Alim Hirji

DC Student

Alim Hirji

Program & Concentration: Doctor of Chiropractic

Hometown: Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Expected Graduation Date: December 2018

Prior Education or Experience: Kinesiology background with a diploma in Adapted Education. I have shadowing and clinical work experience from my undergrad as well.

Brief Bio: Hirji is a current DC student at University of Western States. He has always loved helping others and wanted to become a health care practitioner. During his soccer career, he was helped by a couple chiropractors that were able to help him get to the top of his game, as well as treat a couple of injuries. Since he knew he wanted to be a health care practitioner he started to explore chiropractic and instantly fell in love. His goal is to give back to others, and simply help however possible with the skill set this school provides him for the future.

Why did you choose UWS? Why did you choose your program/concentration?
I chose UWS for many reasons. First of all, the experience I had with administrative staff, Natasha French in admissions specifically. She and I met on multiple occasions back in Canada, and she was always prepared to answer any questions I had, as well as help me through my application process. Once I got here I quickly realized the UWS administrative staff as a whole is a group of people that really do care about their students. Secondly, the campus is just beautiful. The open spaces and beautiful views makes coming to school every day a treat. The walking paths, flowers and trees add a nice touch to the campus. Thirdly, the facilities and teaching staff. UWS hires wonderful instructors with knowledge and the ability to communicate well with their students, and the facilities are top notch.

What has been your favorite class/instructor?
I have enjoyed many classes here. So far, I would have to say Head and Neck Anatomy with Logan Bale has to be my favorite. He is a wonderful teacher and the content and dissections were very interesting. Right now, we are also getting into adjusting labs and I really enjoy Thoracic Manipulation.

What is your favorite part about attending UWS as a student?
Attending UWS as a student makes me feel like I am part of a really big community. The classmates and friendships I have created as we all work through the program together have been really wonderful. I definitely do not feel alone here. Everyone works together to help each other when needed so I always have that feeling of togetherness and that I belong.

What has been the most surprising part of attending UWS?
It surprises me how much content we learn and how much I have learned on a personal level. The simple little things that we learn that can affect us on an everyday basis stand out to me the most I think. And also starting to think about the way I would like to practice in the future as I move through the program – I’m shaping the passion for my work.

What do you hope to do after graduation?
I would like to move back to Canada and work my way toward being a sports chiropractor. As I mentioned before, I was helped so much through my soccer career, and I would love to be able to give back to future athletes and help them stay in top shape for their sports.

Favorite way to get some stress out from school?
I try to play lots of soccer around here and usually kick the ball around in the open space at school. It allows me to get some fresh air and take a step back from the schoolwork.