York College of Pennsylvania Medical Humanities Major Laiba Khan ’25: A Pre‑Med Journey
Why Medical Humanities Matters at York College of Pennsylvania
York College of Pennsylvania offers a unique Medical Humanities major that blends science, literature, and history. For students pursuing pre‑med studies in the USA, this interdisciplinary approach provides a broader perspective on patient care and ethical decision‑making.
Laiba Khan ’25 exemplifies how the program equips future physicians with empathy, critical thinking, and communication skills that are essential in modern healthcare.
From Sociology to Pre‑Med: A Pathway of Discovery
Laiba began her college career as a sociology major, drawn by a fascination with social sciences and a desire to help others. The flexibility of YCP’s curriculum allowed her to pivot toward a Medical Humanities major while maintaining a minor in biology, creating a well‑rounded foundation for medical school.
Students who consider a similar transition can benefit from:
- Exploring interdisciplinary courses early in their first year.
- Consulting with academic advisors about credit transfer and major requirements.
- Engaging in campus research projects that align with their interests.
Hands‑On Experience: Tutoring and Lab Assistance
Laiba’s roles as a lead tutor at the Academic Center for Success and as a lab assistant provided practical exposure to the scientific process and student mentorship.
Lab Assistant Insights
Working with 10–15 students per session, she developed personalized teaching strategies and reinforced laboratory safety protocols. Faculty praised her rapport and effectiveness, highlighting the value of direct student interaction.
Tutor Leadership
As a lead tutor, Laiba created supplemental materials—handouts, worksheets, and videos—for introductory biology courses. This initiative not only strengthened her own understanding but also enhanced peer learning across the campus.
Campus Involvement: EMS and Student Association
Beyond academics, Laiba joined the Campus EMS, completing over 400 volunteer hours and earning EMT certification. She also founded the Muslim Student Association, fostering community and cultural awareness.
These experiences demonstrate how extracurricular activities can:
- Build leadership and teamwork skills.
- Provide real‑world exposure to healthcare settings.
- Enhance a medical school application with tangible service records.
Preparing for Medical School: Practical Steps
Laiba’s strategy includes:
- Applying to multiple medical schools to maximize acceptance chances.
- Considering a gap year focused on research and continued volunteer work.
- Shadowing pediatricians to confirm specialty interests.
Prospective pre‑med students can adopt similar tactics:
- Maintain a strong GPA in core science courses.
- Seek out research opportunities early.
- Document volunteer hours and leadership roles.
- Prepare a compelling personal statement that reflects interdisciplinary learning.
Advice for Future YCP Students
Laiba encourages peers to actively seek connections:
“Talk to people who run clubs, talk to professors, and build genuine relationships. The best opportunities arise from authentic networking, not just job hunting.”
By engaging with faculty, peers, and community organizations, students can uncover hidden pathways and mentorship that shape their career trajectory.
Take the Next Step
Ready to explore how York College of Pennsylvania’s Medical Humanities major can launch your pre‑med career? Submit your application today and start building a foundation that blends science with compassionate care.
Curious about campus life and program details? Schedule a free campus tour to meet faculty and current students.
Have questions about the admissions process or program requirements? Contact the admissions office for personalized guidance.
Want to learn more about similar interdisciplinary programs? Explore our related articles for further reading and stay informed about the evolving landscape of medical education.
