From Atascadero to Harvard: Nathan Robasciotti’s Remarkable Journey
This fall, Nathan Robasciotti will become the second-ever Atascadero High School graduate to attend Harvard University—a historic achievement that has us all beaming with pride. But beyond his academic milestones, Nathan has left an unforgettable mark on the Central Coast community through his internship with Habitat for Humanity San Luis Obispo County.
Nathan will be heading to the East Coast to study integrative biology on the pre-med track, with his sights set on a future in dermatology. His passion for medicine began early—starting with a 5th-grade career presentation that led to a summer internship years later with the same local dermatologist. That curiosity, commitment, and care for others has only grown stronger, and it shines through in everything he does.
“I really enjoy health care, especially dermatology,” he shared. “I think it’s very satisfying because what you’re treating is often visible compared to internal illness. There’s also so much to learn since treatments are constantly improving and changing.”
Though he’s looking forward to new adventures in Cambridge—new friends, new food, and stepping outside the comfort zone of his lifelong hometown—Nathan admits there are some things he’ll deeply miss about the Central Coast.
“The weather!!!” he laughed. “I know I will struggle through my first Massachusetts winter. I’ll certainly miss my friends, family, and beautiful California in general.”
During his time with Habitat for Humanity, Nathan brought incredible energy and thoughtfulness to his work. His favorite part of the internship? The people.
“Not just my co-workers and the Habitat admin team, but also so many amazing community members and even several city mayors!” he said. “It’s been amazing to make those connections.”
But it wasn’t just connections Nathan made—it was insights.
“One unexpected thing I learned while working for Habitat was just how many people in our own community are facing serious struggles,” he shared. “Visiting Habitat homes, hearing directly from community members, and meeting families when we delivered playhouses was really eye-opening. I realized how many hardships people are going through.”
Outside of his internship, Nathan stays active—playing tennis, hiking, running, and hitting the gym. And like any true Central Coast native, he enjoys good food and great movies.
We’re incredibly proud of Nathan and grateful for the time he spent with us at Habitat for Humanity SLO County. His curiosity, compassion, and drive will no doubt carry him far—whether he’s facing a snowy Boston sidewalk or a challenging medical school exam.
Congratulations, Nathan! Your hometown is cheering you on every step of the way.