Undergraduate Students
John Vila, BA, 2019
I was born in Miami, Florida and raised by Cuban parents. I have been interested in Chemistry since taking my first course in 10th grade. I always knew I had wanted to pursue my undergraduate degree in Chemistry, and I will be graduating in Spring 2019 with my BA in Chemistry and a minor in Biology. I am taking my PCAT and applying to Pharmacy School in Fall 2018, hopefully to enter the Class of 2023. I have been working with Dr. Rein since June 2017. My work in her lab has included chromatography, NMR, and testing novel solid-phase extraction methods to target algal toxins. In addition, I have done work with bacterial cultures in the capacity of transformation, plate streaking, plasmid extraction, DNA quantification, etc. under the guidance of Ricardo Colon.
Fallon Browning, BS 2019
I was born in south Florida but predominantly raised in eastern Kentucky with my fathers family. I'm currently pursuing a Bachelors of science in biology with a minor in chemistry in hopes of gaining admission to medical school. My interests include reading, playing video games, and trying new foods ! I also enjoy watching anime and marvel movies!
Jacklyn Garcia, BS 2017
Born and raised in the city of Miami along with my little brother, Jacob. My mother and father were both born in Cuba and traveled to the United States at around 3 years old. My hobbies include cheerleading, bowling, aquatic activities, and traveling. The most remarkable places that I have ever traveled to include, Breckenridge, Colorado and all of the islands of Hawaii. Television shows that I particularly take an interest include Grey's Anatomy and The Walking Dead. I will be graduating from FIU with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and a Minor in Biology in the Fall semester of 2017. Future plans include pursuing a Medical Doctor degree and ultimately becoming an Otolaryngologist.
Marliette Rodriguez, BS 2017
Born and raised in Cuba, I came to United States at the age of sixteen. I prefer engaging in outdoor activities such as jogging, biking, roller blading, wall climbing, and yoga instead of being home watching TV; however I enjoy certain TV shows such as 'Game of Thrones" and Korean dramas. In 2017 I will be graduating with a BS in Chemistry and my plans for the future are to pursue a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. I plan to continue on the academia track ultimately becoming a professor.
Michael Cartamil, BS 2017
Here is a picture of Michael (on right), Dr. Willie May (candidate for Pres-Elect, on left) and Zaida Morales Martinez (center) in DC.
My name is Michael Cartamil and I am a Chemistry BS major here at FIU. My work in Dr.Rein's lab is based on natural product and environmental chemistry. I have enjoyed working on projects with compounds such as microcystin-LR, phycocyanobilin, and brevetoxin. On my spare time, I like to exercise, hike, and garden with my wife. My favorite hobby would be gardening since I am really interested in trying all sorts of edible plants and you can always find me eating something strange from my garden.
Cristian Zavala, BS 2017
I was born and raised in Miami, Florida and both my parents are of Honduran descent. I am currently working at Dr. Rein's research lab and at the Chemistry main office at FIU. My interests outside of academics are playing baskeball, video games, hunting, fishing, hitting the weight room, and going to Orlando every month or so. I am currently working on getting a BS in Chemistry and I hope to ultimately acquire a PhD in Chemistry with a focus in either Organic or Biochemistry.
Michaella Durham, BS 2016
I was born in Boynton Beach, Florida but my family on my mothers side are from the Bahamas. I love to be active, participating in various activities, none in particular, just anything that catches my attention. After I Graduate I plan on attending Graduate school to pursue my PhD and become a Scientist in Pharmaceutical Research.
Freddy Rodriguez del Rey, BS 2016
I hail from the rural farmlands of Cuba. When I am not studying for my next exam or working in the lab, I like to watch movies/cartoons, take nice walks with my dog, and listen to good music. I am currently working on the synthesis of photoaffinity probes. I aspire to attend graduate school in pursuit of a PhD in organic synthesis. I am interested in the synthesis of natural products and the medicinal properties they provide.
Claudia Garza, BS 2015
I was born in Cuba and traveled to the US when I was very little. I enjoy gardening, watching television, and playing with my two year old daughter. I plan on completing a bio-medical engineering degree after graduation while preparing for the MCAT because my ultimate goal is to go to medical school and become a neurosurgeon.
Michael Perez (photobomb by Jenaissey, Wei and Anuapama), BS 2015
I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. I am currently working on getting a BS in chemistry and I plan on attending graduate school to pursue a Ph.D. After graduating from graduate school, I plan to work for a pharmaceutical company to make medicine for the common consumer. My hobbies include reading, working in a research lab, and video games.
Alejandra Vasquez, BS 2015
I'm from Honduras. I like to play guitar, read books, play soccer, spend time outside like going camping with friends. I like to travel and go to unknown places and try new things as well as spending an entire day in my research lab. I plan to go to graduate school and broaden my knowledge about the chemistry in the biological aspects and be able to help the environment.
Patricia Tortosa, BS 2014
I am originally from Venezuela. I have a BS in chemistry. My future plans are to obtain a graduate degree eventually. However, at the moment I am seeking employment in the chemical industry. I love to work in the lab environment. My hobbies are scuba diving and cooking and creating new dishes.
Diana Novo, BS 2014
Diana Novo, B.S. in Chemistry (FIU), (status: Post-Bac Research) I am a Miami native my background is Costa Rican / Cuban. I enjoy traveling, trying exotic food, kayaking and yoga. I am currently deciding on which Chemistry PhD program to enter, with the end goal of working in a national lab for the governement, or for the pharmaceutical or bioenergy industry.
Jenaissy Comas, BA 2013
I was born and raised in Miami, Florida. I have a BA in chemistry and a BS in biology from FIU. In the next year, I hope to start a master’s program. In the future, I hope to obtain a PhD. in chemistry and become a Professor. My hobbies include crocheting, singing, and cooking. I also enjoy outdoor activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and tennis.