Conference Spotlight: Lama Alahdal

7/17/2024

^{Image 1: Lama Alahdal, rising Sophomore at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology majoring in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science attends the ADA conference in Orlando, Florida in June 2024.}

Lama Alahdal, a rising sophomore at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) majoring in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, was invited to present her research findings at the American Diabetes Association’s (ADA) 84^th Scientific Sessions on June 21st to June 24^th in Orlando, Florida. These Scientific Sessions offer experts and researchers the opportunity to share ideas and learn about significant advances in diabetes.

Lama spent the spring 2024 semester engaged in research with the MIT Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program. At the ADA Scientific Sessions, she presented a poster detailing her research findings titled, "The Effect of Whey Protein Consumption on Hypoglycemia Risk in Type 1 Diabetes Patients Fasting During Ramadan, a Randomized Cross-over Trial.” Lama sought to attend the conference because, “As a type 1 diabetic, I was intrigued by the research being done that could potentially help other diabetics struggling to continue their [Ramadan] fast,” Lama said. “I wanted to be part of the group investigating whether the addition of a simple protein drink could make that happen.”

^{Image 2: Lama presenting her poster titled, “The Effect of Whey Protein Consumption on Hypoglycemia Risk in Type 1 Diabetes Patients Fasting Ramadan, a Randomized Cross-over Trial” at the ADA’s 84th Scientific Sessions.}

Attendees of the Scientific Sessions had access to over 200 sessions including panel discussions, debates, poster presentations, and professional education sessions. For Lama, her biggest takeaway was exposure to the newest medical technologies introduced in the field. “Attending the conference was important to bring exposure into all the new medical technologies arising in the market and industry. As I aspire to work on medical devices, this was immensely valuable as I gained first-hand insight on the newest updates and technologies I haven’t heard about before.” Lama also added that attending the Sessions gave her the opportunity to network and connect with emerging companies and experts in the field and fortified her interest in pursuing a professional career in the medical technology industry. “I learned a lot about the newest technologies and how they are applied to the healthcare setting,” she added. “From Artificial Intelligence to pill-sized implantable medical devices, the medical technologies industry is vastly growing with lots of opportunities.”

The KGSP encourages and supports its student community in their participation in academic and professional events like the Scientific Sessions that promote development in various STEM fields. Gatherings like these offer students the opportunity to share with and learn from experts in their various fields of study and expand their network. The Program looks forward to supporting its students as they pursue their goals and become changemakers in Saudi Arabia and the world.