Brandeis Stories

By Sheila Georger
Photography by Dan Holmes and Gaelen Morse
May 12, 2025

Every graduating class leaves its mark — but the Brandeis Class of 2025 has done so with resilience, creativity and a deep sense of purpose.

As they reflect on their journeys, these six students share how Brandeis shaped their paths: through interdisciplinary learning, meaningful mentorship, lasting friendships and the freedom to explore. Their stories offer a glimpse into what’s possible when curiosity meets community.

Patrick Cao

“Comparison is the thief of joy.”

Triple-majoring in biology, neuroscience and psychology, Patrick Cao ’25 chose Brandeis for its close-knit environment and the breadth of opportunities available inside and outside the classroom.

His time on campus was shaped by both personal growth and the realization that success looks different for everyone. “Comparison is the thief of joy,” he said. “Everyone is on their own path, with no one path being the de facto correct way, and everyone will find their way eventually.”

One of the people who made the biggest impact on Cao’s experience was professor Maria Miara in the biology department. He credits her with offering guidance, encouragement and opportunities to grow throughout his time at Brandeis.

After graduation, Cao will join the Neurochemistry and Cognition Lab as a research assistant, studying cognition and Alzheimer’s disease. He hopes to build on this experience by pursuing a PhD in neuroscience or psychology.

Reflecting on his journey, Cao offers this advice to his classmates: “You can achieve the goals you set for yourself if you work toward them with purpose, resilience and belief in yourself.”

Gonny Nir

“What you value and how you value it does not need the approval of others for it to be true.”

Gonny Nir ’25 was drawn to Brandeis by its liberal arts tradition, which encourages interdisciplinary studies. As a double major in politics and philosophy, she found a space where she could explore complex ideas across disciplines.

Her academic journey led to a deeper understanding of how human connection shapes every part of life. “We are irreducibly social creatures who need and seek recognition from others; this is not a weakness but a strength that should be made present in every activity in which we partake,” she reflected.

Nir credits her mentor, professor David S. Katz, for playing a key role in her intellectual growth and development during her time at Brandeis.

After graduation, she will begin a year of civil service abroad, continuing her commitment to meaningful engagement beyond the classroom. Reflecting on what she’s learned, she shares this advice with her fellow graduates: “What you value and how you value it does not need the approval of others for it to be true.”

Samra Khalid

“We become who we surround ourselves with.”

At Brandeis, Samra Khalid ’25 found the space to do it all — pursuing triple majors in neuroscience, biology and psychology while immersing herself in leadership, service and cultural life.

“I chose Brandeis because I was promised opportunities I wouldn’t get at any other university — and I’m so glad I did,” she said. Whether dancing with Chak De, performing and emceeing at the South Asian Student Association’s culture show, MELA, or serving as a Service and Leadership Orientation Leader, she found ways to grow as a scholar, performer and mentor.

Khalid also served as a biology undergraduate departmental representative, a general chemistry course assistant and a research assistant in the Goode Lab. She coordinated the Advocates for Health program and served as Waltham Group treasurer for three years—balancing academics with more than 900 hours of community service.

Her most meaningful takeaway from Brandeis is the strength of the community. “We become who we surround ourselves with,” she said. “Over time, I realized that the voices teaching me how to question the world were those of my best friends. Their perspectives shaped mine, and together, we pushed each other toward excellence.”

She also formed a deep bond with Bouchra Samih, a dining staff member who greeted her every day with “Salam Zwina,” meaning “Hello, beautiful.” Samih often told others that Khalid was like a daughter to her — and the feeling was mutual. “I truly saw her as a mother figure on campus,” said Khalid. “My mom actually has the same name.”

After graduation, Khalid plans to travel internationally before returning home to work and apply to dental school.

“As we move forward, let’s remember our limitless potential and meet the inevitable challenges ahead with resilience and a deep passion to change the world we live in.”

Preston Merrill

“Reach for the stars and pursue something that brings you joy.”

A double major in film and environmental studies with a minor in creative writing, Preston Merrill ’25 embraced his time at Brandeis as a chance to explore widely and think creatively.

Drawn to the university for its academic rigor and what he described as a “unique mosaic of different cultures,” Merrill found a campus that encouraged curiosity at every turn.

“Brandeis’ community consistently encouraged me to try things like skiing, fencing, making music, flying planes, acting in plays, connecting with nature, and just finding ways to be creative every day,” he said.

His coursework ranged from artistic expression to data analysis, giving him the tools to both create and interpret the world around him. “Brandeis has made me a more worldly person and provided so many chances to do new and interesting things,” he reflected.

He’s especially grateful to his friends for inspiring countless adventures, both inside and outside the classroom.

Following graduation, Merrill is focused on building a career that reflects his diverse interests. He’s seeking opportunities in both film and environmental work in the New Jersey and New York area and preparing for a future move to New York City.

To the graduating class, he offers this advice: “Try new things. Keep exploring the world and connect with the unique and special communities wherever you are. Reach for the stars and pursue something that brings you joy.”

Caterina Cajrati Crivelli Mesmer Nobili

“The only way to grow and learn more about yourself is to dive in.”

With a major in psychology and minors in English, Italian, and film, television, and interactive media, Caterina Cajrati Crivelli Mesmer Nobili ’25 found Brandeis to be the ideal place to explore her many academic interests.

She chose Brandeis for its intimate size, strong academic support, and the blend of liberal arts and research opportunities. “Brandeis seemed to have the perfect blend of like-minded students who were quirky and academically focused,” she said. “I’m pleased that my experience has reflected everything I had hoped it to be.”

Her time at Brandeis taught her the value of saying yes to the unexpected. “My biggest takeaway is to be open to possibilities and opportunities you feel unsure about. The only way to grow and learn more about yourself is to dive in,” she said.

After graduation, she will spend a year working as a mental health counselor at Walden Behavioral Care — a role she found deeply rewarding during her clinical psychology practicum — before beginning a master’s program.

To her fellow graduates, she offers this reminder: “Don’t be afraid to try something new while you’re figuring things out. It’s okay — and often important — to pivot.”

Maia Lefferman

“Protect your power to think freely.”

Rooted in values of social justice and creative expression, Maia Lefferman ’25 found in Brandeis a community that challenged and inspired her from the start.

A triple major in politics, art history, and women's, gender and sexuality studies with a minor in social justice and social policy, Lefferman explored the intersections of identity, advocacy and culture both inside and outside the classroom.

“I knew I needed my school to reflect the values I hold,” she said. “There are few institutions created for the purpose of radical inclusion, and I am continuously impressed by Brandeis’ ability to maintain this at its core.”

For Lefferman, one of the most powerful aspects of her Brandeis experience was the strong sense of community. “This sense of mutual responsibility and effort to understand each other is something I will keep with me through my career and into my adult life,” she said.

She’s especially grateful to professors Harleen Singh and ChaeRan Freeze, who helped her learn to value her own voice. She also leaves Brandeis with lasting friendships that she says are “firmly rooted in the adventures and memories we experienced here.”

Her advice to the graduating class: “Protect your power to think freely. Continue to ask difficult questions, listen intently, think and act toward change, and lead with compassion.”