Candise Tat is an incoming PhD student for the fall 2024 and is excited to be starting her first semester at the Graduate School. Candise has loved learning since she was a child, and after taking classes geared toward medicine and health in high school, her passion for science was born. Keep reading to learn more about Candise and her journey.

What inspired you to go into science?

When I was younger, my parents brought me and my siblings to the library, and this was where I developed my love of learning. As I progressed through my educational journey, I found that I particularly enjoyed studying human health and diseases. I think it's fascinating to learn about the workings of the world around and within us, and there's so much to discover!

What's your educational background?

I graduated from Friendswood High School in 2016 and attended Rice University for my Bachelor of Science in biochemistry and cell biology, with a minor in business. Afterwards, I entered the Master of Public Health program at UTHealth Houston School of Public Health. In this program, I promoted health and well-being in the community through an interprofessional organization called Taking Our Best Shot. During this time, I also performed research in a cancer immunotherapy lab. Earning my MPH and working in translational research at the same time was an incredible opportunity to merge public health and personalized care. I'm happy to be staying in the Texas Medical Center for the next steps in my education.

How did you choose the Graduate School?

I chose the Graduate School because of the kindness of the mentors and students. All the students, faculty, and staff I've met have been so considerate and encouraging, and I am excited to be at a top-tier cancer institution in the middle of the largest medical center in the world! Incredible science and support are an indispensable combination to take on the challenge of graduate school.

Now that you're here, what are you looking forward to most?

I'm most excited to explore new fields and learn about the cutting-edge research that is being conducted at the Graduate School. There are so many new findings and paths to therapies being discovered as we search for ways to cure diseases and become healthier, and I'm thrilled to be a part of it!