Student Spotlight: Raniah Al Bayati, Alpha Chi Honor Society Scholar and Future Dentist

Meet Raniah Al Bayati

Major/Program: Forensic Science
Minor: Biology and Chemistry
Graduation: April 2020
College Activities: Alpha Chi Honor Society, Pre-Medical Club, Forensic Science Club and Criminal Justice Club
Scholarships: Transfer Presidential
Hometown: Baghdad, Iraq
High School: Fox Chapel Area High School
Now Living In: Pittsburgh, Pa.
Dream Job: Dentist
Hobbies & Interests: Photography, reading and exercise

"We are very proud of Raniah for presenting her academic work and receiving Edward L. Davis Award. She is the first Alpha Chi member to be so honored!"

Helen Fallon, M.A., professor of journalism, and Brendan Mullan, Ph.D., assistant professor of physics

"I love the location of the University and its dynamic urban setting. Point Park is located in Downtown Pittsburgh, and that gives it a different vibe from other schools that just have rolling green campuses."

Raniah Al Bayati

Tell us about your research work and the conferences where you presented.

As a volunteer at UPMC St. Margaret Hospital, I met patients living with diabetes. This experience had such a huge impact on me that I began an intense study of diabetes. I was excited to find some newer treatments to present, like stem cell therapies, that were published in the February 2019 issue of Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome journal, along with older treatments, like Traditional Chinese Medicine for Type 2 Diabetes.

Pictured is Point Park student Raniah Al Bayati in the lab. Photo by Emma Federkeil As a member of the Alpha Chi National College Honor Society, I presented my findings at its 2019 convention in Cleveland, Ohio. This was a multidisciplinary conference for undergraduate and graduate students. Through this conference, I networked and exchanged information with researchers who share my interests.

Shortly after the convention, I received the Edward L. Davis Award, which is given to one outstanding student who has demonstrated campus leadership, contributed much to society and shown a commitment to the community of Alpha Chi and the chapter of Alpha Chi at Point Park University.

What factors made you choose Point Park University?

I chose Point Park University because of its small class sizes and the closeness of study halls. In addition, I love the location of the University and its dynamic urban setting. Point Park is located in Downtown Pittsburgh, and that gives it a different vibe from other schools that just have rolling green campuses.

How have our faculty and classes impacted you?

Point Park's professors are very knowledgeable. There aren't any lecture hall style classes, so there's more one-on-one time with faculty. My professors hold my attention for the entire time in class, and they really encourage all students to talk and to get to know each other. The academic advisors at Point Park have guided me to where I need to be. Each student has two advisors. These advisors really care about their students and help them with every step from day one to graduation.

What are your career goals?

I plan to earn a doctorate degree in dental medicine. I see dentistry not as just a career, but a venue for me to help others and make their smiles sparkle.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

As a general dentistry and oral surgery assistant volunteer at Catholic Charities Free Health Care Center in Downtown Pittsburgh, I provided help for people of all ages, backgrounds and economic means.

Assisting helped to increase my comfort talking with culturally diverse patients, and confidently using dental equipment and materials.

Student Spotlight: Raniah Al Bayati, Alpha Chi Honor Society Scholar and Future Dentist Student Profile