Working on an MBA at USC.
One of the things I loved most about being part of the STEM Program was the incredible community I found. Many of the friends I made through the program are still some of the closest people in my life today, it truly felt like finding a family. The STEM Program gave me the tools I needed not only to succeed during my transfer journey but also to thrive long after. Even years later as an alumna, I continue to feel the lasting support and impact of what I learned there.
The UCLEADS program was very helpful once I had transferred.
Although I no longer work directly in the pharmaceutical industry, I’m grateful for the experiences and skills I gained. Working at City of Hope in quality control gave me a strong foundation of autonomy, responsibility, and critical thinking. I learned so much, not just technically, but also about working in high-impact, fast-paced environments. That experience continues to shape how I approach challenges in any field I pursue today.
My advice would be to value real-world experience just as much, if not more, than academics. Yes, grades are important, but once you graduate, employers care more about what you can actually do, not just what you know. Everyone will have good grades; the real question is, how will you set yourself apart from the competition? Focus on getting internships and hands-on experience early. It’s one of the best ways to build your resume, develop practical skills, and start your career already one step ahead.
One of the best shortcuts I can share is to take all your general education and lower-division classes at SMC first. You’ll save a lot of money and a lot of brain power. Then, transfer when you’re ready to focus just on your upper-division coursework. Plus, the classes at SMC are often more manageable compared to the UC system, making the transition smoother and setting you up for success.
I would say: explore more fields and don’t hyper fixate on just the biology route. Knowing what I know now, I might have pursued engineering instead. Stay open to different classes and possibilities ,you never know what might inspire you. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the ride. You’ll look back one day and realize that your time at SMC was one of the best chapters of your life.
I love going to concerts, traveling, spending time with friends, and discovering new food spots. I’m always looking for new experiences, whether it’s exploring a new city, checking out a cool event, or just making memories with the people around me. Building community and enjoying the journey is something I really value.