COVID-19 has confirmed for Graecia Pacheco—a sophomore microbiology major—that her career goal is to help people protect themselves from harmful diseases. She envisions the possibilities of discovering beneficial bacteria and screening for diseases as an epidemiologist. As a first-generation immigrant from the Philippines, Pacheco grew up knowing it will take hard work to achieve these dreams. She intends to give back by advocating for improved health care access and providing health care in underserved communities.

Pacheco was accepted into the CALS Life Science Leadership Program because she is pursuing a life sciences career and wants to advance diversity in the field. This summer program gives students opportunities to conduct independent research with College of Agriculture and Life Sciences faculty and to receive one-on-one mentoring. They receive summer research funding, attend workshops on leadership and interact with a group of like-minded students. Click here to continue reading.

Graecia Pacheco holds a plated bacteria specimen from her summer research project in the Barlow Lab. Photo Credit