Redlands Resident and Classmate, a Select Few

Redlands resident, Vivian Ortiz and Yucaipa resident Justin Bain, both earned highly competitive summer scholarships from the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory in Crested Butte, Colorado. The extensive and prestigious summer program is available to a select few, with most submissions denied. The application process included writing and submitting an essay along with formal letters of recommendation from college professors. Bain and Ortiz were recently notified they were accepted into the Education Program, Independent Research/Training in Wildlife Biology Track. It is a Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) award. The scholarship includes all expenses at the field station, including meals, $400 towards travel expenses and a $5,000 stipend for the 10-week research program. Both students were overjoyed at the opportunity. “This program is an exciting opportunity,” Ortiz said, “Getting into a university is super competitive and as a first year college student, I am committed to doing what I can as early as possible to stand out. Researching through this program is a dream come true and I'm anxious for summer to begin. I’m grateful for this opportunity especially as a female. Being a Hispanic female scientist isn't too common and I'm grateful that I can represent both minority groups.” A key component to the success of the two students is the STEM program at CHC. “There are a surprising amount of opportunities waiting for students at CHC,” said Bain. “The STEM Trek program at CHC is one such program. Through STEM Trek I have gained invaluable experiences as well as support and connections through meeting other STEM majors taking the same classes. It was through STEM TREK coordinator Patricia Menchaca that I learned about this wonderful program in Colorado. Overall, my education and experience at CHC has been excellent.” Both Ortiz and Bain are currently majoring in biology. Both have received what they deem excellent instruction in all science classes and curriculum at Crafton Hills College. “My favorite class so far is chemistry with Dr. Salt,” Ortiz said. “Although it can be a challenging course, she is very passionate about her work and helping her students and has made this an enjoyable experience.” Bain is graduating CHC with an A.S. in Biology and an A.S. in Multiple Sciences this spring, 2014. First year student Ortiz plans to graduate with a degree in biology or chemistry.