Hispanic Heritage Month

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Juan-Rodrigo Solares

Major, degree pursued: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, bachelor of science

Prospective graduation year: 2025

Positions held: undergraduate researcher, Jose lab; president, Lion's Pantry; undergraduate researcher, Goncalves lab, Weill Cornell Medicine (Gateways to the Laboratory Summer Program); undergraduate researcher, Oliver lab, Johns Hopkins Medicine (Summer Internship Program)

Connect: Instagram | LinkedIn | Email

What motivates you to do/pursue science and/or medicine?

After having lived through the Zika virus outbreak in 2016, I saw the important role that scientists and physicians can have. Ultimately, I would like to continue expanding our knowledge in virology to combat diseases that are ravaging many developing countries, including my home, Guatemala.

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

That your identity and your culture are a blessing. Understanding that your identity and culture are beautiful.

Anything else you would like to share?

My time at Penn State these past few years has taught me that being a student from an underrepresented background means that I can bring new perspectives and ideas to the table. That is why I want to pursue a career in STEM, to help and give back to my community that has supported me all these years.

Even though I have worked hard to be in college, I am very thankful to those who have helped me come all this way. I am currently in the privileged position that I am in because of the hard work, resilience, and determination from those who have come before me. I am especially thankful for my parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, and beyond, whose hard work, persistence, support, and love have allowed me to reach great heights and new beginnings.