Gabriela
Salazar
Hometown: Mount Gilead, NC
Major: Biology
Research Interest: Molecular Biology
“I am most looking forward to meeting people and forming memories with new friends.
WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE CSS PROGRAM AND CAROLINA?
CSS and Carolina as a whole, had many factors that drew my attention. Various people, opportunities, resources, and support are being offered to me that I know will lead me to success. Whether it’s research, internships, or help with grad programs, it is all accessible to CSS Scholars. This allows me to imbibe connections with professionals who are passionate about what they do. Overall, the support CSS will give me through my years at Carolina attracted me, along with the idea of a diverse exciting community at UNC.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO EXPERIENCING AT CAROLINA OVER THE NEXT FOUR YEARS?
I am most looking forward to meeting people and forming memories with new friends. There are also hundreds of clubs and groups that I would love to join, whether it’s STEM-related or not, as well as the various school spirit activities that will make my four years here the very best. Lastly, conducting research with Carolina’s best professors is something I look forward to.
WHAT RESEARCH TOPIC(S) ARE YOU INTERESTED IN EXPLORING AND WHY?
While all research topics are interesting, I would most want to explore research concerning the cardiovascular system. I am endlessly intrigued by the complexity of the heart and how it works in so many ways to keep us alive. I would love to research different heart diseases and ways to prevent them.
WHAT IS ONE THING YOU HOPE TO ACCOMPLISH IN YOUR FUTURE STEM CAREER?
In my STEM career, I have too many goals that I want and will accomplish. However, my main one is to pursue an MD to continue my education in STEM. I want to learn more about medicine to one day be the one helping a patient and working on something that I am passionate about. I want to make a difference in cardiovascular medicine in my career, as well as help, guide, and impact other young girls who want to do the same but don’t know how. However, wherever I end up, I know that it will be exactly where I need to be.