I grew up in Redondo Beach, California, where being close to the ocean was simply part of everyday life. When I began researching colleges, I realized I wanted to stay near the coast. That led me to UC Santa Cruz, where I found a campus that combined strong science programs with a setting that felt like home.
At UC Santa Cruz, I majored in Astrophysics, where I began research focused on dark matter and the expansion of the universe. I gained experience with coding, data analysis, and scientific writing, which helped me build a strong foundation in both research and problem-solving.
Outside of academics, I worked as a campus tour guide. What began as a part-time job quickly became one of the most meaningful parts of my college experience. I was later promoted to the executive team, where I helped train new guides, led large group events, and worked on projects that improved how we connected with prospective students and their families. That experience strengthened my communication and leadership skills, as well as my ability to explain complex topics in a relatable way.
Currently, I am in my first year of graduate studies at the University of Arizona in the pursuit of a Ph.D. in Astronomy and Astrophysics. I am excited to dive into cutting-edge research, exploring new frontiers in cosmology while continuing to fuel my passion for science communication. Alongside my academic work, I look forward to engaging in public outreach and mentoring the next generation of students, bridging the gap between professional research and the community.
From the beach in Southern California, the forests of Santa Cruz, and the desert of Tucson, my journey has been shaped by curiosity, persistence, and a commitment to learning.