May 13, 2026
With our commencement ceremonies set for Saturday, May 16, we’re highlighting a few of the incredible students who will soon be alumni of the Mizzou College of Health Sciences.
Read on to learn more about Dina Al Bahhash of Columbia, Missouri, who is completing a Bachelor of Health Science in Health Science with a pre-professional emphasis.
Dina Al Bahhash
Degree: BHS in Health Science, pre-professional emphasis
Hometown: Columbia, Missouri
Favorite quote:
“Drive safe when you do.” It might sound like a random quote, but it’s always been really meaningful to me. I truly believe that anything can happen in an instant, and to me it’s a reminder to always lead with kindness, whether that’s face-to-face or even from behind the wheel.
What does graduating from the Mizzou College of Health Sciences mean to you?
This degree means so much to me. While I’m also graduating with a degree in Biological Sciences, I truly believe my Health Science degree helped shape me into a more compassionate and empathetic future healthcare provider.
What was one of your favorite classes within your degree track?
My favorite class was definitely my internship course. I had the opportunity to intern at City of Refuge as a youth specialist, where I worked closely with children from backgrounds very different from my own. At the same time, I saw so much of myself in them, especially the scared little girl I was when I first moved to Columbia. Being able to provide even a small sense of comfort and support meant everything to me.
What activities have you been involved in along the way?
I have had the privilege of being involved in several organizations and experiences that have shaped my perspective on healthcare and community. Serving on the executive board of Mizzou Students for Justice in Palestine helped me understand the importance of advocacy and outreach, while the Muslim Student Organization allowed me to build a strong community at Mizzou. I was also involved in the Mizzou Minority Association of Pre-Health Students and worked in a pediatric obesity research lab, which introduced me to the research side of medicine and opened my eyes to a different aspect of healthcare.
Who helped you during your college journey?
Without a doubt, my amazing family and friends. These degrees are just as much theirs as they are mine. They were there through every stressful exam, every late-night study session, and every moment of laughter along the way. I truly would not be where I am today without their endless love and support.
What memories stand out from your time at Mizzou?
What I’ll miss most are the simple moments, like sitting in the student center with friends and talking about the most random things imaginable. College taught me not only how to work hard, but also how important it is to appreciate the quiet, ordinary moments just as much as the hectic ones.
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to apply to medical school this June and hopefully become either a pediatric neurologist or pediatric cardiologist. I’m still deciding between the two!
What advice do you have for current and future students?
Allow yourself to laugh, cry, and feel every emotion fully. Even when life feels overwhelming, you are always stronger than you think, and you will persevere.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Be kind to others, but just as importantly, be kind to yourself.