Hanin Salem

Medical Student @ Aston University | Youth Voice & Epilepsy Advocate | NEURO2025 Best Presentation Award | Aspiring Paediatrician

Birmingham, England, United Kingdom

About

I am a Third-Year Medical Student at Aston University with a passion for paediatrics, neurology and epilepsy management, in addition to research, public health and improving patient care. As an Epilepsy12 Youth Advocate for the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), I actively contribute to epilepsy advocacy, attending parliamentary events and national conferences to help shape paediatric epilepsy care. I was also honoured to present at the 3rd European Congress of Neurology and Neuropsychiatry (NEURO2025), where I received the Best Presentation Award for my talk: "Navigating Epilepsy: New Horizons in Treatment Options for Epilepsy Management." I am the Founder of the newsletter 'Navigating Epilepsy', where I share insights and raise awareness about epilepsy. My commitment to epilepsy advocacy has led me to speak at multiple events, including Aston WEST Society and Huddersfield Disabled Student Network, where I have highlighted key challenges faced by individuals with epilepsy and explored ways to better support them. Through these efforts, I aim to spread awareness about epilepsy and empower epileptic patients. Beyond advocacy, I serve as an Events Lead for Aston Neurosurgical Society, organising educational opportunities for students interested in neurosurgery. Additionally, I am a Medical Content Writer with Scientia News, aiming to explore and write about my interests in neurology, particularly epilepsy, to spread awareness and drive meaningful discussions on neurological conditions, and bridge the gap between medicine and the community. My research interests align with my passion for neurology. I participated in a research opportunity with IRIS, in collaboration with UCL, to explore ionic liquids on a wider scale. This project led me to investigate the effects of ionic liquids on the efficacy of antibiotics in treating skin bacterial biofilms. Additionally, as part of my Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), I analysed and evaluated the different factors contributing to the global rise in antibiotic resistance from both clinical and non-clinical perspectives. I am proud to be a member of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), the European Academy of Neurology (EAN), and the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), aligning with my deep interest in paediatrics and neurology and my commitment to advancing child health and epilepsy advocacy. Alongside my academic and advocacy work, I am also a dedicated GCSE, A-level Sciences, and Interview tutor, committed to helping my tutees achieve their full potential.

Experience

  • Aston University (2 yrs 10 mos)
    • Advocacy Officer at Aston Islamic Medical Society (AIMS)
      Nov 2025 - Present · 9 mos

    • Lead Student Representative
      Sep 2025 - Present · 11 mos

    • Peer Mentor
      Sep 2024 - Present · 1 yr 11 mos

      As a Peer Mentor at Aston Medical School, I provide one-on-one support to my mentee, helping them navigate the challenges of medical school. I offer personalized academic advice, share effective study strategies, and provide emotional support to ensure they have a positive and successful learning experience. My role is about building a strong, trusting relationship that helps my mentee build confidence and resilience throughout their medical journey.

  • Student Member at American Academy of Neurology
    Dec 2024 - Present · 1 yr 8 mos

  • Student Member at European Academy of Neurology
    Aug 2024 - Present · 2 yrs

    As a Student Member of the European Academy of Neurology (EAN), I engage with a global network of neurology professionals, stay updated on the latest research, and participate in educational events.

  • Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH) (2 yrs 1 mo)
    • Student Member
      Jul 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 1 mo

    • Epilepsy12 Youth Advocate
      Jul 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 1 mo

      As an Epilepsy12 Youth Advocate at the RCPCH, my role involves not only raising awareness about epilepsy but also actively contributing to shaping future strategies and implementations that support epilepsy patients across the UK. I work closely with healthcare professionals, patients, and policymakers to ensure that the voices of young people with epilepsy are heard and that their needs are met. This role also allows me to participate in national discussions, provide insights from a youth perspective, and advocate for more inclusive and effective healthcare practices for those living with epilepsy.

  • Medical Content Writer at Scientia News
    Jul 2024 - Present · 2 yrs 1 mo

    As a Medical Content Writer at Scientia News, I create engaging content for young, aspiring medics. I research and simplify complex medical topics, making them accessible and inspiring for future healthcare professionals. My goal is to spark curiosity and provide valuable insights into the world of medicine.