I graduated from Cathedral in 2006. During high school, I was captain of the swim team and a member of both the National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society.

My family chose to send me to Cathedral because they wanted a place that stresses academic success and teaches Christian stewardship so that I would grow in both mind and spirit. I firmly believe that this was the best decision that my mom ever made about my education.

I attended St. Edward’s University where I graduated in 2010 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. While in high school, Mrs. Lujan got me interested in biology so I decided to explore this interest by participating in two separate research internships during my undergraduate career. It was through these experiences that I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in science.

I am currently a Ph.D. candidate in Biology at the University of Illinois at Chicago. My research is focused on developing new technology that will allow for an accurate and affordable way to detect signs of cancer. It is my hope that my work will give patients diagnosed with cancer a better fighting chance.

“What are you proudest of?”
I am proud that I am in a field that allows me to work with scientists from around the world to create new technology that will help in the battle to eliminate cancer.

“What lessons from Cathedral do you carry with you?”
One of my favorite lessons from Cathedral that I have carried with me comes from Chief Justice Barajas. He said, “If there is a wall standing between you and your goals and you cannot go around it or climb over it then you smash right through it.”

“Do you have a message (lesson/observation) for a current Cathedral student?”
Take time to sit down and talk with your teachers especially when facing major decisions. They know more than you think and they also know you better than you may know yourself.