Ariana Vaida

Class of 2026
Major in Biology; Minor in Global Health

I'm studying Biology and Global Health with a particular interest in inflammatory diseases and neurodegeneration. In my pursuit of becoming a physician scientist, I am grateful for the research opportunities Duke has granted me. I am conducting independent research in the Bilbo Lab, investigating the microglial inflammatory response after respiratory challenges, and I've also completed a three summer-long project at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine through the NeuroHIV Comorbidities Scholarship. Outside of academics, I strive to bridge the learning gap children face in underserved communities in collaboration with Durham Public Schools. Additionally I am a Cardea Fellow, UNICEF USA National Youth Council Member, and Program Coordinator for Help Desk. In my free time I love to cook, journal, and hike through the forests of North Carolina.

Favorite Class: My favorite class at Duke has been BIO/NEUROSCI 223: Cell and Molecular Neurobiology with Prof. Volkan. Taken during sophomore spring, it remains one of the most enlightening I've had because it was my first advanced biology course and it focused on the molecular and experimental fundamentals necessary to understand my specific interests within the field. As a result I was able to better understand the practical application of techniques I was using in lab, such as immunohistochemistry and western blotting. The class would not be the same without the Professor's (and TA's contribution) compassionate and thorough teaching style.