2023-2024 Vaughan Honors Leadership Scholar: Alejandra Carreon Torres

Congratulations to Alejandra Carreon Torres who was selected as a 2023-2024 Vaughan Honors Leadership Scholar.

"My name is Alejandra Carreon Torres. As a graduating senior in the Honors program at the University of Arizona, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry with a minor in Pharmaceutical Sciences, I want to express my immense gratitude for being awarded the Vaughan Honors Leadership Scholarship. It is an honor to be recognized for doing what I love, especially considering the challenges I have faced on my journey.

My time at the University of Arizona has been incredibly rewarding. I find great fulfillment in participating in research at two labs. Under the guidance of Dr. Lemos at the Ken Coit College of Pharmacy, my research focuses on understanding the impact of heavy metal exposure on rDNA and cellular stability. Simultaneously, in the Aerospace & Mechanical Engineering department, I collaborate with Dr. Diaz using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy to determine the detection limits of lead and copper in drinking water. In addition to my research contributions, my time as a Wildcat has enriched me with a strong sense of community. I have served as an intern in a biodiversity project, co-authored a book on the Controversy of Healthcare, and participated as an associate committee member of the American Chemical Society's Environment and Sustainability Committee in 2023. My roles as a peer mentor at the Thrive Center and a teaching assistant have also allowed me to support STEM students in exploring opportunities within our university and guide them on their academic journeys. Furthermore, as an ambassador and peer mentor for the chemistry and biochemistry department, I was honored with the Ronald Gonzalez Wildcat Spirit Award in 2023.

The Vaughan Honors Leadership Scholarship has greatly supported my academic success, allowing me to further pursue my research and passions. I am thrilled to announce that I will begin a Ph.D. in Biology at Boston College in the fall of 2024."