STEM Interdisciplinary Undergraduate Research Symposium 2024: Interdisciplinary

Manuel Albarran is a second-year student at Miami Dade College, West Campus. Born and raised in Venezuela, Manuel moved to the United States in July 2023 in hopes of pursuing a career in the medical field, starting with an Associate of Arts degree in Biology at Miami Dade College. Aside from researching, participating in student organizations, and studying towards his health-related goals, Manuel also works as a student assistant and civic ambassador with the iCED department of West Campus, supporting and promoting civic engagement among members of Miami Dade College – as well as its surrounding communities.

An enthusiastic student at the School for Advanced Studies (SAS) West, Fabiana Arcila is deeply committed to understanding and solving the complex challenges within the healthcare system. She is passionate about exploring gaps in medical practices and the systemic issues that hinder effective healthcare delivery, alongside preventative techniques that enhance long-term health outcomes. Fabiana has a keen interest in both cardiovascular research and psychiatric or psychological studies, reflecting her broad academic interests that align with her career ambitions in medicine. With personal aspirations to be a groundbreaking contributor to public health, her professional goals are centered on becoming a physician, specializing either as a psychiatrist or a cardiothoracic surgeon. Through her academic journey and research, Fabiana aims to make substantial contributions that bridge the gap between medical research and clinical practice, enhancing patient care and healthcare methodologies.

Originally hailing from Venezuela, Silvana Camacaro is a second-year pre-nursing student at Miami Dade College, standing out for her exceptional involvement and leadership across campus. She is a proud member of the Dual Language Honors program, the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society, and the Pre-health Society. Her leadership extends to serving as a senator in the Student Government Association and as president of the Biology Honor Society, Beta Beta Beta. Silvana's hard work and outstanding GPA have earned her a spot on the Dean's List. She is driven by a deep passion for healthcare and a commitment to scientific exploration. Silvana's career aspirations are to become a nurse and ultimately attend medical school to specialize in surgery. Additionally, her fascination with neuroscience has inspired her to pursue a minor in the field. Beyond her academic and leadership roles, Silvana is a content creator for the campus magazine, Urbana, and its podcast. She shares her artistic abilities through these creative outlets and engages with the community, showcasing her diverse talents and passions. With a strong work ethic, unwavering passion, and multifaceted skill set, Silvana is ready to impact the healthcare field and the community significantly.

Patricia Felipe holds a BA in Chemistry and Applied Sciences from Florida International University (FIU), where she developed a solid understanding of essential laboratory techniques. She sees the symposium as a valuable chance to network with other science students and foster connections that can lead to future collaborations and opportunities. With aspirations of a healthcare career, Patricia is focused on gaining more experience in science to help achieve her long-term professional goals.

Manuela Grisales is an ambitious and dedicated biology major with a profound commitment to making a meaningful impact in the healthcare sector. Raised in an environment that prioritized compassion and knowledge-sharing, she has nurtured a deep-seated desire to contribute to the well-being of others. Throughout her academic journey, Manuela's exceptional performance has been fueled by an inherent curiosity about the natural world and a belief in biology's potential to alleviate human suffering. While her ultimate goal is to secure a position in a large hospital, her aspirations extend beyond clinical practice; she seeks to become a mentor and educator, empowering others to achieve their goals. Recognizing the pivotal role of research in advancing medical knowledge, Manuela is driven by a passion to make a difference and views every challenge as an opportunity for growth. With her unwavering determination, boundless enthusiasm, and compassion, Manuela Grisales is poised to leave a lasting mark in the field of biology and healthcare.

Sophia Jerez is from Venezuela. Currently, she attends Miami Dade College pursuing an associate degree in biological sciences and planning to transfer to a four-year university. During her undergraduate studies, she aspires to gain valuable experience as a researcher to enhance her existing abilities and broaden her understanding across various branches of biology, encompassing plants, animals, humans, and other living organisms. Graduating from a STEM major like biology will equip her with the essential skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career as a medical doctor, which is her ultimate professional goal.

Carlos Paez Jerviz is in his second year at Miami Dade College West Campus, where he is a premed student majoring in Biology, pursuing an associate in arts degree in order to transfer to a 4-year university and obtain a bachelor degree, and then apply to medical school. He serves as the Student Government Association President at the West Campus, as well as an Alumni Student Ambassador for Miami Dade College Alumni Department. He has been awarded the 2024 Civic Action Bronze Award, and the Dean's Honor Roll. He is the former Vice-President of the Venezuelan Student Society, and a current member of the honor societies of Phi Theta Kappa and Psi Beta, as well as other student organizations.