January 2026

Sandra Rios Alba is a senior majoring in Biochemistry from San José Iturbide, Guanajuato, Mexico. She has a strong passion for science and research, particularly in the field of cancer biology. This semester, Sandra is focused on applying to graduate programs that will prepare her for a career in research and help her continue making meaningful contributions to the scientific community.

After graduating from New Mexico State University, Sandra hopes to pursue a Ph.D. or complete a post-baccalaureate program that will strengthen her preparation for a Ph.D. or MD/Ph.D. program. She is dedicated to advancing cancer research and is motivated by the opportunity to improve lives through scientific discovery. Her long-term goal is to become a researcher who contributes to finding better treatments and improving patient outcomes. 

Sandra credits CAMP with opening doors she never knew were possible, including providing opportunities that allowed her to conduct research in a laboratory at NMSU. Those experiences have helped shape both her academic and professional journey. She also hopes to educate communities about cancer awareness and prevention, recognizing the importance of increasing public knowledge about one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Outside of academics, Sandra enjoys taking walks and spending time with her two dogs, Minnie and Nala.

 

She lives by the quote, "You'll grow beautifully in your own way."