May 01, 2024

When did you join UTHealth Houston? What brought you here?
In 2009, I made the journey from Morocco to the United States, marking the beginning of my career journey. In 2012, I embarked on my professional path as a unit coordinator at Memorial Hermann Medical Center. After dedicating 7 years to this role, I felt ready for a new challenge and expressed my desire for growth to my previous supervisor. Fortunately, around the same time, an opportunity arose within Neurocritical Care at UTHealth Houston, led by Dr. H. Alex Choi. My supervisor graciously recommended me for the position, which resulted in an interview and ultimately my acceptance of the administrative coordinator role in November 2019.

Tell us about your work history here.
In the past 4 years, I’ve held the role of administrative coordinator within Neurocritical Care, which operates under the Department of Neurosurgery. In this capacity, my primary focus has been to provide support to our director, Dr. Huimahn Alex Choi, and 10 other faculty. I arrange travel, manage schedules, and serve a wide array of administrative needs that are essential to the smooth functioning of our department.

Additionally, I take on the responsibility of providing administrative assistance for our Neurocritical Care fellowship program, which is led by Dr. Tiffany Chang. I coordinate the yearly interviews, manage the ongoing yearly applications for the program, and facilitate the onboarding process for our fellows.

Furthermore, I act as a liaison with the Office of Graduate Medical Education, facilitating communication and coordination between our department and the educational institution.

What are you most proud of accomplishing?
One of my proudest accomplishments has been fostering strong collaborative relationships within the department while consistently demonstrating reliability and a proactive approach to teamwork.

What do you enjoy most about your work?
What I find most enjoyable about working within my department is the sense of camaraderie and connection I feel with my colleagues. It truly feels like being part of a family. I enjoy the constant learning associated with my position.

Why have you stayed?
I have stayed with Neurocritical Care because I enjoy working with an amazing group of staff, faculty, and fellows. The respect I have experienced throughout my tenure has enriched both my personal and professional growth.

When you are not at work, how do you spend your time?
Outside of work, I find joy in indulging my passions, such as cooking delicious Moroccan dishes, spending time with my husband and two children. I find joy in hobbies such as running, sewing, decorating, and gardening. These activities provide a balance to my professional life and bring me immense fulfillment and happiness.