Hello! I’m Jackie, a junior from Houston, Texas, majoring in Sociology with a concentration in Medicine and a minor in Chemistry at Duke University. Originally from San Luis Potosi, Mexico, I immigrated to the U.S. with my family at age 3, driven by the pursuit of the American Dream. Our journey includes overcoming challenges related to immigration, language barriers, and limited access to education and healthcare.
These experiences fuel my passion for ensuring that everyone has access to quality healthcare and helping bridge the gap for those without accessibility. After witnessing the effects of socioeconomic and cultural barriers on healthcare access, I am dedicated to delving into social determinants of health to enhance patient care. My experience in navigating healthcare systems for my parents, who faced language barriers, has motivated me to pursue a career as a bilingual physician. Additionally, I am passionate about ensuring education equity for all.
I am grateful to be a DREAMer under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which has provided me with numerous opportunities while at Duke. I have gained valuable research experience as a Duke Biological Summer Research 2023 Fellow and currently work in John Perfect's Lab researching fungal pathogenesis. This year, I serve as a Living Learning Community Co-Leader for Cardea, Co-President of Duke LIFE (the first-generation, low-income student organization), and Social Media Committee Chair for the Duke Ivy League+ Pre-Health Society. I am also a Duke Presidential Ambassador and WIN Scholar. I am involved in an additional research project through Bass Connection's SALUD (Scholar Academy for Latinxs United for Diversity) Program, which focuses on enhancing STEM and healthcare education for Durham youth. In my free time, I enjoy going to Duke games, exploring the outdoors, baking, and watching Disney movies as a devoted fan. I’m excited to embrace the opportunities this year brings and to learn and grow alongside Duke’s incredible Cardea Fellows community.
“Being a Cardea Fellow feels like being wrapped in the embrace of a supportive family. We are a close-knit group of dedicated scholars who share our dreams, lift each other up, and inspire one another to reach our fullest potential. In times of worry, stress, or doubt, we stand by each other, offering strength and comfort. I’m truly grateful to be part of this community that has made Duke feel more like home.”
