Michael Lopez-Torres
Year Graduated: 
2014
Life science research professional

Job description

After graduating from Humboldt State I had the privilege of being awarded an intern position for the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine through Humboldt State. As an intern, I worked in a lab that studied the stem cells that make our bones and cartilage. After completing my intern year, I was offered a research position in my lab and spent the following four years conducting skeletal stem cell research. During my time in the lab, our team identified and characterized the stem cell responsible for making all our bones and cartilage. Subsequently, we spent our time investigating degenerative diseases that affect bones through the lens of our newly discovered skeletal stem cell. Currently, I'm a first-year medical student at UC Davis where I continue doing research with an interest in orthopedics.

Why did you choose this program?

I always had an interest in biology. I was fascinated by how genes encode proteins and how proteins essentially conduct everything that goes on in our cells. I chose HSU specifically because I recognized that the small class sizes would allow me to form a tight-knit community with my peers and professors.

How did this program prepare you for your job?

While at Humboldt State, I conducted basic lab research. The fundamentals I learned at HSU, both in class and in the laboratory setting, I still use today.

What did you enjoy most about the program?

What I enjoyed most about the program was the flexibility. At HSU, I was able to decide which science classes I wanted to enroll in as long as they fulfilled my major's requirements. I majored in microbiology and although bacteriology is a big part of the major, I also had the opportunity to branch out and take classes in stem cell biology.

What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?

Explore your options and find what you're passionate about. Biology is very broad and there are many fields you can go into with a degree in biology. If you feel you may have an interest in research, reach out to your professors and ask about research opportunities. HSU is a relatively small school which allows students to create strong connections with their professors. As a result, there are opportunities for undergraduates to get significant hands on research experience.

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