Alucozai is Purdue’s First Recipient of Mitchell Scholarship
The George J. Mitchell Scholarship Program is named in honor of former U.S. Sen. George Mitchell’s pivotal contribution to the Northern Ireland peace process. The program is designed to introduce and connect generations of future American leaders to Ireland. Though the financial value of a Mitchell Scholarship is substantial, the real prize is the global opportunities it affords.
Milad was born in Kabul, Afghanistan. He is a graduate of Purdue’s Honors program and the College of Health and Human Sciences with a degree in brain and behavioral science, a Certificate in Entrepreneurship & Innovation, and a minor in political science.
Milad’s many hours of undergraduate research under the mentorship of Purdue faculty made him an excellent candidate for the Mitchell Scholarship. He has co-authored abstracts, papers, and presented at conference in the U.S. and overseas. Milad has won many awards including first place at Purdue’s Undergraduate Research Symposium. His most recent research position was in the lab of Dr. Vikas Tomar, using a novel technology to study cells.
Milad’s Certificate in Entrepreneurship & Innovation gave an added dimension to his curriculum vitae and set him apart when the decision was made as to whom should receive the Mitchell award. Milad said, “I don’t think it was one specific experience that made the difference, but aside from my strong background in research, I believe my entrepreneurial activities helped play a role in the decision. During my collegiate career, I have had the opportunity to invent four technologies, start and be involved with multiple startups and ultimately develop a strong network of entrepreneurs across America.”
Milad’s short-term goal is to become a medical scientist. His long-term goal is to make mental health a national priority in the U.S., Ireland, and other countries by developing cutting-edge technology to alleviate many of the global problems in current health systems.
Milad said, “My goal in Ireland will be to gain an intimate understanding of the health care system and policies used in the country as well as those that form the World Health Organization (WHO) European Region, European Union, and the Council of Europe.
My goal is to specifically look at mental health in terms of global health policy agendas in Europe. Milad plans to enter the graduate program at National University of Ireland Maynooth where he will build on his scientific background for a graduate degree in immunology and global health.