Filipino student at Harvard graduates magna cum laude

Eion Nikolai Chua, 22, graduates magna cum laude from Harvard University. Photo from Benjamin Chua

Harvard University has been a magnet for the brightest minds and talent in the world – including Filipino students.

One prime example is a Filipino student who recently graduated from the Ivy League school with high honors.

Making headlines for his outstanding academic achievements and leadership, Eion Nikolai Chua, 22, graduated magna cum laude with a remarkable double degree — earning a bachelor’s in Economics alongside a concurrent master’s in Chemistry (Chemical Biology), all within just four years.

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He was part of the graduating batch during Harvard University’s 374th commencement ceremony held on May 29.

Students cheer during Harvard University’s commencement ceremonies, Thursday, May 29, 2025 in Cambridge, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

During his time at Harvard, the Filipino math wiz was deeply involved in various academic and extracurricular activities. He served as president of the university’s Chemistry Club in his final year, worked as a teaching assistant and completed research internships including one at D&L Industries Inc.

His commitment to research was further demonstrated by his role as a research fellow in Harvard’s Program for Research in Science and Engineering. In addition, he was honored twice as a John Harvard Scholar, recognizing his outstanding academic performance.

FILE – The Harvard University logo is displayed on a building at the school, Tuesday, April 15, 2025, in Cambridge, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa, File)

Chua’s impressive feat earned him induction into the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society, recognized as America’s oldest and most prestigious honor society, founded in 1776. 

Before enrolling at Harvard in 2021, Chua studied at International School Manila and MGC New Life Christian Academy, both located in Taguig City, Philippines. 

Chua was among the 9,434 graduates who celebrated their accomplishments that day. Of the total graduates, 2,014 were from Harvard College, with 1,947 receiving Bachelor of Arts degrees and 67 awarded Bachelor of Science degrees. 

The ceremony also honored 1,357 graduates from the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, including 275 Master of Science recipients.