Bello! My name is Misael, a sophomore at UCSD :) I am excited to be able to share my experience to incoming students in order to facilitate their transition into life at San Diego. I am a San Diego native and have familiarity with both the campus and opportunities outside of UCSD. While my focus is in biology, I also have an interest in expanding my knowledge in psychology, global health, and forensics.

Hometown

San Diego, CA

Major(s)

Neurobiology, considering Global Health double-major

Minor(s)

Language Studies: Spanish

Clubs, organizations & involvement

* Health Promotion Services and UCSD Health: Well-being Peer Educator (WPE) * National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP): Research and Admin Intern * Off-campus part-time job

Describe your college experience

UCSD is a haven for those into a relaxed lifestyle; studying with ocean views; California sunshine; socializing with laid-back students; curating a specialized academic niche; picturesque boardwalks; swaying carefree on hammocks; and have a "work hard, play hard" attitude.

Tip for future students

It is never too early nor late to start looking for new opportunities. Say yes to taking a chance and put yourself out there. Students and faculty are naturally drawn to people willing to be themselves, so be you! :)

Favorite class

BIPN100 (Human Physiology I) - This class combined elements of chemistry, biophysics, and biological functions into a rigorous yet rewarding overview of the nervous, muscular, circulatory, and renal systems. It is the introduction to anatomy and physiology at UCSD, with this class being a prerequisite for other related classes, such as BIPN102 (Human Physiology II), BIPN134 (Human Reproduction), and labs like BIPN103 (Human Anatomy Lab) and BIPN105 (Human Physiology Lab). Professor Catalina Reyes-Gonzalez taught this course with genuine care for her students and always provided feedback after lecture, and I would definitely recommend considering taking her class for this course! While the course is fast-paced and memory-intensive, the course stimulates curiosity for those interested in medical programs and prepares students for future labs and research within biological settings. For those with an interest in biology and medicine, this class will be engaging and worth the studying :)

Career goals

I would like to attend medical school to become a psychiatrist, ideally with a specialization in public health, addiction and​/​or forensics.

Ideal way to spend a free night

Cozy beach walks at La Jolla Cove with gelato while watching the sea lions stop by the beach.

High school or secondary school

Olympian High School

Favorite spot on campus

Old Student Center - Tucked in between eucalyptus trees and presenting a cabin-like charm, this center is located between Revelle and Muir colleges. A short walk from the iconic Geisel Library and the school's central Price Center, this center hosts tabling events and is home to some of UCSD's favorite food spots (Blue Pepper, Art of Espresso). My favorite part of this area is the General Store, which is run by students and supports student-led initiatives. The space is inclusive and is a safe-space for students to shop sustainably-sourced snacks, art created by UCSD students, records and CDs, and relax in their comfy sofas. Other spaces include a food pantry, an independent library, rooftop seating, and spaces for creative clubs like DJs and Vinylphiles Club (DVC) and KSDT, UCSD's own college radio station.