Interview

Interview By Samantha Williams

Responses By Shazad Juman

How old are you?

21

How long have you been a dental student?

Well I am in my third year at AR finishing up my generals for the pre-dental program.

How many times a day do you brush your teeth? (being a dental student) ;-)

I actually brush my teeth before and after meals. It’s more so because I hate having a taste in my mouth so I’d have to say around four to six times.

When did you decide that you wanted to become a dental student?

When I was in high school I had decided. I had braces from middle school all the way until 11^th grade. I was just fascinated by teeth and had a strong passion to make mine look their best with braces and brushing. I want everyone to have nice teeth since that is the first thing I notice when I meet someone.

Do you plan on transferring to any other schools after AR?

Yes. I plan on going to the University of Minnesota Twin Cities campus in fall.

What is your favorite instrument?

I love playing the alto saxophone and acoustic guitar

What is your bands name?

My band’s name is called Ehsaas which is loosely translated as a strong feeling or desire in Hindi

How long have you and your band been together?

We’ve been together for a little over a year

Have you taken any singing classes or lessons?

I have never had singing lessons. In fact, the language we sing in is one that I don’t even know. I have always listening to the music since I was younger. When I hear a song that is new, it just comes to me after a few listens.

What kind of topics do you write about in your songs?

We typically do covers of other songs that deal with love and relationships. Our upcoming show next week includes three songs. The first of which is about heartbreak, the second about finding a new love, and the third about celebrating life with people you enjoy.

What’s your inspiration for your music?

Past, present, and the hope of future relationships are all my influences. I like music that explains life to me.

What are some of your favorite bands or singers?

I like mostly Indian singers. The person that I most resemble is Atif Aslam. As far as Western singers, I like Usher, Ne-Yo, and Jay Sean.

Do they inspire your music?

Yeah I am heavily influence by all their personalities. I met Jay Sean a few years ago. He actually was in Medical School then decided to pursue a musical career. His courage inspires me not just in music.

Have you played at any big venues?

Well our first show was for a cultural event. The event itself had around a thousand people at the Great Hall in Coffman Student Union. We are opening for a pretty popular band in a couple of weeks that will be at the convention center.

What do you plan on doing with your band for the future?

Well music is just a hobby. I personally don’t play for money or fame. I like singing and will do it where ever people ask me to.

How long have you worked at the bank?

Close to 3 years

What bank do you work at?

Wells Fargo in Brooklyn Park