Future neurosurgeon named Aiken Rotary’s Student of the Month

USCA’s Isabella Cardenas from Dallas, Texas, earned recognition as Aiken Rotary Club’s Student of the Month for February.

The biology major with a minor in psychology plans to become a neurosurgeon.

“My passion for medicine, helping others and continually challenging myself academically and personally helps keep me motivated,” said Isabella Cardenas, USCA ‘27. “I also remember the women in my family who never had the opportunities that I do now to receive an education and that reminds me to be grateful for the ability to pursue my goals.

“I hope to be a kind, empathetic surgeon who advocates for their patients.”

With her rigorous classwork, NIH-funded research through South Carolina IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE)and Magellan Scholar awards, a former internship, part-time job at a local feed store and clinical position as a dialysis patient care technician, she’s already preparing to enter the medical field. 

She’s conducting research in the Mills Lab on campus with her faculty mentor, Dr. Mary Mills, associate professor in the department of biological, environmental and earth sciences. Together, they are exploring the egg development of insects capable of transmitting dangerous diseases to livestock and humans to develop strategies that will mitigate harm.

“I chose USCA because I liked the close-knit community and smaller class sizes, which allows for more one-on-one time with professors,” Cardenas said. 

“I felt there were more opportunities for growth at USCA.”

Not only is she focused on getting the best educational foundation, but she’s also involved in academic, social and civic organizations and has taken on several leadership roles. She’s a chancellor ambassador, representing the university at highly visible events throughout the academic year. Cardenas currently serves as treasurer for Tri Beta, a biology honors society; vice-chair for Students of Medical and Oral Sciences, an organization that aims to increase Latino involvement in the medical field; and secretary for the Hispanic Student Association. She previously served as a senator in student government for the College of Sciences & Engineering. In addition, she is a member of Phi Mu, a sorority on campus. 

“Serving in multiple executive roles has allowed me to plan events, manage multiple responsibilities at once and advocate for students, which strengthened my ability to lead collaboratively and empathetically,” Cardenas said. 

“Leadership means motivating and supporting others to reach their full potential while leading with integrity, accountability and most importantly, empathy.”

In addition to being active on campus, she takes time to enjoy the things she loves: playing the piano, singing, reading, baking and being with animals.

“I live on a farm with horses and tons of animals, which I have loved growing up around,” Cardenas said.

After graduation, she hopes to attend the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston.

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