Monthly SciComm WrapUp: April 2025

A brief summary of what fun sci-comm things I did in the month of April!

April was packed with some exciting scicomm and networking opportunities! Here’s a quick look at what I’ve been up to this month:

Published Working Life article in Science!

This month, I published a personal essay in Science Magazine’s Working Life section titled “Taking Flight”. In the piece, I share how I struggled with feeling torn between academic opportunity and a sense of abandonment because I left Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. Ultimately I came to understand that continuing my studies wasn’t turning my back on home, it was a way of honoring it. I’m incredibly proud and grateful to share this story on such a big platform. You can read the full piece here: Taking Flight – Science Careers.

Oral Presentation in Warsaw, Poland!

I also had the amazing opportunity to present my thesis research at the first-ever Advancements in Microbiology conference in Warsaw, Poland! I gave an oral presentation to a room of over 200 scientists from around the world, sharing my work on the gut-brain axis and how early life trauma may shape mental health through the microbiome. The response was incredible—I received thoughtful questions, made some great connections, and left feeling energized by the global interest in this field. It was an unforgettable experience and a big milestone in my PhD journey!

Guest Lecture on Water Pollution in Puerto Rico

This month, I also had the chance to give a guest lecture in the Environmental Health and Disease course at Brown University, where I spoke about water pollution in Puerto Rico. It was a meaningful experience to share both the science and the lived realities behind environmental health issues on the island—including how colonial policies have shaped access to clean water. I’m always grateful for the opportunity to talk about my home and help students understand the deeper social and political layers of public health challenges. Thank you to Dr. Plavicki for inviting me!

SACNAS Community Gathering Recruitment Table!

I attended the 2025 SACNAS New England Community Gathering at Yale University—a full day of science, community, and celebration! As part of my role as Undergraduate Research Chair for SACNAS, I tabled to recruit students for Brown University and the Pathobiology PhD program, sharing info about research opportunities and grad school pathways. It was so rewarding to connect with students from across the region and help increase access to STEM through conversations, resources, and encouragement. Events like this remind me why representation and outreach matter so much.

UNICEF USA Youth Leader Career Panel

I also had the honor of speaking on a career panel for UNICEF USA Youth Leaders—an inspiring group of high school and college students passionate about making a difference. As a former member of the UNICEF National High School Council, it meant a lot to return and share my journey in science and advocacy. We talked about navigating setbacks, staying grounded in your mission, and building careers that center community impact. It was a full-circle moment, and I’m so grateful for the chance to give back to a space that helped shape my own path. Plus, I got to see my lovely friend Henry again! The picture below is of us in the National Council back in 2015! :)

Program Wrap-Up for Letters to a Pre-Scientist

As of April 25th, I sent my last letter to my dear STEM PenPal for the Letters to a Pre-Scientist program. The initiative connects children with scientists across the United States. Each pair writes 4 letters to each other throughout the school year. We talk about our day-to-day life in science and what our journey was like to get here. It’s great to see how the kid’s attitude towards science changes as the year progresses. I can’t wait to volunteer again next cycle!

That’s a wrap for April! Stay tuned for more SciComm updates next month.

Until then, keep sharing science! 🚀

I’m glad you’re here :)

—Mel

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