5 questions with medicine’s Henry Herrera, Class of 2026

As commencement approaches for Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine students, the excitement of what lies ahead is matched by the gratitude to the people, classes and clinicals that made a difference along the way—because the journey of earning one’s degree is just as important and impactful as the destination of a healthcare career.

To capture that experience, we spoke with several School of Medicine graduates as they prepare to close this chapter and step into the next.

Read on to learn about Henry Herrera, a Doctor of Medicine (MD) candidate from Brentwood, New York.

Answers have been lightly edited.

What initially drew you to CWRU?

Doc Opera played a major role in my decision to come to CWRU. I wanted to learn medicine, but I also wanted a place where I could keep my passion for music alive. The flexibility of the curriculum at CWRU and the presence of an established musical event like Doc Opera made my decision easy.

What course or campus experience shaped your education most?

Doc Opera. I learned so much about time management, leading a group and working as a team to bring something from scratch to life. I made lifelong friends and even formed a band with medical students I met at Doc Opera. It's been an incredible experience.

What is your favorite memory as a student at CWRU?

My favorite memory as a CWRU student was hosting get-togethers at my apartment with my classmates. We'd spend hours hanging out, playing Catan, Mario Party and mahjong. We binged movies together and would stay up late playing GeoGuessr. Sometimes we'd get together to write and record music, which was always fun. I had an amazing time at CWRU and made lifelong friends.

What’s next for you after graduation?

I'm moving to Cincinnati for my transitional year, and then I'll be back in Cleveland for dermatology residency in July 2027!

What advice would you give to new students in your program?

Take advantage of the flexibility in the CWRU curriculum. Immerse yourself in the medicine but also enjoy your passions. For me, that was music, and I'm grateful to have attended a school where my joy for music flourished. Medical school flies by. Before you know it, you're graduating. Make friends and cherish their company. Finally, it's alright to ask for help! I felt lost in this journey, but my peers and mentors helped me find the way to my goals. I'm happy to help and guide anyone who needs advice, too!