Alaa Ibrahim

I am a graduate of the Master of Pharmaceutical Sciences program at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, at the Universities at Shady Grove. Originally from Sudan in North Africa, I have had a longstanding passion for pharmaceutical sciences and a desire to strengthen my professional skills.

My passion began while I was earning my first degree in pharmacy. One of my favorite memories is formulating my first glycerine suppository in a laboratory. I was fascinated to learn how a medicine I remembered using as a child could be developed from the ground up. That experience sparked my interest in drug formulation and pharmaceutical technologies and inspired me to continue learning. While working as a research and development scientist for Tabuk Pharmaceuticals in Sudan, I gained valuable hands-on experience that strengthened my desire to continue advancing in the field. That experience motivated me to relocate to the United States. 

As I settled in the U.S. and explored graduate programs, I learned about USG from a student. I was drawn to UMB's strong curriculum, the convenience of taking classes at USG instead of traveling to Baltimore, and the built-in internship. During my internship with Illumina, I worked on Alzheimer's disease research using genetic data analysis. I developed new technical skills, collaborated with industry experts, and contributed to research focused on improving early disease detection. Python coursework I completed through the program helped prepare me.

Working full time while completing a full-time graduate program required balancing demanding responsibilities and overcoming mental exhaustion. Before applying, I prayed for guidance and consulted family and friends who had completed graduate studies while working full time. At the same time, the ongoing war in Sudan made it difficult to obtain my official pharmacy school transcripts. With persistence, I worked with my former dean, and UMB allowed my credentials to be verified through official emails rather than hard copies, helping me overcome a major admissions obstacle. Looking back, I couldn't be prouder of how far I've come and the perseverance it took.

Beyond the classroom, I became involved in the Biotechnology Club, where scientific sessions broadened my knowledge and introduced me to new areas of research and innovation. The club gave me a sense of community and helped relieve the stress of balancing work and graduate school. I also attended networking events and professional development sessions at USG, where I connected with professionals from organizations such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology, GSK, and other leaders in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.

Now, as a scientist at the Defense Health Agency, I support the review of investigational products used in clinical trials. My experience at USG played an important role in strengthening the knowledge and skills I bring to my work and prepared me to take on new challenges. I look forward to continuing to grow in a career dedicated to advancing pharmaceutical science and improving public health.