Mary Ann Aure

• What does being a First-Generation College Graduate mean to you?

Challenging the norm and people’s expectations. Breaking glass ceilings.

• What is your proudest moment from your time at UCSD?

Completing and defending my Thesis which took four (good) years in the making!

• Who are the family members, friends or loved ones who have been most influential throughout your college journey? Are there any words of gratitude you would like to share with them?

This would not be possible without the loving sacrifices of my family. To my parents who gave their all to send us to school... my dad who is 80 years old but still my number one cheerleader, my mom in heaven who always guides my every step, my siblings who gave up their dreams for mine - this moment really belongs to all of us. I will always be here to support you all throughout.

Thank you to my family, friends, and loved ones for all the support that you have shown me over the years. Without you, there is no way that I would have made this far and I'm blessed to have you all as part of my foundation.

• Who are the staff, faculty or mentors who have been most influential throughout your college journey? Are there any words of gratitude you would like to share with them?

Thank you to Dr. Happy Araneta, Dr. Anne Liljenstrand, Dr. Sheldon Morris for your unwavering support and down-to-earth instruction. I feel immensely grateful for a number professional experiences that have fueled my research abilities and thirst for knowledge outside the classroom. You provided that safe space which enabled me to grow not just in the field that I am in, but also to evolve as a person. To the entirety of UCSD MAS CLRE and its amazing faculty, a BIG thank you for such a well-rounded Clinical Research program! To my classmates who are full-time doctors, Med students, scientists, and industry professionals.. I don’t know you do it but you inspire me every single day! Congratulations to the Class of 2020!

• What do you plan or hope to do after graduating?

Continue to discover novel biomarkers that can aid in the diagnosis of various autoimmune diseases, and continue to inspire the next generation of female scientists.

I would also like to take a break from school and explore PhD programs (Public Health) in the next 5 years.