Alexandra Colón-Rodríguez, a postdoc at the University of California, Davis, became a neuroscientist after seeing family members suffer from Alzheimer’s and PTSD. She wanted to find out for herself and others why these diseases happen. Colón-Rodríguez is also passionate about outreach. She shares her own experience as a Puerto Rican woman advancing in the field to inspire others, especially females and underrepresented minorities, to become neuroscientists. Here’s her story.
Why is outreach and service work so essential to you?
I want to pass on my knowledge and help young kids become the best they can be. It’s so important that we encourage students to think that science is cool and that they shouldn't be intimidated. If we motivate them enough, they may think about science as a career path as undergrads and pursue graduate training.
We also need to diversify the field. It's our responsibility as scientists. As a female, Hispanic, and the first scientist in my family, I believe that sharing the message, “You can, too” is impactful. That’s why I continually seek ways to help other minorities, especially Hispanics, become interested in science and thrive.
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