'Medicine and Biology with Specialization' - Why BU Supplement

Please help! How can I make this phrase better??

BU was always in my mind --a prestigious institution who any high school graduate would be happy to attend-- but it was only until I began researching about the academics and courses offered that I seriously considered it.

AND

My past work experiences have strengthened my reasons to pursue a career in Medicine and by completing a BA in Biology with Specialization I will not only focus in what I am most interested but I will create a strong foundation for my graduate studies as well as take advantage of the opportunities to participate in active research in many fields.

"with the experiences I pursued" is there a better verb other than pursue (because you don't pursue experiences, right?) HELP!

BU was always on my mind --a prestigious institution who any high school graduate would be happy to attend-- but it was only until I began researching about the academics and courses offered that I seriously considered it.

AND

My past work experiences have strengthened my reasons to pursue a career in the medical field and by completing a BA in Biology with Specialization I will not only focus in what I am most interested but I will create a strong foundation for my graduate studies as well as take advantage of the opportunities to participate in active research in many fields.

just a suggestion maybe

any suggestion how to make this phrase shorter??

br2pi5
With my past work experiences in the medical field and by completing a BA in Biology with Specialization, I will not only focus in what I am most interested but I will create a strong foundation for my graduate studies by taking advantage of the opportunities to participate in active research in many fields.

??