As a child growing up in a rural area of Lebanon, Hana Baroudi’s favorite book was about the planets. She knew early on that she wanted to understand how the universe worked. But living in an underdeveloped community also gave her a strong desire to care for others.

Now, as she prepares to graduate from the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Houston Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Baroudi reflects on a journey that allowed her to blend both of her lifelong passions: science and service. She is completing her PhD with a focus on Medical Physics — an intersection of advanced research and clinical care — as she moves toward becoming a licensed Medical Physicist.

A focus on Medical Physics

From a young age, Baroudi had a strong desire to be a scientist — but not only doing research in the lab.

“When I look up and see all the stars, I’m blown away by what’s up there. But I also knew there’s so much that needs help down here.”

At the Graduate School, she found a program that offered the perfect balance of both — Medical Physics allowed her to do meaningful research while also seeing its real-world application in treating cancer patients. The tools she helped develop are now being used to personalize radiation therapy for approximately 1,400 patients, ensuring each treatment is tailored to the individual, maximizing safety and effectiveness.

Baroudi even had the opportunity to travel to South Africa to present her research, highlighting its impact.

“It’s rare to find a field where you can be both in the research lab and the clinic. I feel so blessed to be able to pursue both passions together.”

Looking back on transformative moments

Baroudi’s path to the Graduate School began with a leap of faith. In 2020, she was on her way to board a flight back to Lebanon when she received an unexpected opportunity: a last-minute interview with the Graduate School Medical Physics program. She booked a 3 a.m. flight to Houston and took a chance. That chance changed the trajectory of her education and opportunities to come later.

“I guess when it’s meant to be, you can’t escape it.”

Looking back, she describes her time at the Graduate School as transformative — not just academically, but personally.

“You can’t do this journey alone.  The staff always made me feel cared for. They checked in, supported me, and truly made this place feel like home.”

Though she is passionate about her studies and education, Baroudi emphasizes that all her greatest memories at the school consist of building meaningful relationships with those around her.

In 2023, Hana was honored with the American Legion Auxiliary Award, a distinction established in 1971 to support graduate students whose research advances the understanding and treatment of cancer. She attended the American Legion Auxiliary Women’s Luncheon two years in a row — experiences she says were the most meaningful. The warmth and encouragement she received from the women she met left a lasting impression. “They didn’t even know me well, yet they were so supportive and moved by the work I’m doing.”

Looking ahead toward residency and building on a dream

Now, Baroudi is preparing for the next step in her career: a residency at MD Anderson Cancer Center, where she will continue her training to become a certified Medical Physicist.

“My dream is to continue that 50/50 balance of research and clinical care. That’s what I’m working toward and who I want to become, someone that can do both of those things.”

As she celebrates her graduation, one person will be right by her side — her mother, who has been a constant source of support throughout her journey. With her family far away, this moment of reunion and recognition will be very special for them both.