Student Spotlight: Jasmine Strayer
As she began her path in the Biomedical Laboratory Diagnostics (BLD) Program, Jasmine Strayer found more than a major—she found a place where she could grow. BLD has given her a strong academic foundation, supportive faculty who push her to excel, and countless opportunities to develop as a leader. Most importantly, it has provided a community that motivates and surrounds her as she works toward her goal of becoming a medical laboratory scientist.
Finding Community in BLD
For Jasmine, the best part of her BLD experience has been the people. She describes the connections she’s made as unforgettable, especially through BLDSA events. These friendships and shared moments have shaped her time in the program in ways she didn’t anticipate.
“It’s an amazing support system. You’re never alone in BLD,” she says. Whether she’s studying on the third floor of North Kedzie, attending BLDSA events, or passing classmates on the way to a lecture, she can always count on seeing familiar, friendly faces.
Growing as a Leader
Jasmine first joined the BLD Student Association as a junior, eager to get more involved and help shape student experiences. “I wanted to get more involved in the BLD community and help plan events on the BLDSA E‑Board,” she says. The role connected her with new peers and gave her space to grow as a leader.
By her senior year, she was elected President of BLDSA—an experience she calls an honor and one that allowed her to engage with even more students while collaborating closely with board members and faculty. In this role, she has helped lead and coordinate major student events throughout the year, including the BLDSA Open House, the BLD Blood Drive, the Homecoming Tailgate, and other activities designed to bring students together and strengthen the sense of community within the program.
Service and Purpose in the National Guard
Beyond her academic and leadership roles, Jasmine has been serving in the National Guard since 2020. “I wanted a sense of purpose, to make a difference, and I loved the camaraderie,” she says. She also credits the National Guard with making her college education possible, something she doesn’t take for granted.
Her service has shaped her both personally and academically, teaching her self-reliance, trust, and perseverance. She says the experience has strengthened her resilience, both mentally and physically, and continues to influence how she approaches challenges.
Balancing Academics, Leadership, and Service
Juggling BLD coursework, BLDSA responsibilities, and National Guard duties requires discipline and thoughtful planning. Jasmine keeps herself on track by planning, relying on checklists, and taking each day one step at a time. She also prioritizes personal well-being, whether that means going to the gym, relaxing, or ensuring she gets enough sleep—something she considers essential to staying balanced.
Advice for Future Spartans
Her advice to future BLD students and leaders is simple: “Do it scared.” She reminds students that confidence builds over time, and growth often comes from stepping into unfamiliar or intimidating situations. Facing challenges, she believes, is the only way to move forward.
Looking Ahead
After graduation, Jasmine plans to complete a clinical lab internship at Michigan Medicine while working toward her MLS certification. She’s excited to gain real-world clinical experience and hopes to continue her education in graduate or medical school. “I’m really looking forward to working in the clinical lab!” she says. As she enters the next chapter, Jasmine brings with her the growth, purpose, and connections she found in BLD—foundations that will guide her for years to come.
