Jolcey Santana, microbiology
How does being selected as CALS student marshal reflect your journey at Iowa State?
This selection reflects my journey at Iowa State by representing how my goals have grown and evolved. I came to Iowa State with the intention of earning my bachelor’s degree and entering the workforce. Through my experiences here, I discovered opportunities that expanded my vision for my future. Getting involved in research, both at Iowa State and at other institutions, attending conferences across the country, and being recognized for my work helped me realize my passion for continued learning and making discoveries to help those in need. These experiences, along with the mentorship and support I received, shaped my decision to pursue a higher degree. Being selected as a student marshal reflects that journey of growth, not just in achieving my original goals, but in redefining them.
What’s one unexpected lesson or skill you’re taking with you from Iowa State?
One unexpected lesson I’m taking with me from Iowa State is to be intentional with who you choose to have in your corner and who you pour your time into. I’ve learned that the people who truly care about you are honest, supportive and will stand behind you no matter what path you choose. With that, I’ve come to really value making time for those relationships instead of taking them for granted. I’m also leaving with a stronger sense of the importance of staying grounded in my own values and not losing sight of what I care about in myself and in others.
How has your experience at Iowa State shaped who you are today?
An experience that shaped who I am today actually happened right before I came to campus. I was close to graduating from high school and had already decided to attend Iowa State, but I wasn’t confident about what I wanted to study or what my future would look like. During that time, I participated in a small program event where I spoke with several faculty members, including my current microbiology advisor. From his talk, I realized I was really interested in the field. Even though I felt nervous about asking more questions, I decided to step outside my comfort zone, and that choice turned out to be really important to me. He was incredibly kind, shared a lot of information, and even invited me to visit the campus the summer before my first year, where he connected me with other faculty members. Those early interactions and the genuine support I received helped shape how I approach opportunities today. They pushed me to be more intentional about reaching out, building connections and advocating for myself. Since then, that mindset has led to opportunities I wouldn’t have pursued otherwise, including starting my next chapter in graduate school.
How does your chosen item represent you or your time at Iowa State?
I chose a plush Umbreon keychain because it represents both my identity and the growth I’ve experienced at Iowa State. Umbreon has been my favorite Pokémon since I was a kid, so it reflects a meaningful and consistent part of who I am. At the same time, it symbolizes my journey here, one of steady growth, persistence and hard work toward long-term goals of pursuing a graduate program, similar to how a Pokémon trainer progresses alongside their partners toward their own meaningful goals. Throughout my time, I’ve faced challenges that have pushed me to grow, while also learning to rely on the guidance and support of mentors and those around me. Overall, it captures my personality, my commitment to my goals and the personal growth that has shaped my college experience.