When Yasamin Alazawi first envisioned her college journey, the Washington State University Tri-Cities biology and psychology double major had her sights set on the University of Washington (UW) and a path toward medical school. But life—and a strong connection to family—had other plans.

“I really wanted to go to UW, but my family was nervous about me being so far away,” she said. “Eventually, I had a change of heart. I realized I wanted to stay close and be part of the Tri-Cities community.”

Alazawi completed her associate degree at Columbia Basin College in just one year and then transferred to WSU Tri-Cities, where her story took a transformative turn.

“Even though I really wanted to go to the UW, I am so grateful I came to WSU Tri-Cities,” she said. “It allowed me to stay with my family and connect with the community.”

At first, she focused solely on academics, going to class and returning home each day. But by her second year, she began to notice something different about the campus.

“I saw how many programs and resources were available, and how close-knit this community really is. I wanted to be involved.”

Her first step into student life came through the Pre-Health Club, which had gone inactive until she stepped up to co-lead its revival as club president. That experience sparked a deep interest in leadership and set her on a path of involvement.

She went on to serve as an Associated Students of WSU Tri-Cities (ASWSUTC) senator for the College of Arts and Sciences, gaining valuable insight into student governance.

“My role as senator gave me a behind-the-scenes look at how things are done and gave me a chance to help people and make change.”

Alazawi credits much of her success to the supportive environment on campus.

“The students here are so nice and the professors really care. Because of the size of the campus, it’s easier to get to know people. That support helped me see the potential in what I could do academically.”

Two campus mentors stood out in particular: Nelmi Devarie Baez, associate professor of chemistry and Elly Sweet, associate dean and academic director of the WSU Tri-Cities College of Arts and Sciences and associate professor of biological sciences.

“Nelmi shared his own story as a student, and it was so relatable. He really cares about helping others. And Dr. Sweet is amazing—she’s kind, professional, and always supportive.”

One of her most memorable experiences came when she attended the 2023 SACNAS (Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science) conference in Portland, Oregon. It was her first time at a professional conference, made possible through WSU Tri-Cities’ TRIO program.

“That experience helped me build stronger connections with friends and professors. I didn’t even know conferences were an option for me until I joined TRIO.”

In addition to her academic and campus leadership achievements, she completed a two-year internship at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, where she worked in material science research and proteomics.

Her efforts didn’t go unnoticed. This year, Alazawi was honored as one of WSU’s Top 10 Seniors—a recognition that took her by surprise.

“I was nominated by Evelyn Martinez Ostrom, student services coordinator and advisor to ASWSUTC, and honestly didn’t think I was doing anything special. To be recognized for being involved on campus feels really rewarding.”

Following graduation, she will be working as a medical assistant at Northwest Endovascular Surgery in Richland, Washington and begin applying to medical schools, including WSU, UW, and others across the U.S. and abroad. Her goal is to specialize in dermatology, a passion sparked by her own struggles with skin issues after high school.

“I did research, changed my skincare routine, and started helping friends and family. Seeing real results and being able to help others really inspired me.”

To other WSU Tri-Cities students, her advice is simple but powerful:

“Integrate into clubs and extracurricular activities on campus. Put in the effort to talk to professors and don’t be afraid to start a conversation. Join TRIO—it connects you to support, resources, and amazing opportunities like conferences.”