ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Ophthalmologist

Taj Nasser reflects on his time as an undergraduate in Harriot College as a supportive, transformational experience.

“I was impressed by the emphasis that was placed on cultivating a tightknit community and a safe environment for learning,” he said. His focus led him to a fulfilling career in San Antonio, TX, where he specializes in refractive and cataract surgery.

“Being able to change the lives of fellow human beings is my favorite part of my job,” he said. “The tears of joy I see when my patients are able to gain independence is a privilege that I enjoy every week.”

While attending ECU, Nasser was not only busy meeting the requirements for his major and minor, but he was taking prerequisite courses for medical school and making plenty of time to get involved, grow, and make a major difference at ECU and in the community.

During his academic career, Nasser held several leadership roles, including senator of ECU’s Student Government Association, vice president for the Omicron Delta Kappa leadership organization and president of the Muslim Student Association. Extensive leadership development was a benefit of the four-year scholarship he earned from the Golden Leaf Foundation. Additionally, he volunteered at the Greenville Community Shelter Clinic, Habitat for Humanity and served as a Spanish tutor at ECU’s

Pirate Academic Success Center. He blended these passions for healthcare, leadership and service by completing more than 450 internship hours at clinics and hospitals in Pitt and Wilson Counties. Nasser credits ECU for giving him the skills needed to help others and be successful in his career.

“Many of the professors encouraged me to think critically, communicate effectively and be innovative and adaptable. Dr. Danell was one of my favorite professors, as she fostered a supportive environment that nurtured my growth and encouraged me to pursue my dreams.”

“ECU’s commitment to academic excellence, combined with dedication to developing strong leaders, was instrumental in preparing me for a successful career,” Nasser said. “These skills have been instrumental in helping me to navigate the challenges and complexities of the health care field and to provide the highest level of care to my patients.”