F&M Stories
Sara Beqiraj ’25 Pursues Passion for Medicine
“Given my early passion in medicine, I knew F&M would be the right place for me,” says Sara Beqiraj, a biochemistry and molecular biology major and Spanish minor. See what she learned in the science lab and beyond at F&M.
Photo Credit: Deb Grove
Sara Beqiraj '25
Major: Biochemistry and molecular biology
Minor: Spanish
Home: Wynnewood, Pa.
Activities at F&M: Club volleyball, Kappa Delta, organic chemistry tutor, research assistant at Lancaster General Health for family medicine residency
Related story: Rouse Scholar Turns Adversity into Curiosity
Why did you choose to attend F&M?
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 F&M had many research opportunities and was specifically known for preparing students well for medical school. Given my early passion in medicine, I knew F&M would be the right place for me.
What is something that you did for fun at F&M?
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 F&M 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 F&M, 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, F&M 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’m truly thankful I found it at F&M.
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 F&M’s 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 F&M. 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 F&M 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.
A Meaningful Mentorship
In the spring semester of her sophomore year, Beqiraj took Organic Chemistry 212 with Professor of Chemistry Marcus Thomsen, where she dove into intricate mechanisms behind a wide variety of organic reactions.
"Professor Thomsen, one of the most patient people I know, was always willing to answer my hundreds of questions and continuously had faith in my capabilities throughout the course, even if I didn't at some moments," she said. "After the class ended, Professor Thomsen remained a fantastic mentor in my college career. Whether it be through a funny joke or a meaningful life story, Professor Thomsen always brightens the days of his students. I am extremely grateful to have been a student, lab assistant and Q&SC [F&M’s Quantitative and Science Center] tutor for Professor Thomsen's classes during my time at F&M."
Professor of Chemistry Marcus Thomsen and Sara Beqiraj ’25
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