UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Gavin Morris, a first-year Penn State student majoring in political science from Loganton, Pennsylvania, is no ordinary student. He is the first student that the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has sent to college with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD), a life-saving mechanical pump that helps the heart pump blood to the rest of the body. 

It has been less than a year since Morris learned he has a heart condition that will require him to need a new heart. He said his journey has already taught him a lot about resilience, ambition and dedication at a young age, and his commitment to public policy and his determination to thrive despite medical challenges have already set him apart as a role model for both his peers at Penn State and the broader community.

For Morris, who grew up familiar with Penn State University Park since his father works on the campus, there was a lot to love about Penn State, which, he said, helped solidify his decision to become a Nittany Lion.

“I chose Penn State because of the student culture, professionalism, beauty and architecture, opportunities, community and thoroughness of the education I would receive here,” Morris said.

Morris’ decision to major in political science stems from his deep-rooted interest in government and public policy. With a vision of creating a more equitable world, Morris hopes to influence public policy in a way that benefits all people, particularly when it comes to health care. His personal experiences with CHOP’s health care system have shaped his desire to make a positive impact in the politics.

“I believe in a future where people have access to medical care and resources to live better and healthier lives,” he said.

As the first student to attend college with an LVAD from CHOP, Morris said his experience managing his health while pursuing a degree has been pretty smooth so far. Having had the device for nearly a year, he noted that it hasn’t significantly impacted his daily life.

“I’ve become so used to having the LVAD that I don’t think very much about it. My routine hasn’t changed much since arriving at the University," Morris said.

However, he said, he did prepare extensively before starting college, working closely with Student Disability Resources and University Health Services (UHS) to ensure that proper accommodations were made available. From arranging his own room with a private bathroom to notifying UHS in case of emergencies, Morris prioritized his health without hindering his ability to fully engage in the college experience.

Living with an LVAD requires certain adjustments, but Morris said he handles it with relative ease. His device is always with him, and he relies on rechargeable batteries — “I must ‘plug into’ the wall every night,” Morris said.

Although he’s unable to swim and limits his showers to once a week, he said these lifestyle changes have become a normal part of his routine.

Morris attributes much of his success to his family, the team at CHOP and the supportive community in his hometown. He said his proudest moment came when he graduated as valedictorian of his high school class this past June, despite missing four months of school due to his health challenges.

“I felt particularly proud giving my graduation speech, knowing how much I had worked throughout my schooling to get there," he said.

Morris’ experiences with CHOP and managing his health have directly influenced his interest in political science, particularly health care policy. He said he believes that everyone should have access to the same level of care that he received, and he hopes to influence future legislation to make that a reality.

During his time at Penn State, Morris said he wants to grow both academically and personally. He is passionate about becoming a better leader, a more authentic person and an active listener. Outside of the classroom, he is involved with Project 26 Pennsylvania, Penn State College Democrats and the Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity. He said his involvements with these organizations not only align with his political aspirations but also allow him to connect with a wide range of students.