Student Spotlight: Afifa Roja

by DENISE WOLFE

Friendly, determined and patient. That’s how Afifa Roja, a third-year neuroscience major at the University at Buffalo, describes herself.

Originally from New York City, Roja has called Buffalo home for the past five years. She chose UB for its strong STEM programs, proximity to family and neuroscience offerings. On a pre-med track, she plans to graduate in 2027 and continue her studies at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. 

Her days are full, balancing coursework with a job as a medical scribe at a nearby primary care office. She also serves as vice president of the Association of Pre-Medical Students, helping her peers prepare for the rigors of medical school.

Although many of her classes are based on South Campus, Roja gravitates to Silverman Library on North Campus for her study sessions. She finds its lively, collaborative environment helps her focus. “I work better in a busy atmosphere,” she said. The group study rooms, in particular, give her a dedicated place to meet and prepare for exams. 

Roja also relies on the Libraries’ Delivery+ service, which provides quick access to PubMed and other journal articles essential for her coursework. “It saves me so much time,” she said.

Looking back, Roja recalls how challenging it was to navigate UB’s size when she first arrived. Today, she feels grounded, often finding inspiration in UB Libraries, which give her both space and resources to succeed. 

“The Libraries make it easier,” she said. “They give me the room I need to learn.”