Eva Segura

Current employment status.

Just completed my PhD.

Something I loved about being part of the STEM Program.

The STEM program is where everything started for me. My journey stems from the STEM program, pun intended. But truly, it allowed me to discover research, and allowed me to discover my passion. The summer program it offered at UCLA was one of the best summers of my life. Thanks to the STEM program, I was able to transfer to UCLA, and continued my PhD there. Immensely grateful for the STEM program.

A resource or support program that help you in your transition from the community college to your transfer university.

SRI - The STEM summer research internship at UCLA allowed me to gain research experience. It also allowed me to have a lab at UCLA once I transferred.

What is it like to now work in your field?

I have not yet entered the work field. But I did just complete my PhD and it was an incredible and wonderful journey. Lots of work, but extremely rewarding and fulfilling.

Any advice?

Be open to explore, be curious, and take on opportunities that come along, rather look for opportunities.

Any STEM Shortcuts/hacks you can share?

Start making genuine connections with professors / PIs in lab. Tell them that you are interested in their research and tell them why.

If you had to give advice to yourself when you first started at SMC, what would you say?

Start networking, explore all the different labs, don't be shy, believe in yourself, and talk to other older students.

Outside of STEM and related activities, what do you enjoy doing?

I love to play tennis!