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Arelis Trujillo

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Finalist

General information

Hobbies & Interests

  • Cooking
  • Running
  • Weightlifting
  • Kayaking
  • Crossfit
  • Movies And Film

Reading

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Bio

Arelis is a senior at Barry University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry, graduating Spring 2026 (3.96 GPA). As an aspiring dentist, she is passionate about expanding access to oral healthcare, promoting preventative education, and building meaningful relationships with patients through compassionate, patient-centered care. Arelis serves as President of Barry University’s Pre-Dental Club, where she became the first student in over 21 years to successfully transition the organization from a department-led group into a fully recognized and funded student organization. Through this role, she has organized numerous professional development initiatives including DAT preparation workshops, dental school panels, and networking events. Her commitment to dentistry has been strengthened through 120+ hours of dental shadowing, where she gained firsthand exposure to patient consultations, restorative procedures, preventative care, and the collaborative nature of dental healthcare teams. She was also selected for the highly competitive Tufts University School of Dental Medicine Pre-Dental Mentorship Program. Beyond academics, Arelis works as a culinary chef at Brimstone Woodfire Grill, where she has developed leadership, precision, and resilience while working in a fast-paced environment. She also remains dedicated to community service through organizations such as Smile Easy and Barry University’s Campus Ministry Food Pantry, helping support outreach initiatives that promote health, nutrition, and community well-being.

Education

Barry University

Bachelor's degree program

2023 – 2026

Majors:
  • Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Other

Doral College

Associate's degree program

2021 – 2023

Majors:
  • Social Sciences, Other

Miscellaneous

Desired degree level:
Doctoral degree program (PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Graduate schools of interest:
Nova Southeastern University, Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of Florida, Tufts University, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Boston University
Desired degree modality:
Full-Time
Medical school interest:
No

Career

Miscellaneous

Dream career field:
Dentistry
Work experience:
6 years
Has nursing license:
No
Pa’lante! Latinas in STEM Scholarship
Growing up, it was others who helped me explore and sparked my love for all things STEM, whether it was a teacher who broke down a concept in a way that finally made sense or someone who took the time to make science feel less intimidating and more exciting. Over time, I realized it was not just the information itself that mattered, but the way it was shared. Being given the space to explore and understand built my confidence, and once I recognized the impact that had on me, I knew I wanted to be that same spark for others. As a biology major and chemistry minor at Barry University, I have found ways to turn that intention into action. While working with students at North Miami Elementary, I led hands-on science activities that made topics like the moon cycle and weathering/ erosion interactive and engaging. What stood out to me was not just whether students understood the material, but how their confidence shifted when they realized they could. Watching that moment of understanding take place in real time reinforced how powerful it is to make STEM feel approachable. That same mindset also shaped how I give back beyond the classroom. Through volunteering at the Frost Museum of Science and participating in outreach events with MAPS (Minority Association of Pre-Health Students), AMPS (Astro Math and Physics Club), and the Pre-dental Club, I have focused on helping others explore STEM in a way that feels relevant and accessible. I have learned that impact does not come from complexity, but how you present information, how you listen, and how you create an environment where others feel comfortable learning. Most recently, I brought this perspective into a passion project I am especially proud of. In collaboration with Smile Easy nonprofit, I launched an initiative to assemble and distribute 100 dental kits to children in need throughout my community. While these kits provide essential hygiene products, they also raise awareness about oral health and encourage habits that can have long-term effects. Leading this project showed me how combining STEM with service can create meaningful, lasting impact. For me, STEM is not just about knowledge, it is about using what I have learned to help others explore, grow, and move forward. I strive to move pa’lante, making sure that as I continue on my own path, I am also helping create opportunities for others to do the same.
Arelis Trujillo Student Profile | Bold.org