When Malak Duglaf talks about her future, her excitement is unmistakable. The Biology Transfer Pathway student hopes to build a career focused on rare diseases, combining research and patient care to improve lives. At Saint Paul College, she has found more than a pathway to a degree. She has found mentors, opportunities, and a community that has helped shape her next steps.

From the beginning, Saint Paul College felt different.

For many students, especially those balancing academics with long commutes, work, family obligations, or the challenges of adapting to a new environment, finding a place to belong can make all the difference. For Malak, that sense of connection turned a one-hour commute into a commitment she never questioned.

From my first semester, I felt that I truly belonged here. Everyone was welcoming, supportive, and genuinely wanted students to succeed.

Malak Duglaf

Biology Transfer Pathway Student

That connection extended beyond the classroom. As she worked toward her goals in the Biology Transfer Pathway, Malak found herself surrounded by faculty members who knew her by name, encouraged her ambitions, and challenged her to recognize her own potential.

One moment, in particular, has stayed with her. During a difficult period, instructor Kasandra Duthie offered words that Malak continues to carry with her today:

I know you’re a smart and outstanding student. Your circumstances don’t define your abilities.

Faculty support like that helped Malak build confidence in her abilities and continue excelling academically. Throughout her time at Saint Paul College, she has maintained a high GPA, earned a place on the Dean’s List every semester, and received scholarships in recognition of her academic achievements.

Another faculty member, Beata Pueschner, also helped shape Malak’s experience through mentorship and encouragement. Together, instructors, advisors, and support staff created a support network that helped her build confidence, stay focused on her goals, and feel she belonged at Saint Paul College.

As she works toward a future in healthcare and rare disease research, Malak carries with her the lessons, support, and encouragement she found at Saint Paul College. More than preparing her academically, the college helped her build confidence in her abilities and a strong sense of belonging.