Balancing the Course and the Classroom

For Sasha Petrochko, a junior Biochemistry major from Hermitage, Pennsylvania, choosing Duquesne University meant finding a place where she could pursue two ambitions: earning an excellent science education and competing at the Division I level in women's golf.

At Duquesne, she found an environment that encourages her to do both.

"I chose Duquesne because this school truly gave me the best opportunity to play Division I golf at a high level all while getting an excellent science education."

Her decision was also shaped by the people she met during her first campus visit. She immediately noticed how much faculty cared about students' success, both inside and outside the classroom. That support has become an important part of her experience, particularly as she balances demanding science courses with the travel and training commitments of a collegiate athlete.

Empowering students to pursue bigger goals

Sasha's interest in science began in high school, where she developed a passion for chemistry and biology. With a long-term goal of attending dental school, she chose Biochemistry as a way to bring those interests together.

Through Duquesne's Pre-Medical and Health Professions Program (PMHPP), she also has opportunities to explore topics related to her future career and gain a better understanding of the path toward a health profession.

Outside the classroom, Sasha is building experiences that complement her academic interests. She is a member of Delta Delta Sigma, Duquesne's pre-dental society, and Mission Dexterity, where she has connected with other students interested in dentistry and medicine while developing hands-on dexterity skills relevant to her future career.

These opportunities reflect Duquesne's commitment to empowering students to explore their interests, develop their strengths and take ownership of their futures.

Collaborating with a community that supports student success

For Sasha, one of the most meaningful parts of her Duquesne experience has been the people who have supported her along the way.

Professors have gone above and beyond to help her stay on track academically when tournaments require her to miss class. From making time outside office hours to help her catch up to recording lectures so she can stay connected to coursework while traveling, faculty have helped her navigate the demands of being both a science student and a Division I athlete.

"Having such a supportive community backing me is so comforting because juggling both golf and academics can be stressful sometimes," she said.

"Knowing I can lean on my classmates, friends and professors for help has really allowed me to flourish at Duquesne."

She also credits her School of Science and Engineering mentor, athletic academic advisor and student success coach with helping her plan courses and make informed decisions about her academic and professional goals.

That culture of collaboration extends beyond academics. As a Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) representative for women's golf, Sasha has helped organize service initiatives benefiting the Duquesne and Pittsburgh communities. Through her involvement in student organizations, she has also built friendships with people who share her interests and aspirations.

Innovating on and off the golf course

Balancing Biochemistry coursework with Division I golf requires discipline, adaptability and creative problem-solving.

A typical day for Sasha starts early, often with a 7 a.m. lifting session, followed by golf practice, classes, homework and team activities. Depending on the season and her schedule, she may practice at Sewickley Heights Golf Club, the team's home course, or use Duquesne's indoor golf facility.

Her approach to managing it all is simple: give each responsibility her full attention.

"One piece of advice I was once given is, 'When you are on the course, focus on golf. When you are at school, focus on school,'" she said. "This has really been crucial to me succeeding in both areas."

She also makes time on weekends to catch up on assignments while reserving time to explore Pittsburgh, try new restaurants and enjoy the city with friends.

Her experiences as a golfer have also shaped how she approaches challenges in the classroom and thinks about her future career.

Golf often requires players to assess unfamiliar situations and determine the best way forward. Whether deciding between a high-lofted chip or a bump-and-run shot, Sasha has learned to evaluate her options, think creatively and make decisions under pressure.

She sees those same skills translating to dentistry.

"I have certainly learned to embrace difficult decisions on the course and embrace them with a creative mind which will help me one day in being able to tackle difficult decisions I may have to make as a dentist," she said.

Through challenging science courses, she is also strengthening her ability to think critically and solve complex problems, skills she knows will be essential in her future profession.

Prepared for anything, with opportunities to grow

Sasha's time at Duquesne has extended well beyond the classroom and golf course. She has traveled across the country and internationally for tournaments, including a trip to Bermuda, and has enjoyed competing with teammates at Sewickley Heights Golf Club.

One of her proudest athletic accomplishments was winning the team's inaugural home tournament at Sewickley Heights.

"It was such a surreal moment being able to win at home surrounded by my teammates, coaches, family and friends," she said.

Academically, she is equally proud of receiving the Excellence in Chemistry award as both a freshman and sophomore.

These experiences have helped Sasha develop the time management, perseverance, critical thinking and adaptability needed to navigate challenges and pursue opportunities. They also demonstrate how a Duquesne education prepares students to bring what they learn into the world beyond graduation.

Looking ahead: From biochemistry to dentistry

After graduation, Sasha plans to attend dental school, with the long-term goal of becoming a general dentist and potentially opening her own practice or pursuing a dental specialty.

As she looks toward that next chapter, she carries with her the lessons learned through her academic, athletic and extracurricular experiences at Duquesne.

Her journey reflects the University's promise to empower, collaborate and innovate. Through opportunities to pursue bigger goals, a community invested in her success and experiences that challenge her to think creatively, Sasha is building a strong foundation for whatever comes next.

For students considering a STEM major while playing a college sport, she encourages them to develop strong time management skills, ask questions and lean on the people around them.

"Participate in clubs or fun activities to enrich your college experience and get the most out of your four years of college."

For Sasha, those four years are about more than earning a degree or winning tournaments. They are about discovering what she can accomplish when she has the opportunity, support and confidence to pursue both.