Laniah Beck
Graduation Year: 2026
Hometown: Indianapolis, Indiana
Major: Biology/Pre-Med
How did you choose IU?
I chose IU as soon as I finished my first campus visit last spring. I loved everything about the campus from the moment I stepped onto it. As I was walking through campus on the tour, I instantly fell in love with the scenery. I love the amount of trees, beautifully planted flowers all around, and the limestone on all the buildings. As I was watching the way the people interacted with each other, I could tell that although this campus is large, there is a strong sense of community here that I was drawn towards.
What was your transition from High School to College like? What were some of your obstacles? How did you overcome them?
My transition from high school to college was a little rocky in the beginning. I wasn’t aware of the extent of independence, and how the students truly have to work and earn everything. I was stuck in my ways of high school, where I thought I didn’t need to study before quizzes and that open note/book quizzes would just be a given. Because of that, I was forced to quickly realize that is not the case and that I needed to study to receive good grades. I received a D on my first college quiz ever, which gave me the reality check I needed to get out of high school mode and snap into college mode. I learned that I am unable to save all my work for the last minute and that it’s easier to do things ahead of time, that way I wouldn’t be scrambling to meet the deadlines.
If you could give one piece of advice to your High School self, what would that be?
I would advise myself to work on my procrastination early so that once I got to college, I wouldn’t be in the habit of waiting last minute to do things.
How do you think being a 21st Century Scholar has impacted your college experience?
Being a 21st Century Scholar has lifted a huge weight off my shoulders, allowing for a smoother college experience. My first year of college was more about getting into the groove of things and learning how to be a college student and manage my time wisely, so knowing that I didn’t have to pay for tuition has helped a lot. It allowed me to focus more on my studies, rather than figuring out how I’m going to work to pay for school, as well as finding time to study, go to class, and still maintain a social life.
What is your proudest accomplishment since you began college?
My proudest accomplishment since beginning college was finishing my first-semester chemistry class with a 98% and getting an A on that final. That class was very challenging to me, with it being the first time I dealt with chemistry, and so knowing that I studied as much and as hard as I could and it paid off made me feel so proud of myself. It let me know that I could do it, so no matter when I would get down or feel overwhelmed, I would look back on that and remember that it is possible and that I am capable.
How are you involved on campus?
I am currently involved in a summer research program on campus where I am dealing with plant ecology and evolution. This has allowed me to connect with many other people majoring in biology, as well as gain experience and knowledge. Because of this program, I can work with graduate, current, and post-graduate students who have all been mentors to me during this time. During the school year I also try to volunteer as much as I can, many of my volunteer hours coming from the MAPS (Minority Association of Premedical Students) which also allowed me to connect with many people on a similar career path as me.
What is an interesting fact about you?
I am the oldest of 7, all under the age of 15 except for myself. I am also a Spanish minor because I hope to one day be fluent in the language.
What are your career aspirations?
I hope to become a physician someday, specifically a surgeon as of now. I would like to attend medical school after my undergraduate years, and then residency in another state if possible.