For David De Leon, Austin Community College District (ACC) is more than a starting point—it’s where curiosity turned into purpose.
A Chemistry major and Honors Program student who began at ACC in summer 2024, David is already building an impressive path as a pre-med student with a passion for biomedical research.
“I am attending ACC to have an affordable start to a long education.”
David has leaned into every opportunity to explore his passion. It was in Honors Biology 1406 with Dr. Kissaou Tchedre where things clicked.
“I discovered my interest in research while participating in an honors course here at ACC. It was an exciting and rewarding experience to work with my colleagues as we explored biological principles, along with the opportunity to discover a novel bacteriophage through the course’s partnership with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute SEA-PHAGES (Science Education Alliance–Phage Hunters Advancing Genomics and Evolutionary Science) program.”
This summer, David will take that next step as he heads to Northwestern University for a highly competitive 10-week research internship in synthetic biology. There, he’ll work in labs, contributing to research on biohybrid devices that could one day transform treatments for diseases like cancer and diabetes.
Back at ACC, David is already creating opportunities for others.
“I have stayed active at ACC by founding and leading two current clubs here: The ACC Pre-Medical Society and the Student Undergraduate Research Alliance (SURA). My mission is to connect students interested in healthcare and students interested in pursuing research by fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for mutual success.”
David credits much of his growth to ACC’s Honors Program and faculty mentors who challenged and supported him along the way, including Drs. Kissaou Tchedre, Arif Karim, Conrad Miller, and Ricardo Mastroleo.
“My favorite part of ACC is the Honors Program, as it was instrumental in connecting with like-minded peers and challenging coursework. All of these professors were truly committed to fostering a strong collaborative environment for learning and personal growth and ensuring every student succeeds.”
Looking ahead, David plans to transfer to a four-year university to study biochemistry or biological sciences, with the long-term goal of joining a National Institutes of Health-funded Medical-Scientist Training Program to earn an MD-PhD.
“My long-term ambition is to become a Physician-Scientist where I can either work in academia, clinic, or organize my own independent research laboratory that can incorporate both research and clinical practice.”
His advice to others considering college is grounded and practical:
“Apply early, stay organized, have trusted friends and mentors to read your essays, and be yourself. Do not sell yourself short.”
To learn more about the ACC Honors Program and how to get involved, visit austincc.edu/honors.
For more information about the Chemistry Program, visit austincc.edu/chemistry.