Saniya Ahmed came to Wichita State where she found her ideal major in health sciences and many scholarship opportunities. Since coming to Wichita State, she has helped establish the first Muslim sorority on campus, and in the nation, Mu Delta Alpha Sorority Inc., and been awarded the Phenomenal Women award by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion.

Saniya is one of more than 3,500 students eligible for spring 2021 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad.

I will earn a Bachelor of Science in Health Science with minors in Chemistry and Biology through the College of Health Professions, and I will earn an Honors Baccalaureate degree with concentrations in Spanish, Psychology, and Health Administration through the Honors College. 

What led you to Wichita State to begin?

The scholarship opportunities and my major in Health Sciences was ideal for me. I loved the courses offered and I knew the Public Health Sciences department would be my family and home at WSU. 

How are you feeling leading up to graduation?

I am very excited. I feel grateful and blessed for my experiences here at Wichita State.  My professors, advisors and peers really helped me become who I am today. I am so proud of everything I have contributed to the campus.

What has been your most helpful learning experience while a student at Wichita State?

One of the most helpful learning experiences at Wichita State has been my Honors Thesis research for my Honors Baccalaureate degree. I researched culture and language diversity education in the obstetrics course at the WSU School of Nursing. I had the opportunity to provide evidence-based recommendations to enhance students' learning on culture and language diversity. 

What was been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?

I enjoy being active on campus, so it was difficult to balance all my organizations and school commitments. My advisors and mentors encouraged me to prioritize my studies while pursing my passions in a smaller capacity with a few organizations instead of a dozen.

What are your plans after graduation?

Upon graduation, I plan to attend the University of Kansas-Wichita to pursue the Master of Public Health program, and eventually attend medical school to become a primary care physician and work in underserved areas.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your time at Wichita State or your post-graduation plans?

The pandemic has really impacted the social aspect of my senior year, but I am privileged to volunteer on the frontlines with other healthcare professionals. Ultimately, the pandemic has deepened my desires to work with vulnerable populations and fueled my passion for health care.

What advice would you give other Wichita State students?

Always pour your heart into everything you do, and let your gifts and passions decide how you can give back to your community in a meaningful way.