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Pilot and Future Physician: Deena Ragab Mohamed


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Like many of us growing up, Deena saw herself in multiple careers, ranging from a flight attendant to a WNBA player. She was born in an impoverished part of Indianapolis' west side, raised by her Arabic-speaking immigrant parents. At the age of seven, Deena's sister Nora was diagnosed with a grade I astrocytoma and recommended to St. Jude in Memphis, Tennessee, for a treatment study that consisted of daily appointments for a decade. Watching the physicians treating Nora with their attention to detail and care for Nora's symptoms contrasted drastically with Nora's pediatrician, who minimized her concerns, resulting in Nora's loss of vision in one eye. Deena actively took notes during Nora's appointments, preparing questions for the next one to understand astrocytoma, helping her cope with Nora's diagnosis. 


From 2008 to 2013, Deena pursued a Bachelor of Science in Biology at Purdue University and applied to medical school during her final year. She was promptly rejected from all the schools she applied to because her academic metrics were not high enough. 


Deena traveled to Egypt after graduation, and her uncle Hosam was the captain of the flight. He asked her to sit in the jump seat, a seat in the cockpit reserved for anyone not flying the plane. After feeling so free in the air, Deena realized she wanted to be both a pilot and a physician. She enrolled at Indiana State University Flight Academy, managing her course load of aviation and pre-medical courses much more efficiently. Deena felt more confident about applying to medical schools again, adjusting her approach. This time around, she asked friends to look over her application and provide recommendations for her personal statement. Her graduate school mentors also reviewed her application, in contrast to her first time applying, when no one saw her final application. These changes led to her becoming a current medical student at the Indiana University School of Medicine. She aspires to pursue a career in emergency medicine. 


Her advice to pre-medical students emphasizes the importance of never giving up on yourself and leaning on others for support. She mentions not taking no for an answer if you are committed to your goal, and prioritizing your wellness. 


Thank you for reading,

Siri Nikku 



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