By Graduate Ambassador Arifur Rahman, Ph.D. candidate in pharmaceutical sciences

As an international graduate student embarking on a new chapter in my life, my journey to Wayne State University has been nothing short of transformative. Growing up in Bangladesh, I always aspired to make a meaningful impact in the world of science. The path to pursuing a Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences seemed like a distant dream until I made the monumental decision to move to the United States, a country I had only seen through pictures and stories.

Arriving on an F-1 visa as a non-immigrant student, I was filled with both excitement and apprehension. This was my first time stepping foot in the U.S., and everything felt new and exhilarating—the diverse cultures, bustling campus, and vast opportunities for learning. As a first-generation college student, I knew that this journey was a personal and academic milestone, not just for me, but for my family who had always supported my dreams.

Embracing the EACPHS community

Wayne State University’s Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences has become a true home for me during my graduate journey. Nestled in the heart of Detroit, the campus is surrounded by a vibrant neighborhood that pulses with energy and creativity.

Upon my arrival, I was struck by the warmth of the community and the friendly faces all around, which made it easy to connect with others. The supportive environment at EACPHS has played a crucial role in helping me transition to a new culture and academic landscape. It’s more than just a college; it’s a community filled with individuals who are genuinely passionate about advancing pharmaceutical sciences. My peers have also become a significant part of my experience. We share late-night study sessions, brainstorm research ideas, and celebrate each other’s milestones, big and small. Together, we’re not just colleagues—we’re a support network, celebrating our diversity and pushing each other to grow.

Creating a legacy in NAFLD research

My research journey has centered around a pressing health concern: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. As NAFLD rapidly becomes a leading cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality, I am dedicated to making transformative contributions in this area. My work focuses on uncovering the molecular drivers of NAFLD and translating these insights into actionable therapeutic strategies. I am conducting my research at the Integrative Biosciences (IBio) facility at Wayne State under the guidance of my advisor, Dr. Zhengping Yi, and co-advisor, Dr. Wangqin Liu. The IBio facility, equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, provides an ideal environment for my work. Utilizing proteomics, bioinformatics, and molecular biology techniques, I investigate the underlying mechanisms of NAFLD and its related disorders. Ultimately, my long-term goal is to contribute to the development of precision medicine approaches that enhance the diagnosis and treatment of metabolic diseases.

Celebrating achievements and involvement at WSU

My time at Wayne State has been marked by numerous achievements that have shaped my academic and personal growth. I am honored to have received the EACPHS Dean’s Endowed Recruitment Scholarship, recognizing my contributions to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion. This scholarship reflects my commitment to fostering an inclusive environment within the academic community and motivates me to advocate for underrepresented voices in our field. Additionally, I received the Frank O. Taylor Pharmacy Scholarship in 2024, acknowledging my academic excellence. My involvement in the SURGE mentorship program has also been a significant part of my experience. Additionally, I actively participate in the DEAI Committee, collaborating with others to promote inclusivity and equity within our college.

Overall, my journey at Wayne State has not only been about academic achievements but also about building connections, fostering inclusivity, and empowering others. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to grow as a leader and contribute positively to my community.