Welcome to the dedicated page for our esteemed internarional Alumni! We take immense pride in their achievements and wish to share their inspiring stories with you. This section aims not only to showcase our alumni’s experiences during their time at Medical University of Silesia, but also to highlight the brilliant medical careers they have built after leaving our institution.

Our Alumni are invaluable ambassadors, representing the values and standards of our University across the globe. Their experiences, successes, and contributions to the medical community stand as a testament to the foundation laid by Medical University of Silesia for excellence in the fields of medicine.

We invite you to explore the stories of our alumni and discover how Medical University of Silesia has contributed to their paths to professional success. Let’s celebrate their achievements together and let them serve as inspiration for future generations of students!

If you are our graduate and you wish to share your story, please contact Kasia Magiera at kmagiera@sum.edu.pl

Nabaa Adil Aziz Al Wazen, MD, Graduate of 2023

My Journey at the Medical University of Silesia When I look back at my six years at the Medical University of Silesia, it’s hard to believe how much those years have shaped me. Leaving home at 18 to pursue my dream was both exciting and challenging. I returned at 24, not just as a graduate, but as a doctor.

That journey did so much for my growth—it built my confidence, taught me self-reliance, and gave me the strength to face the world. One of the things I cherish most was the incredible diversity. I met people from different countries and formed friendships that enriched my life. The staff, too, played a huge role in making the experience so special. Many of the doctors were more than just educators—they were mentors, guiding us with kindness and treating us like equals. I never felt unwelcome or out of place, which made it easier to thrive in such a supportive environment. The university’s structure always worked in favor of the students. Whenever we faced challenges, the dean’s office was quick to help. They truly cared about our well-being, which made us feel valued as individuals, not just as students. As my final year approached, I found myself not wanting it to end. I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to the university, my friends, or the beautiful city of Katowice. Those years were some of the best of my life, and the thought of leaving the good times behind was bittersweet.

Since graduating, I’ve started my internship in Dubai and look forward to earning my board degree. But the memories of Silesia and Katowice, along with the friendships and experiences, will always stay with me. The foundation I built there has given me the confidence to take the next steps in my career, but a part of me will always miss the place where it all began.

Hafiz Muhammad Mahmood Ul Hassan, MD, Graduate of 2014

My journey in medicine began at the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Poland, a place that holds countless cherished memories. I still vividly remember my first day, where I met Ms. Ola, an incredibly kind and helpful person who would prove invaluable throughout my time there. Her warmth and support set the tone for the nurturing environment I would experience at the Medical University of Silesia.

The path to becoming a doctor was certainly challenging, with subjects like neuroscience and pathophysiology testing our limits. However, it was during these times that my passion for medicine was truly solidified. I distinctly recall the mix of anxiety and excitement as I awaited my neuroscience results on July 14, 2013—a day that turned out to be one of immense relief and joy, reaffirming my commitment to this demanding yet rewarding field.

Throughout my time at the Medical University of Silesia, I was continually impressed by the dedication and cooperation of the university staff. Their support and guidance were instrumental in my success, especially when grappling with difficult subjects like pathophysiology. It’s no wonder that my own child now aspires to follow in my footsteps at this esteemed institution, knowing the quality of education and support available there.

After earning my M.D. in 2014 from the Medical University of Silesia, I chose to specialize in General Medicine, completing my training through the Norwegian Directorate of Health in 2023. This decision was driven by my passion for providing comprehensive, holistic care to patients, a passion that was nurtured during those challenging yet rewarding days of studying complex subjects like neuroscience and pathophysiology.

To current and future medical students, especially those considering Silesia Medical University, I have some advice: embrace every learning opportunity, stay curious, and always keep the human side of medicine in mind. It doesn’t matter if you have average grades or face challenges along the way—what truly matters is your dedication, professionalism, and love for what you do. Medicine is not just about academic success; it’s about continuous growth, compassion, and commitment to your patients.

So, don’t worry if you face difficulties during your studies or if you don’t always get the top grades. Focus on becoming the best doctor you can be, and remember that your passion and dedication are what will truly make you stand out in your career.

Jennifer Cushman, MD, Graduate of 2012

I had a great experience as a medical student at the Medical University of Silesia. This Medical University provided me a great academic environment to learn and grow as a new physician in training and prepare me for the future in my career in interventional pain management.  I enjoyed my core medicine training as well as my clinical hospital rotations. I also valued the extensive culture and opportunity to learn the Polish language as part of my training program. As a physician resident in NYC, I had the opportunity to communicate to many patients in Polish. I also am grateful to all the mentors and research opportunities provided by the University.

Besides being a current Fellow at an ACGME approved program in pain management currently, I also serve as active elected delegate for the Medical State Society of NY and serve as co-chair of the Legislative Committee of NY Society of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. I was also inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society while a PGY-2 Resident at Montefiore Hospital-Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx NY.

Ian Kurland, MD, Graduate of 2021

As a medical student at the Medical University of Katowice, my journey toward becoming a doctor was both challenging and enlightening. In histology, I was fascinated by the intricate structures of cells and tissues, thanks to the expertise of professors, who made the subject come alive with their passion and deep knowledge.

In physiology, I delved into the mechanisms underlying human body functions, guided by professors who not only explained complex concepts, but also encouraged critical thinking and scientific inquiry.

Biochemistry classes were a blend of theory and practical application, led by professors who demystified biochemical processes and their relevance to human health with clarity and enthusiasm.

Anatomy sessions were perhaps the most intense, as we meticulously dissected cadavers under the guidance of experienced mentors, who emphasized precision, respect and the profound responsibility that comes with studying the human body in such detail.

During clinical rotations, I had the privilege of learning from seasoned doctors who generously shared their expertise, clinical wisdom, and compassion. Each patient encounter was a lesson in empathy, communication, and the holistic approach to patient care.

Through it all, my experience at the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, not only equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to practice medicine, but also instilled in me a deep sense of duty, humility, and reverence for the profession.