Yadira Alonzo

My name is Yadira and I will be graduating in Spring 2019 with a major in Biological Anthropology with Biology and Linguistics minors. Throughout my years here at NEIU, I have received many opportunities, being able to attend national conferences, to present my summer research project, and to receive scholarships. I am thankful for being able to conduct research for the second time here at NEIU under the Student Center for Science Engagement.

Many mentors always told me, "make sure you are able to conduct research before you graduate; it will make your application more competitive." However, the word "research” sounded intimidating and scary. Through financial funding from donors, I have been able to conduct research and have been able to present my project at National Conferences like SACNAS (Society for the Advancement of Chicano\Hispanics and Native Americans in Science).

Last year, I had the amazing opportunity to attend the SACNAS Conference 2018 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Throughout the conference, I had the opportunity to meet other scientists and learn about graduate school programs from everywhere in the U.S. This past month with the help from NEIU, I was able to attend SACNAS 2019 in San Antonio, Texas, along with 45 other students. I had an amazing time presenting my research and networking with other professionals.

I am thankful for all the opportunities, and I hope to one day give back to the school that has offered me so much! As a first generation Latina student, attending college has been difficult, but I am grateful for the amazing people that have helped me and motivated me to cross that stage in Spring 2019. Please know that your support is making a difference in students' lives like myself.