Human Biology

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Town & Gown Ursula and Hans Moede Scholarship Endowment

Profile:

Anaya was born in Texas, but spent her early years in India, sharing a small space with her family. She believes that this experience helped her learn early to use her voice effectively. That led to singing lessons and music becoming her “personal support,” especially during Covid.

However, her true passion lies In public service and medicine. That interest, and the need to understand the body’s mechanics, was “sparked not in a lecture hall, but on a basketball court.” Despite not being tall, she  became team captain, and credits her defense skills and her voice as a leader.

She is working hard to complete her degree in three years, but still makes time to participate in activities outside the classroom. For example, Anaya was a neurological rehabilitation specialist intern at UC San Diego Hospital. In that role she helped set up and break down treatments, and assisted with exercises and patient mobility. She now volunteers in the Emergency Department at UC San Diego Health. Another project is working with elderly patients at the Brain Exercise Initiative supporting their cognitive health through engaging activities. On campus she is a peer mentor and supports first year students as they navigate academic and personal challenges.

Anaya ultimately hopes to earn an MD/PhD and work as a physician who “fiercely advocates for others” and is dedicated to working in underserved communities. She is enrolled in Earl Warren College.