Atif Qureshi is a first-year student studying biomedical engineering at the University of Iowa (UI). Originally from Kenya, he talks about why he chose the UI and related experiences in the following Q&A piece. 

What prompted you to pursue your undergraduate studies at the UI? 

Out of the 15 schools I applied to, the University of Iowa offered one of the best, if not the best, admissions experience. I grew up in a small town far away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Therefore, I have been used to getting things tailored specifically to my needs and that was exactly what attracted me to the UI.  

Can you tell us more about your experience working with the UI Office of Admissions during your application process? 

My assigned admissions officer, Becky Hanson, didn’t mind the hundreds of emails from me inquiring about the university. Additionally, after I accepted the offer of admission, the steps for me to take in terms of housing arrangements and visa applications were laid out very clearly by her. 

How is your experience as a first-year international student on campus? 

I have been feeling at home here. With smaller class sizes, I am excited about having one-on-one relationships with my professors. I also found friends that connect me to my Pakistani heritage by joining the Pakistani Student Association. Growing up, I always loved playing soccer and wrestling, so I joined the soccer and wrestling clubs to continue my passions at Iowa, too. 

With more than 600 clubs and student organizations on campus, it is hard not to find something that interests you! At the same time, with the campus seamlessly integrating into downtown and the Iowa City community, anything that a university student could need is no further than a 15-minute walk away. 

What is your future career goal? 

My goal is to become a doctor. I have been taking advantage of the resources and programs offered by the University of Iowa. I major in biomedical engineering with a focus area in pre-medicine, which allows me to focus on classes that prepare me to apply for medical schools in the future. Speaking of extra-curricular activities, I am part of Medicus, a pre-medicine student organization that offers the members opportunities to visit local hospitals and to get weekly talks from doctors and medical school students on tips and tricks to set us up successfully in the medical field. 

International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement.  IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.