Dr. Alex Sobel Announces Recipient of Second Annual WISE Scholarship for Women

SEATTLE, July 26, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- Alexander Sobel, DO, FAACS of Bellevue is pleased to announce that Simran Handa, Lewis & Clark College Junior, is the recipient of the second annual WISE (Women in STEM Excel) Scholarship. This scholarship was developed by Dr. Sobel to help support and empower female students living in Washington as they pursue a degree in a STEM-related field.

"Like last year, we were very impressed with all the accomplished women who applied for the scholarship," says Dr. Sobel. "All of our applicants were inspiring and highly qualified. Simran Handa stood out for her dedication to her studies and drive to support her community."

Ms. Handa is currently majoring in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Lewis & Clark College, in addition to her active involvement in a number of student clubs, associations, and peer tutoring. On top of her classes and workload, Ms. Handa has also performed investigative cancer research through Fuchs Lab at the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, interned at the Oregon Clinic and The Foundation for Surgical Innovation and Education, and studied the formation of gut granules at Hermann Lab.

As a student ambassador with the Student Alumni Association, LEAP Mentor, and peer tutor in writing, biochemistry, chemistry, and biology, Ms. Handa doesn't let her large academic load keep her from supporting her fellow STEM students. She also serves as the president of the Pre-Health Professions Club, Officer of Gender Minorities in STEM, and Founder and Officer of the Asian Student Union.

Ms. Handa's interest in science and dedication to helping her community started long before college. "My passion for science fully blossomed during my eighth grade biology class; as I learned about DNA and cells for the first time, I immediately fell in love with the unseen molecular world surrounding us. I knew that the best way I could leave the world a better place was through my passion for science," states Ms. Handa. "Specifically, I want to focus on uncovering the mysteries of pathophysiology; the human body is inexplicably complex, and there is much left to be discovered."

Throughout high school, Ms. Handa volunteered over 300 hours of her time supporting a variety of organizations, from working in the Mukilteo Community Garden to serving food at Annie's Soup Kitchen. She helped raise $2,000 with One Dollar for Life to build a birthing center in Nepal, which is now open and serves a population of 6,000 villagers in Chhisti.

Ms. Handa's passion for science and commitment to serving humanity have formed a natural career path for her: entering academic medicine and becoming a physician-scientist to research disease and pioneer new treatments for patients.

"I believe Simran Handa will continue achieving great things, and I feel fortunate to have become acquainted with this inspiring young woman," says Dr. Sobel. "The STEM fields are a vibrant part of the Washington landscape, and it's important to help make sure that all those who feel called to these careers receive equal opportunities. I look forward to continuing this scholarship opportunity to aid women pursuing education in STEM."

About Dr. Alexander Sobel: Dr. Sobel is a triple board certified surgeon based in Bellevue, Washington. Both in and out of his practice, Dr. Sobel is well-known and respected for his kindness, generosity, and commitment to providing patients with access to safe, quality treatment. His practice is located at 1632 116th Ave. NE, Suite A, Bellevue, WA; 425-453-9060. For more information, visit www.andersonsobelcosmetic.com.

Media Contact: Ashley Hengtgen, Anderson Sobel Cosmetic Surgery, 425-453-9060.

SOURCE Anderson Sobel Cosmetic Surgery

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