Breona McQueen Turns Faith Into Purpose

From Calling to Career: How LSU Shaped Breona McQueen’s Journey in Medical Physics

For Breona McQueen, the path to becoming a medical physics resident wasn’t just about choosing a career—it was about answering a calling.

A 2020 graduate of Louisiana State University with a degree in physics, McQueen credits her journey to faith, perseverance, and a deep desire to make a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer.

“I know God led me to this field,” McQueen said. “I could not have predicted my freshman year of college at LSU that I would be where I am today.”

McQueen’s time at LSU marked a pivotal turning point. Originally on a pre-med track, she realized her true passion lay elsewhere. After learning more about medical physics—a field that combines physics with cancer treatment and radiation therapy—she made the bold decision to change majors.

Despite the challenge of adjusting to a new academic path, McQueen leaned into the opportunity.

“Physics is basically like a hardcore math degree,” she said. “Medical physics has a lot to do with cancer and radiation therapy. Part of what a medical physicist does is see how treatment planning and radiation can treat cancer.”

McQueen’s journey wasn’t without obstacles. After transferring to LSU from California, she faced financial uncertainty and the possibility of leaving school. But through determination—and a last-minute scholarship—she found a way forward.

“I just walked out on faith,” she said. “My faith is really important to me. I have really good discernment. I just knew, ‘I’m supposed to be staying here.’”

That moment of uncertainty ultimately became a defining chapter in her story—one that reinforced her resilience and commitment.

Today, McQueen is a medical physics resident in California, where she continues to build on the foundation she developed at LSU.

Her work focuses on cancer treatment, radiation therapy, and improving patient outcomes—an extension of the purpose that first drew her to the field.

 “I don’t want my merits to define me,” McQueen said. “I know my merit and I also think I am very unique when it comes to others in my field.” 

But her goals go beyond her professional achievements.

Giving Back and Inspiring the Next Generation

McQueen is passionate about using her journey to inspire others—especially young girls and students who may not see themselves represented in STEM fields.

Her long-term vision includes launching a nonprofit organization that teaches young people about STEM while also incorporating faith-based guidance.  “I like to get people to see that they can be in any place,” she said. “Even when I was teaching, when students see someone who looks like them, it inspires them to keep going.”

Her story reflects the power of representation, mentorship, and belief—both in oneself and in something greater.

The LSU Impact

Looking back, McQueen credits LSU not only for her education but for shaping her confidence and sense of belonging.

“When I first got to LSU, I didn’t know anybody outside of my family,” she said. “The way I got to know people—I would send a ton of emails and apply for everything. It didn’t hurt me. I had nothing to lose. That was always my mindset.”

That mindset—fearless, driven, and rooted in purpose—is what continues to define her journey. Breona McQueen’s story is a powerful example of what it means to be an LSU Tiger.

She embodies the spirit of “Tigers helping Tigers” and represents the lasting impact of the LSU Alumni network. From Baton Rouge to the front lines of cancer treatment, Breona McQueen is making a difference—and inspiring others along the way.

Her journey is a reminder that the LSU experience doesn’t just prepare you for a career—it prepares you to lead with purpose.