BDBS Program Student Experience & Insights: Jean Michael Rodriguez-Rivera

January 21, 2025

"The BDBS Program in Tufts GSBS was a big stepping stone in engaging with biomedical research. I was particularly interested in understanding metabolic networks, and the BDBS Program happily paired me with a world-leading expert within this area."

Jean "Michael" Rodriguez-Rivera, a graduate of the Building Diversity in Biomedical Sciences Summer Research Program for Undergraduates (BDBS) at Tufts University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, shares his journey through the program and how it played a pivotal role in shaping his academic and professional goals. From exploring metabolic networks to enhancing his confidence in presenting research, Michael highlights the impact of the program on his path toward a career in biomedical research. In this conversation, he discusses his research focus, favorite aspects of the program, and advice for future applicants. Read on to learn more about his experiences and how the BDBS program prepared him for a successful career in science.

Why did you choose to pursue a future in biomedical research?

"I had been looking to do research in biomedical sciences for such a long time. Sadly, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there were very few opportunities for virtual research that adapted its resources to this global conflict. Regardless, I was determined to find a program that had this criteria in mind and gather more research experience."

What inspired you to apply to the BDBS program at Tufts?

Can you tell us about your research focus and the questions you're trying to answer?

"My project focused on the effects of astrocytic mGluR5 depletion on excitatory synapse density within the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH). The aim of my project was to examine putative alterations in neuronal activity within the VMH following enhanced glucose tolerance when astrocytic mGluR5 is depleted in mice models."

How would you describe your experience in the BDBS program at Tufts?

"I loved the BDBS Program! Being exposed to new venues of research within Tufts gave me the motivation I needed to engage in more opportunities similar to this one. BDBS elevated my expectations and set the standard for the type of work I would like to do later in my research career. I am super grateful for all the lessons and resources provided during this hard period in the history of the world. This program formed the core of my scientific curiosity and encouraged me to work harder every single day!"

What was your favorite aspect of the BDBS program?

"My favorite aspect of the program was the collaboration and the sense of community within the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences."

What is your proudest academic or professional accomplishment while at Tufts?

"My proudest achievement at Tufts was being able to become free of any low expectations I set upon myself. The BDBS Program was very empowering and helped me aim higher professionally."

How has completing the BDBS program helped you advance your professional goals?

"The Tufts BDBS Program helped me become more involved in presenting my research at conferences such as the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists. This, in turn, helped build my confidence within biomedical research and encouraged me to participate in more internships."

What do you want prospective students to know about Tufts?

"Please, please, please! Show more than just your numbers. I know it's very difficult to separate yourself from a GPA or a score when you enter college or are about to start applying to internships. Part of becoming a scientist is being a person first. Collaboration, engagement, and commitment are key to growing within science, and the BDBS will take very seriously who you are as a person. I wouldn't have wanted this admissions process any other way. Put your best foot forward, and make sure to make the most out of every workshop, seminar, and project at BDBS. Most importantly, have fun!"

Tags:

Student Highlights