Yaser Ahmad, a biomedical sciences major and student at the Burnett Honors College, recently received one of UCF's most prestigious honors, the Order of Pegasus. Yaser feels that this award serves as a testament of the enormous impact that his professors, peers, and family have made on him during his time at UCF and the BHC.
What does receiving the Order of Pegasus mean to you?
Receiving the Order of Pegasus award is a tremendous honor. I truly view it as a means to not only recognize my own success, but, more importantly, celebrate the amazing role models and mentors I have had throughout my time at UCF.
How did you achieve this honor?
Throughout my time at UCF, I have had the pleasure of participating in a wide array of activities. I have been extensively involved in undergraduate research focused on craniofacial and brain morphometry and have been able to present and publish my work. Recognizing the profound impact conducting research has had on me, I later joined the Office of Undergraduate Research’s Student Undergraduate Research Council to share my experiences with fellow students and encourage them to also get involved with research.
With a passion for advocating for others, I also participated in the Clinton Global Initiative University program with my project on increasing undergraduate retention rates for first-generation students. I was later chosen to serve as the campus representative at UCF for this program. In addition, I participated in the UCF surgical internship as an intern and was later chosen to serve as the assistant director. Lastly, I greatly enjoy teaching and have served as a teaching assistant in four upper-level undergraduate courses in the Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences.
What is your favorite book?
One of my favorite books is When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi. It was a very inspiring book that showcased the intricacies of being a physician and patient. It has strengthened my desire to pursue medicine, and I recommend the book to everyone.
What is your long-term goal, and how will the Order of Pegasus help you get there?
My long-term goal, and life-long dream, is to become a physician and advocate for the health of all. The Order of Pegasus award will undoubtedly help me achieve this goal, as it has reinforced the idea that I can achieve any of my goals if I exhibit excellence in all that I do.
What advice do you have for others who may want to achieve the Order of Pegasus?
Be involved in activities you are passionate about. As such a large university, UCF offers a plethora of opportunities that are bound to fit one’s interests. With that being said, do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. There is an immense amount of growth and development one can achieve from trying out a new activity or opportunity.