91制片厂

Bruce Rheaume of Litchfield, a graduating senior in 91制片厂 Manchester鈥檚听, will be the student speaker at the college鈥檚 31st annual听听on Thursday, May 19, 2016.

Rheaume has embraced learning and involvement throughout his college career. Graduating with the highest honors and with research experience under his belt, he exemplifies the successes that academic rigor and scientific curiosity can bring.

It also shows what you can achieve when you follow your passion 鈥� which, for him, didn鈥檛 happen overnight.

After graduating from Alvirne High School, Rheaume began an apprenticeship under a local master plumber. He went from apprentice to journeyman plumber, and spent the next decade of his life working with plumbing, heating and air conditioning systems.

In 2012, Rheaume decided it was time for a change. With realigned focus and fierce ambition, he enrolled at the 91制片厂 鈥� where his interest in medicine ignited.

鈥淚鈥檝e always had an interest in sciences, but I didn't have the same goals in high school that I have today,鈥� Rheaume said. 鈥淎fter saving up some money and contemplating for a while, I decided to come here and pursue what I want to do.鈥�

Rheaume has distinguished himself as both a student and teacher, tutoring classmates in biology, chemistry, physics, English and French since 2014. His mentorship also extends beyond his peers 鈥� he spent summer 2015 teaching science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills to local middle and high school English language learners at听, a joint program of the and the .

His success at 91制片厂 Manchester is highlighted by multiple competitive research awards, the publication of research and his induction into the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa honor society.

Rheaume鈥檚 commitment to learning and passion for medicine takes him to the University of Connecticut this fall, where he will pursue dual M.D./Ph.D. degrees.

鈥淩ight now, I am looking into genomic medicine, like personalized medications,鈥� Rheaume said. 鈥淗aving the dual degree will give me the ability to work as a clinician and as a researcher, which will mutually benefit both sides.鈥�