Alexandra “Sasha” Laykova

Double major: Chemistry and Physiology (IPHS)

Since graduating from Alma I got accepted into medical school, have had a successful first 2 years and finished my first round of boards this summer! I started my 3rd year with clinical rotations at Ascension Genesys and have loved finally being in the hospital working with patients. I look forward to my final 2 years and matching for residency in 2022; as of now, in general surgery.

My Alma College education definitely set me up for success in the medical field. I believe the expectations of my professors and the demand of the curriculum helped me develop a hard work ethic and challenged me to work hard for my grades and success, which have been essential during my medical education. As a first generation student, I very much benefited from the guidance of professors and other staff members at Alma during my medical school application process, they were an essential resource for me.

My best memory of my time at Alma was playing for the Scots volleyball team all 4 years. I loved my teammates and made amazing and long lasting memories and friends while playing the sport I love.

At the end of my senior year I participated in a travel-based Spring Term where we traveled to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico to study the biomechanics of surfers. I had never studied biomechanics previously and the research we conducted opened my eyes to a different side of science. I was also given the opportunity to work closely with students that I would not have been given the chance to otherwise and learn better how to productively and efficiently work in a team with people from various educational backgrounds.