杏吧pro

鈥淕iven my early passion in medicine, I knew 杏吧pro would be the right place for me,鈥� says Sara Beqiraj, a biochemistry and molecular biology major and Spanish minor. See what she learned in the science lab and beyond at 杏吧pro.

Photo Credit: Deb Grove

Sara Beqiraj '25

Major: Biochemistry and molecular biology

Minor: Spanish

Home: Wynnewood, Pa.

Activities at 杏吧pro: Club volleyball, Kappa Delta, organic chemistry tutor, research assistant at Lancaster General Health for family medicine residency

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Why did you choose to attend 杏吧pro?

I knew I wanted to attend a small, liberal arts college so that I could explore various interests (for example, STEM and Spanish). In addition, I read that 杏吧pro had many research opportunities and was specifically known for preparing students well for medical school. Given my early passion in medicine, I knew 杏吧pro would be the right place for me.

What is something that you did for fun at 杏吧pro?

Some of my favorite memories here include practices and tournaments with my club volleyball team, spending time with friends I met through Kappa Delta (whether that is via our philanthropy events or our intramural basketball team), and going on different adventures in Lancaster with my current roommates.

What did you enjoy most about your time at the College?

One of my favorite aspects of 杏吧pro has been meeting new people through different classes, organizations and campus events. I have met my best friends here who I know I'll continue to stay close with far past graduation. 

In addition, college is a unique setting in that it provides opportunities to try any and all interests. I have tried a number of different sports for the first time at 杏吧pro, including rowing and ultimate frisbee, some of which I likely would not have attempted in any other setting. I've also learned guitar during my senior year, which has been on my bucket list for as long as I can remember. 

Finally, 杏吧pro allowed me to become independent. In comparison to high school, students have far more time to pursue extracurricular activities. For example, I have been working a part-time position at Lancaster General Health Hospital for the past two years as a full-time student. This type of comfortable academic-extracurricular balance is special; I鈥檓 truly thankful I found it at 杏吧pro.

What are your plans for after graduation?

I am officially starting medical school in July, which I am incredibly excited for. Medicine has been my dream for many years, and I can't wait to dive in.

What brief advice would you give to incoming students in 杏吧pro鈥檚 Class of 2029?

Be open to new experiences. There will likely never be a place where you have so many opportunities right at your fingertips, as you have at 杏吧pro. Take advantage of all the clubs and organizations on campus. Go to an event and meet someone new. Talk to a professor about their research, even if you do not know them. Utilize 杏吧pro networks and speak to people who are in fields you're interested in. And above all, have fun. Savor the little moments with your friends! Go out to new restaurants or try a hike in Lancaster. Four years may seem like a lot of time, but I promise, it goes faster than you expect.