Runyararo Chaora ’25

Blue Key Leader for Team Bonding

She/Her

Majors: Biochemistry, Mathematics Double Major, Honors Program, Pre-Med
Activities: Team Oneonta iGEM Team Member, Social Innovation Fellow, Kappa Mu Epsilon, STEM Peer Group Facilitator, Co-founder of Hartwick’s MCAT Study Group, Connected Through Christ, Resident Advisor, Hawks Venture Startup Intern, Social Innovation Fellowship with the Griffiths Center For Collaboration and Innovation, Medical Internship in Morocco, Catering Assistant, Global Education Office Assistant
Hometown: Harare, Zimbabwe
High School: Chisipite Senior School

I chose Hartwick for the incredible study abroad opportunities that are available for students throughout the school year. Through various scholarships and awards, I have been able to participate in J Term courses to Portugal and the United Kingdom, complete a month-long medical internship in Morocco during the summer, and travel to France with the Oneonta iGEM team to present our research in synthetic biology at the iGEM Grand Jamboree in Paris. The hybrid of academia and travel make Hartwick worthwhile.

Participating in iGEM was the most exhilarating experience of my college career. iGEM is the heart of synthetic biology, and seeing its intersection with technology and innovation opened my mind to imagining more that I can do in my career. It was amazing to be part of a team that accomplished such meaningful work.

Taking biochemistry during my junior year confirmed that I had chosen the right major. I was captivated by everything I learned, and the course not only deepened my passion for the subject, but also gave me the confidence I needed to advance in my pre-med studies.