Take the Challenge
Student Snapshot: Kevin Casillas ’28
Student-leader Kevin Casillas ’28 is planning a career in cancer research and care—and he’s already getting a head start through research at prestigious institutions. A Posse Leadership Scholar from Los Angeles and a chemistry department award winner, Kevin describes the mindset, connections and mentorships that are key to his success at Dickinson and beyond.
Hometown:
Los Angeles, Calif.
High school:
John Marhsall High School.
Majors:
Clubs and organizations:
Student Senate, Club Squash and A.C.E. Peer Mentors.
Best thing about my Dickinson experience:
Dickinson has really sparked my intellectual curiosity. If I had asked myself two years ago if I would be studying chemistry or cells, I would have said no. However, I really enjoyed my chemistry and biology courses at Dickinson and feel very confident about my route in science.
Best thing about my majors:
Every professor is accessible and is willing to help anyone.
Favorite professor:
Every professor has really motivated me to achieve greatness. However, Professor of Biology John Henson and Assistant Professor of Chemistry Miguel Leal have challenged me in ways that make me think critically about science. Their mentorship has been a huge part of my success at Dickinson.
About my internship:
I interned at Seattle Children’s Hospital/Seattle Children's Research Institute. I learned valuable laboratory techniques and how to make science accessible for everyone regardless of gender, race and background. This summer I hope to continue my journey in immunotherapy at the University of Pennsylvania.
About my research:
During my internship at Seattle Children's, I studied chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells. CAR-T cell immunotherapy is being used in the fight against liquid cancers. However, CAR-T cells are not as effective when it comes to solid tumors. I was researching methods of making CAR-T cells more effective in the fight against neuroblastoma, a pediatric solid tumor that affects roughly 8% of childhood cancer patients.
Post-Dickinson plans:
Dickinson always makes me think about what I will be doing tomorrow. I am interested in researching childhood cancers, either as a Ph.D. or an M.D.
Proudest accomplishment so far:
Conducting research at well-respected institutions.
Most important thing I’ve learned so far:
Take the challenge, even if the result ends up not being in your favor.
Honors/scholarships/awards:
Posse Foundation Leadership Scholarship, Chick-fil-A Remarkable Leadership Scholarship and John E. Benson Chemistry Award.
Read more Student Snapshots.
TAKE THE NEXT STEPS
Published July 14, 2026