Member Spotlights
Kirsten
Calso
I was drawn to WSS because of what they stand for. I found them through Instagram and was intrigued by how they strongly emphasize this is a space for not only all women but also for all different kinds of STEM majors. Reinforcing the idea of support and community made me feel very welcomed.
Major: Public Health and Wellness (Pre-Pharm)
What impact has WSS had on your undergraduate career?
WSS has incredibly helped me throughout my undergraduate career in several ways. I had the thought of becoming a Pharmacist before but joining reinforced my drive to pursue this career even further. Through their Educational Workshops, Social Events, and Study Night leading into finals, this club really helped me want to branch out and pushed me to grow more as a student.
What field of study are you interested in and why?
I hope to work in a hospital as an Inpatient Pharmacist because I enjoy working in a thoughtful and respectful environment. I had the opportunity to shadow a Pharmacist at the Stockton Regional Rehabilitation Hospital for a semester and it was one of the best experiences of my undergraduate career. Seeing the behind the scenes work as a Pharmacist and interacting with different kinds of patients really drew me into the field because there's so much thought and consideration that goes into each patient when you're trying to prescribe meds to them.
Other involvement on campus besides WSS and Interests!
I am currently the Co-President for Kilusan Pilipino, the Filipino student organization on campus, and Co-Treasurer for Pre-Health Career Club. Both these clubs are very important to be because they align with the importance of inclusivity just like WSS.
Hobbies: Reading and Singing
Gabriella Angeles
I chose to join WSS because I was inspired by the strong, supportive community of women it fosters on campus. I knew I wanted to be part of a space where I could not only connect with others but also feel genuinely seen and understood. Beyond the sense of community, I was drawn to WSS because it brings together women who share the unique challenges of navigating intersecting identities in the STEM field.
Major: Public Health (Pre-PA), Honors Minor in Interdisciplinary Studies
What impact has WSS had on your undergraduate career?
WSS has had a tremendous impact on my undergraduate experience, opening doors I never imagined possible. Through the organization’s career mentorship resources, peer mentorship program, and connections made at the Academic Leadership Summit, I’ve been able to grow both personally and professionally. All of these opportunities have played a key role in getting me to where I am today.
What field of study are you interested in and why?
I aspire to work in a women’s clinic as a Certified Physician Assistant because I am passionate about advocating for marginalized populations in healthcare. I want to create a safe, inclusive space where every patient feels heard, respected, and genuinely cared for. This career path allows me to give back to my community while also serving as a role model for other Latinas pursuing careers in healthcare.
Other involvement on campus besides WSS and Interests!
In addition to my involvement with WSS, I am an active member of the Physician Assistant Student Association and the Flying Samaritans. This semester, I began volunteering with the Women’s Resource Center on campus, and I am currently in the process of starting a volunteer position at Sharp Hospital, where I’ll be assisting in patient care areas. Through San Diego State, I’m also preparing to begin an internship with San Ysidro Health as a Community Engagement Intern. These experiences continue to shape my passion for healthcare and community service.
Hobbies: I love baking and watching 2000s tv shows!
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Samaira Yamuni
I joined WSS to find a community that I was comfortable being myself around. In WSS I was able to express my interests in science and being involved with community service while being supported by an incredible group of women.
Major: Microbiology
What impact has WSS had on your undergraduate career?
WSS has given me the opportunity to talk to and confide in others taking the same classes and pathway as me, which has been a great help for navigating difficulties in doubting myself or struggling with class material. It has also given me the chance to hear many intelligent guest speakers with knowledge on my field of interest and how to take the steps to get there.
What field of study are you interested in and why?
I am interested in pursuing PA school (Physicians Assistant), because I have a passion for medicine and for building meaningful relationships. I want to serve others and give them and their families the best care possible while giving comfort that someone is going to advocate for them. I would love to work in the emergency department as I have a preference for the high pace environment but I am further interested in PA as it gives me room to explore different areas of medicine.
Other involvement on campus besides WSS and Interests!
WSS is my main focus of campus involvement as I spend most of my time studying or being active
Michelle Quinonez
As a first-year student, I wanted to find a community of other women pursuing STEM-related fields, especially as someone who has no connections in this area of study. I felt that WSS would be a great introduction into the world of STEM, and it truly has been, and so much more. I have become part of a tight-knit community that encourages one another to follow our dreams in STEM through both community and club work.
Major: Biology
What impact has WSS had on your undergraduate career?
While I had an idea of what I wanted to do career-wise, finding this organization has been very helpful and eye-opening to seeing other women pursue the same or similar careers. WSS feels like such a tight-knit community of like-minded women, where we help and support one another to the fullest. Being able to participate in the volunteer activities offered, along with the Career Speaker Panels we host, I have been able to gain greater insights into what I want to do in the future, and solidify my goals!
What field of study are you interested in and why?
My goal is to go to medical school and become a Pediatrician! From some past volunteering experiences, I enjoy working with kids, and it would be an honor to help others!
Other involvement on campus besides WSS and Interests!
I am also currently part of the Culinary Medicine Undergraduate Program, where we learn help in nutritional classes and events for patients, in addition to learning about nutrition as a preventative care treatment.