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NiAsia Hazelton Smalls, DHA, ’26, is passing down a legacy she’s proud of. And it all started with her mom. 🩵

“As a first-generation college graduate, now a doctor, I know my success didn’t begin in a classroom,” Smalls said. “It began with a mother who believed in me before I believed in myself. Whatever I wanted to pursue, she found a way to make it possible. She made every dream feel attainable. I am who I am because of her.”

Smalls is now passing that unwavering belief onto her own daughter.

“I pray she learns that dreams are not something you wait for,” Smalls said.

#MUSCAlumni by @nitrendsetter

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3 months ago

“Yasssss! Black Excellence!”
“Come on, Black queens!”
“That’s what we love to see!”

As these six phenomenal women celebrated earning their doctorates from Medical University of South Carolina, the love and pride from the community was impossible to miss. Smiles, claps, honking horns; and one moment that really stayed with me: a mom rolled down her window and told her daughter, “Look baby, let this inspire you.” 🥹

These ladies were absolutely beaming with pride, and rightfully so. I’m so grateful I got to capture such a powerful and momentous occasion. Black women continuing to break barriers, lead boldly, and inspire the next generation will always be something worth celebrating.

#muscgrads #blackmedicalprofessionals #blackdoctors taken in MUSC Health-University Medical Center by @nitrendsetter

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4 months ago

Still counting down the days until graduation (4 days) but a pause for Mother’s Day !

Because I have a mom who believes in me, I’m chasing my dreams while being “the best mommy in the world”. I pray she learns that dreams are not something you wait for.

Motherhood has been the hardest thing ever, and not just physically but mentally and emotionally. But the easiest part of it all is knowing that no matter what life feels like, my baby will always look at me like I’m “the best Mommy in the world” (her words) 🤍

To all of you mommies, no matter how you see it, YOU matter the most. Happiest Mother’s Day !!

With love,
Dr. Mommy “The Best Mommy In The World”

#musc #blackdoctors by @nitrendsetter

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5 months ago

“I’m the doctor”

The countdown to graduation begins. 🥹🥳

#Doctorate #2026Grad #BlackDoctor #muscdhlm #muscchp by @nitrendsetter

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5 months ago

by @nitrendsetter

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8 months ago

My mood depends on my hair ! Fr

Day 6 and Day 1 !!! @thehairartgallery by @nitrendsetter

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8 months ago

by @nitrendsetter

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8 months ago

Pixie dust 😽

My one and only pixie stylist @thehairartgallery y’all knew that. by @nitrendsetter

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9 months ago

Some days I feel like I’m holding it all together. Other days, I’m just praying that the version of me that keeps showing up knows what she’s doing.

When I think back to 2013–2014, when I first started doing research, I smile. Back then, research wasn’t just about data or results it was about living the experience. Every study, every presentation, every project became a way for me to teach others while learning more about my self my family.

Fast forward to now … this has been, without a doubt, the hardest semester yet. Four weeks ago, I lost my brother. I helped plan a funeral for someone who showed up for me in everything I’ve ever done since birth. That kind of loss rearranges everything inside you.

So standing there today, nervous and unprepared but determined, I realized I still soared. I still showed up. And that’s something worth being proud of.

This research topic hits home, maybe too close. But as @allthingskiraj the Poet said, “the theme in my life right now seems to be adjust the position. While finding myself while losing my mind.” (I added her video/ screen recorded) That’s really where I’m at … finding balance in the middle of chaos, finding purpose in the middle of pain.

I feel so good, yet I feel so sad.
And somehow… both are true.

As I continue this doctoral journey, I’m still in the beginning stages but I’m making progress. Progress toward being the voice, the advocate, and the representation for my community needs. Healthcare is not just about systems and statistics it’s about stories, families, and the people we love who didn’t always have access, understanding, or trust in those systems.

This journey is for him, for you, for my family, my community. For every person who felt unseen in a place that was supposed to heal them.

If you’ve ever felt pulled between purpose and pain, between growth and grief ….. I see you. by @nitrendsetter

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a year ago

by @nitrendsetter

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a year ago

Thirty WON 🏆 by @nitrendsetter

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a year ago

📍DUVUAL taken in Jacksonville Equestrian Center by @nitrendsetter

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a year ago