Meriam Belainass, a dedicated senior at George Mason University, has cultivated a deep connection to her heritage in Morocco, a bond that has inspired her to undertake two impactful summer internships in the North African country. With annual visits to Morocco to reconnect with her family and community, Belainass recently completed an internship at Clinique Al Madina in Casablanca, where she applied her studies in bioengineering from the College of Engineering and Computing.
"I’ve always aspired to work in the medical field," expressed Belainass, who is currently majoring in bioengineering. "The experience I gained interning in Morocco has been incredibly fulfilling. Having previously interned at a Moroccan clinic last summer, I am grateful for the chance to continue contributing to my community in such meaningful ways." During her last visit, she undertook a biomedical engineering internship at Sheikh Zaid Hospital in Casablanca, where she honed her skills in medical equipment management and hospital operations.
At Clinique Al Madina, her responsibilities included observing preventive maintenance procedures and ensuring that medical devices were safe and ready for patient care. This involved meticulous inspection, maintenance, and troubleshooting of various types of medical equipment such as magnetic resonance imaging machines, computed tomography scanners, ultrasound systems, patient monitors, ventilators, infusion pumps, and electrocardiogram machines. "This opportunity has significantly enhanced my technical skills, broadened my understanding of healthcare, and reinforced my commitment to improving patient care through innovative medical technology," Belainass noted, as she aspires to pursue her master’s degree through George Mason’s Bachelor’s to Accelerated Master's Program.
In addition to her work with hospital equipment, Belainass also gained exposure to advanced beauty center technologies, including Derma View, Alma IQ, high-intensity focused ultrasound systems, and Pico Laser systems. Her concentration in imaging and devices allowed her to gain invaluable insights into a different healthcare system while simultaneously strengthening her technical and professional capabilities. "During this internship, I played a vital role in ensuring that medical equipment is safe, accurate, and reliable, thereby supporting healthcare professionals in delivering effective patient care," she remarked. "The skills I am developing are invaluable and will undoubtedly accompany me throughout my medical career."
Her mentor and supervisor at Clinique Al Madina, biomedical engineer Fatima Zahra Fakhrouni, praised Belainass's passion for learning and her adaptability in the clinical environment. "Meriam adjusted to the clinical setting remarkably fast. Her eagerness to understand the equipment and embrace new challenges was particularly commendable. This mindset will surely benefit her throughout her career," Fakhrouni stated.
Beyond her internship, Belainass is actively building an impressive academic and professional portfolio. Prior to transferring to George Mason University, she earned two associate degrees from Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) in architecture and engineering, and she is on track to complete a third associate degree in computer science this fall. "I was amazed by how significantly biomedical engineers contribute behind the scenes to ensure that medical equipment functions safely and efficiently," she shared. "I learned that attention to detail, teamwork, and preventive maintenance are crucial for ensuring patient safety and reliable healthcare technology." For students interested in pursuing a similar pathway in biomedical engineering, Belainass encourages them to seek as many hands-on opportunities as possible. "Take advantage of internships and study-abroad opportunities," she advised. "Gaining hands-on experience is one of the most effective ways to build technical skills, boost confidence, and prepare for a successful career in biomedical engineering."
As reported by gmu.edu.
