Congratulations are in order for Hostos students Andrea Vasquez, Maria Jesus Vasquez Guillen, and Elizabeth Soto, all of whom have been selected to participate in the American Heart Association’s 2022 Hispanic-Serving Institution Scholars Program.
 
Hostos’ scholars are among 30 students who have been selected to participate in the 2022-2023 Hispanic Serving Institution Scholars Program, which begins in September. Selected students are enrolled in public health and health-care focused programs at colleges and universities nationally. As part of the program, they will be paired with a mentor either in the healthcare profession or currently performing their own scientific research. Scholars will also receive a stipend and participate in professional development workshops.
 
Nursing major Andrea Vasquez said she is “thrilled and honored” to be part of the program. “Without a doubt, this is a fantastic opportunity that will help me to gain knowledge and experience in the research field,” she shared. “This also shows that no matter your circumstances, if you put effort and hard work, anything is possible.”
 
Maria Jesus Vasquez Guillen also sees the program is a major step toward achieving her dreams, particularly her dream of working in medical research. “I am sure that joining the AHA will open many new doors in my personal journey, and by succeeding here, I hope to be an inspiration to others like me,” she said.
 
Elizabeth Soto is currently studying Community Health at Hostos and very optimistic about her participation in the HSI Scholars Program. “Beginning in September 2022, I will start to conduct research with the guidance of a mentor during one academic year,” she said. “I am convinced that this will be very beneficial to connect CUNY students, who come from minorities and low-income backgrounds, with the scientific world on a more inclusive level. I hold profound regard for human life and am aware of the cultural and linguistic barriers and inequities in health care that affect specific New York City populations. Consequently, I plan to focus my research on Health Disparities.” Soto, who is six credits away from completing her degree and intends on enrolling in the College’s Radiologic Technology (RadTech) program after graduating in the Spring of 2023.
 
Learn more about the Hispanic Serving Institution Scholars Program here.