Student Spotlight: Roshan Lodha

Tell us briefly about yourself.

I went to the University of California, Berkeley, where I majored in computer science and biochemistry. I’m planning to go into emergency medicine for residency.

Why did you choose CCLCM?

I chose CCLCM because there are no grades, homework or tests. CCLCM felt like a place where I could actually focus on learning how to take care of patients instead of memorizing, for example, which enzyme does what.

What is one of your favorite experiences at CCLCM thus far?

My research year at the NIH was incredible. I got to meet and work with so many amazing people, several of whom have become some of my closest friends.

What have you discovered about Cleveland that you especially enjoy?

The seasons, fall in particular. The city goes from gray to cinematic for about three weeks.

Tell us about your research year project.

My project explored how attention networks can be used to predict spatial transcriptomics (RNA gene expression) in breast cancer. We showed that it’s possible to infer spatial gene expression directly from standard hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) slides and that the predicted expression patterns carry biologically meaningful information.

How do you manage stress?

I hang out with friends, build things (building blocks, woodworking, coding) and play tennis. Basically, I deal with stress by making more projects that could cause stress, but in a fun way.

What are some words of wisdom you live by?

Life is too serious to be taken seriously.

What advice would you give to new CCLCM students?

Enjoy yourself! Medical school is long and challenging, but our unique curriculum gives you room to breathe. Take advantage of that flexibility before residency begins.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

I make pottery. I’ve made mugs, bowls and a few mushrooms for friends. They describe them as “whimsical,” which I think is their polite way of saying “lumpy.”