Inspiring graduation story: First-Generation and Legacy student George Fakes heads to Medical School
24 Abril 2024 - 5:01PM
At UST-Houston’s commencement in May, first-generation college
graduate George Fakes ’24 will be wearing his recognizable
joy-of-life smile as the medical-school-bound Biology major follows
in the footsteps of his accomplished older sisters, both
distinguished alumni of the Celt community. His siblings, Stephanie
Fakes ’18 and Nicole Fakes ’20, also majored in Biology and went to
pharmacy school and medical school respectively.
“All three of us are first generation students from immigrant
parents,” George said. “Both my parents did everything they could
to ensure their kids could live strong and successful lives, and
they raised us to become the best versions of ourselves.”
Developing as a Leader
Fakes found an equally supportive ethos at the University of St.
Thomas-Houston. He said his “wonderful” experience facilitated
personal growth.
Grateful for what he has learned, the young man reflected, “With
the help of many advisors and mentors from the Biology Department,
I was able to learn who I was and the type of leader I want to
be.”
Demonstrating his leadership skills, Fakes served as president
of Tri Beta, the biology honor society, and dedicated himself to
mentoring and tutoring fellow biology students. He spearheaded
impactful service projects — in one of them, which involved 3D
printing, he raised nearly $20,000 for Giving Tuesday. On another
occasion, he created a university-wide drive, donating more than
500 toys to hospitalized children. And finally, he created a
mentorship program with Houston’s foster care system to help high
schoolers understand the journey of pursuing a higher
education.
Mastering Academic Rigor
Attracted to the field of medicine, the future doctor feels well
prepared to tackle the next leg of his academic journey: UTMB
Medical School where he has been accepted.
“The Biology Department at UST has prepared me very well for the
difficult and rigorous curriculum I will see in medical school,” he
said.
But he knew that before he ever enrolled at UST, having
witnessed the success of his sisters here.
Gratified to have Selected the Right University
“One of the major aspects that drew me to UST was seeing my
sisters come here! My family would visit all the time, and I grew
up looking up to both of my sisters as key role models for becoming
the person I am today. Seeing their success and experience at UST
opened my eyes to a school I was not even considering before. From
there, I fell in love with the STEM program’s pre-health track, and
I could envision myself as a Celt.”
During his transformational time at St. Thomas, Fakes also
forged lasting friendships, notably with Daniel Lam ’24, who also
is headed to medical school at UTMB.
Fakes added, “The transition into medical school is very tough,
so I am very fortunate to have an amazing friend with me, allowing
us to experience the transition together as we both continue our
academic journeys.”
Dr. Maia Larios-Sanz, Professor and Chair of Biology,
said, “Both George and Daniel are great examples of successful
students. Both found a way to achieve their goals by working hard
and finding a balance between their academics and their
extracurricular activities. Neither of them forgot about service to
their community, either. We are very proud of their collective
achievements, and they are a true testament to their parents and
siblings. We expect amazing things from both of them and look
forward to seeing what they continue to achieve in their lives. One
thing is certain, they will be wonderful ambassadors for our STEM
programs at UST.”
Rooted in the religious, ethical and intellectual traditions of
higher education at UST, George Fakes has flourished as a
well-rounded individual. As he looks ahead, he does so with
admirable wisdom.
“In 10 years, I see myself still surrounded by those who mean so
much to me, my family and friends. Balancing professional and
personal life is crucial to me as I ensure a fulfilling and
sustainable career in medicine.”
George Fakes’ triumphant graduation story is one of individual
achievement and illustrates the resilience and success of a
family’s pursuit of education.
Commencement 2024 When and Where
UST-Houston Commencement 2024 takes place Saturday, May 11, at
11 a.m., at NRG Stadium, 8400 Kirby Drive. UST commencement
celebrates the achievements of 684 undergraduates and 302 graduate
students. The Baccalaureate Mass held on Friday, May 10, at the
Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart and the Commencement the following
day will be livestreamed. View the livestream link here.
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- George Fakes and Siblings
Chris Zeglin
University of St. Thomas - Houston
713-942-3414
zeglinc@stthom.edu
George Fakes
832-952-6893
Georgefakes21@gmail.com