This year’s Life Sciences graduates are united by more than academic achievement—they are driven by purpose, shaped by personal experience, and committed to building a better world. The six stories highlighted here represent just a glimpse of a remarkable graduating class whose impact spans food justice and sustainability, disability advocacy, foster youth support, and groundbreaking medical research. Many have turned profound personal challenges into catalysts for action, channeling their experiences into work that expands access, advances equity, and pushes the boundaries of science and care. Together, they reflect the compassion, resilience, and ingenuity defining the next generation of life sciences leaders.
Advancing food justice, sustainability, advocacy, and nutrition research
Lumina Chan (B.S. ’26, physiological science, food studies minor)
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Pro pickleball player, psychobiology and disability studies double-major, aims high to improve systems and help people.
Riley Joe (B.S. ’26, psychobiology and disability studies, double major)
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A son’s journey towards a cure for ovarian cancer
Aidan Le (B.S. ’26, neuroscience)
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From foster care to helping others heal
Allana Martinez (B.S. ’26, psychobiology)
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From the lab to the runway to a Fulbright
Amadu Tadesse (B.S. ’26, microbiology, immunology & molecular genetics and B.A. ’26, African American Studies, double major)
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A legacy of advocacy and connection with fellow international Bruins
Keya Tanna (B.A. ’26, psychology)