I’m Ricardo, a Microbiology major at Baylor University who grew up in El Paso straddling two worlds—U.S. and Mexico—which taught me early on the value of empathy, curiosity, and open-mindedness. I speak both English and Spanish natively, and I love breaking down complicated ideas into everyday conversation, whether I’m helping a friend grasp a tough concept or mentoring ESL students. Volunteering as a Camp SAY counselor showed me how to listen without judgment, build trust quickly, and lift others up when they need it most. I’m the kind of person who asks “why?” until a solution feels just right, and I get energized when collaborating with people who bring different perspectives to the table. Above all, I’m driven by a genuine desire to learn, connect with others, and turn small discoveries into real, positive change.