Science and Compassion
Nada Moussaid '27 plans a career in dentistry. She also uses her Arabic-language skills to tutor local refugees.
Student Snapshot: Nada Moussaid ’27
“Stay curious and lead with compassion, especially if you’re pursuing a path in healthcare or the sciences,” advises Nada Moussaid ’27. It’s a strategy that serves her well as a biochemistry & molecular biology major and a volunteer tutor and patient advocate. Below, Moussaid discusses the internship that inspired her to pursue a career in dentistry and her joy in combining her interests in medicine and languages through her work with Arabic-speaking communities in the Carlisle area.
Hometown:
Mechanicsburg, Pa.
High school:
Cedar Cliff High School.
Major:
Biochemistry & molecular biology, with a minor in Arabic.
Best thing about my Dickinson experience so far:
Getting to serve the community through different campus organizations and meeting people from all around the world. I’ve loved being able to blend my interests in science and language, especially when working with Arabic-speaking communities in the Carlisle area. These experiences have made my time at Dickinson feel genuinely meaningful and really rewarding.
Best thing about my major:
How it constantly pushes me to think deeply about the biological processes that keep us alive. It’s helped me appreciate just how complex the human body is and how even tiny molecular changes can have such big effects on our health. Learning this has strengthened my problem-solving skills and confirmed my passion for pursuing a career in dentistry, where I can use this scientific understanding to help people directly.
On choosing Dickinson:
I chose Dickinson because it offered the perfect balance of strong academics and a close-knit, community-focused environment. I love staying close to home while studying on a globally minded campus. I was also drawn to Dickinson’s Arabic program and the fact that I’m able to pursue both science and language together.
Favorite class:
One of my favorite classes has been BIO 132: Intro to Molecules, Genes, and Cells. This was my first biology class at Dickinson, and it inspired me to major in biochemistry & molecular biology.
Favorite professor:
Senior Lecturer in Middle East Studies Mohammad Abu Shuleh’s class is always the highlight of my week. His sense of humor and supportive teaching style have made learning Arabic enjoyable. He’s helped me grow as a person by building my confidence and curiosity.
About my internship:
I had the opportunity to intern at the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center and the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. I got to observe a variety of complex cases, from orthognathic surgeries and TMJ reconstruction to head- and neck-cancer treatments. Observing alongside residents and dental students in both the clinic and the operating room gave me a firsthand look at the surgical and clinical sides of dentistry and taught me a lot about patient care and teamwork.
Post-Dickinson plans:
I plan to attend dental school and potentially specialize in oral and maxillofacial surgery. This goal was inspired by my internship at the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center.
Advice for younger students:
My advice to current and future Dickinson students is to stay curious and lead with compassion, especially if you’re pursuing a path in healthcare or the sciences. Some of the most meaningful lessons happen beyond the classroom, when you connect with people whose experiences differ from your own. Use what you learn here not just to build a career but to make a difference in the lives of others, because science and service are most powerful when they work together.
Clubs and organizations:
Muslim Educational and Cultural Association (MECA, executive member), Arabic Club (executive member), Multilingual Writing Center (tutor), Pre-Health Society, UPMC Harrisburg (patient advocate liaison/volunteer) and the Immigration and Refugee Services, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Harrisburg (ESL tutor/volunteer).
Honors/scholarships/awards:
Dean’s List, Provost Scholarship and UPMC Service Award.
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Published June 9, 2026