Black Woman in STEM
Donation protected
My name is Alex and I am a 26 year old college student, trying to reach my goal to graduate with a degree in Biology in hopes to transfer to Humboldt State University under their Wildlife Conservation (B.S.) program.
For as long as I can remember, I have been curious about living creatures. I was discouraged by the lack of black women in the STEM field and tried to find other career paths that might be more inclusive.
As an adult, I have rediscovered that my passion is conservation. I currently have a small zoo in my own home consisting of 4 tarantulas, 2 scorpions, 2 snakes, 2 cats, a leopard gecko, an African bull frog and a dog. I am a free diver, and a camping enthusiast. I started going back to school and am determined to bring more representation to children who were like me.
Due to ongoing treatment for severe OCD, I am currently unable to work. I am however, still going to school full time and am enrolled for 18 units this Fall semester. Because I was previously employed full time, I am disqualified from financial aid. The money that is raised will go towards my education costs, such as enrollment fees and books, as well as my rent to keep my living situation stable while I am seeking treatment and going to school.
It is my dream to be able to finish my degree and not only make important contributions to the health of our natural environments, but make science feel more accessible for everyone! Science should be celebrated and shared!
Thank you to anyone who contributes to my goal. I hope to be able to send all of you digital invitations to my graduation.
Alex
For as long as I can remember, I have been curious about living creatures. I was discouraged by the lack of black women in the STEM field and tried to find other career paths that might be more inclusive.
As an adult, I have rediscovered that my passion is conservation. I currently have a small zoo in my own home consisting of 4 tarantulas, 2 scorpions, 2 snakes, 2 cats, a leopard gecko, an African bull frog and a dog. I am a free diver, and a camping enthusiast. I started going back to school and am determined to bring more representation to children who were like me.
Due to ongoing treatment for severe OCD, I am currently unable to work. I am however, still going to school full time and am enrolled for 18 units this Fall semester. Because I was previously employed full time, I am disqualified from financial aid. The money that is raised will go towards my education costs, such as enrollment fees and books, as well as my rent to keep my living situation stable while I am seeking treatment and going to school.
It is my dream to be able to finish my degree and not only make important contributions to the health of our natural environments, but make science feel more accessible for everyone! Science should be celebrated and shared!
Thank you to anyone who contributes to my goal. I hope to be able to send all of you digital invitations to my graduation.
Alex
Organizer
Alexis Velarde
Organizer
San Diego, CA
