Southwestern Magazine | Spring 2022

Why did you decide to attend Southwestern? I fell in love with Southwestern after visiting it in 11th grade. I could not help but feel like the University was a home, well before even applying. In fact, during that very first visit, I fell so in love with the feeling and look of Southwestern that I literally picked up a random rock from the ground and kept it as a memento! How did you become interested in your field of study? I was originally very interested in STEM research but never just STEM. I came into Southwestern wanting to double major in biochemistry and political science, but after realizing that would be a very difficult path, I focused on biochemistry. A few semesters later, I realized that the field just wasn’t for me. At the same time, I took a course titled Disease, Health, and Medicine in World History that was life-changing. I began to develop an academic and personal interest in the history of science and medicine. What’s your favorite spot on campus? My favorite spot on campus is Mood-Bridwell Hall by far. I’ve spent countless nights in the Environmental Lounge working on assignments, some- times from midnight to 7 a.m. What classes, student organizations, or other experiences have impacted you the most? Both Disease, Health, and Medicine in World History and Popularizing Science with Dr. Jethro Hernández-Berrones were absolutely life-changing courses! As for student organizations that have impacted me the most, I would have to say Students for Environmental Activism and Knowledge (SEAK) and Alpha Phi Omega. I have had the opportunity to lead both organizations as president and value how much the experience helped me develop leadership skills. Who are your mentors on campus and why? There are too many to name, but the ones who have had the biggest impact on me are Lisa Dela Cruz at Student Life, Dr. Hernández-Berrones, and Dr. Melissa Johnson. All three have been immensely helpful to my personal, academic, and life development. I cherish the times I worked for Mosaic, during which Lisa helped me develop new skills as my supervisor. Dr. Hernández-Berrones and Dr. Johnson have both been terrific research advisors and mentors. Looking back at your time at Southwestern, what accomplishment are you most proud of? I am definitely most proud of the research opportunities I’ve been able to experience. I have been a research assistant for well over a year now. I have also had the opportunity to participate in SCOPE twice! I’ve been able to present my research with both projects at outside conferences. Thanks to the King Creativity Fund, I recently traveled to Mexico City to continue my research with Dr. Hernández-Berrones. What is your favorite Southwestern memory (so far)? I always think fondly of the camping trips done with SEAK. It was a time where we distracted ourselves from all our school and work responsi- bilities and for two days spent time in nature and with each other. What are your plans following graduation and beyond? My plan following graduation is to get into a Ph.D. program in the history of science and medicine. After that, I definitely want to continue doing historical research, possibly as a professor of history. SAUL ZUNIGA ’22 Major: History Minor: Health studies Hometown: Dallas, Texas Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A Q A 35 SOUTHWESTERN