As a current medical student, Nehaa Sohail’s path to becoming a physician was solidified by an injury during her collegiate career. While playing for Utah Valley University (UVU), Sohail tore her labrum, an experience that deepened her understanding and passion for her future profession.
“During my injury, I observed my coaches, trainers, and doctors, gaining valuable insights into the type of physician I aspire to become,” she recalled. “I recognize the limitations that Division I collegiate programs have when dealing with injured athletes both physically and mentally.”
During her time at UVU, Sohail also sustained a stress fracture in her femur and foot, which highlighted another issue: the lack of mental support for athletes. "Physically, there was nothing UVU could have done for me because the stress fractures would heal on their own. But I noticed the lack of resources for mental support. Every coach and athletic department operates with a 'next man up' mentality, and that's challenging to see when you've sacrificed your whole life to something that you can't contribute to while being injured."
Despite these challenges, UVU provided Sohail with the platform to pursue her dream of becoming a physician. Balancing a Division I sport and rigorous science courses required for medical school was no small feat, but Sohail managed it successfully.
“I'm really glad I went to UVU because balancing basketball and academics was not an issue for me as the school made an effort to fit everything into my practice schedule,” said Sohail. “I really liked that the coaching staff put an emphasis on academics.”
Sohail also made history as the first Pakistani Division I women’s basketball player in NCAA history, a distinction that brought its own set of pressures and rewards.
“I find it incredible how many women, particularly young South Asian women, reach out to me, inspired by my journey of pursuing a career in medicine while also playing high-level basketball,” she said. “It does come with its fair share of pressure, you always want to do the right thing. You want to make the people from your country proud.”
Despite the pressure, Sohail is proud of how she handled it as a college athlete, managing expectations while staying true to herself and her goals. She often says, "Pressure is privilege."
“I'm privileged enough to have the opportunities I have, because there are people in my country that can't play and women that are not allowed,” she said. “ I understand that I'm given so much and that I need to take advantage of it and do as much as I can and to the best of my abilities.”
The lack of diversity on collegiate teams is something that Sohail hopes the sports community can continue to address and improve.
“Speaking from my own experience, as a 6 '2'’ Pakistani woman, I stuck out in Utah. Especially in the valley, sometimes I was the darkest person in my class. During my senior year at UVU, I was the only non-LDS person on my team,” she said. “But my advice to any athlete is to stay true to yourself. It is so easy to mend yourself to try and please your coaches and teammates, but embrace who you are. Embracing who you are and where you come from allows you to educate those around you about your culture and your heritage. Especially in class, there are many opportunities to share your diverse perspectives with those around you.”
Sohail’s journey is a testament to the resilience, determination, and importance of staying true to oneself amidst challenges and pressures. As she continues her medical school education, she carries with her the lessons learned on and off the court, ready to inspire and make a difference in the lives of others.