The past 2 weeks have been busy for the popular Science in Action Lecture Series. On Wednesday, October 2, current PhD student Karmela Ramos visited Skyline College from the Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology at UCSF. Born and raised in the Philippines, Karmela moved to the United States at 17 years old. She discussed her journey beginning with American River Community College in Sacramento, and emphasized the importance of finding a mentor during school. She said that her mentor relationship with one instructor at ARC was the key to her success, because of the guidance provided to her.
Karmela was very clear and well-spoken while breaking down her experience as a student, specifically discussing how research and rotations work in graduate school. She shared tips and resources that she most valued, including learning to think critically, ask questions, apply new technology, and appreciate the value of resources.
This Wednesday afternoon, October 9, Dr. John Sauceda spoke about his experience working at the Center for AIDS Prevention Studies and concurrently pursuing an additional MS at UCSF. Dr. Sauceda was born and raised in Texas. He received a BA in psychology at St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas in 2006. Afterwards, he earned a MA in Clinical Psychology, a Certificate in Quantitative Methods, and a PhD in Health Psychology from The University of Texas at El Paso, focusing on health disparities in underserved and understudied Latinos living with HIV/AIDS on the U.S.-Mexico Border.
Dr. Saucedo shared his “turnaround” experience in college – receiving a “C” in Statistics class. He admitted being extremely unfocused when he began his college career, and this grade made him change his course and really embark on an educational journey. Over 100 students were in attendance and were very responsive to his discussion entitled “Mental health and HIV: A journey to the world’s largest and top-ranked HIV research center.” There was a lengthy question and answer time at the end of his presentation.
The weekly Science Lecture Series contains valuable information, tips and advice for students in every area of academic study, not just science. It is free and open to anyone who would like to attend. It meets every Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. in Bldg. 7, Room 7106.
Article by Alana Utsumi and Carmen Velez, Photo by Carmen Velez.
