Slugs into Science is one of our chapters' campaigns. The goal of Slugs into Science is to learn what sparked UCSC students (and professors!) interest in science! If you, or someone you might know, is interested in being featured please fill out this Google form!

Shannon Chuang (c/o 2022)

"The intricacy and complexity of the human brain is what made me interested in Neuroscience, but what intrigued me the most is the fact that something we know so little of has such a significant impact on who and what we are. I love the blend between psychological and neurological aspects in science because it provides a cause and affect or even a before and after of the reasons why we do certain things. Neuroscience in my eyes is a combination of psychology and biology which allows me to explore my interests in many different paths. I hope that I can utilize my knowledge to improve and further advancements in the field of science."

Ryan Cheung (c/o 2023)

"I don't think there was any Eureka moment but I knew I have always loved anything science related. More into cars at first but that changed after watching the Good Doctor. I was amazed by the work these surgeons were doing, their work environment and how rewarding this job seemed. And to add on all these cases in the show are based on true events! Aside from this though majority of my motivation to pursue this was after my father passed away from cancer so I hope one day I am able to help people in that way!"

Andrea Kim (c/o 2023)

"In high school I was a part of this program called “Women in medicine,” which got me interested in wanting to become a doctor. Right now, I have my mind set on becoming a pediatrician. Also, reading science fiction and nonfiction are usually the only times I’m able to actually engage fully in what I’m reading. Which might be why I’ve done better in my science classes, rather than my English classes. "

Eileen Nguyen (c/o 2020)

"In high school, I had an extreme case of acne and scars that I was embarrassed of, which lowered my self-esteem and confidence. I started doing research on home remedies that reduced scarring and red spots, but I stumbled upon reading different products that worked best for my skin type, even remembering certain ingredients and what specific amounts were recommended. It was interesting how different topical medications and products are used to regulate certain cells and areas of the body, and that there are many more being researched today. I'm inspired to share my knowledge and experience with those who are dealing with the same thing, to help them explore methods of treatment, listen to their stories, and ultimately develop a personal connection with them while learning more about other medications."

Diana Etwaru(c/o 2020)

"What got me interested in neuroscience specifically was one of my high school classes. When we were learning about neurons and action potentials, it just amazed me how simple things such as wiggling our fingers, to larger tasks such as weight lifting, were all due to these weird looking things. The brain is such a fascinating organ and there's so much we don't know about it, which is insane! I'm stoked for some brainception to use my brain to learn about my brain and hopefully be able to apply that knowledge to help those who are affected."

Johnny Ha (c/o 2020)

"My passion for science gradually grew in high school and that eventually led me to the decision of pursuing a science degree, so that I can learn all about the things that interested me. Growing up, I was always intrigued by the process of how drugs work in the body. Thus, I really enjoy the human physiology branch of biology because I can learn how different organisms of the body functions and how they work with drugs after ingesting them. By studying biology, I hope to influence my knowledge of science and drugs to help those who are ill and see how the field of science progresses over time."

Khanh Nguyen (c/o 2020)

"I've always loved science. There was no specific event that gave me that epiphany that science is what I wanted to do. I just have always knew that I loved science and I wanted to pursue a career in doing something that involve science. That love grew even more when I decided to major in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology here at UCSC. I'm glad I chose this major because it really taught me all these chemical and physicochemical processes and substances that occur within living beings and about how much I didn't know about everything. That's why I want to pursue a career in science."

Kathy Voong (c/o 2020)

"I've loved science since elementary school because it's all about learning and discovery. I was never a student who could sit still for a long time so reading and math didn't hold my attention very well. But science, especially for kids, is really hands on and being able to build things and see tiny things through a microscope was enough to excite me. Science is amazing! Everyday someone is discovering something new and one day that person can be you."

Dave Morales (c/o 2018)

"Growing up, my mom would always share the anecdote of when her petition from the Philippines to the U.S. was approved in the middle of her education as a scholar at the Saint Louis University, which is known for its top-scoring Medical and Law students. She set aside her own aspirations of higher learning for the sake of the future family she would have in America. Keeping in mind the invaluable sacrifices that both my mom and dad have made, I urged myself to approach school with an unrivaled hunger and thirst for knowledge, sampling its many facets with enthusiasm and passion: writing, history, art, politics, math, and science. The subject of biology, however, intrigued me like no other starting from introductory Biology during my freshman year of high school. In college, my professors present what is already known. Then, I apply that knowledge to the work I do in the mammary gland research lab I volunteer at only to find out that what we do know is just barely the tip of the iceberg. Science doesn't sleep. And while the grind never ends, the demands of this very subject matter drives me to learn more each and every day. I want to pursue a career in the field of medical science, my little niche."

Cherry Ng (c/o 2018)

"The core reason of why I'm interested in science and medicine is an untold one:

He was a heroin addict. He stopped providing love and support for his family. Detached, he only showed up to ask for money. He passed away due to heart failure.

I believe that if given another chance to life, my father would have a change of heart and live differently.

I want to fight for second chances. I want to fight to improve patients' quality of life. My ultimate goal is to instill hope -- whether that be determination to recover, or the perseverance to live life to the fullest. Life is fragile, yet beautifully complex.

I want to combine drugs along with knowledge and empathy to heal."

Joanna Cheung (c/o 2017)

"I am a Business Management Economics major, however deep down I am very interested in science. Genetics is just fascinating to me. I am always amazed by how we can know so much about lives just by "decoding" the genes, cells. And from understanding all the mechanics behind lives, we can make the world a better place to live."

Calvin Lee (UCSD c/o 2018)

“Psychology may not be a science major, but it can definitely be used in similar ways like STEM! As a psych major, I’ve come to really enjoy everything that I have learned through my time here at UCSC. I've always had an interest in mental health care, especially the stigma behind attending counseling and psychological services. Mental health disorders or whatever people like to label it as, are portrayed in the world as alien making those victims vulnerable to criticism just because of who they are! I want to push forward and desensitize the negative treatment placed on those who aren't considered “normal”. Many believe that psychology majors don’t do much, but I want to ignite my ambitions to serve those being misjudged and bring people to tolerate mental health issues!"

Sheena Kapoor (c/o 2018)

"Science is the vessel that allows us to comprehend the mysteries of the universe. These magical, esoteric phenomenon are made in practical components through science. The advancements in science have allowed us to challenge nearly every notion of life, and it has led a standard of living that would have been impossible to dream of. Science has the ability to empower while still remaining dynamic. From walking on the moon to sequencing the human genome, the bounds of discovery are endless. Thousands of lives have been saved and each day another new revolutionary advancement is discovered. "

Luke Chen (c/o 2018)

"Growing up, I was intrigued by the fact that science is still making advancements even up to today. Naturally, my passion for science grew and in high school, I thought the field of science could possibly influence what I do in the future someday. I then decided to pursue a science major to learn and see how much science has progressed as well as to fulfill my interest for the subject."

Diana Lu (c/o 2018)

"To be honest, I wish I had an "Aha!" moment or an event that led me into pursuing a biology degree. But I don't really have one. The first bio class that I ever took was in my freshman year of high school, so I don't really recall anything but Punnett Squares. But when I took my bio introductory class at UCSC, I was learning a lot and stuff was just fascinating. And I like to learn. Science is cool and I like cool science. So I guess I am pretty cool too. Hahaha."