EIOH Faculty Feature - Dr. Maryam Altuhafy
Originally from Iraq, Assistant Professor Dr. Maryam Altuhafy describes herself as ambitious, hardworking and kind. One of the best days of her life was the day she learned she was accepted into the EIOH Orofacial Pain Residency Program. Now, she's helping residents achieve their goals and dreams.
Q. At what age did you know you wanted to be a dentist?
A. My interest in dentistry started developing when I was 8. During a dentist visit, my parents had me see the orthodontist to get my teeth aligned. During that visit to the dental school in Iraq, I was excited to see the students’ interaction and how active and thriving they were at the clinic. From that moment, I decided to be a dentist, and my dream of becoming a dentist started.
Q. Why did you choose EIOH?
A. Because it is excellent in education and research. I love the diversity of the school; it gives me a good opportunity to make good friendships with students and faculties from different backgrounds and cultures.
Q. Most embarrassing moment?
A. There were so many, and the good thing is that I don’t remember them. 😊
Q. What do you love about the Rochester area?
A. I love fall; the reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees are unique, and there are so many places to hike. I loved when it started snowing in November. Rochester has celebrated the arrival of spring with a festival in Highland Park, where thousands of lilacs bloom, it is so beautiful.
Q. Favorite place in Rochester?
A. I love to visit the Stony Brooke state park and Erie Canal. Also, in Buffalo, I love to visit Niagara Falls, it is a fantastic place.
Q. Why do you enjoy teaching?
A. In the last three years at EIOH, I had a lot of time on my hands to re-evaluate what is important to me. As a dentist and specialist, I learned a lot from my mentors, clinics, and research—It broadened my knowledge and experiences. As a person, I started to think out of the box; EIOH encourages me to discover myself more, and my interest in teaching, and being a faculty raised. I learned that continuously learning new things is the key to success. I love to share my knowledge and experience with students and help them to reach their goals. Therefore, I decided to become a faculty member at EIOH.
Q. Why do you want to be an OFP specialist?
A. Because I always like to learn new things in dentistry. Orofacial pain was something new to me and I want to learn more about that is why I decided to continue my journey after graduation as an orofacial pain specialist.
Q. Hobbies?
A. I love swimming, hiking, traveling, and discovering new places.
Q. What do you do to feel better?
A. Spending time with my family in nature and visiting new places.
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