UNCF Scholarship Helped this Howard University Alumna Pursue Her Dream of Becoming a Physician
Lenah Alghali, a recent alumna from Howard University, an esteemed HBCU in Washington, DC, received the Slater-Millner Scholars Fund from UNCF during her undergraduate studies.
“The Slater-Millner scholarship was so important to my early learning as a physician,” Alghali shared. “I gained so much knowledge about the MCAT and medical school that I truly did not receive anywhere else.”
“Beyond financial support, [the scholarship] gave me access to information and preparation that has shaped the way I’m approaching my journey to becoming a doctor,” Alghali continued.
In partnership with UNCF, Dr. Nancy Slater and Dr. Alan Millner developed the scholarship to provide financial assistance to sophomores who are on a pre-med track with a demonstrated interest in serving underserved communities. The program, administered by UNCF, also offers mentorship and advising services through the Ascension Medical Educators – Aspiring Physicians Program. The Aspiring Physicians Program offers recipients monthly webinars focused on topics like professional identity, Medical College Admission Test prep and one-on-one academic advising.
Alghali majored in biology at Howard University. “I chose Howard because I wanted to be in an environment that celebrated who I am while also challenging me to grow,” she shared. “The culture, the history and the community of excellence here created a space where I felt both inspired and supported to pursue medicine.”
She is grateful for the long-lasting bonds formed at Howard. “Being surrounded by like-minded individuals who look, act and talk like me, but in their own unique versions, has been so powerful,” Alghali said. “We’re all the same in so many ways, yet so different. That balance has shaped me just as much as the academics did.”
Alghali plans to pursue a career in medicine as an obstetrician/gynecologist. Currently, she’s studying for the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and gaining research experience.
“I’d just like to share my gratitude for the opportunities, for the support I’ve received and for the chance to pursue my dream of becoming a physician,” she said. “I know the road ahead won’t be easy, but every step I’ve taken at Howard has prepared me to move forward with confidence and purpose.”
UNCF is proud of our students and alumni who have received scholarships that help them continue their education and graduate. These scholarships are invaluable to students, and UNCF is accepting donations to support students like Lenah Alghali in their academic endeavors.