Highlighting EIOH Resident: Dr. Mohammed Almirza
Dr. Mohammed Almirza, a new faculty member at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health (EIOH), embarked on a transformative journey that led him from his native Iraq to the heart of Rochester, New York.
Born and raised in Iraq, Dr. Almirza's dreams of becoming a pilot were soon overshadowed by a passion for dentistry. This change in career path was inspired by the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, whose philosophy of service resonated deeply with him.
In 2019, Dr. Almirza was accepted into the three-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program at EIOH. His journey at EIOH began with a preceptee program, where he honed his skills under the guidance of experienced dentists. During this time, he formed close bonds with his colleagues and mentors, relationships that would prove invaluable in the years to come.
As part of his AEGD program, Dr. Almirza spent a year doing a Community Fellowship, immersing himself in local healthcare initiatives. This experience broadened his horizons and deepened his commitment to serving his community.
In 2022, Dr. Almirza published an AADOCR poster, marking a significant milestone in his academic career. He also served as a teaching assistant for ortho and surgery during his residency, further solidifying his position as a rising star in the field of dentistry.
The EIOH experience helped Dr. Almirza grow professionally, exposing him to a wide range of dental cases and patient scenarios. It also helped him grow personally, honing his communication and interpersonal skills, developing leadership abilities, and cultivating resilience and adaptability.
One piece of advice that Dr. Almirza received during his time at EIOH was to embrace failure as a learning opportunity. This advice, combined with his natural tendency to overthink things, has shaped his approach to challenges, making him a tenacious and thoughtful practitioner.
After completing his residency at EIOH in June 2023, Dr. Almirza quickly progressed to a faculty position at the institute. Looking ahead, he plans to pursue a career in dentistry, engage in research, teach, mentor, and participate in community service programs.
When not immersed in the world of dentistry, Dr. Almirza can be found enjoying the beauty of Rochester, particularly at Ontario Beach Park. However, his greatest joy comes from spending time with his family, a bond that remains unbreakable despite the miles that separate them.
As Dr. Mohammed Almirza embarks on this new chapter in his life, he carries with him the lessons learned, the relationships formed, and the inspiration gained during his time at EIOH. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of community, and the transformative impact of education.
Engaging in the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program at EIOH facilitated Dr. Almirza's educational and self-development journey, promoting personal growth and career advancement. Throughout his AEGD program and subsequent faculty position, he immersed himself in dental research, teaching, mentoring, and community service – all contributing to his holistic development as a dental professional and averted individual.
