Israel Davila Aleman

Name: Israel Davila Aleman
Major: Physiology & Developmental Biology
Graduation: April 2025

I am an enthusiast of medicine, ambitious scientist, and initiator of altruism. I imagine a world where medicine is a dynamic unity of advocating for patient's needs through clinical, research, and service-oriented aspirations. I aspire to become a physician. I love serving in the community through Y-serve and at a free clinic. And I love doing gastric cancer research. In my free time, I enjoy working out, playing sports, and spending lots of time with my wife.

What is your favorite quote and why?

"I can do this all day" - Captain America. Not only am I a huge Marvel fan but I feel like to exemplify a resilient mindset of no matter what comes, I am ready for it.

All modesty aside, what are you better at than 90% of people?

I am probably the best avocado eater, second to my wife, ever to exist. I absolutely love, love, love avocados.

What do you do differently than most people?

I love being unconventional. I love playing the more sweeper keeper role in intramural soccer (basically an extra center back). I love incorporating as much service as I can in my weekly routines. I love not having one music I like but literally listening to all types of music. I love how I had the opportunity to be born in Peru and raised in Utah, and so much more.

Why did you decide to join the Honors Program?

I decided to join the Honors program because the idea of creating a thesis in my undergrad captivated me. I currently have a heavy load of scientific research, so I thought pursuing a thesis would only enrich my academic experience. I was also intrigued by the interdisciplinary setting we are invited to be in. I have a tremendous amount of interest in many different topics, so to be surrounded by people who demonstrate the same curiosity is awesome! I feel right at home being encouraged and inspired to think of the box and through different disciplines. The Honors program is just nurturing my curiosity and I love it!

What has been your favorite Honors experience?

My favorite Honors experience is sitting in class and realizing how my research projects are all interdisciplinary. My research integrates the sciences, sociology, and engineering. It just blew my mind.

What is your next step in Honors?

My next step in Honors is working on my Thesis Proposal and taking the Great Questions course during the upcoming Fall semester.