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  4. Haya Sattar

I Am a Researcher

Prajit Rajkumar profile pictureHaya Sattar

Major(s): Public Health B.S. 

College: Seventh College

UC San Diego graduation year: 2026

Which research programs/experiences have you been a part of? 

What is your research about?

My research focused on traumatic brain injury (TBI) and its effects on brain regulation and behavior. Specifically, I explored how disruptions in brain networks after injury can contribute to challenges with emotional regulation, decision-making, impulse control, and other neurobehavioral outcomes.

Why and how did you decide to get involved in undergraduate research?

As a Public Health student pursuing a career as a Physician Assistant, I was drawn to undergraduate research because I wanted to better understand the conditions I encounter in healthcare settings and learn how research can improve patient outcomes. Working as a Trauma Technician at Scripps Mercy Hospital has played a major role in shaping my interest in traumatic brain injury research. Being able to work closely with patients who have experienced traumatic injuries has given me a much broader perspective on how these injuries can affect individuals beyond the initial event. I have witnessed how traumatic brain injuries can impact a person's cognitive function, emotional well-being, behavior, and overall quality of life. These experiences fueled my passion for this topic and motivated me to explore the long-term neurological and behavioral effects of TBI through research. Through the Faculty Mentor Program, I was able to combine my clinical experiences with academic research while developing valuable research and critical-thinking skills.

What has been the most exciting/interesting thing you've discovered through your research?

One of the most interesting things I learned was that many individuals continue to experience significant cognitive and emotional symptoms after a traumatic brain injury, even when traditional imaging appears normal. This highlighted the complexity of the brain and the importance of looking beyond visible injuries to understand long-term outcomes.

What did you gain from this program/experience?

This experience gave me much more than research skills. It taught me how to think critically, analyze scientific literature, communicate complex ideas, and work independently. It also increased my confidence in my ability to contribute to academic and professional discussions. Most importantly, it showed me how research can help bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and patient care.

What advice would you give to students starting research?

Don't be afraid to ask questions or step outside your comfort zone. Research can seem intimidating at first, but every researcher starts somewhere. Be curious, stay open to learning, and remember that growth comes from the process, not just the results. Taking initiative and building relationships with mentors can make a significant difference in your research experience.

What are your future plans?

After graduating from UC San Diego, I plan to gain additional healthcare experience while applying to Physician Assistant programs. My long-term goal is to become a Physician Assistant and continue serving patients through compassionate, evidence-based care, particularly in acute and emergency care settings.

Anything else you want to share?

My experience as a Trauma Technician at Scripps Mercy Hospital greatly influenced both my research interests and future career goals. Working alongside patients affected by traumatic injuries helped me recognize the importance of understanding not only physical recovery but also the lasting cognitive, emotional, and behavioral challenges that can follow a traumatic brain injury. Being able to connect my experiences in patient care with my research gave me a deeper appreciation for the role research plays in improving healthcare.