Cohort 2021-2023
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B2BMED Trainee: Larissa Barroso “B2BMED has really been a game changer for my academic future. Through B2BMED I have been able to experience and see what my professional future could be, and now consider a Ph.D. maybe in genetics. Something that before this program I never even saw as an option. B2BMED also provides the guidance needed to assure you’re on the right path. I know I have reached out to Emily, Jaqueline, Marco, and Dr. Chew countless of times and they have always been available. I never imagined I would hold an Associates in Biology and now in progress my Bachelor’s in Biomedical sciences. Next, I will attending the Texas Genetic Society which is my first out of state symposium/conference, with the aid of B2BMED. Truly appreciative for the guidance, support, and opportunities that B2BMED program has given me.” |
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B2BMED Trainee: Fernando Dominguez “Being part of the B2BMED program has been the best decision I've made in my education pathway. The amount of experience, support, and knowledge you gain in just the first couple of months has made me a better well-rounded student. I will highly recommend this program to future students, as well as encourage them to apply because this program gives you a significant advantage in comparison to students that are not in this program.” |
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B2BMED Trainee: Angelica Reyes “The program has provided me with a supportive community of peers and mentors. It is welcoming and encouraging as there is always a manner of striving for goals set within the program. Additionally, it is nice to welcome new members and help answer any questions they have. I believe because of this program, my future career is clear and set. With tutoring sessions and being able to have almost all classes with my cohort, it creates a safe environment. I feel secure and not alone with any struggles I may have. For students who are debating whether to join the program or not, I would tell them to try it. There are many benefits and very little downfalls to the program. I do admit that not being involved in the program from the start of Mission 1 and fully joining around Mission 5 has been a bit of a struggle as there are some terms not learned at the STC institution. However, as stated before, with peers by my side, it has been really helpful. We are learning together which is always better. I would definitely advise others to consider if their desired career path is truly what they desire. It does take dedication and commitment in order to be successful, especially since there is already a disadvantage with unlearned topics. I have seen what happens when a member of the cohort is not dedicated and/or distracted by other things. It isn't pretty and it takes a toll upon the other members. Time management is a necessary skill to have. As a final note, I would like to add that this program may not be for everyone, but I do encourage everyone to at least try it out. It is a great experience, especially if you are dedicated to the desired pathway.” |
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B2BMED Trainee: Stella Rios Institution: STC/UTRGV Research Mentor: Dr. Murali Yallapu Research Project: The Role of TRIP13 as a Potential Protein Biomarker for Pancreatic Cancer
“Submitting my application to the B2BMED program was one of the best decisions I have made in my academic career. I have noticed tremendous academic growth for myself as a student - the transition from being a part-time student to a full-time student was demanding at first, but I persevered, and my efforts were rewarded (I was placed on the President's Honor Roll for the Fall 2021 semester!). Through the program, I have been able to work alongside internationally known scientists specializing in cancer research and have experienced first-hand what it is like to be dedicated to a cause that is greater than yourself. From shadowing biomedical lab techniques, honing my skills, and starting a project of my own as an undergraduate I have gained invaluable knowledge from being a mentee with the B2BMED program. Not only have I grown as a student, but also as an individual - I have noticed an immense improvement in my motivation to further pursue goals that I previously thought were not attainable for me. The B2BMED program has provided me with the structure and resources I need in order to be a successful student and a competitive applicant to continue my education in medical school. The members of the B2BMED program have been such a wonderful support system to me and my fellow cohort members. Truly, they have become a second family to me. In such a short amount of time, meaningful relationships were created that I know will last far into the life ahead of me. I encourage all undergraduates interested in biomedical sciences or related fields to apply; the B2BMED program is a tremendous opportunity for students to get ahead in their academic careers. My advice to future members is to be patient with yourself - mistakes are okay and we learn from each other. Don't be ashamed to ask for help when it is needed and remember that your hard work will pay off in the end!” |
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B2BMED Trainee: Rama Shaath “My experience in the B2BMED program has been exceptional. I have been able to learn to balance collaborative and individual work. Being in the B2BMED program has allowed me to explore working with different individuals and help me build my personal confidence. My current undergraduate research experience has forced me out of my comfort zone and challenged me to learn beyond my course material in the classroom. I have been able to grow and learn in my professional development and research skills. The B2BMED program has provided me with an opportunity full of experience and knowledge.” |
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B2BMED Trainee: Celeste Martinez “I perceive the B2BMED program as an open door that allows me to gain essential skills in the research field as an undergraduate student. Along with the great experience benefits, the support system provided by the directors, peers, and advisors in the program enables me to advance towards my goals, as well as the financial support that is of great help to pay for college and personal expenses. All the knowledge obtained will foster my future education endeavors and will help me acquire valuable experience in the biomedical field that will serve as a good qualification when furthering my studies.” |
