Luis "Alex" Antezana, B.S. 2017

Medical Student, Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine – Rochester, MN

2017 Major: Evolutionary Anthropology (concentration in Anatomy and Paleoanthropology); minors in Biology and Chemistry

How has being an Evolutionary Anthropology graduate from Duke helped shape you personally and/or professionally?

"'EvAnth' was a great way for me to gain exposure to one of my favorite parts of biology - anatomy. Between the primary anatomy, human body and human osteology courses, I became familiar with many of the topics covered throughout the first two years of medical school. In a way, it allowed me to at least become comfortable with the breadth of anatomy that can often be overwhelming in medical school. Lastly, applying into plastic surgery, a heavily speciality focused heavily on reconstruction, having an understanding of the evolutionary underpinnings of anatomical structures has given me a niche perspective on how to approach reconstructive problems."

What advice would you give students in Duke's Evolutionary Anthropology programs? 

"I think with most majors, the breadth and scope of the major is quite large. I would say find what you are interested in and really run with it. Having a real niche understanding in one area in evolutionary anthropology (aside from the unique major already) can help you stand out if you are planning on pursuing related graduate programs."

Luis "Alex" Antezana