My name is E
rik Gutierrez and I grew up in Southern California in the San Fernando Valley. Not only did I graduate from North Hollywood High School but I will be graduating from the University of California, Merced with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology with an emphasis in molecular and cellular biology. Coming from a heavily populated area, UC Merced felt like a drastic jump, but a positive one at that. When I first got the letter to be invited to the admissions reception in Southern California and meeting staff, students and faculty, I immediately knew this was my school. Not only from the staff but my parents and family gave me the strength and courage to apply and leave So-Cal to pursue a career and see the world. Never in a million years did I expect to not only graduate a semester early, but I also have developed both professional and personal relationships with my colleagues as well. One thing is for certain, I learned that you can be involved in so much in such little time.
Coming to UCM, my intent was to simply get my degree and become a forensic scientist. During the pandemic it gave me a lot to reflect on and I received an email of an expedition opportunity abroad in the summer of 2021. After my first research expedition to Costa Rica with BIOMA, I developed a passion for being in nature as well as a passion for research. During the fall semester of my third year I applied and worked with the Center for Cellular and Biomolecular Machines(CCBM) which allowed me to work more on the engineering aspect of biology Dr. Subramaniam. I also ended up becoming a tour guide for the campus which brought my extroverted personality out as well and gained appreciation for the campus and opportunities provided which included traveling and outreaching to future candidates as well. Towards the end of my fourth year, I found myself back outdoors with Dr. Carolin Frank and my TA Christopher Bivins doing research in microbial ecology. I also was working for CAB(Campus Activities Board) as I wanted to try something new, which I in turn found another community for me as well. For my post-grad, I am planning on taking a gap year and working in industry to save up to be able to travel and help provide my knowledge into making the world a better place through science. I plan on obtaining my Ph.D. in the near future to help allow me to conduct research as well.
