Selmir Mahmutovic is a Wayne State pharmacy student, preparing to graduate with his PharmD in May 2015. Mahmutovic's education has been made possible by scholarships such as the Hanley N. and Young Hee Abramson Endowed Scholarship, Bernard Thomas Downs Pharmacy Scholarship and Rachael M. Duffy Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Since arriving at Wayne State, Mahmutovic has made it a priority to give back to the community, and this year he received the Michigan Campus Compact Heart and Soul Award for his work at the Diabetes Education Wellness Clinic.

Below Mahmutovic shares his gratitude for his scholarships and the pivotal moments they have made possible.

Why did you decide to come to Wayne State?

Financial aid played a big factor in my education. Wayne State was kind enough to offer me the Presidential Scholarship. I don't know where I would be now had I not received it. I would have most likely found myself at a community college due to financial constraints.

Why are scholarships important to you?

Scholarships are important to me because they help me out financially, and they show me that I am recognized for my hard work.

What do you like best about Wayne State?

That it is situated in Detroit and has a diverse student population.

Can you describe a defining moment or event from your Wayne State education that has impacted your future plans?

When I was accepted into the pharmacy program at Wayne State, it solidified my future. It is a very satisfying feeling when your hard work pays off and your ambitions are materializing.

What is your favorite class or professor?

Honors Organic Chemistry with Professor Zibuck was by far my favorite class because it was so challenging. To pass successfully, you needed to understand the material, not just memorize it. I loved learning about all the processes and thinking critically. This class was a strong foundation for pharmacy school. Professor Zibuck taught the class so well and made it challenging, which allows you to learn a lot and feel accomplished.

Are you involved in any student groups or other campus activities?

In the fall of 2011, I started dedicating myself to the Diabetes Education Wellness Clinic in Highland Park. The clinic is run by Wayne State students from different medical disciplines. I learned a ton. The best experience was being the leader of the clinic from 2013 to 2014. Now, I just volunteer my time as the pharmacy representative.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy exercising. It is very calming, and I love having short- and long-term goals to strengthen my body and keep it healthy. Also, I recently picked up a game called Settlers of Catan that I play with my friends.

What are your plans for after graduation?

After graduating, I will work a couple years as a community pharmacist before pursuing a career in a specialty field. The specialty field I am currently interested in is nuclear pharmacy. We will see how it turns out as the years go by.

You can support students like Selmir Mahmutovic by making a year-end gift to Wayne State University.

(December 12, 2014)