Alia Mosier ’26

When Alia Mosier, a junior chemistry major from Brockway, Pa., boarded a plane to Europe, she carried more than just three suitcases. She brought with her a mix of excitement, nerves, and the hope of finding herself in a new place far from home.

Alia, who is on the pre-pharmacy and pre-medicine track with a minor in biology, dreams of becoming an oncologist specializing in T-cell therapy. Her passion for science and cancer research began during high school, when a shift in interests — from law to healthcare —sparked her desire to help others.

Growing up in a small town, Alia had limited exposure to different cultures. Thanks to scholarships – including funding from the Vira I. Heinz Program for Women in Global Leadership -- she was able to participate in a month-long study abroad program in Graz, Austria, with side trips to Salzburg, Vienna, and Maribor, Slovenia.

“Studying abroad was the best decision I’ve ever made,” she said. “It built my confidence and resilience, and I discovered so much about myself.”

In Graz, Alia and her classmates learned about European healthcare systems, including visits to the Red Cross and local hospitals. She was struck by the compassion and solidarity of healthcare professionals there, values she hopes to carry into her future medical career.

Beyond the classroom, the trip was filled with unforgettable experiences: climbing Schlossberg Hill despite a fear of heights, enjoying authentic Austrian pizza, visiting Mozart’s birthplace in Salzburg, and marveling at the beauty of Vienna’s historic library and gardens.

But it was in Slovenia, especially during a visit to a nursing home, where Alia felt the deepest connection. Though she and the residents didn’t share a language, they bonded through smiles, songs, and shared humanity.

“Somewhere in Slovenia, I found myself,” Alia said. “I didn’t feel like I had to be anyone other than me and that was the best feeling in the world.” 

The experience has shaped both her worldview and her future career goals.

“Being in the healthcare field is hard and -- especially in America -- it can be easy to forget why you do what you do,” she said. “But in Europe, they remind themselves of why they are there, and they stay grounded and that is beautiful.”