Wiljeen Paul

Wiljeen Paul
PhD Student

Contact Information:

Hometown: Miami, FL

College: Pomona College

Research: Utilizing models to understand the mechanisms of neurodevelopment and

degeneration, contributing to the development of diagnostic and treatment tools.

Career Goals: As someone new to this field, my main focus is to explore various career options.

Currently, I am particularly interested in clinical project management and working in industry.

Hobbies: I love traveling, fiber arts, film photography, and learning new languages!

Why Duke: Duke's Pathology program stood out to me as one that combines my interest in

neuropathology with a broad range of faculty and research opportunities. I was attracted to the

collaborative nature of leading research and core facilities available. I knew that I did not want to be limited in my training and Duke's Pathology program is the only clinical department that

awards PhD degrees, reflecting its wide scope of opportunities. During my visit, Duke's

welcoming atmosphere, sense of community, and beautiful campus made my decision easy.

Why Durham: Coming from big cities like Miami and LA, I was initially nervous about

adjusting to Durham. However, I have been pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoy this

charming city. The laid-back nature combined with warm southern hospitality truly won me over.

Durham offers something for everyone, and I am especially excited about the food scene, art

culture, music festivals, cafes, and farmers markets.