My mental health has played a significant role in shaping both my academic journey and personal life. Throughout my time in school, I have faced the challenges of depression and anxiety, often triggered by the overwhelming academic load. These mental health struggles, while impactful at various points, did not prevent me from achieving my goals, but they certainly influenced my performance in unpredictable ways. At times, these conditions made it difficult to focus, manage stress, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. However, despite these hurdles, I was able to graduate Cum Laude in Microbiology and secure a prestigious position as an NIH PREP Scholar at the Einstein College of Medicine in New York. This opportunity allowed me to explore different research areas and connect with mentors, which ultimately led to secure interviews for several PhD programs. The selection process for these programs proved to be a pivotal moment in my life. Even though I was still grappling with anxiety and depression, I committed to Texas A&M University’s Genetics and Genomics Interdisciplinary Program, where I was honored to be selected as a T32 IMSD Scholar for my first year. The transition to a new environment brought its own set of challenges, particularly as I had to adapt to the academic demands of a rigorous PhD program in a completely new city. The move exacerbated my mental health struggles, but the support I had from friends, family, and mentors, along with the comfort of my pet, became a critical motivator that kept me going. My pet provided a sense of stability and emotional support during times of intense stress, which helped me manage the day-to-day challenges of graduate school. Despite the ongoing struggles with mental health, I was able to succeed during my first two years at Texas A&M. Not only did I maintain a solid academic standing, but I also had the opportunity to teach undergraduate students, which allowed me to gain valuable experience and connect with others in the academic community. This period of growth and self-reflection led me to a critical realization: I had been living with undiagnosed ADHD for much of my life. This understanding provided a new perspective on my challenges, explaining some of the difficulties I had faced in managing focus, organization, and time. Knowing this has allowed me to take proactive steps toward seeking treatment and adapting my approach to learning and life in general. Moving forward, I continue to prioritize my mental health, knowing that it is integral to my success and well-being. I have learned that maintaining a balance between academic ambition and self-care is essential for sustainable growth. By staying connected to my support system, managing my mental health, and acknowledging my ADHD, I am better equipped to handle the demands of my research and continue striving toward impactful discoveries in my field. Ultimately, I look forward to the future with optimism, confident that taking care of my mental health will drive my success and enable me to contribute meaningfully to the scientific community.

Raised in the rural municipality of Aibonito, Puerto Rico, my young mind was brimming with curiosity and ambition, yet unsure of the various professional pathways that lay before me. In my family, higher education was not easily attainable. Both my grandmothers and my mother had to work from a young age to support their families, leaving their educational aspirations unfulfilled. Despite growing up with limited exposure to science, I harbored a deep-seated fascination with the biological sciences, which led me to pursue a degree in Industrial Microbiology at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez Campus. My journey through college was not without its challenges. An overwhelming sense of impostor syndrome and feelings of alienation accompanied my struggles with depression. These battles made me question my intelligence and worth among my peers. However, I soon realized the importance of seeking help and reaching out to professionals for support. I discovered that I was not alone in this journey, and opening up about my struggles allowed me to receive the encouragement I needed to persevere. As my health improved, so did my determination to excel and set new goals for myself. I actively engaged in student organizations, took on leadership roles, and sought out summer internships as I envisioned my path into graduate school. Gradually, my confidence began to shine through, and I embraced the idea of taking risks to continuously improve myself. I was determined not to let myself down again. Reflecting on my journey, I realized the incredible impact that the women in my life had on my pursuit of greatness. They were my motivating force, inspiring me to strive for excellence and work towards achieving my ultimate academic goal – obtaining a Ph.D. With their unwavering support, I knew I could give back to them by fulfilling my dreams. Being part of the new diaspora generation, I understood that leaving my home to pursue higher education was a step toward personal growth and knowledge expansion. Nevertheless, I was comforted by the knowledge that I had a strong support system back home, a village that stood by me every step of the way and eagerly awaits my return. Puerto Ricans are known for their resilience, and the women of our island are a driving force, continuously fighting for a better future. During my academic journey, I encountered hurdles and faced adversity, but I refused to be deterred. I held tight to the belief that determination, hard work, and resilience would lead me to success. The road to my dreams was not a solitary one, for I walked alongside the inspiring spirits of the women who came before me. A year ago, as the Class President, I had the opportunity to give a speech that encapsulated my experiences and the meaningful details and quotes from the people who had supported me throughout my bachelor's degree. It was my way of expressing gratitude and acknowledging the vital role they played in shaping my journey. Now, with my sights set on graduate school and a Ph.D. in Genetics, I am ready to face new challenges and broaden my horizons. My experiences have taught me to embrace growth, cherish the strength of my community, and honor the legacy of resilient Puerto Rican women who have always dared to dream. With every step I take, I carry the hope of giving back to my village and becoming a source of inspiration for future generations of dreamers. Together, we will continue to rise, empowered by the force of strong, determined women shaping a better tomorrow.

Embarking on the journey of becoming a first-generation graduate student is no small feat; it comes with its own set of challenges and obstacles. However, for me, the prospect of expanding my knowledge in a profession I am passionate about and providing a better future for my family outweighs any difficulties. The decision to return to college after my undergraduate studies was driven by a desire for personal growth and the realization that my mental and physical well-being were paramount to achieving success in both academics and life. During my undergraduate years, I encountered the daunting companions of anxiety and depression, which frequently clouded my academic pursuits and personal life. Halfway through my degree, I reached a pivotal turning point where I acknowledged the need for significant changes to improve my overall health. Recognizing the importance of seeking help, I made the courageous decision to see a therapist amidst the crises. This choice was transformative, as it allowed me to gain insights into my emotional struggles and develop effective coping strategies. Among the multiple approaches available to self-regulate my emotions, I discovered the power of breathwork and physical exercise. Incorporating breathing techniques and dedicating time to the gym, I witnessed remarkable improvements in my mental well-being. It became evident that physical exercise not only enhanced my physique but also contributed significantly to my mental clarity and emotional stability. By nurturing my mind and body through these practices, I began to witness positive changes that propelled me forward. However, thriving as a graduate student goes beyond physical and mental wellness. Nurturing my soul became equally vital for maintaining a balanced and harmonious life. For me, quality time spent with great friends and solitary moments of reflection were essential for grounding myself. Engaging in spontaneous activities like reading on the beach or practicing yoga on weekdays, along with movie dates, brought me a sense of tranquility and inner peace. As I transition into graduate studies, I am aware of the need to adapt these self-care practices to my new academic and professional responsibilities. The demands of graduate-level education will undoubtedly be more intense, and the need for time management and stress reduction strategies will be heightened. However, I am grateful for having recognized self-destructive behaviors early on, as it has allowed me to develop a resilient mindset and maintain a thriving attitude amidst challenges. Moreover, being a first-generation graduate student, I am aware of the additional pressures that may come from my family's expectations and aspirations. Yet, the desire to provide a better future for my family and make them proud fuels my determination to excel academically and professionally. I am grateful for the support system that surrounds me, as it has played a pivotal role in my growth and development. From friends who lent a listening ear during challenging times to mentors who guided me through the academic journey, I have been fortunate to have people who believe in my potential. Looking ahead, I am excited about the prospects that graduate studies offer. The opportunity to delve deeper into my field of interest, engage in research, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge is invigorating. I am committed to pushing the boundaries of my understanding and embracing every opportunity to learn and grow. The lessons learned during my undergraduate years have equipped me with valuable tools to maintain a healthy mind, body, and soul. I enter this new phase of my academic journey with a resilient spirit, unwavering determination, and a profound gratitude for the support that has brought me this far.