Andres Dones

Class of 2022
Major: Neuroscience

Dones shared that watching his brother grow up with hemophilia, an incurable chronic disease affecting blood coagulation, fueled his desire to search for better treatment options. When Dones decided to attend Vanderbilt, one of his goals was to participate in hematology research with the goal of investigating better treatment options for those suffering from bleeding or coagulation disorders. In essence, Dones wanted to do something that would make a difference in his brother’s life and others like him.

When Dones arrived at Vanderbilt, he began to search for opportunities to participate in hematology research. During his second semester, he learned about the Vanderbilt Hemostasis Clinic at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. After contacting the director, he was referred to Dr. Gailani, who offered him a position in his laboratory. He began working in Dr. Gailani’s lab during the fall of his sophomore year and in the spring, he decided to use his passion for the research to complete his Immersion Project.

Now a junior majoring in Neuroscience, Dones reflected on how his Immersion experience has been special. He appreciated the opportunity to work with the postdoctoral fellows in his lab because of their patience and willingness to meet him as a beginner researcher. He has learned many laboratory techniques, including utilizing recombinant DNA technology, cell culture, and protein chromatography. His experience working in Dr. Gailani’s lab has made him feel like he is making a difference in the lives of those who suffer from hemophilia, including his brother.

In the long-term, Dones plans to use his Immersion experience to prepare himself to be a better scientist and physician. His advice to students who are getting started with Immersion is to do something about which you’re passionate. Dones offered some insight in his own words:

“Vanderbilt offers so many wonderful opportunities that you may never have again in your life. Find something that you’ve always wanted to do and find a faculty member to help you accomplish it. Vanderbilt professors are open to many ideas and are very approachable. Immersion is a wonderful chance to do something extraordinary.”