The world is unfair. For Jennan ’25, that doesn’t mean give up.
Born and raised in Berea, Kentucky, Jennan grew up surrounded by Berea College’s influence. Her dad taught physics at Berea, so the values of community, diversity and education shaped her upbringing. Her choice to attend Berea College was not solely because of her family’s ties, it was also a conscious step toward her own dreams, particularly in cancer research.
“My dad always talked about Berea as this incredibly diverse place,” Jennan recalls. Growing up as part of one of the few Muslim families in town, Berea felt like a sanctuary—a place where she felt a connection. When she enrolled in Berea College, she stepped into the welcoming environment her father had described. It was a space where diversity thrived, and she found acceptance among students from all backgrounds.
With her family only minutes away, she could ease into college life without the usual stress of being far from home. “Coming out of COVID, it was nice to have my mom just 10 minutes away,” she says. This setup allowed her to focus on academics while staying rooted in her family life.
Despite Berea’s challenging academic environment, Jennan thrived with the support of her professors, who became mentors. “Berea is difficult, but the professors prepare you to succeed,” she noted. These relationships were crucial in fostering her confidence, especially as she set her sights on genetics and cancer research.
Jennan’s drive to pursue cancer research is deeply personal. Her father passed away from cancer, and that loss inspired her to explore the field. “I knew I wanted to go into cancer research because of my dad,” she explained. Learning about the links between genetics and cancer became her focus, driven by a desire to honor her father’s memory and make a meaningful impact.
Balancing her studies and personal life is a skill Jennan has honed over time. Learning to manage her schedule helped her carve out time for herself and her loved ones. “Berea taught me how to prioritize and still make time for myself,” she said.
Beyond academics, Jennan immersed herself in campus life, joining various student organizations like the Muslim Student Association, Biology Club, Chemistry Club and Pre-Health Club. She even took on leadership roles by joining their boards. When asked if she did anything fun, she laughed.
“It’s all fun stuff!,” she replied.
Growing up, I never thought I’d fit in anywhere. But here, I feel like a normal person.
Jennan ’25
These clubs also gave Jennan a space where she felt she truly belonged. “Growing up, I never thought I’d fit in anywhere. But here, I feel like a normal person,” she said.
Berea’s inclusive environment let her embrace her identity fully, surrounded by peers from diverse backgrounds who accepted her as she was.
The support from Berea’s community extended beyond academics. “When my dad was sick, faculty members would help take care of me and my brothers,” Jennan recalls. This support network left a lasting impression, influencing her view on the importance of community.
As she nears the end of her college journey, Jennan remains committed to her goal of advancing cancer research. She hopes to pursue further studies in genetics, driven by a passion to understand cancer better and contribute to finding solutions. Her journey is not just about personal achievement; it’s about giving back and making a difference in others’ lives.
Berea College has played a crucial role in shaping who Jennan has become. The College’s emphasis on inclusivity, support and academic rigor has prepared her to take on future challenges with confidence. “The friends I’ve made here are people I want in my life forever,” she says, reflecting on the bonds she’s formed.
Looking ahead, Jennan envisions a future where she can combine her scientific interests with her desire to serve others. She carries with her the lessons learned at Berea: the value of community, resilience and the pursuit of knowledge for the greater good. As she prepares for the next chapter, Jennan’s path is clear, guided by her father’s memory and the support of a college that believes in her potential.
