Eion Nikolai Chua, a 22-year-old Filipino student, has made his country proud by graduating magna cum laude with highest honors from Harvard University, completing not only a double degree in Chemistry and Economics but also a Master’s in Chemistry and Chemical Biology—all within just four years.
He was among the over 9,000 graduates who marched during Harvard’s 374th Commencement on May 29, where more than 2,000 degrees were awarded from Harvard College alone.
Chua’s academic distinction also earned him a place in Phi Beta Kappa, the oldest and one of the most prestigious honor societies in the United States. A product of International School Manila and MGC New Life Christian Academy in Taguig, Chua entered Harvard in 2021 and immersed himself in graduate-level coursework and intensive research early on.
In an interview with Manila Bulletin, Chua shared that his joy upon hearing he would graduate with honors was paired with a sense of fulfillment. “Very happy,” he said. “I feel like I did well… they really see who takes like depth of courses appropriate for someone who they think will perform well.”
Now back in the Philippines, Chua plans to take a short break while exploring the local chemistry industry before eventually returning to the U.S. In the long run, however, he sees himself returning to his roots to launch a chemistry-focused business aimed at creating social impact. “Maybe do a little chemistry start-up or chemistry business to like help other people,” he added, citing the potential in converting agricultural waste into bio-chemicals for farmers.
Chua’s journey, he said, is shared with many people who supported him—from his parents and teachers to his peers and mentors at Harvard. “They say, ‘It takes a village to raise a child.’… not only like my parents… but also the people in high school… The Chem department at Harvard was very supportive as well,” he reflected.
Beyond academics, Chua played piano for the Harvard Pops Orchestra—fulfilling a lifelong dream to perform with an ensemble—and served as president of the Harvard Chemistry Club.
His father, Benjamin Chua, posted a heartfelt message on Facebook, calling his son’s achievement a reflection of divine grace. “Graduating Magna Cum Laude with Highest Honors from Harvard University… is not just an academic milestone—it is a blessing from the Lord,” he wrote. “Your gifts are God’s fingerprints. Honor God, and He will keep astounding you.”
For aspiring Filipino students hoping to enter top U.S. universities, Chua offered this advice: “You need to show also that you could be committed and perform well in something you are passionate about.”
