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Fatima P.

 

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"What does pursuing further education mean to you?"

Having CF has taught me the importance of discoveries and innovations in medicine. I am thankful to doctors and researchers for inventing extraordinary medications that help me breathe better and live longer every day. Having CF is not a gift, but it is a catalyst that has inspired me to go above and beyond traditional expectations for CF patients. My strong interest in science and math pushed me to explore the world of medicine. I attended the University of Illinois at Chicago from 2003-2006 and received a degree in Biochemistry. With this degree, I participated in medical research to help find a cure for traumatic brain injury, but I wanted more involvement with patients. I want to become a nurse practitioner not only because I love learning about the human body but because I want to be a leader and a role model for other CF patients. I want to show them that, with extra effort, life can still be exceptionally productive. It has not been easy juggling heavy science courses and medical research with CF, but I always keep in mind that innovations in medicine have helped me lead a better life and I want to use my talents to do the same for others. With hard work, motivation and the decision to not let CF get in the way, I have succeeded in my commitment to pursue science to better the lives of others and would like to continue this journey as a graduate in the field of nursing.

Fatima P.'s Artwork

Fatima P.'s Artwork


Fatima P.'s Achievements

  • "Albumin-activates the canonical TGFreceptor- smad signaling pathway but this is not required for activation of astrocytes" Accepted 2010: Journal of Experimental Neurology.
  • "MLCK upregulation in astrocytes is stimulated by albumin via p38 mitogen activated protein kinase and TGFβ receptor signaling pathways" Accepted 2011: Journal of Neuroscience Research
  • "Inhibition of Myosin Light Chain Kinase prevents blood brain barrier breakdown after closed skull traumatic brain injury in the mouse." Brain & Brian PET 2009 Conference
  • "Albumin induces expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and aquaporin 4 in rat astrocytes by a mechanism dependent on mitogen activated protein kinase pathways." Neurotrauma 2009 Conference
  • Sigma Theta Tau: Nursing Honors Society Member-2011
  • Basic Science Research Scholar In Neurocritical Care, Division of Neurology at Children's Memorial Hospital - 2007
  • Children's Memorial Hospital Research Center Summer Student Research Fellowship - 2005,2006
  • Liberal Arts and Sciences' Dean's List Scholar for 3 years
  • 2005 winner of the UIC Association Award
  • Life Source Bone Marrow Drive Organizer-Chicago 2010-2011
  • Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Organizer/Fundraiser for Great Strides Greater Chicago Walk-Chicago 2008-2011
  • Roosevelt High School Tutor
  • UIC Honors College Advisory Board- Chicago 2006-2007
  • UIC Society of Future Physicians -Chicago Fall 2005
  • UIC Honors College Tutor - Chicago Spring 2006