Umair Jarral, M.D.

Executive Master’s in Clinical Quality, Safety & Leadership
Fall 2021 Graduate

What’s your background? What has your life been like since the Georgetown EMCQSL program?

I am a graduate of a foreign medical school and have been working in clinical research for 6 years. After multiple unsuccessful attempts at matching to a residency program, I had decided to pursue a graduate degree. As someone who had never attended any school in the U.S., this was a challenge but I knew that if I wanted to succeed in my career as a clinical research professional, I had to step out of my comfort zone. This program has helped me grow as a professional, especially as a leader. I am now looking to move up the ladder in my career and have seen recruiters taking interest in my experience as a leader.

How did your time in the EMCQSL program help prepare you for your current career?

As someone who believes in leading people and managing projects, this program introduced me to the concept of psychological safety and a just work culture. These concepts have helped me change the culture at my current workplace.

What advice do you have for students looking for future careers or future programs to apply to?

Each program is unique in its approach, methodology, and core values. Find a program that resonates with you and that will help improve your professionalism as well as impact your personal life positively because the best investment you can make is in yourself. When you grow personally, you will also see an improvement in your professional career.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

As someone who had never attended school in the U.S., this program was challenging. Prior to graduating with a master’s degree from Georgetown, I had had many setbacks in my professional career. This program gave me back the confidence that I had lost along the way. I want to say to anyone who has had a tough ride that setbacks only become failures when we stop trying. Give it a shot, you can do it!