St. John’s Scholarship Aids Student’s Dreams of a Career in Medicine

The first time Tashna-Loy Drummond heard about St. John’s University was at a college fair she attended in Jamaica, her country of origin.

“I was impressed with the warmth and enthusiasm of the St. John’s undergraduate admission team,” she said. Tashna-Loy also found the University’s passport-themed information packet to be “charming and memorable,  which sparked my interest in the school. This combination of personal connections and creative presentation made St. John’s stand out.”

However, the University’s  offer of an Academic Achievement Scholarship cemented her commitment to attend St. John’s for her undergraduate studies. Tashna-Loy said, “St. John’s financial support has been beneficial for me in pursuing my education and achieving my academic and career goals at this esteemed institution.”

Tashna-Loy is now in her senior year at St. John’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences,  earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, with minors in Psychology and Chemistry.

She envisions a career in the medical field and is considering forensic pathology. “I am passionate about making a tangible difference in people’s lives through compassionate care and innovative solutions,” said Tashna-Loy. “The medical field allows me to combine my dedication to helping others with my interest in science and problem solving, ultimately contributing to the well-being of individuals and communities.”

Tashna-Loy’s desire to lift others up is exemplified in several of her activities outside the classroom. She was a mentor in the R.I.S.E. (Reach, Inspire, Succeed, Empower) Network, a multicultural program designed to provide students with individualized mentorship and guidance. She was a mentor for Project AIM, a mentorship program for international students. She was Vice President of the Caribbean Student Association for the past two academic years, recently stepping down to become a resident assistant this academic year. 

In addition, Tashna-Loy has been a member of the New Student Orientation team for three years, in the roles of orientation leader, then orientation coordinator, office manager, and operations team member. Through her involvement in orientation activities, Tashna-Loy found a mentor in Samuel Baah, Director, Campus Activities and New Student Orientation. “He has been a great mentor and keeps inspiring me and pushing me to be the best I can be,” she said. “He has truly been a role model, demonstrating professionalism and problem-solving skills that have inspired me to develop similar qualities.”

Tashna-Loy’s advises prospective students“to embrace new experiences, even if you feel timid at first. It’s okay to grow into the person you want to become.”

“Take the risk to get involved in activities and spaces where you know, or think you’ll feel most like yourself—that’s where you’ll find your community and thrive,” she added. “If it doesn’t work the first time, don’t be afraid to try putting yourself out there again.”