About

My current research interests were shaped as a result of events I have encountered that have challenged me, defined my personality and put me in the path to pursue a career in technology and medical science.

Everything started when I was 12 years old and was operated on for a tumor in my lower right jaw. Thankfully it was not malignant but it was very aggressive and rapidly growing. After I was consulted by doctors at UIC maxillofacial surgery department, I was told that I would have to have surgery and might be absent from school for a portion of 7th grade. In addition to missing school, I was told I would lose about 6 teeth and because the whole section of my jaw would need to be removed, a portion of my fibula bone would be taken from my left leg and used to reconstruct my jaw. Finally, 4 days after I turned 12, I went through a 12-hour operation to have the tumor removed and I remained in the ICU for 6 days. I got to see first-hand how modern technology was able to help me and deal with cellular issues that affect humans. I often spoke with my surgeon about what was happening to me as they showed me a simulated model of my cranio-facial structure. In school I found that I adored learning about biology and I started a path to learn more about medical science biological research.

Education

2018 - Present

Huntley High School
13719 Harmony Rd, Huntley, IL.

● Academic GPA: Unweighted: 4.0; Weighted: 4.4
● SAT: 1560 (E 780 M 780)
● Relevant Classes: AP Physics 1 (10); AP Chemistry(11); AP Biology(12); AP Psychology (12)

2020, 2021

University of Chicago
Summer Neubauer Scholar.

● Biotechnology for the 21st Century (11)
● Pathways to Molecular Engineering (12)

2019 - Present

University of Illinois - Medicina Academy Apprenticeship Program (MAAP)

● Shadowed healthcare professionals.
● Researched impact of diet-based diseases on different Hispanic communities in the US.
● Clinical training: improved listening and observation skills.

Awards and Honors

• USA Science Olympiad
  Awarded various medals at the state and regional level including a 2nd place state medal out of 27 teams.

• InnerView Ambassador Award
  Awarded for having completed over 100 hours of community service across various platforms.

• Taekwondo Regional Championship
  Black Belt Regional tournament. Placed 2nd for sparing

• Huntley High School Raider Way Award
  For my strong academic and community service track records. Chosen out of 3000 students.

• Seal of Biliteracy
  National Recognition for proficiency and fluency in two languages