TAMIU Alumnus Accepted to Top Biomedical Graduate Program

Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) December 2016 graduate Rolando A. Vedia was recently accepted to the master’s program at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center UT Health Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences. Vedia will begin the program Fall 2017.

Dr. Daniel J. Mott, associate professor of biology, TAMIU College of Arts and Sciences Department of Biology and Chemistry, was Vedia’s mentor.

“Roli is a very pleasant, hardworking young man. He is appreciative of assistance, but works well on his own,” said Dr. Mott.

“I became his mentor when he approached me after he was in my anatomy class. He also conducted undergraduate research in my lab, and worked as a chemistry lab prep person for two years,” added Mott.

Vedia, who majored in biology, said his work as a student research assistant helped him set his sights on continuing his education.

As a research assistant, in conjunction with a grad student’s project, Vedia studied the distribution of ground dwelling spiders and their plant relationships, according to Mott.

“The faculty, staff and students of the department of biology and chemistry helped me become the aspiring professional I am today,” said Vedia.

While Vedia was at TAMIU, he was also involved in the TAMIU Student Government Association, Student Philanthropy Council, Tri-Beta, Biological Honor Society and Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society.

Vedia said his next step is to enter medical school or continue working towards a Ph.D. in cancer biology.

“The master’s program will allow me to gain an advanced education in the innovative ways biology and medicine come together to improve the clinical outcome of patients. I want to work towards improving the treatments of cancer patients and contribute or be a part of the Texas medical community,” Vedia said.

“He has great support from his very proud family. He is a great example of the kinds of students we enjoy here,” Mott said.

For more information, contact the TAMIU Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu or 326.2180 or visit offices in Sue and Radcliffe Killam Library 268.

University office hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday – Friday.

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