Biography: As a laboratory lecturer for the general chemistry series at San Jose State University, I work with the current generation of students, one-on-one. This provides insight into their challenges and accomplishments. It also allows me to share with them the benefit of my own experience in education systems as a non-traditional student.
I began my academic journey at Hartnell College, a Hispanic serving institution (HSI) in Salinas. I then transferred to UC Berkeley for chemistry – a turbulent experience as a chemist in training and as an individual navigating the challenges of a first-generation college student in a student body of high achievers. Graduate studies at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign exposed me to a different part of the country and to new areas of research in the nature of phi-bonding of lanthanide and actinide f-block metal complexes.
Over the course of my education, I held a number of internships around the Bay area, including Genentech, UC Santa Cruz, MBARI, and the Naval Postgraduate School. This collection of work sites provided me an invaluable exposure to numerous work environments involving chemistry.
In addition to teaching at SJSU, I pursue my enthusiasm for carrying out experiments as a visiting researcher in the Radlauer research group for polymer-based metalloenzyme mimics.
Statement: Drawing from my own academic journey as a first-generation, non-traditional student, I am committed to creating and supporting SVACS programs that foster an inclusive learning environment that empowers students and scientists to overcome barriers and thrive in their academic and professional pursuits.
I would like to plan and hold (bi)monthly casual networking mixers specifically designed for transfer students to build community, connect with peers, faculty, and/or industry professionals in an approachable, low-pressure environment. By fostering these connections and offering career insights from guest speakers, these sessions will help transfer students expand their networks, gain valuable support, and ultimately improve retention through a stronger sense of belonging and professional engagement.