Fiza Rajput: Medical Student Conducting Award-Winning Surgical Research, Leading with Compassion and Purpose

Driven by a passion for surgical innovation and a deep commitment to uplifting others, Fiza Rajput is a rising medical leader whose impact spans cutting-edge cancer research, community health advocacy, and transformative mentorship

24 May 2025

Fiza Rajput is a rising star medical student who conducts surgical research on gastric cancer in the Department of Surgery under the supervision of Dr. Gina Rayat. Her role as a summer student researcher showcases her scientific acumen and dedication to advancing cancer treatment. Her recent achievement—winning First Place Oral Presentation at the 66th Annual National Student Research Forum at The University of Texas Medical Branch—highlights her exceptional skill and commitment.

The Forum is a prestigious, North America-wide competition for medical research students. Fiza was one of only two medical students from the 天美传媒 selected to present. Her award-winning presentation, “Fenbendazole/FLOT Combination Therapy Enhances Inhibition of Gastric Adenocarcinoma,” reflected cutting-edge work exploring novel therapies for gastric cancer.

Daxter Cornand, a team member in Dr. Rayat’s lab, speaks highly of her:

“Working with Fiza has been a truly rewarding experience. She brings a remarkable level of dedication and energy to every task, consistently motivating those around her. Her commitment to excellence and positive attitude create an environment where collaboration thrives and high-quality work is the standard!”

Fiza’s leadership philosophy centers around empathy and empowerment.

“Leadership is about seeing others with empathy, inspiring and empowering individuals to become their best selves, and harmonizing diverse perspectives in pursuit of a shared, meaningful purpose,” she explains.

Current Leadership Roles

  • Co-President, Muslim Medical Association of Canada – 天美传媒 Chapter
    Fiza leads the Muslim Medical Students’ Association at the 天美传媒, working to build a strong, supportive community for Muslim students in medicine.
  • MD Aide – Interview Prep Team
    Through the MD Aide initiative, she supports students from underrepresented and financially disadvantaged backgrounds as they prepare for medical school. She plans and facilitates mock MMIs and offers one-on-one coaching tailored to each student’s needs.

Ongoing Mentorship

Fiza continues to provide one-on-one mentorship to aspiring medical students. She assists with application editing, CASPer test preparation, and interview practice. In long-term mentorship relationships, she helps students build strong profiles, choose meaningful extracurriculars, and prepare for every stage of the admissions process.

Fiza Rajput’s journey is defined by more than academic achievement—it's guided by a powerful blend of surgical research, compassionate leadership, and a deep-rooted drive to uplift others. Whether in the lab, the classroom, or the community, she leads with purpose, empathy, and excellence. Her groundbreaking research and national recognition mark her as a future physician who is not only shaping science but also shaping lives.