Waseem Jamal Sous grew up in Amman, Jordan. He moved to the United States at age 18 to pursue his dream of practicing medicine. As a first-generation college student, he received his B.S. in Biology from North Park University in Chicago. Waseem received his medical degree from Des Moines University in Iowa, where he met his wife (Michaela Sous – also a 2022-2024 HEAL fellow!) and developed an interest in global health.
Waseem advocated for awareness of health disparities and led discussions about culturally preconceived notions. He participated in clinical rotations in Uganda and Rwanda where he learned valuable skills of innovation in resource-denied areas. These clinical experiences energized him to continue his work in global health equity. Waseem moved to Syracuse, NY, alongside his wife, to complete his residency in Internal Medicine. As an ambulatory chief resident, he engaged in outreach efforts to advocate for marginalized communities.
Waseem provided a platform for Arabic-speaking communities to ask COVID-19 vaccine-related questions and assisted in the implementation of COVID-19 screening, outreach, and support to local refugee communities. Outside of work, Waseem enjoys working out, playing soccer (Go Real Madrid!), trying new cuisines, and travelling with his wife. He is humbled and excited for the opportunity to care for underserved populations in the San Francisco Bay Area and rural Malawi.