Gemma Chan – Law – Worcester College

Gemma Chan's rise to stardom is nothing short of impressive. She began her career as a supporting actor, with minor roles in films like "Doctor Who." However, her breakthrough came in the form of the lovable character Astrid Leong-Teo in the hit romantic comedy "Crazy Rich Asians."

Interestingly, acting wasn't always Chan's passion. She initially pursued law, which she studied at Worcester College in Oxford. But after turning down a training contract, she followed her heart and pursued her love for acting, studying at the Drama Centre in London. It's clear that her gamble paid off, and now, Chan is a celebrated actor, known for her dedication to her craft.

Will Ferrell – Sports and Broadcasting – University of Southern California

Many know Will Ferrell as the hilarious actor who has graced our screens in movies like "Anchorman: The Legend of John Burgundy" and "Land of the Lost." However, what few people know is that he faced numerous challenges before achieving his breakthrough. Despite his impressive education, it took Ferrell five years to kickstart his career.

After high school, Ferrell enrolled at the University of Southern California, where he majored in sports and broadcasting and became a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. In 1990, he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in sports information before embarking on a journey to pursue his dream of becoming a stand-up comedian.

"Weird AI" Yankovic – Architecture – California Polytechnic State University

Weird Al Yankovic is no stranger to controversy in the entertainment industry, having gained a reputation for his humorous parody songs and music videos that lampoon pop culture and contemporary artists. But what many don't know is that Yankovic is also a qualified architect, having earned a bachelor's degree in architecture from California Polytechnic State University.

Although he is better known for his work in songwriting, producing, acting, and writing, Yankovic's diverse academic background is a testament to his varied interests and talents. Regardless of his career path, Yankovic has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and continues to entertain audiences with his unique brand of satire.

George Miller – Medicine – University of South Wales

George Miller is a director who has left an indelible mark on the film industry with his versatility. Over the years, he has directed movies of every genre imaginable, from the light-hearted "Happy Feet" to the intense "Mad Max" series, for which he is best known.

It may come as a surprise to learn that Miller didn't study film production. In fact, he was pursuing a degree in medicine at the University of South Wales when he discovered his passion for filmmaking. It was while skipping class to watch "MAS*H" that he was struck with the inspiration to create his own films, and the rest is history.

Rooney Mara – Psychology, International Social Policy, and Nonprofits – New York University

Rooney Mara's career took a significant turn in 2011 when she stunned audiences with her powerful performance as Lisbeth Salander in the thrilling movie "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo." Since then, her career has skyrocketed, and she has used her platform to make a positive impact on the world through her charity work.

Before pursuing acting, Mara attended George Washington University for a year before transferring to New York University's Gallatin School of Individualized Study, where she studied psychology, international social policy, and nonprofits. Her education explains why she's so passionate about helping people from all walks of life achieve their dreams.

Emma Watson – English Literature – Brown University

Emma Watson rose to fame for her portrayal of the quick-witted Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series. Despite starting in the industry at a young age, Watson has proven to be a versatile and talented actress, taking on a range of roles with passion and skill.

After completing high school, Watson took a gap year to film "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows" before attending Brown University. Balancing her academic pursuits with her acting commitments, Watson earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature in five years instead of the usual four. Despite the challenges, Watson remained committed to her education and successfully completed her degree.

Natalie Portman – Harvard – University

Natalie Portman has been on our screens since she was in her teenage years, and she has made quite the career out of her numerous roles in film, where she often portrays the struggles that young, ambitious women face. Her prowess has earned her numerous accolades, and the roles keep flowing her way.

Portman plays smart in most of her roles, and after discovering what she studied at university, we're sure she's smarter in real life. That is because she attended Harvard University, graduating with a bachelor's degree in psychology in 2003. We can't imagine the film industry without her if she had chosen to become a practicing psychologist.

Rowan Atkinson – Electrical And Electronic Engineering – Newcastle University

Rowan Atkinson's portrayal of Mr. Bean is nothing short of brilliant. With his signature mumbling and slapstick humor, Atkinson has established himself as one of the greatest comedians and writers of our time. And as it turns out, he's also highly educated.

Atkinson studied electrical and electronic engineering as an undergraduate at Newcastle University. But he didn't stop there - he went on to earn a master's degree at Queen's College at Oxford University. It's hard to believe that the man who has us laughing until we cry also has a deep understanding of electronics. Atkinson's academic achievements demonstrate his intelligence and dedication to learning.

Eva Longoria – Chicano Studies – California State University

Eva Longoria may have been unknown to many before her breakthrough role as Isabella Braña in the CBS soap opera "The Young and the Restless" in 2001, but since then, she's become a household name. Her talent and skill have continued to shine through her work in numerous films and television shows.

Even with her demanding schedule on the hit ABC drama "Desperate Housewives," she remained committed to her education, pursuing a master's degree in Chicano studies at California State University for three years. This was on top of her Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from Texas A&M University.

 

Reba McEntire  – Elementary Education – Southeastern Oklahoma State University

Reba McEntire is a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, widely known for her incredible singing talent. With a remarkable 25 songs that have hit the top spot on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, she has earned the well-deserved nickname "the Queen of Country." In addition to her music career, she's also achieved great success in film and television.

McEntire's journey began at a young age when she and her siblings formed the Singing McEntires. After graduating from Southeastern Oklahoma State University, she pursued a degree in elementary education with a minor in music before deciding to pursue music full-time.

Miranda Cosgrove – Psychology – University of Southern California

Miranda Cosgrove started her acting journey at the young age of seven, appearing in TV commercials before establishing herself as a popular American actress. Her versatility in both television and film roles has earned her a significant fan base. While pursuing her acting career, she also placed an emphasis on her education.

Cosgrove was homeschooled from sixth grade and later enrolled at the University of Southern California to study film studies. However, she surprised her fans when she changed her major to psychology during her final year, citing her father's passion for the field as the inspiration behind her decision.

Jay Sean – Dentistry – Queen Mary University

Jay Sean is a prominent British singer-songwriter of Asian descent, who gained recognition in the Asian underground scene with the Rishi Rich Project Group and their hit song "Dance With You," which charted at number 12 on the UK Singles Chart in 2003

Although he was an excellent student in high school and got admitted to the Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry at Queen Mary University in London, he chose to pursue his passion for music and dropped out of school. His decision has certainly paid off, as he has become one of the most successful musicians of Asian descent in the British music industry.

Khaled Hosseini – Medicine – University of California, San Diego

Khaled Hosseini is a multi-talented individual who has made a name for himself in various fields, including literature and humanitarian work. As a celebrated novelist and UNHCR goodwill ambassador, he has captured the hearts of readers all over the world with his powerful storytelling. Hosseini's debut novel, "The Kite Runner," cemented his status as one of the most talented writers of his generation.

What many people may not know is that Hosseini did not always envision a career in writing. After completing his medical degree at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine and practicing medicine for a decade, he ultimately discovered his true passion in writing.

Chris Martin – Greek and Latin – University College London

Chris Martin, the lead vocalist, pianist, rhythm guitarist, and co-founder of Coldplay, is a musical genius. He played a pivotal role in the band's meteoric rise to fame after the release of their iconic hit "Yellow" in 2000. Martin's impressive musical skills have led to numerous hit singles and albums that have won the hearts of millions of fans worldwide.

Despite graduating with first-class honors in Greek and Latin from University College London, Martin pursued his passion for music. His seven Grammy Awards are a testament to his exceptional talent and the invaluable contribution he has made to the music industry.

Dwayne Johnson  – Criminology and Physiology – University of Miami

Dwayne Johnson, also known as "The Rock," is an accomplished wrestler and actor. He had a successful career in World Wrestling Entertainment, where he won numerous championships. Since then, he has transitioned to acting and has become a well-known face in Hollywood.

However, if his wrestling and acting careers hadn't taken off, Johnson had a backup plan. After graduating from high school, he attended the University of Miami on a football scholarship and earned a Bachelor of General Studies degree with concentrations in criminology and physiology in 1995. It seems his education has influenced some of his movie roles, which often involve crime and action.

Freddie Highmore – Spanish and Arabic – Cambridge University

Freddie Highmore, a celebrated English actor, gained fame for his outstanding performances in several movies such as "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," "Finding Neverland," and "August Rush." Although his acting career started at an early age, he managed to balance his academic pursuits with his passion for acting.

Highmore obtained a double first-class degree in Spanish and Arabic from Emmanuel College at Cambridge University while pursuing his acting career. He also took a summer course at the London School of Economics in 2011. Despite his success as an actor, Highmore values education, and his academic achievements reflect his dedication to learning.

Phil McGraw – Psychology –  Midwestern State University

Dr. Phil is a household name in the media industry. He's most famous for his self-titled show, where he offers life strategies and advice based on his personal experiences since leaving the "Oprah Winfrey Show."

Dr. Phil graduated from Midwestern State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 1975, and he also holds a Master of Arts in experimental psychology and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. Although he's no longer practicing, he still manages to impart his wisdom to his viewers through his highly popular show. His vast knowledge and years of experience have made him a trusted source of guidance for millions around the world.

Connie Britton – Asian Studies – Dartmouth College

Connie Britton has graced our screens with her incredible talent since her debut in "The Brothers McMullen." She has continued to impress audiences with her versatility, range, and dedication to her craft, solidifying her status as one of the hardest-working actresses in Hollywood.

What's even more impressive is that Britton's academic background is quite different from what most people would expect. She studied Asian studies at Dartmouth College, with a focus on the Chinese language and culture. She even spent a summer at Beijing Normal University, where she was roommates with none other than U.S. senator Kirsten Gillibrand. Despite her academic background, Britton's acting abilities are nothing short of extraordinary

Sacha Baron Cohen – History – Christ's College, Cambridge

Sacha Baron Cohen is a true master of his craft, with an impressive career spanning multiple fields. As an actor, he has left a lasting impression on audiences with his unforgettable performances in movies like "The Dictator," "Brüno," and "Alice Through the Looking Glass." Cohen is also a successful producer, with his production company Four By Two Films securing a first-look deal with Paramount Pictures.

Cohen's commitment to education is just as impressive as his professional accomplishments. He received his early education at St. Columba's College before going on to study history with a specialization in antisemitism at Christ's College in Cambridge.

Rashida Jones – Religion and Philosophy – Harvard University

Rashida Jones has been captivating audiences with her outstanding performances since 1997, starring in roles such as Ann Perkins in "Parks and Recreation" and Louisa Fenn in "Boston Public." Jones has also made a name for herself as a successful producer, with the critically acclaimed film "Hot Girls Wanted" among her credits.

Jones' academic achievements are equally impressive, having graduated from Harvard University with a degree in religion and philosophy. Her decision to switch from law to religion and philosophy was driven by her commitment to social justice and fighting for racial equality. Jones' multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication to advocacy work make her a true inspiration and role model.

David Spade – Business – Arizona State University

David Spade is a multi-talented entertainer whose comedic skills have earned him a well-deserved place in the industry. He began his career as a stand-up comedian before transitioning to acting and writing for NBC's "Saturday Night Live." His remarkable performances have since made him a household name in film and television.

Spade has played memorable roles in hit movies like "The Wrong Missy," "The Benchwarmers," and the popular "Hotel Transylvania" franchise. In addition to his artistic prowess, he is also academically accomplished, attending Arizona State University where he initially pursued a business degree before switching to stand-up comedy, a decision that has undoubtedly paid off in spades.

Gabrielle Union – Sociology – University of California, Los Angeles

Gabrielle Union is a well-known actress, particularly among '90s film enthusiasts. Although she appeared in numerous sitcoms early on in her career, she didn't get her big break until the turn of the century when she played Isis in the cheerleading teen movie "Bring It On," which opened doors to more significant roles.

Over the years, Union has continued to shine in her performances, leading many to believe that she only studied film. However, this is not the case. She attended the University of Nebraska before transferring to the University of California, Los Angeles, where she earned a degree in sociology.

Hugh Laurie – Social Anthropology – Selwyn College

Hugh Laurie is a versatile actor, writer, and musician who rose to fame in the '80s and '90s as part of the Fry and Laurie comedy double act, appearing in popular projects such as "Jeeves and Wooster." However, it was his role as Dr. Gregory House in the medical drama series "House" that truly cemented his place in Hollywood.

Despite his talent for the arts, Laurie's educational background is quite surprising, as he pursued archaeology and anthropology with a major in social anthropology at Selwyn College. Nevertheless, his success in the entertainment industry speaks for itself, and he remains one of the most beloved figures in film and television.

Kerry Washington – Anthropology and Sociology – George Washington University

Kerry Washington has gotten a lot of praise for her acting, especially for her role as Olivia Pope in the popular TV show "Scandal." She continues to impress audiences with her performances in various films and shows, breaking barriers and shattering expectations along the way.

While many would assume that Washington solely focused on her acting career, she also boasts an impressive educational background. She attended George Washington University, where she obtained a double major in anthropology and sociology, a fact that may come as a surprise to many of her fans who are used to seeing her on screen.

Ben Mackenzie – Foreign Affairs and Economics – University of Virginia

Ben Mackenzie's acting career has been impressive since his film debut in 2005's "Junebug," having played memorable roles such as Ryan Atwood in "The O.C.," Ben Sherman in "Southland," and James Gordon in "Gotham." However, in addition to his talent in front of the camera, he also has a keen interest in finance and economics, as evidenced by his critical commentary on the cryptocurrency bubble and fraud.

His insights and knowledge in the field is  further showcased in his book "Easy Money." Mackenzie's educational background in foreign affairs and economics from the University of Virginia serves as a strong foundation for his writing and commentary on financial matters.

Danai Gurira – Psychology – Macalester College

Danai Gurira, known for her portrayal of Okoye in the Marvel superhero film "Black Panther," has left a lasting impression on audiences. She reprised her role in the 2022 sequel, "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever." Beyond her acting career, Gurira is also a Tony-nominated playwright for her Broadway play "Eclipsed."

Gurira is also an accomplished academic, having earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from Macalester College and a Master of Fine Arts degree in acting from New York University. Her diverse background in both the arts and academia has undoubtedly contributed to her success as an actress and writer.

Wanda Sykes – Marketing – Hampton University

Wanda Sykes, a force to be reckoned with in both writing and acting, is often overlooked for her significant contributions to "The Chris Rock Show." Despite winning a Primetime Emmy Award for her writing, the focus remains on the show's talented cast.

Sykes has also made a name for herself as an actor in popular shows like "The New Adventures of Old Christine," "Curb Your Enthusiasm," and "The Upshaws," delivering standout performances in each. It's surprising to know that behind her incredible success in the entertainment industry, Sykes holds a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing from Hampton University.

Gerrard Butler – Law – University of Glasgow

Gerard Butler is a Scottish actor and film producer who rose to fame playing King Leonidas in the epic war film "300." His performance in the movie catapulted him to the top tier of Hollywood actors and earned him numerous awards. However, what many people don't know is that he was on a path to becoming an attorney before he ever set foot on a movie set.

Butler attended the University of Glasgow School of Law and trained as a lawyer for two years at a law firm in Scotland. Despite his legal training, he eventually decided that a career in law was not for him.

America Ferrera – Theater and International Relations – University of Southern California

Since her breakout role in the 2002 film "Real Women Have Curves," America Ferrera has become a household name in Hollywood. However, it was her iconic portrayal of Betty Suarez in the hit ABC comedy-drama "Ugly Betty" that truly solidified her status as a leading actress.

Ferrera's success didn't come without sacrifices. Despite attending the prestigious University of Southern California on a presidential scholarship to study a double major in theater and international relations, she made the tough decision to drop out and pursue acting full-time. Years later, she returned to complete her degree in 2013, proving that dedication and hard work can pay off in the end.

Cole Sprouse – Geographic Information Systems and Satellite Imaging – New York University

Cole Sprouse is well known for his role as Cody Martin in the Disney Channel series "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody." Being a twin, he and his brother started acting at just eight months old, and we must say he took to it pretty well. He is also a renowned photographer, something he loves and enjoys doing.

Despite focusing on acting, Sprouse went to New York University and studied a field no one would guess. He has a degree in archaeology, specifically in Geographic Information Systems and Satellite Imaging. We don't even know what that is, but Sprouse's inspiration was reportedly his geologist grandfather.

Vinny Guadagnino – Political Science – College of Staten Island

Vinny Guadagnino, who gained fame from his role on MTV's "Jersey Shore," has expanded his career to acting, appearing in several films and TV shows. However, his educational background is not what one might expect. He studied political science at the College of Staten Island, which may come as a surprise to those who know him for his partying and antics on the reality show.

Despite this, he has shown interest in politics and has even expressed his opinions on social and political issues on various platforms. Perhaps his education will come in handy if he decides to pursue a career in politics.

Lisa Kudrow – Biology – Vassar College

Lisa Kudrow is a celebrated actress, writer, and producer, renowned for her portrayal of Phoebe Buffay in the hit television sitcom "Friends." However, her initial career goals were quite different. Raised with the aspiration of becoming a doctor under her father's guidance, Kudrow attended Vassar College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology.

After graduation, she worked as a medical researcher alongside her father, but her love for acting eventually led her to pursue a career in entertainment. Although medicine's loss is undoubtedly Hollywood's gain, it's inspiring to see how Kudrow's diverse talents have allowed her to excel in various fields.

Ashley Judd – French – University of Kentucky

Ashley Judd, daughter of country music singer Naomi Judd, has made a name for herself in the acting industry, starring in various films such as "Double Jeopardy" and "A Dog's Way Home." Her talent and dedication have earned her widespread recognition and acclaim.

However, Judd's interests don't stop at acting; she also has a passion for learning. She pursued higher education at the University of Kentucky, where she majored in French and minored in art history, anthropology, theater, and women's studies. Her diverse academic background is a testament to her curiosity and commitment to personal growth both on and off the screen.

Kenny Chesney – Business –  East Tennessee State University

Kenny Chesney, a top country vocalist with a hard-core country style, is also known for his country rock flair. With over 40 top 10 singles on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, he is among the most successful crossover artists in the industry. However, music was not his first career choice.

After graduating from high school in 1986, Chesney enrolled at East Tennessee State University in Johnson City for a degree in business. Though he renewed his interest in music after receiving a guitar for his birthday, he still managed to complete his degree in advertising and marketing in 1991.

Ken Jeong – Medicine – University of North Carolina

Ken Jeong is a multi-talented individual who has made his mark in the entertainment industry. His portrayal of Leslie Chow in "The Hangover" franchise cemented his position as a comedian, writer, producer, and actor. Interestingly, Jeong's early aspirations were to become a doctor, and he pursued medicine at Duke University and later obtained his Doctor of Medicine from UNC School of Medicine.

Despite his medical training, Jeong discovered his passion for acting and comedy and began juggling both careers to make ends meet. He gained recognition after appearing in the hit film "Knocked Up," which helped him transition to a full-time career in showbiz.

Dolph Lundgren – Chemical Engineering – Royal Institute of Technology

For fans of action movies, the name Dolph Lundgren is certainly one to remember. With a career spanning over 80 films, Lundgren has made a name for himself as an actor, filmmaker, and martial artist. He first gained recognition as a boxer in "Rocky IV" before starring in many action-packed movies.

Lundgren's academic background is just as impressive as his acting career. He studied chemical engineering at the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm and also attended both Washington State University and Clemson University. He graduated first in his master's class before dropping out of a scholarship at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to pursue his passion for acting.

Mayim Bialik – Neuroscience – University of California, Los Angeles

Mayim Bialik's impressive career started before she turned 12, and she has continued to take on every role with dedication and talent. Her noteworthy performances in shows such as "Blossom," "The Big Bang Theory," and "The Flight Before Christmas" demonstrate her growth as an actress.

In addition to her acting career, Bialik has an exceptional academic background. Despite receiving offers from Harvard and Yale after high school, she opted to attend the University of California, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in neuroscience. Though she had aspirations of becoming a neurosurgeon, she chose to pursue acting due to the demands of her family life.

Deepak Chopra – Medicine – All India Institute of Medical Sciences

Deepak Chopra, an Indian-American author and physician, gained prominence in the '90s as a leading figure in the New Age movement. He inherited a love for medicine from his father, an army surgeon, and went on to study at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences before moving to the United States.

After working as a physician in several hospitals, Chopra became involved in the Transcendental Meditation movement, where he found his true calling. He has authored numerous books on alternative medicine, spirituality, and wellness, and his unconventional ideas have earned him both praise and criticism. Despite this, Chopra continues to inspire and influence millions of people worldwide.

Michael Crichton – Medicine – Harvard University

Michael Crichton was a man who defied expectations and followed his passion, even if it meant straying from his original career path. Though he studied medicine at Harvard College and the Harvard School of Medicine, he ultimately became an acclaimed author, known for his gripping science fiction and biotechnology-themed works.

Despite initially struggling with poor grades in English, Crichton persevered and found success in the literary world. He gained widespread popularity for his best-selling "Jurassic Park" series and his other novels that combined technical knowledge with thrilling storytelling. Throughout his career, Crichton wasn't afraid to express his unpopular views, often tackling controversial topics and pushing boundaries in his writing.

Ray Romano – Accounting – Queens College

Ray Romano is a renowned stand-up comedian who gained fame for his incredible performance as Ray Barone in the CBS sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond." He received an Emmy award for his outstanding portrayal, a testament to his childhood dream of becoming a comedian.

Romano's love for comedy dates back to his high school days, when he was part of a comedy troupe, which didn't affect his academic performance. He later attended Queens College, where he studied accounting but continued to frequent local comedy clubs during his free time. His dedication to his craft and unwavering passion for comedy helped him become one of the most celebrated comedians of our time.

Lionel Richie – Economics – Tuskegee Institute

Lionel Richie is a legendary musician renowned for his contributions to the Motown group Commodores during the '70s. Despite only penning and performing three hit singles with the band, Richie's talent and charisma captured audiences worldwide, propelling him to greater heights as a solo artist and collaborator.

Growing up on the Tuskegee University campus in Macon County, Richie's path to success was already paved when he earned a tennis scholarship to attend the university. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in economics and a minor in accounting, Richie followed his true passion for music, showcasing his exceptional talent and paving the way for his tremendous success

Nick Cannon – Criminology – Howard University

Nick Cannon is a well-known face on American television, but few people know about his early career as a rapper. As part of the group "Da G4 Dope Bomb Squad," Cannon was making waves in the early 2000s before transitioning to television. He went on to host shows like "The Nick Cannon Show" and "America's Got Talent," showcasing his versatility and range as a television personality.

Despite his success on screen, Cannon never gave up on his academic pursuits. In 2020, he graduated from Howard University with a degree in criminology and announced his plans to pursue a master's and a Ph.D.

Ron Paul – Medicine – Duke University

Ron Paul is a man of many hats - a former congressman, a three-time presidential candidate, an author, and an activist. His outspoken criticism of the federal government's fiscal policies, including the Federal Reserve and tax policies, has made him a prominent figure in American politics.

Paul is also a highly qualified physician. After earning his Doctor of Medicine degree from Duke University's School of Medicine, he served as a flight surgeon in the U.S. Air Force. As a physician, Paul has made a significant contribution to society by refusing to accept federal funds from eligible patients and instead providing free treatment.

Howard Dean – Medicine – Albert Einstein Medical College

Howard Dean is a well-known figure in American politics, having served as the governor of Vermont and chair of the Democratic National Committee. While he made an unsuccessful run for the presidency in 2004, he has remained active in politics as a commentator and advisor.

But did you know that before he entered the political arena, Dean pursued a career in medicine? He studied at Albert Einstein Medical College, where he also met his future wife. However, his interest in politics had already been sparked, as evidenced by his earlier Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Yale University.

Pau Gasol – Medicine – University of Barcelona

Pau Gasol is a basketball legend, with an impressive resume of achievements that few can match. With six NBA All-Star selections and two championships with the Los Angeles Lakers, Gasol is considered one of the greatest players of all time.

Interestingly, Gasol's upbringing was focused on health and medicine, with his mother working as a doctor and his father as a senior nurse. With a desire to make a difference, Gasol initially enrolled in medical school at the University of Barcelona, hoping to find a cure for HIV/AIDS. However, his passion for basketball proved to be too strong, and he ultimately dropped out to pursue his athletic career full-time.