Congratulations to the students graduating from the School of Medicine’s education and training programs this year! Students in a few programs will receive their degrees or certificates later this summer, but we are taking this opportunity to celebrate all the 2025 graduates. Their success is a testament to their hard work and dedication, and we look forward to hearing about the great things they will accomplish in the years ahead.

Meet a few of this year’s graduates below. Click on each one for a full Q-and-A.

Alexis Pean, Master of Biomedical Science

I wanted to apply to programs that would expose me to multiple aspects of healthcare while also pushing me to be my best self personally and academically. After much research, I stumbled across the Duke MBS program, and their mission, vision, and curriculum aligned with what I was seeking.

Ryan Rodriguez, PhD in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology

I knew that by attending Duke I would learn from and collaborate with faculty and staff conducting cutting edge research as well as having access to state-of-the-art instrumentation through the Duke Core Research facilities.

Avery Ongman, Cardiac Ultrasound Certificate

Every day, I’m blown away by what I get to see and learn. From the advanced equipment we’re trained on, to the knowledge and mentorship of the professionals I get to work alongside, it’s truly inspiring. Duke has exceeded my expectations in every way, and I feel genuinely lucky to be a part of it!

Veronica Russell, PhD in Computational Biology and Bioinformatics

I chose Duke because it has one of the oldest and most well-established programs in computational biology. Beyond academics, I appreciated the positive and welcoming atmosphere during recruitment, as well as the temperate climate and affordable cost of living—important considerations for life during a PhD.

Said Mendez, Doctor of Physical Therapy

I want to help improve access to physical therapy for underserved populations, particularly Latino communities where physical labor is a way of life.