Ghazala Saleem

"In a society that encourages women to adorn themselves with jewels, I was adorning myself with books."

  • Program: 2007 Graduate Scholarship Recipient
  • Hometown: Mound City, MO

Biography

 

As a female in Pakistan, Ghazala Saleem saw herself taking a path that diverged from the one her culture dictated. "I was fortunate to have very supportive and loving parents who never differentiated between me and my brothers. I was given equal opportunities to learn and excel in life." Ghazala eventually left for the United States, hoping to build an active and valuable life for herself. But she suffered an extremely painful and life alternating experience at a young age. However, she refused to let her life defined by a tragedy. Ghazala mustered courage to move forward again. "My optimism gave me strength. Since a very young age, I had the burning desire to earn a degree in a healthcare field and help others."
Ghazala restarted her journey on a different healthcare path. Then, clinical work in a skilled-care facility introduced her to the rehabilitation field. Ghazala switched her major to psychology, planning to use a holistic approach to address patients' physical and psychological needs. She conducted several independent research projects beyond her classroom work, and presented two papers at undergraduate research conferences. Ghazala volunteered and worked as a tutor, and took class notes for disabled classmates at Missouri Western. "Patience, perseverance, and independence are very important in occupational therapy." As Ghazala herself has those characteristics, she feels confident that she will be successful and fulfilled in her career choice.
With the aid of scholarships and grants, Ghazala obtained her bachelor's degree, graduating summa cum laude. Her unfortunate circumstance had left her without financial assets. With this scholarship, Ghazala can minimize hours spent working and her student loans, and focus on her graduate study and a career of service. "I believe that this profession contributes greatly to society, bringing hope and optimism to people."

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