At »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ, experiential learning and meaningful faculty mentorship are central to student success. Few stories reflect this more powerfully than that of Doriah Thomas, a »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ alumna whose journey through the Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Science (BCEES) program helped transform her passion for science into a clear and purposeful career path.
Doriah entered »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ as a biology major on the pre-med track, with a minor in chemistry, driven by a desire to make a difference through medicine. Early in her academic career, coursework within the BCEES program helped solidify that passion. Through research-based classes and immersive laboratory experiences, she gained exposure not just to scientific theory, but to the real-world applications of biology and chemistry.
“My studies as a biology major were instrumental in shaping my passion for a career in medicine,” Doriah shared. “The hands-on research experiences were critical moments of affirmation that this was the right path for me.”
One of the defining aspects of Doriah’s »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ experience was the university’s emphasis on hands-on laboratory work. From clinical-style environments to research-focused labs, she developed the technical skills, confidence, and scientific curiosity that continue to guide her professional life.
That preparation paid off after graduation. Today, Doriah works as a Reference Lab Specialist at Sunrise Medical Laboratories in Hicksville, where she applies the skills she developed at »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ on a daily basis. In her current role, Doriah collects and organizes clinical specimens from the sample tracking area before batching them for distribution to specialized labs. Her responsibilities include scanning and preparing specimens—such as blood, urine, and sputum—for transport, ensuring accuracy and efficiency throughout the process.
“The programs at »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ prepared me to work in any laboratory setting—clinical or research,” she explained. “They shared my love for science and reinforced my desire to make the world a better place, whether by finding cures for diseases or contributing to better treatment plans for patients.”
Equally impactful was the faculty and staff mentorship Doriah received throughout her time at »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ, particularly through her involvement with the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation Program (LSAMP). Sponsored by the National Science Foundation, the Lower Hudson Valley Catholic Colleges and Universities Consortium’s LSAMP program aims to address challenges in the STEM workforce pipeline. Doriah credits the program and Kisha Chandler, her LSAMP advisor and mentor, with providing invaluable guidance during her final year—support that has continued beyond graduation.
“By fully leveraging research, mentorship, and academic opportunity, Doriah exemplifies the transformative potential of a LSAMP scholar,” said Kisha Chandler, Director of the LSAMP program at »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ. “She consistently demonstrated curiosity, determination, and a genuine commitment to using science to serve others. Watching her grow into a confident professional has been incredibly rewarding.”
Reflecting on her overall experience, Doriah describes her time at »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ as transformative.
“My experience at »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ has been nothing but fantastic,” she shared. “The campus was amazing, I met so many great people, and I loved working in the research laboratories. That hands-on experience directly prepared me for my role at Sunrise Medical Laboratories.”
Looking ahead, Doriah’s aspirations remain firmly rooted in service and impact. She plans to study for the MCAT and pursue medical school, with the long-term goal of earning an MD/PhD.
“My future plans are to go to med school and continue making my loved ones proud,” she said.
Doriah Thomas’s story is a testament to »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ’s commitment to experiential education, student mentorship, and career readiness. Through hands-on learning and dedicated faculty support, »Æ¹ÏÊÓƵ continues to empower students to turn passion into purpose—and education into impact.
