Supporting AUB Students: Sara Messaykeh
May 2, 2024
Meet Sara, a second-year psychology student at AUB, whose journey thus far stands as an example to the transformative power of scholarships. “I don’t have enough words to express my heartfelt gratitude for the generosity and support I have received from AUB’s Financial Aid Office, the HRH Father Emir Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani Scholarship via Embassy of Qatar, the Rana Ahmad Hajjeh Scholarship, the Ramzi Mohamad Safadi Endowed Scholarship, and the Mamdouha El-Sayed Bobst Scholarship,” she says. Sara, who grew up in a loving household in Tripoli, Lebanon, is stepping confidently into a bright future in medicine thanks to the support she is receiving. “The financial support I am receiving today truly lifted a weight off my shoulders and put my parents at ease as I am the eldest of three. This support has allowed me to focus on my studies.”
In addition to her interest in psychology, and the medical field in general, Sara is also an athlete and a member of AUB’s varsity futsal team. “I have a profound passion for sports that I nurtured through my parents. Both of my parents were pro athletes and national track and field champions. One of my most cherished memories are morning runs with my dad when he would chase after us. Growing up, I followed my parents’ footsteps as I represented my school in an international competition in Oman where I beat participants three years older than me in long jump. I also represented my school in Bahrain where I broke the record for long jump that was not broken for years. Moreover, I am part of the university’s futsal team. We represented the university abroad last year in a tournament in Serbia where we secured the bronze. I also play in my city (Tripoli’s) mini football team. I have been on the senior women’s team ever since I was 15 years old.”
Sara today is focused on making the best out of the worlds of sports and medicine. “I don’t want to abandon medicine for sports, or vice versa. As a result, I am planning on pursuing sports medicine as it is a major that combines both of my passions.”
Sara is deeply grateful to both AUB and the Bobst Foundation for their life-changing support. “The support I am receiving is offering me the means to achieve my dreams. This kindness makes me even more determined to keep on pushing and striving in order to reach my goals and hopefully give back to the community. I know my journey is a long one, but I am committed. AUB and the Bobst Foundation have definitely fueled my passion.”