South Middlesex Times

It’s been 10 years since the integration of schools, hospitals, departments and divisions that became Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS), a mecca of groundbreaking research, leading educational programs and community partnerships. RBHS produced its first group of graduates in 2014. From a brain cancer doctor to a research scientist, a registered nurse to a Rutgers professor, here are seven members from the inaugural graduating class.

Luis Alzate-Duque, assistant professor of medicine at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, shared his motivation for pursuing a career in the health care field, saying, "There is no better way to give back than to help contribute to the relief and healing of a patient and to help alleviate the fear, discomfort and suffering of a human at their most vulnerable."

Desmond Brown, head of the neurosurgical oncology unit at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, highlighted the rewarding aspect of his profession, stating, "It is extremely rewarding to integrate the technical expertise of complex neurosurgery with compassion so that the result is the highest quality neurosurgical care possible."

Fiona Chao, a clinical pharmacy informaticist at Northern Navajo Medical Center, emphasized the importance of exploring different pathways in the health care field and advised Rutgers Health students to talk to as many people as possible about their career paths.

Aline Holmes, a registered nurse and associate clinical professor of nursing at Rutgers School of Nursing, encouraged students to expect change and innovate in the ever-evolving health care system.

Alec Keon, a general dentist, found restorative dentistry to be fulfilling, mentioning that administrative issues can be challenging but having a great staff is crucial.

Jihaan Mutasim, a research scientist at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, highlighted the positive impact of his work on the lives of New Yorkers and advised students to stay curious and never stop learning.

William Waynor, an associate professor and program director at Rutgers School of Health Professions, expressed pride in his students' achievements and emphasized the rewarding experience of contributing to the body of knowledge in his field.

Reflecting on their time at RBHS, these graduates have gone on to make significant contributions to the health care field, each finding fulfillment in their respective professions. Their experiences serve as inspiration for current and future Rutgers Health students as they navigate their own career paths in the ever-evolving landscape of health care.