Promise Scholar- Belsem Aldiney
Author: Giselle Martinez
Meet Belsem Aldiney, a Promise Scholar, on her path to becoming a pharmacist at Ferris State University. Aldiney developed a passion for medicine inspired by her childhood dream of making a difference.
At first, Aldiney was unsure whether to pursue a career in dentistry or pharmacy. However, everything became apparent when she visited an expo center showcasing the pharmacy field. She found the chemistry behind medications fascinating and realized pharmacy was the perfect fit for her.
She started her education at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, where she completed her prerequisite courses. Later, she became a guest student at Western Michigan University and then transition to Ferris State University. Aldiney stated that during her time at Valley, she was close to receiving an associate but decided against it.
Financial aid played a crucial role in Aldiney's journey. The Kalamazoo Promise and the Kalamazoo Valley Accelerated Associate Program (KVAAP) covered her tuition, fees, books, and supplies, easing her financial burden. Additionally, grants and scholarships like The Tuition Incentive Program (TIP) further supported her academic pursuits.
Aldiney's academic path encompassed much more than her coursework. She committed herself deeply to extracurricular activities, pouring her time and effort into numerous organizations. Her outstanding leadership abilities came to the forefront as the Vice President of the College of Pharmacy (COP) for the class of 2025. In this role, Aldiney emerged as a key representative for her peers, communicating student concerns to professors and the Dean of College of Pharmacy at Ferris State University, organizing events, and facilitating the establishment of scholarships. She was also Vice President of the Arab American Pharmacy Association (AAPA) and actively organized and participated in cultural showcases and educational seminars during important cultural months and events like Ramadan. Her efforts brought together students from various backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and mutual respect. These events not only highlighted the rich traditions of Arab culture but also educated her peers about the significance of these observances in a supportive and inclusive environment.
In addition to her role as Vice President of COP and AAPA, Aldiney was a representative in the Student Michigan Pharmacy Association. She also was involved in the Alumni Board for Ferris graduates and takes pride in her membership in the Rho Chi Honor Society, a distinction achieved by only the top 20% of her class. Aldiney fully embraced being a driven and dedicated student leader, deeply engaged in enriching her academic and community environment.
At Ferris State University, Aldiney found a supportive community in student organizations. She was able to embrace her leadership skills and continue to find passion for the career path that she had chosen. As an Arab-American, connecting with her culture was vital. Despite being one of the few wearing a hijab in her class, Aldiney's friends embraced her culture and respected her experiences.
Despite the exhilaration of her career prospects, Aldiney faced the common challenge of 'College Burnout'. Balancing her studies, extracurricular activities, and social life was no easy task. However, she found comfort in self-care practices and the unwavering support of her friends and family. Making time to reconnect with her loved ones in Kalamazoo was a priority, reminding her of the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Looking forward, Aldiney intends to relocate to Texas to continue her career as a pharmacist and complete her one-year residency. She aspires to work with patients at a hospital.
When asked for advice on going into pharmacy, she said, "Use all your resources—counselors, scholarships, and any organizations that focus on what you are interested in."
Know a scholar whose story should be shared? Contact gmartinez@kalamazoopromise.com for more information.