This winter graduate aims to transform oral healthcare
George Mason University senior, Ahnaf Akmal Navid, graduates in December with a degree in Biology. An international student from Bangladesh, his goal is to become a dentist and build a career that provides quality oral healthcare to diverse communities.
Navid plans to attend dental school and gain clinical experience in various settings. He is also determined to inspire other international students who might be discouraged by the limited opportunities in dental and medical schools.
Navid’s academic interests started with genetics and biotechnology, driven by a fascination with the way microscopic organisms can profoundly impact people’s lives. This early curiosity grew into a committed pursuit of understanding the human body, ultimately guiding him toward a career in healthcare.
Reflecting on his academic journey, Navid said, “I cannot state how grateful I am to Corey Purnell, Matthew R. McLaughlin, Michelle Melo, Joisanne Rodgers, and Charles Madden, who have helped me throughout my academic journey.”
The support and mentorship Navid received from various individuals have played a pivotal role in shaping his aspirations. In particular, his experience in the genetics lab stood out as transformative. According to him, the mentorship he received from the graduate teaching assistant, Michelle Devlin, had a profound impact on his academic development. “Her guidance was crucial,” Navid shared. “It led me to volunteer and shadow in dental clinics, reinforcing my interest in pursuing dental school.”
Navid engaged in both academic and extracurricular activities while at George Mason, working at orientation for the Office of International Programs and Services, supporting the Contemporary Student Services office (CSS), leading campus tours for the Office of Admissions, and volunteering at local shelters.
“As an introvert, it was initially challenging to make friends in large classes,” Navid said. “But the CSS lounge provided a welcoming space where I could meet mentors and like-minded students, helping me feel a sense of belonging at Mason,” he explained.
Beyond academics, Navid balanced his busy schedule with activities like Taekwondo and Muay Thai, which provided essential outlets for stress relief. “These activities taught me how to balance academics with my well-being,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to his studies.
Looking ahead, Navid said that he is excited to start his journey as a full-time dental assistant, where he can make a tangible impact on patients’ oral health while continuing to grow professionally. He will soon apply to dental schools, all while bringing his unique background and perspective to patient care. “I envision working in a diverse dental practice and eventually establishing my own clinic,” Navid said. “I want to create an environment where each patient receives personalized care and feels truly supported,” he added.
