Hi everyone! My name is Josey Matos, and I am a third year Chemistry major with a minor in Health Sciences! In 2023, I graduated from William R. Boone High School in Orlando, Florida. My favorite class I’ve taken at UCF has been Organic Chemistry 1 with Dr. Lawrence, which could be an unpopular opinion, BUT the hard work you put in shows and it is very rewarding! The structure of the class genuinely sets you up for success as the textbook is outstanding, so many tutors and a built-in discussion board. One of my favorite professors I’ve had was Dr. Tye because he was incredibly approachable, sweet and passionate about what he
teaches! I decided to get involved with GEMS because when I first committed to UCF, I got a pamphlet in the mail advertising EXCEL and thought ‘it couldn’t hurt!’ I love GEMS because it is so much more than just a generic STEM program. I have met so many thoughtful and intelligent women who love to get to know each other and make connections! In general, this program has supported me through all the ups and downs many college students face their first year. It is nice to know you have a network of like-minded people who want you to succeed. I am excited to help girls realize their potential in an extremely difficult and competitive field like my mentor did for me! My biggest piece of advice for first year college students is to realize that everyone is on their own journey. It is impossible to compare yourself to others because we all come from different backgrounds and have different strengths. You don’t have to do what everyone else is doing! In my free time, I love to play video games, volleyball, drink matcha/coffee, and suntan.