I am a Junior majoring in Biomedical Science and minoring in Education with the aim to specialize in military emergency medicine (trauma). When I came to UCF in 2015, I realized just how many opportunities this school would provide me now and after graduation. After only two years, I am amazed at the number of professionals I have met and worked with, the positions I have gained such as becoming a student research assistant, and the shear amount of knowledge I have gained and can only hope to gain before medical school. When I first joined the GEMS program, I didn't see how this group could help me. However, when I finally met with my mentor group after a few months, I saw that this group of women, like me, wanted to make connections and explore the STEM community at UCF. The best way to be seen and keep from becoming just another person on a campus with over 60,000 students is through a smaller community that will help you to succeed. I have met some amazing teachers and friends through the EXCEL and GEMS programs and cannot wait to see what another year brings! Go Knights!