Hi! My name is Lupe, and I am a rising sophomore at Stanford. As the first in my family to graduate from high school and attend college, I’m passionate about breaking down barriers for Latinas in higher education—especially in STEM. I’m the oldest of five girls, a role that’s shaped my sense of responsibility, leadership, and drive to pave the way for others. Before starting college, I earned an associate's degree in Networking Administration through dual enrollment, which strengthened my foundation in technology and problem-solving. Since then, I’ve continued to explore the intersection of equity, education, and healthcare through my academic and community work. I’m the founder of two nonprofit organizations: Eyes on Chicago, where I lead science-based activities for kids ages 3–11, and Resilient Hands for Latine, a grassroots organization supporting migrants in Chicago through food drives, clothing donations, and translation services. My goal is to amplify underrepresented voices and make essential resources more accessible to those who need them most. In my free time, I volunteer at a hospital, offering assistance at the front desk and supporting Spanish-speaking patients in cancer and pediatric inpatient units. I also enjoy photography, editing in Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, and experimenting with recipes that connect me to different cultures. Now at Stanford University, I’m excited to continue advocating for equity in healthcare and beyond. I hope to become a doctor and one day open a clinic that offers free or low-cost services to underserved communities.

Hometown

Chicago, IL

Major(s)

Design or Bioengineering

Minor(s)

Education

Clubs, organizations & involvement

Alternative Spring Breaks (Farmworker and Immigrant Health throughout Central California), Society of Latinx Engineers (SOLE), Stanford Premedical Association (SPA), Comunidad for Health Equity (CHE), Stanford OAE (Office of Accessible Education) Notetaker, Barrio Assistance, Boys and Girls Club, Tech Desk @ Lathrop, Research Assistant at Marsden Lab and Profit Lab.

Describe your college experience

I would say that it has been really great so far! Being out-of-state for college was the best decision I have made so far, and I have met so many amazing people.

Tip for future students

I wish someone had told me the difference between the semester system vs the quarter system.

Favorite class

EDUC 103B: Race, Ethnicity, and Linguistic Diversity in Classrooms: Sociocultural Theory and Practices

Career goals

I hope to become an OB​/​GYN or pediatric oncologist.

Ideal way to spend a free night

Exploring San Francisco with friends or going to the beach for a picnic, or tanning!

High school or secondary school

DeVry Advantage Academy in Chicago, IL