Summer Cohort 2025
Major: Psychology
Primary Community College: Pasadena City College
Hello everyone! My name is Aileen Soto and I’m currently a student at Pasadena City College, majoring in psychology while working to get into a master’s program in clinical psychology. I am a first-gen student that hopes to pave the way for other like-minded individuals such as myself and give back to my community. I am also extremely interested in research involving any sort of work that has to do with behavioral science and psychology. I hope to one day become a mental health therapist and work with those populations in need for their mental betterment and wellbeing. This goal not only comes from my personal experiences with mental health but the aim to make mental healthcare accessible, important and meaningful.
Major: Psychology
Primary Community College: Pasadena City College
Hello! My name is Allison Gonzalez, and I am a first-generation Latina student. I am currently a Psychology major at Pasadena City College. My goal is to pursue a graduate program in School Psychology and become a school psychologist. Although some awareness has increased, several mental health topics continue to be stigmatized in various communities. As a result, many children and adolescents are hesitant to utilize resources. I hope to not only help students with their mental health but also demonstrate to them that needing help is not something to be ashamed of. In my free time, I enjoy drawing, playing the violin, and spending time with my family and friends.
Major: Microbiology and Immunology
Primary Community College: Pasadena City College
I am entering my third year at Pasadena City College prior to transferring to a four-year university. I am working towards earning a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology and Immunology. I am also passionate in studying American Sign Language because I want to communicate with all kinds of people. My future goals are to pursue a career in researching diseases and immunology, and to continue to engage with, and be an ally to the Deaf community.
Major: Animal Health Science
Primary Community College: Pasadena City College
Hi, my name is Annabelle Yang. I am the first to go to college in the US in my family. I love cats, but more importantly, I am passionate about working with animals. I plan to pursue a BS in animal health science and further my educational and career path into working with wildlife/marine mammals and possibly research involving animal behavior. Additionally, I would love to connect with the ones that are on the same path as me and share my experiences with them.
Major: Psychology
Primary Community College: Pasadena City College
Hello everyone! My name is Ariel Williams, and I am currently going into my second year at Pasadena City College. I will be transferring after this year as a Psychology and Political Science major. I would like to pursue a career as a children’s therapist or something within Organizational/Forensic psychology. I hope within my career to be able to help better the life of others, providing support for my community and those around me. I enjoy nature, art, and traveling. I want to experience and explore as much as I can throughout my life and truly enjoy taking everything in.
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Primary Community College: LA Pierce College
Bio pending
Major: Psychology
Primary Community College: Pasadena City College
Hey all, I am Carlton Mantovani. I am a sophomore at Pasadena City College, and I am majoring in Psychology, B.S. Going into Pasadena City College, I declared myself as an Aerospace Engineer major. But after taking the general education course in psychology. I have come to love the psychology field. My goal is to transfer to a 4-year college and obtain a bachelor's degree in Psychology. Thereafter, I seek to pursue a master's degree in social work. My plan after my master's degree is to work as an educational social worker to gain experience in the field. But my ultimate goal is to do research and obtain a doctorate, as I am driven to combine both social and technical aspects of society.
As a participant in the EMBARC Summer Program, I cannot convey in words how great a summer program it was. EMBARC had enabled me to form long connections while connecting to faculty members experienced in their field. I was able to interact with a diverse group. Allowing me to learn about others to expand my views of the world.
Major: Psychobiology and Biotechnology
Primary Community College: LA Pierce College
Hi, I’m Drishti Saha! I’m currently a Psychobiology and Biotechnology major at Los Angeles Pierce College and will be joining UCLA this fall (Go Bruins!). My dream is to earn my Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree and specialize in dental anesthesiology! When I’m not in school, you will probably find me at a concert, rock climbing, or traveling the world with my friends. I’m passionate about making higher education feel less intimidating and helping students discover their own paths to success :)
Major: Biomedical engineering
Primary Community College: LA Pierce College
Hi everyone! My name is Eai Zeya, but I go by the name “Tina”. I am an international student currently studying biomedical engineering at Los Angeles Pierce College. I come from a low-income country, so getting the chance to study here has been both challenging and life-changing. It hasn’t always been easy to adjust, but I’ve learned to be resilient and stay focused on my goals. I am really interested in how science and engineering can make healthcare more affordable and accessible. I plan to transfer to a four- year university soon and keep working toward a career where I can make a real impact. Still figuring things out, but I’m excited for what’s ahead!
Major: Kinesiology
Primary Community College: Pasadena City College
Bio pending
Major: Engineering and Technology
Primary Community College: Pasadena City College
My name is Janehe Nguyen, and I am a first-generation Vietnamese American. I am currently a second-year student at Pasadena City College as an Engineering and Technology major with a keen interest in environmental science! I am looking forward to being involved in the environment while also pursuing my passion in building and designing. A few of my hobbies include drawing, reading, and playing video games! I also enjoy talking to people, so I would love to connect with all of you!
Major: Computer Information Systems/Cybersecurity
Primary Community College: Pasadena City College
Bio pending
Major: Psychology
Primary Community College: LA Pierce College
Hello! My name is Jeimy Vasquez Hernandez, and I am a proud first-generation college student currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Psychology at California State University, Northridge. I transferred from Los Angeles Pierce College and am excited for this next chapter of my academic journey. As I transition to CSUN, I look forward to expanding my research experience, joining student organizations, and getting more involved on campus. My long-term goal is to pursue a master’s degree in Counseling or Psychological Science, with the aim of supporting others through their educational and personal development. I’m passionate about helping students navigate college life and am eager to collaborate with peers and mentors at CSUN to foster a welcoming and meaningful community.
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Primary Community College: LA Pierce College
Hi everyone! My name is Lorenzo Valdez-Larios, currently a student attending Los Angeles Pierce College pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. As a previous MESA Peer Mentor serving students from first generation and low-income backgrounds, I am passionate about helping students with their educational needs and goals. I deeply enjoy having a great and creative environment where individuals can express themselves academically and culturally. Something that keeps me motivated is knowing that with experiences and reflection comes great knowledge. I hope to pursue graduate studies in Aerospace Engineering after completing my undergraduate degree.
Major: Industrial & Systems Engineering
Primary Community College: LA Mission College
My name is Melanie Jene Bojorquez. I am majoring in Industrial & Systems Engineering and will be transferring from Los Angeles Mission College to USC this upcoming Spring. After earning my B.S., I plan to pursue an M.S. in Mechanical Engineering.
As a first-generation student who did not grow up in the United States and had to quickly adapt to both the educational system and society here, I am super passionate about learning more about transfer resources and educational programs that support students like me. I also enjoy hearing others' stories, because they help me gain new perspectives and a deeper understanding of life.
Although my major is focused on math and engineering, I believe it’s possible to excel in multiple fields. That’s why I value creativity and community involvement. In the future, I hope to create support programs for individuals with autism and to combine my engineering background with my love for fashion to start a jewelry business. Ultimately, my goal is to help as many people as I can while doing everything I love.
Major: Nursing
Primary Community College: LA Valley College
Hello everyone, my name is Melissa Gonzalez, and I will be finishing my Masters of Public Health degree with a concentration in Community Health Education in the Fall. While working on this degree, I decided that I wanted to further my education and apply to nursing school. I attended Los Angeles Pierce College and Los Angeles Valley College to complete all of my prerequisites, and I applied to CSUN's Accelerated BSN program. I am proud to say that I have been admitted to start Spring 2026. I have volunteered at several hospitals in the valley to gain experience in the healthcare field. I am very optimistic and I highly believe we can achieve what we set our mind to, so I hope to be of help and guide fellow peers who are struggling to achieve their academic goals. My career path has never been linear, but with resilience and overcoming adversity, I am where I need to be today! :)
As someone who has personally experienced adversity, I’ve developed a deep passion for helping others experience healing, freedom, and transformation physically, mentally, and spiritually. I’m pursuing studies that reflect my commitment to public health, law, and advocacy, with a long term goal of addressing systemic injustice and serving vulnerable populations, including trafficked individuals, foster youth, and those facing mental torment. Being part of the EMBARC program is an incredible opportunity to grow as a researcher, be prepared to transfer, and gain the tools needed to create real impact. I’m especially drawn to interdisciplinary approaches that combine science, law, and faith to bring justice, restoration, and proper care to those in need.
Major: Public Health
Primary Community College: LA Valley College
Hello, my name is Melissa D. Ooshani. I grew up in the South Bay to a single mother with two other siblings. I enjoy the beach, outdoor activities, arcades and building connections. I have resided in the valley for over three years now. I enrolled into college and have become a first generation transfer student at Los Angeles Valley College. Here, I have been inspired to continue my higher education and explore the science field. My intended major will be a direct result of my career in dentistry. As I progress with my B.S in Public Health I hope to gain research experience that can advocate for community health. I also aim to do dental work on those who have struggled with drug addiction and mental health. I think I pose as a strong leader to help solve health issues and inspire those around me. Thank you EMBARC for this wonderful opportunity!
Major: Biology
Primary Community College:LA Valley College
As someone who has personally experienced adversity, I’ve developed a deep passion for helping others experience healing, freedom, and transformation physically, mentally, and spiritually. I’m pursuing studies that reflect my commitment to public health, law, and advocacy, with a long term goal of addressing systemic injustice and serving vulnerable populations, including trafficked individuals, foster youth, and those facing mental torment. Being part of the EMBARC program is an incredible opportunity to grow as a researcher, be prepared to transfer, and gain the tools needed to create real impact. I’m especially drawn to interdisciplinary approaches that combine science, law, and faith to bring justice, restoration, and proper care to those in need.
Major: Biotechnology
Primary Community College: LA Pierce College
My name is Neda Rahimi, and I had the opportunity to participate in the EMBARC program at CSUN during a recent workshop, which became a turning point in my academic and professional journey. Although I have already earned a graduate degree, I am currently pursuing further studies to develop a research roadmap focused on epigenetics, molecular biology, and biotechnology. The EMBARC experience allowed me to connect with research faculty members and strengthen my skills in research communication and interdisciplinary collaboration essential tools for advancing in the field of health research. Engaging with a diverse group of mentors and students not only expanded my scientific knowledge but also deepened my motivation to contribute to innovative solutions in Biotechnology. This workshop reaffirmed my commitment to bridging biological research with real-world healthcare outcomes.
Major: Computer Engineering
Primary Community College: LA Pierce College
I am Pritam Deb Shanta. I am an international student from Bangladesh. I’m currently studying at Los Angeles Pierce College where I am double majoring in Computer Engineering and Business Management. I’m passionate about pigeons and have worked in the pigeon industry for the past 10 years. During the Covid time I created my own Pigeon business. I believe that every field has a research opportunity like business management. I hope to obtain a Bachelor degree in Computer engineering and after that I hope to obtain a Master’s degree in Business Management. I always like to communicate with people and I am always trying to learn something new.
Major: Chemistry
Primary Community College: Pasadena City College
Hello, my name is Ryan Yanez and I’m a Pasadena City College chemistry major, ready to submit my transfer applications this fall. My future career goals are to transfer to a four-year university and then get into the USC Keck School of Medicine. I’ve always had a passion for medicine since I was a kid, hospitals have always felt like a second home. Some of my hobbies include playing tennis or pickleball and watching reality and scripted TV (shows such as Big Brother, Drag Race, Hacks, etc.).
Major: Biotechnology/Biomedical Engineering
Primary Community College: LA Valley College
Bio pending
Major: Public Health
Primary Community College: LA Valley College
Hi, I’m Serena, a community college student at Los Angeles Valley College and I’m currently majoring in public health because I’ve always felt a strong calling to help others live healthier, better lives. Whether it’s volunteering in my community or sharing useful information with those who need it, I’ve seen how even small efforts can make a real impact. I’m especially interested in addressing health disparities and making resources more accessible to underserved communities. As I continue my studies, I hope to combine my academic knowledge with my passion for outreach to truly make a difference in people’s everyday lives. I also love watching movies, my favorite being Coraline.
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Primary Community College:LA Mission College
Bio pending
Major: Biology
Primary Community College: Pasadena City College
Bio pending
Major: Biotechnology
Primary Community College: LA Mission College
Hi, my name is Viridiana Dueñas. I’m a biotechnology major currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in biomanufacturing, and I’m also certified as a biological lab technician. My passion lies in the world of gene editing, especially technologies like CRISPR and other genome engineering tools that are shaping the future of medicine and biology. I’m deeply interested in the potential of therapeutic gene editing to treat genetic diseases and improve clinical outcomes. Whether it’s through research, biotech innovation, or clinical application, I’m committed to contributing to work that improves human health and promotes sustainable solutions through science.
In the long term, I hope to be part of a team, whether at a research institution, a biotech company, or within a healthcare setting, that’s pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in genomics. I’m excited by the idea of not just learning the science but applying it in meaningful ways that make a real difference in people’s lives. I value collaboration, curiosity, and continuous learning, and I’m grateful to be part of a community like EMBARC that supports students with big goals and a drive to serve others through science.