Sara Khammash’s path to become a physician has been shaped not only by academic excellence but by a deep sense of purpose and connection. The 2021 UCCS graduate has found success through intentional choices, meaningful relationships and a steadfast commitment to serving others—especially children.
Sara’s time at UCCS was marked by distinction: she was named Most Promising Alumni and honored as the 2021 Colorado Leadership Alliance (CLA) and Boettcher Student Leader of the Year. Though she initially considered attending college out of state, a campus tour with her father changed her perspective.
“The campus had grown so much since I started high school, and it was a lot different than what I had imagined it to be,” she said. “I ended up liking it more than I thought I would. As I look back, I would not have changed anything in undergraduate!”
She fell in love with UCCS and earned scholarships including the President’s Award and a spot in the Chancellor’s Leadership Class (CLC). Her undergraduate experience became a cherished chapter filled with lifelong friendships, mentorship and personal growth.
“My four years at UCCS were some of the best years I have had,” Sara said. “I met such wonderful people, including my best friend. I made meaningful connections and formed some of the best memories.”
Influential mentors such as Brad Bayer, Sloan Gonzales, Cody Parish and anatomy instructor Sabine Allenspach helped shape her academic and professional path.
“Sabine taught the course so well and made sure students felt supported and were confident before tests,” Sara explained. “There are things that she taught me in anatomy that I still apply now in medical school!
Sara’s leadership extended beyond the classroom, as well. As Student Leader of the Year, she traveled to Atlanta, met the mayor of Colorado and spoke with the Secretary of State of Georgia. Her love for exploration has taken her to national parks across the country and to Petra in Jordan, where she reconnected with her roots. Sara was born in Amman, Jordan and moved to Colorado when she was two years old.
Today, Sara is a fourth-year medical student at Rocky Vista University, on track to graduate as a doctor in May 2026.
“I have been passionate about science and medicine since high school, and I also had a passion for working with children,” she explained. “I volunteered at an elementary school with my old second-grade teacher for almost eight years.”
Personal experiences with her family further solidified her desire to work with children and have a lasting influence on their lives.
“I love the meaningful impact I can make and the meaningful relationships I make with patients,” she explained.
As she looks to the future, Sara is eager to continue growing, learning and serving. Her story is far from over—but it’s already a remarkable story of heart, dedication and the power of believing in one’s purpose.
“I have learned so much on this journey, and that has been the most rewarding. I can’t wait to continue this journey and continue to grow and make a difference in my community,” she said.