My journey has shaped me both as a person and a student. I was born in Chorzów, Poland, and adopted by an American family when I was seven. This experience gave me resilience, a global perspective, and a love for travel.
In fifth grade, my dad’s job moved us to London, where I attended The International Community School. That experience opened my eyes to new cultures and ways of thinking.
Before transferring to the University of Toledo, I studied at Sinclair College in Dayton, earning an associate degree in liberal arts. I chose UToledo for several reasons. The strong academic programs, welcoming campus, and family ties—my dad graduated from UToledo College of Law—made it the perfect fit.
When I first arrived at UToledo, I wasn’t sure what career path to take. However, my advisor helped me find direction. Classes in environmental sciences and entrepreneurship clarified my interests.
I’ve always dreamed of running my own business, fueled by my fascination with nature, especially honeybees. This interest led me to study the crucial role bees play in agriculture and biodiversity. Statistics show that pollinators contribute to over $24 billion in crop production annually in the U.S. This knowledge inspired me to create a long-term goal: to be an entrepreneur in the beekeeping field and promote sustainable practices.
My hands-on experience in apiculture began in 2023, focusing on hive management and honey production. My apiary is on an apple orchard, helping pollinate not just apple trees but various crops, from vegetables to peaches.
In 2025, I launched Aleksandra’s Apiary LLC, dedicated to ethical beekeeping. I’ve successfully market-tested my honey and plan to expand into full-scale marketing and sales this year. My mission centers on local and sustainable sourcing.
After graduating summa cum laude from UToledo with a degree in liberal studies on May 2, I will start my master’s in entomology and nematology at the University of Florida this August. This advanced education will equip me with the knowledge and skills essential for contributing to conservation efforts and advancing innovative beekeeping practices.
UToledo has been pivotal in shaping my understanding of ethical business and environmental studies. It has taught me that hard work and dedication can lead to fulfilling dreams. I’m excited to take everything I’ve learned into the next phase of my career, aiming to make a meaningful impact in the field of entomology and the wider apiculture industry.
