Name: Aisha Malik
Year: 2nd
Major: Public Health Sciences
Position: Public Relations
Biography: This is my first year as a DIM coordinator, and I am beyond excited to be a part of the team! Having lived in both the United States and Pakistan, I was able to witness the stark contrast between the healthcare systems, opening my eyes to the racial stigmas, disparities, and class exploitations faced by many in underserved communities. Drawing upon these experiences, I’ve further developed my interest in understanding the intersection between humanity and healthcare through my studies at UCI. When I’m not driving around the expansive city of Los Angeles or exploring OC, you can find me trying new boba places, spending time at the beach, or hanging out with my friends.
What Diversity Means to Me: To me, diversity is so much more than the idea of inclusion. Though inclusion is essential to ensuring that all individuals regardless of their race, gender, religion, or income are treated the same, diversity is also the idea of taking the time to learn, accept, and embrace one another for what makes us unique – a key factor in breaking down stigmas and cultivating welcoming experiences.
What I Gained From the Class: There’s no doubt that medicine is the field responsible for diagnosis and healing, but aspects of access, quality, and disparities are often overlooked. Through DIM, I’ve been able to learn how these characteristics impact individuals on a day-to-day basis and how medicine is deeply rooted in the various systems that surround it.