Eddie Padilla

As a Californian, moving from days full of sunshine and warmth to days filled with seasons and colors has been refreshing. Settling across the country was daunting, but what made me choose Harvard over other institutions, besides the faculty, research, and opportunities, was the people. My cohort is a diverse range of people from different states and countries who uplift the graduate school experience. A group of people passionate about science and developing as both scientists and people provides a unique life experience that I would not have received anywhere else. Also, the scientific possibilities were endless, as I was able to explore topics in immunology, regenerative biology, adipose biology, and cancer biology through the different hospital systems. Additionally, the opportunities to build community through rigorous coursework like genetics and molecular biology, as well as interdisciplinary departments that are focused on student development, provide opportunities to showcase our knowledge and strengthen our scientific skills. Here, at Harvard, I have been able to see myself thrive because of all that Harvard has to offer me.