Luz Angela Rosas
Power Words
Where were you born?
Ponce, Puerto Rico (I am also half Colombian)
What school did you attend?
County College of Morris (AS in Biology), University of Rhode Island (BS in Microbiology), University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (now part of Rutgers University) (2nd BS in Clinical Laboratory Science), and Johns Hopkins University (MS in Biotechnology with a concentration in Biodefense).
What gained you interest in the NIH?
The NIH is one of the top research institutions in the world. Being here, you have the opportunity to interact with some of the brightest minds in medical research. There are many opportunities to learn and grow professionally. It is also amazing to know that the work you do today could potentially help save lives and contribute to a better quality of life in the future.
What kind of work do you do at the NIH?
I am a Clinical Microbiologist/Laboratory Manager for a group within NIAID that does research with Influenza.
What message would you like to send to young Hispanics who are considering going to college?
Don’t let your fears stand in the way of your dreams! I have always loved science and more specifically, I was always amazed at how something as small as a virus could wreak so much havoc on the human body. There was a time where I didn’t think I could go to college because of the expense, but with the encouragement and support from my family I made the decision to go. Yes, it was expensive, but it was well worth it in the end. Always take the time to look for grants and scholarships to help you along the way. Education and determination are the keys to success.