Carolina Aponte (COS ’26) is a fourth year Cell & Molecular Biology student who helps mentor 9-12 students through Latinas in STEAM. Through her role on the executive board, Carolina has been able to explore the importance of supportive leadership and community programming.
“I first joined Latinas in STEAM three years ago as a recruited mentor, and I was immediately inspired by the program’s mission to increase representation in STEM fields and U.S. universities. In Puerto Rico, the U.S. admissions process can feel overwhelming. There are fewer resources, financial barriers are common, and many students lack guidance on how to navigate the process. Being part of this program gave me the chance to help change that. Each summer, I work with other mentors to lead group sessions on college access topics such as standardized testing, financial aid, and recommendation letters. These workshops are designed to make the process feel more approachable and to show students that higher education opportunities in the U.S. are within their reach. For 12th graders who are actively applying, I also serve as a one-on-one mentor from summer through acceptance. I review resumes and essays, run mock interviews, and make myself available for any questions they may have. Many ask me about my own path as a premed student studying Cell and Molecular Biology, and I share my experiences to help them picture what their future could look like.
Since my joining, I have mentored more than seven students who have gone on to schools such as Rice, Northeastern, and the University of Pittsburgh. Watching them grow in confidence and achieve their goals has been one of the most rewarding parts of my involvement. For the past two years, I have also served on the executive board, where I have helped recruit mentors, coordinate outreach, and organize programming for our summer Zoom workshops. This leadership role has taught me the importance of building a community of support and ensuring that every student feels seen and encouraged. Being part of this college access program has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my college years. Mentorship has shown me how impactful it is to guide young women in pursuing their goals and to celebrate their successes along the way. Seeing my mentees gain acceptance to their dream schools continues to inspire me in my own journey as a student and future physician.”
What other activities are you involved in on campus?
I am Co-President of the Puerto Rican Student Association and was previously Treasurer as well! I am a member of the TriBeta Biological Honor Society & ANWA, and have been involved with the LSCC staff and members and part of the “Los Huskies Coalition”. Previously, I was the Internal Culture Lead of Sunrise at Northeastern!
In 2023, I received a PEAK Basecamp Award for my work in the Geisinger Laboratory on campus and presented at RISE 2024!
What is your favorite Honors memory?
Back when I was living in East Village my freshman year, I was part of the Health & Wellness LLC. I absolutely loved taking part of all the monthly activities and bonding with other people in my floor I maybe didn’t get to see too often. I was in a triple connected to a double, where I met my (still) best friends, and every time we received an email from our LLC leaders we would always get so excited. My favorite memory from the LLC was probably going to play kickball in the Fens and grabbing FoMu ice cream after!
What events or activities would you recommend to new Honors students?
I would recommend attending Northeastern’s ice hockey games! The school spirit at our home games, and especially at Beanpot, is always so fun to see and be a part of. It truly makes you feel like a husky and part of the larger college community!