With a master's degree in biological sciences under her belt, Laura Santander Díaz is fulfilling her lifelong dream of being a scientist.
Laura is one of more than 1,200 students eligible for fall 2025 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what's next for the grad.
Major
Master of Science in biological sciences
Hometown
Ñemby, Paraguay
When you were a little kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
What made you choose Wichita State University?
I came to Kansas in 2022 as part of the BECAL-CPK exchange program. At that time, I went to Washburn University, but I heard great things about Wichita State from a friend who was studying here. Upon finishing my undergraduate degree in biotechnology at the National University of Asuncion in Paraguay, I was looking for grad school programs and decided to apply here, as I knew that there was a good Paraguayan community, and Wichita was one of the most affordable cities.
What applied learning experiences did you participate in during your time here?
I was a graduate research assistant and graduate teaching assistant, which helped me focus on my studies and earn enough to live comfortably. I conducted independent research as part of my graduate curriculum, and I was able to strengthen my skills in molecular biology and microbiology.
What advice would you give other Wichita State students?
Get involved on campus! There are so many great organizations out there and wonderful people to meet. Take advantage of the resources at WSU, such as the Shocker Career Accelerator.
What's next for this grad?
I am applying to multiple Ph.D. programs, and hopefully I will be able to continue my passion for research. I want to pursue a Ph.D. in microbiology or environmental engineering.
About Wichita State University
Wichita State University is Kansas' only urban public research university, enrolling more than 25,000 students between its main campus and the WSU Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (WSU Tech), including students from every state in the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Wichita State and WSU Tech are recognized for being student-centered and innovation-driven.
Located in the largest city in the state with one of the highest concentrations in the United States of jobs involving science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), Wichita State University provides uniquely distinctive and innovative pathways of applied learning, applied research and career opportunities for all of our students. The National Science Foundation ranked WSU No. 1 in the nation for aerospace engineering R&D, No. 2 for industry-funded engineering R&D and No. 8 overall for engineering R&D.
The Innovation Campus, which is a physical extension of the Wichita State University main campus, is one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing research/innovation parks, encompassing over 120 acres and is home to a number of global companies and organizations.
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