Dr. Shahid Islam - letter from a UToledo alum
January 19, 2024
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Biological Science Students: A Journey of Perseverance and Achievement
Embarking on the odyssey within the realm of biological sciences in 1993 at the University of Toledo was akin to setting sail into uncharted waters, a momentous undertaking fueled by the challenges of adapting to a new country and culture. Every facet of this unfamiliar environment presented a unique experience, molding my path and gifting me invaluable insights.
Under the mentorship of distinguished figures like Dr. William L. Bischoff, the Chair of the Department of Biology, and my mentors, Dr. Margaret J. Wheelock and Keith R. Johnson, the bedrock of this transformative journey was laid. These luminaries played pivotal roles in my evolution into the accomplished professional I am today, providing immense support during the demanding phases of entering graduate school and securing a position in a medical residency program.
Throughout the trials of graduate and professional training, friends emerged as steadfast anchors, with Dr. Robin Arnett standing out as a remarkable companion during my intense preparation for the USMLEs. Yet, the unyielding anchor remained my beloved wife, my high school sweetheart, and now the cornerstone of my family, alongside our two wonderful daughters.
My journey unfolded through rigorous stages of PhD studies at the University of Toledo, followed by residency and fellowship trainings in Surgical Pathology (Breast and Gynecologic cancer) at the Medical College of Ohio, Toledo, and a subsequent fellowship in Cytopathology at the University of Texas, Southwest Medical Centre at Dallas. The zenith of this journey saw me in roles as a clinician at the Northwestern Memorial Hospital and as an Assistant Professor at the Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, in Chicago, Illinois.
This experience underscored the pivotal role of family, as my wife and daughters became the bedrock during uncertain times. With over two decades of experience, I now stand as an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa, a Clinician Scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI) and as a senior staff physician at the Ottawa Hospital and Eastern Ontario Regional Administration (EORLA) with certifications from the American Board of Medical Specialties and recognition as a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC). This is a testament to the power of resilience and unwavering commitment.
Leadership roles in pathology demonstrate my dedication to shaping the future of the discipline. Serving as the Chair of the Cytopathology Specialty Committee at RCPSC, I contribute to national standards. As the Director of the Residency Training Program at the University of Ottawa, I had the pleasure of nurturing the next generation of physicians.
In conclusion, the journey from a tentative graduate student to an accomplished professional is marked by resilience, endless support, and tenacious commitment to excellence. Dear students, remember that challenges are inevitable, but it is through resilience and resolute commitment that you forge your path to success. Embrace the support of your family, for they will be your constant anchor in the unpredictable seas of life. As you navigate your academic and professional journey, hold onto the belief that your dedication will be the driving force behind your accomplishments. To aspiring biological science students, I offer these words of wisdom: embrace hard work, pursue your aspirations with focus, view failures as opportunities, and never let discouragement deter you. Reflect, learn, and above all, never give up. Take time for self- care, for it is in the balance of personal and professional life that true success is found.
Regards,
Shahid Islam MD, PhD, FRCPC, FCAP