An Interview with Gautham Pandiyan
Gautham is in his 4th year of a PhD program in Molecular Cancer Biology. He is originally from Southern India, but has lived all over the world including the University of Georgia where he did his undergraduate studies before coming to Duke.
So, why did you initially come to the United States to pursue your studies?
I would like to say that I had a fascination with genetics and the University of Georgia had an undergraduate major in Genetics instead of just Biology. However, to be honest, it was really just a whim. I just wanted to go see what it was like.
Were your parents supportive of this “whim”?
Yes, they have been extremely supportive of my studies and my decisions, but very worried, naturally. I have been extremely fortunate. I was actually more nervous about living apart from them.
What are you studying at Duke?
I am pursuing a PhD in Molecular Cancer Biology.
How’s it going?
It’s going well in one sense. But I am also trying to decide if this is something I want to continue to pursue, how I want to apply it, etc.
Okay, so if you had the time and means to pursue something else, what would it be?
That is actually my problem. I have too many interests. I am interested in Higher Ed Administration, Public Policy, Public Health, the list can keep going.
I have a feeling this also could be a long answer, but what else are you involved with here at Duke, besides your program?
Formally, I have been very involved with International House as an “IHOP”, Sabrosura, a latin dance club, and GPSC. (Graduate and Professional Student Council).
We will get back to latin dancing, but first what have you gotten out being involved with GPSC?
I have gotten to meet leaders from other departments, and really gotten to know how a university works – especially through meeting the “power players” in the administration. GPSC is one of the forums that can really help graduate students not feel isolated from the rest of campus. It has also given me experience in seeing how an organization can lobby for the needs of a group. The health insurance for PhD students is a result of GPSC’s advocacy.
You sound extremely busy, is the latin dancing a form of release?
It is one of the most fun things I have ever tried. It really speaks to me. I can feel it in my muscles and my bones. It is one of the many things I sacrifice sleep to do, but right now, it’s worth it.
What is your favorite thing about Durham?
All the little treasures that first seem hidden to students. Locopops, hiking at Eno River State Park. Durham is a fun place and proximate to other fun places.
Did you have very active pastimes as a child?
Actually my favorite thing to do a child was read. My favorite was the The Hitchiker’s Guide to the Galaxy series, by Douglas Adams.
Does this explain why you seem to be a bit of a global nomad yourself?
Possibly.