Hajer Merarda graduated this May with a major in Biological Sciences on the Pre-Health Track. While a student, she was president of the Muslim Students Association. Currently, she is working in New York City at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai as a Lab Technician.
How did you find this opportunity? Is it related to your major?
I applied to different research labs around the city! I’ve done a good amount of pre-clinical/biological cancer research in the past and know that the lab is a place I can thrive in as I prepare for the MCAT. Many pre-meds take this route during their gap years!
What are/were you most nervous/excited about as you start(ed)?
The lab I’ll be joining is known to be challenging so I’m nervous about getting the hang of things, but excited at the same time to be a part of something so life changing to so many people.
What were your most valuable resources at Fordham?
If you’re on the Pre-Health track at Fordham look out for emails from the department with networking opportunities. There’s a lot out there that they push to us, you just need to keep an eye out and take advantage of them! These events are extremely valuable for post-grad plans.
Did you do internships during your time as an undergrad?
I did! Experience and hours are essential for all career paths, especially the medical field. I interned at Memorial Sloan Kettering Center as well as Weill Cornell Medicine during my time as an undergrad.
What advice would you give others for the job search and application process?
You always need to be persistent with the things you want in life because nobody else is going to push your application and advocate for you as much as you can. Go the extra mile; look up emails, reach out, show employers how determined and dedicated you are to join their team.
In general, what are your future career goals?
My future career goals consist of becoming the best doctor I can be one day. God willing!
The Fordham Career Center is committed to building a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship while providing a bridge between the classroom experience and the world beyond. Throughout the job and internship search process, it is our goal to help students, alumni, community partners and employers alike understand the extraordinary value of a Fordham education. To learn more about our offerings and connect with the Career Center, visit fordham.edu/career.
