DSF Scholar to Harvard Scientist and Lifelong Learner | Denver Scholarship Foundation

Denver Scholarship Foundation (DSF) Alum Jose ‘Santos’ Navarro Arriola graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School (TJ) and attended the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder), where he majored in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology. He is now pursuing a Ph.D. at Harvard University, focusing his research on diabetes and the molecular effects of hyperglycemia on pancreatic cells—an impactful field of study with biomedical relevancy and fundamental basic science. Santos was naturally drawn to math and science from an early age, a passion that took root in elementary school and has remained a driving force in his life.  

Early Education Journey  

Born and raised in Denver, Santos used education to navigate his identity and the world around him. It wasn’t until he attended Thomas Jefferson (TJ) High School that the idea of college truly became a reality. Taking AP classes and concurrent enrollment courses helped him boost his confidence, allowing him to believe that higher education was within his reach. However, as a first-generation college student, Santos didn’t have additional support at home to guide him through the process until he met Ms. Reyna, his DSF College Advisor at the time.   

During his senior year, the college application process became real. Financial planning was a daunting obstacle for him, making college a seemingly impossible choice. Ms. Reyna helped him navigate the paperwork and explained what financial aid packages meant for him and his family.  

“Ms. Reyna made college a real opportunity for me. I was awarded more than $60,000 in scholarships, which made college feel like a true reality. I wanted to attend college—I didn’t care how prestigious the school was. I just knew I wanted to continue my education,” explained Santos. 

Ultimately, he was accepted to all the colleges he applied to—a moment of immense pride for him and his family. He advises other students: “The sooner you start visiting the DSF Future Center and build a relationship with your DSF College Advisor, the sooner they can help you plan for your future. Believe in your potential, and know that there are always resources and people who want to help you, as long as you advocate for yourself and ask for support.”  

Finding Community and Resources  

At CU Boulder, Santos faced culture shock in a predominantly white institution. However, a summer bridge program called Program for Excellence in Academics & Community (PEAC) helped him connect with other students of color, providing him with a sense of belonging and finding the resources he needed.  

His time at CU Boulder was exciting and fulfilling; he took as many classes as possible, as he was always interested in learning more; he participated in volunteer relief work, led the student astronomy club, conducted undergraduate research work, and many more opportunities that reinforced his gratitude for higher education. He was also actively involved in the Ronald E. McNair Scholars Program and Miramontes Arts & Sciences Program (MASP). 

Pathway to Harvard University  

Determined to further his education, Santos was accepted to multiple prestigious internship opportunities, leading him to Harvard University for the first time, where he participated in a highly competitive summer research program (SHURP). There, he found communities of color within Harvard University, which motivated him to return to Boulder more inspired to reach his goals.  

Santos graduated from CU Boulder during the COVID-19 pandemic, a great accomplishment for his family but they were unable to attend due to public health precautions. He remembers walking the stage to an empty field, but as he works toward his Ph.D., he looks forward to the day his entire family can celebrate his accomplishments of graduating from Harvard in person.  

Santos graduating from CU Boulder

Giving Back and Advocating for Diversity in STEM 

As a student at Harvard University, Santos is recruiting for research conferences like the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students (ABRCMS), as he is committed to increasing diversity in STEM. He also supports diversity-focused summer research programs similar to the one that first introduced him to the institution. Through his outreach, he is helping other students like him gain access to rigorous academic opportunities and be successful. 

Santos at the ABRCMS

As Santos continues his Ph.D. journey, he remains a strong advocate for himself and others, embracing his role as a scientist and lifelong learner. He hopes to see more DSF Scholars at Harvard University pursuing their dreams while relying on their communities and available resources.

Santos at a conference representing Harvard University