Outreach

I am passionate about making science accessible and inspiring the next generation of researchers from marginalized and under represented communities.

As a cardiovascular scientist, I actively engage with students and educators through community outreach programs, interactive STEM workshops, and mentoring initiatives. From heart anatomy demos in middle schools to career exploration sessions for high school students, my goal is to spark curiosity, build scientific confidence, and promote inclusive access to biomedical research.

Below are some of my recent outreach activities.

Hands-on Hearts, Curious Minds (July 2025):

Event: Heart Anatomy & Physiology Workshop

Audience: 8th Grade Students
Where: Mayfield Junior School, Pasadena, CA (https://www.mayfieldjs.org/)
Program: Partnership for Success Summer Academy (https://www.pfspasadena.org/)
Organizers: In collaboration with HMRI – Huntington Medical Research Institutes and Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD)

As part of the Partnership for Success program, I had the privilege of leading an engaging hands-on workshop on heart anatomy and physiology for middle school scholars. My goal was simple: spark curiosity, build confidence, and introduce students to the wonders of cardiovascular science.

Through interactive models and a live heart dissection demo, students explored how the heart pumps life through the body. It was deeply rewarding to see their faces light up as they held anatomical specimens and asked thoughtful questions like future scientists in the making.

“From explaining how the heart fuels our bodies to guiding a live heart dissection demo 🐑🫀🔬 — it was truly rewarding to see these young scientists light up with curiosity and confidence.”

🔬 Program Impact

🧠 Over 25 students engaged in live STEM demonstrations
🔬 First-time exposure to cardiovascular anatomy and medical research concepts
💬 Active Q&A and group participation throughout the session
👩‍🔬 Empowered students from underrepresented backgrounds with direct access to biomedical science

✨ Why I Do This

As a cardiovascular researcher, I believe that early exposure to science empowers students to imagine themselves as problem-solvers and future innovators. Outreach isn’t just a side mission — it’s at the heart of why I do what I do.

Inspiring the Future of Science & Medicine (May 2025):

Event: Biomedical Careers Exposure Workshop

Audience: High School Students from the Health Careers Academy
Where: Huntington Medical Research Institutes (HMRI), Pasadena, CA
Partner School: Blair High School, Pasadena
Organizers: HMRI Education & Outreach Program

As part of our continuing mission to mentor the next generation of biomedical professionals, I had the honor of hosting high school students from the Health Careers Academy at Blair High School. These bright and motivated students visited HMRI for a special session that offered a real-world glimpse into the life of a scientist.

We kicked off with an orientation to HMRI’s research and education initiatives, followed by a lab tour, and an interactive discussion about STEM career pathways. I shared details on:

🔬 Postdoctoral training and research fellowships
🧠 Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF)
🧑‍🔬 STEM immersion programs for high school students
📅 Year-round opportunities for student research engagement

It was energizing to witness their thoughtful questions and enthusiasm for biomedical science.

“Their curiosity, questions, and enthusiasm for science were truly inspiring. 💫 It’s a reminder that mentorship and exposure are powerful tools in shaping the next generation of scientists.”