Why UC Merced?
UC Merced, being up-and-coming, provided unique opportunities to connect with faculty, secure undergraduate research positions, and have a say in campus development. I was drawn to the fact that it is highly student-driven, and I knew that it was the ideal place to feel supported both academically and socially. With its plethora of opportunities that it gave to me, such as involvement in Associated Students, undergraduate research (TUSCEB), Makerspace, study abroad, and the Biomedical Engineering Society, UC Merced has proven to be a true hidden gem. If you’re looking to make your mark in college, this university is for you.
Why Your Major?
My family saved my umbilical cord blood as a possible option for my sister’s cleft palate regeneration, but it was too experimental to move forward. This early exposure made me aware of the challenges in translating research into effective treatments and the untapped potential of regenerative medicine. I knew I wanted to help close that gap. When it came time to pick my major, I was torn between science and math. With bioengineering being the perfect merriment and allowing me to pay tribute to my family, I knew it was the right path. My love for bioengineering was further strengthened throughout my academic journey and during my participation in undergraduate research.
Inspiration and Mentors
I would like to thank my parents for their kind encouragement, sacrifice, and discipline, which provided me with the foundation to excel. Their creativity and drive inspire me never to be afraid of failure, but rather to learn from it. Thank you to Salvador Diaz and the Makerspace staff for broadening my expertise in rapid prototyping and inspiring me to work hard. I especially want to thank my principal investigator, Dr. Kara McCloskey, and the McCloskey Lab for enriching my technical abilities and for their unwavering support. I owe much of my professional and personal growth to my graduate student mentor, Hoda Arab Zadeh. Not only has she taught me valuable laboratory skills, such as cell culture and RT-qPCR, but she has also exemplified how to raise a family while prioritizing her passions. She is the definition of a go-getter, and I hope to encompass her dedication to research and helping others.
Memorable Academic Experience
My most memorable academic experience was being a fellow in the Training Undergraduates in Stem Cell Engineering and Biology (TUSCEB) program. In addition to the core curriculum, I engaged in various supplementary experiences, including two years of undergraduate research, specialized courses, shadowing a medical professional, stem cell-focused community outreach events, and a summer internship at Cedars Sinai. Thank you to Dr. Kara McCloskey, Dr. Manilay, and my fellow cohort members for nourishing my academic journey.
What's Next?
This upcoming fall, I am pursuing my Master of Science degree in Bioengineering at the University of California, San Diego. My goal is to make novel contributions to regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, while engaging with a diverse community. With UC Merced’s preparation, I am thrilled to delve deeper into my research career.
Anything else?
You’d be surprised how many doors open if you just ask. Especially at a budding institution like UC Merced, many peers are willing to connect you to opportunities that you thought were beyond your reach. Participate in undergraduate research, join a club, and get involved!
