Hello! My name is Sayahna Sneethan and I’m a rising senior majoring in Biology on the pre-med track. I’m originally from India, and after spending a year in high school here in the U.S., I chose to attend the University of Kentucky; and I’ve truly felt at home ever since. My goal is to become a rheumatologist and serve the people of Kentucky, inspired by both my own healthcare experiences and my passion for helping others.

I’m involved across campus in many ways that have shaped my college journey. I serve as the Multicultural Affairs Chair for the Student Activities Board, and I’m a proud recipient and mentor of the S-STEM program. I’m also part of the Lewis Honors College, an EAP recipient, and I work as an Organic and Biochemistry tutor at The Study. Additionally, I serve as the Health & Safety Officer of the Alpha Gamma Chapter of Alpha Chi Sigma, the professional chemistry fraternity.

In the research world, I work in Dr. Esther Black’s lab, where I study how ketones impact the effectiveness of cancer therapies using MCF7 breast cancer cells. It’s been an incredible experience to contribute to research that could help improve future cancer treatments.

Outside of academics, you can often find me painting, I love mural work, painterly styles, and realism. Art is one of my favorite ways to express myself. I also love spending time with friends and family, volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House Family Room, Bluegrass Care Navigator, judging science fairs, and helping at the KY Science Olympiad.

One of the many things I love about UK is how big it is in opportunities but how small it feels in community. There are resources for everything here and even more importantly, there are people everywhere who are ready to help. Coming from another country, I never felt lost here. Support is always around, and I truly believe you’ll feel that same sense of belonging too.

If you ever have questions about anything; classes, research, tutoring, or even how to get involved or feel at home, I’m always here to help. You’ve got this, and I’m cheering for you. Go Cats!