March 27, 2023

the grants“What’s for you won’t pass by you.”

That is the mantra of Columbia College alumna Kristina Grant. Kristina graduated in May of 2020 with a degree in Biology, and she will graduate this May with a Master’s in Biomedical Sciences from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), on the Suwanee, Georgia campus. Kristina will then start her doctoral program with PCOM, with plans to fulfill her dream of becoming an Obstetrician/Gynecologist. Because of the strong foundational education she received at Columbia College with mentors like Dr. Marlee Marsh and Dr. Adrienne Oxley, Kristina continues to excel in her educational journey. As evidenced by her many accomplishments and future goals, Kristina puts in the daily work to ensure that her dreams will never pass by her.

Kristina and her twin sister Katherine have a deep, traditional love for Columbia College. Their mother, Helen Grant, is also a Columbia College alumna and has been a member of the Board of Trustees for 24 years; she constantly shares her love for her alma mater with her girls, even today. Kristina’s favorite Columbia College tradition is the Christmas Tree Lighting that she, her sister, and her mother would attend every year together.

During her time at Columbia College, Kristina was a member of the lacrosse team, and she shares that she was inspired daily by her coaches, teammates, and faculty, who taught her the value of time management, which has served her well in her graduate program. In particular, Kristina’s time at Columbia College was enriched through individuals like Dr. Kirt Moody, who encouraged and supported her not only as a student but also as a student-athlete through his role as Faculty Athletic Representative. Kristina shared that Dr. Moody regularly attended lacrosse games to support the team, but he also understood the rigorous demands of her Biology program. The constant encouragement made a notable difference in her experience in the classroom and on the field.

Kristina’s favorite motivational saying, “What’s for you won’t pass by you,” has seen her through so much of her educational journey toward her dreams. Because of her hard work, determination, and solid foundation, Kristina continues to push toward the future meant just for her. The faculty and staff at Columbia College work each day to build connections with students like Kristina, so that they, too, are able to chase their dreams and live lives of impact beyond graduation.

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