series, held throughout the fall semester, provided a platform for experienced physicians to share their personal journeys and professional expertise. Presentations tackled a broad range of specializations and highlighted the increasing influence of technological advancements like artificial intelligence on healthcare practices. Attendees benefited from direct interaction through Q&A sessions following each presentation.
Exploring a Future in Medicine with WCM-Q’s Career Seminars
Dr. Javaid Sheikh, Dean and Professor of Psychiatry and Population Health Sciences at WCM-Q, emphasized the importance of early career exploration for aspiring medical professionals. According to Dr. Sheikh, understanding the impact of emerging technologies like AI is crucial as the field of medicine undergoes rapid transformation. The seminars are designed to help students navigate these changes and identify areas of particular interest.
Several WCM-Q alumni contributed to the series, sharing their experiences in various specialties. Dr. Tania Jaber (Class of 2011), an endocrinologist at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), presented alongside Dr. Sulaiman Al Shakhs (Class of 2021), a psychiatrist also at HMC and a clinical associate at WCM-Q.
Other alumni speakers included Dr. Salah Majid Mahmoud (Class of 2023), currently a resident in otolaryngology and head and neck surgery at HMC, and Dr. Mohamed Al-Hajjaji (Class of 2016), Associate Program Director for Pediatric Residency and Fellowship Programs at Sidra Medicine. Dr. Tala Abu Samaan (Class of 2024) shared her insights as an internal medicine resident at Tufts Medical Center in the United States.
Expanding Reach Through Virtual Sessions
Recognizing the global reach of its alumni network, WCM-Q incorporated a live online session featuring Dr. Nour Barakat (Class of 2014). Dr. Barakat, an ophthalmologist specializing in cornea and oculoplasty practicing in Australia, brought a unique perspective to the series, highlighting international career opportunities within healthcare.
The addition of the “mystery” medical case component was a new initiative designed to actively involve students in the learning process. Guest speakers presented brief, challenging cases, prompting students to apply their knowledge and engage in diagnostic reasoning. This interactive approach aimed to simulate real-world clinical scenarios and foster critical thinking skills.
Dr. Marco Ameduri, Associate Professor of Physics and Senior Associate Dean for Pre-Medical Education and Education City collaborative curricular affairs, noted the value of hearing from successful graduates pursuing diverse paths. He stated that their stories provide crucial perspectives for current students, particularly those considering specialized medical training.
Dr. Rachid Bendriss, Associate Dean for Foundation, Student Outreach and Educational Development Programmes at WCM-Q, echoed this sentiment. He highlighted the importance of personal experiences in shaping aspiring doctors and encouraging early consideration of future career goals. The seminars provide crucial mentorship opportunities for students.
Attendance was targeted towards students in relevant interest groups and extended to participants from the Academic Bridge Programme (ABP) – Qatar Foundation. This inclusive approach ensured a broad range of students could benefit from the discussions and insights offered by the medical professionals.
WCM-Q plans to continue the Medical Career Seminar series in the spring semester, with a focus on emerging areas within medicine and potential research opportunities. The continued involvement of alumni and faculty is expected to provide ongoing support and guidance to students as they chart their course toward becoming physicians. Further details regarding future seminar topics and schedules will be announced through WCM-Q’s official channels.
