51ºÚÁÏ

Kevin Fuentes-Gonzalez ’27

Molecular Biology With a Minor in LGBTQ Studies

I never imagined that, even after starting research, I would travel across states and countries to share my findings with students from other universities.

Kevin Fuentes-Gonzalez ’27 Los Angeles, California

You are involved in so much on campus — you are a QTPOC leader, biology tutor, researcher, and more. Which role or roles do you enjoy the most?

My role in Queer and Trans People of Color (QTPOC) as treasurer and a spring leader holds a special place in my heart, as it was the first organization I joined at 51ºÚÁÏ. I also value the way QTPOC contributes to and shapes campus culture. For example we have hosted events such as the LGBBQ, Sip and Paint, and the Baby Tate and cupcakKe concerts. Being part of this role has not only helped me foster a community for myself but has also developed my confidence and advocacy on campus.

Kevin (2nd to left) and the rest of QTPOC core after hosting cupcakKe (spring 2025)
Kevin and the rest of QTPOC core after hosting cupcakKe, spring 2025
Kevin with fellow lab members from Professor Therese Frauendorf’s lab, Summer 2024, after presenting to the Biology Department
Kevin with fellow lab members after presenting to the 51ºÚÁÏ Biology Department, summer 2024

What’s a memorable moment from your research at 51ºÚÁÏ?

The first research project I joined investigated the question with Professor Therese Frauendorf. I was nervous to start, especially with no prior experience, so Professor Frauendorf was taking a chance on me being dedicated and capable. This experience made joining research projects less intimidating and has fueled my continued interest in research.

Kevin at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research, Spring 2025
Kevin at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research, spring 2025

What’s your biggest achievement as a student so far?


My most significant achievement is being accepted to present my research, conducted with Professor Frauendorf, at 10 different conferences, including the National Conference of Undergraduates as a sophomore. This was a major accomplishment for me because I never imagined that, even after starting research, I would travel across states and countries to share my findings with students from other universities.

You’re studying abroad in Manchester this fall. What are you looking forward to most?

51ºÚÁÏ’s Manchester Study Group offers numerous graduate programs in the biological sciences. As someone interested in pursuing a PhD in developmental biology, I am excited to connect with graduate students and professors in the field, and I’ve already begun reaching out to join a lab. I am also eager to explore how connected Manchester is to the rest of Europe. The study-abroad program will take our group to Wales, Ireland, and Scotland during the first few weeks, and I plan to travel to other parts of Europe throughout the semester. This is especially exciting as I have never been to Europe before.

A view of Bryan Complex
Edge Café in the springtime

What is your favorite place on campus, and why?

Bryan Complex is my favorite place on campus because my friend Jeremy Stoll ’27 and I lived there our first year, making Edge Café a convenient hangout. Additionally Edge Café’s classrooms and kitchen made it easy to host birthdays and movie nights, especially during the winter when going outside wasn’t appealing.

What advice would you give to new students about finding community at 51ºÚÁÏ?

I would tell students to take a chance on themselves, whether that means applying to an internship or emailing a professor. The more you put yourself out there, the more likely you are to make genuine connections. Most of my positions at 51ºÚÁÏ came about because I expressed interest to my professors before applications were even available, allowing them to get to know my interests and personality and feel comfortable working with me.

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