Dr. Alia was born in Yonkers, New York and was raised with her two brothers and sisters in Phoenix, Arizona. She and her siblings were raised surrounded by a variety of animals. Their daily chores consisted of taking care of the farm animals (cows, sheep, chickens, and ducks) and pet animals (lots of cats, bunnies, and a parrot).

Dr. Alia grew up knowing she was going to be a veterinarian. She was accepted into Ross Veterinary School in 2010 and finished her clinical year at Purdue Veterinary School. She completed a one year externship at Animal House of Chicago before starting at Midwest Bird & Exotic Animal Hospital. In her free time she enjoys spending time in the city, running, and spending time with her cat Maynard.