Alexia Garcia-Olvera
Hi! My name is Alexia Garcia-Olvera, and I am a first-generation college student from the Tri-Cities, Washington. I recently completed my Associate in Arts and Sciences at Columbia Basin College, and preparing to transfer to the University of Washington to study Marine Biology. My path to this point has not always been straightforward, but every challenge has shaped me into someone who is resilient, hardworking, and deeply passionate about science.
During my time at CBC, I’ve had the chance to participate in programs like MESA,TRIO, attend national conferences, undergraduate research, and complete internships that pushed me outside of my comfort zone. One of the most defining experiences was interning with NOAA’s Hollings Preparation Program, where I lived in remote Idaho studying salmon conservation. The work was demanding, long days in freezing rivers, camping without cell service but it gave me confidence in my ability to thrive in tough environments. Just as importantly, I saw female scientists leading research teams in the field, and that gave me role models who showed me there is a place for me in this field.
Outside of school and research, I balanced working and going to school which hasn’t been easy, but it’s taught me perseverance, responsibility, and the value of supporting my family, who have sacrificed so much for my education.
I applied for the Martin Family Foundation Scholarship because it represents more than financial support, it represents the chance to honor those sacrifices and fully dedicate myself to becoming the scientist I aspire to be. This opportunity will help me continue toward graduate school and a career in marine conservation, where I hope to use science not only to protect fragile ecosystems but also to uplift communities like my own.
Goals
In the near term, my goal is to finish my bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology at the University of Washington and keep building experience through research and internships. Looking further ahead, I hope to go to graduate school and become a marine conservation researcher, where I can protect vulnerable ecosystems while also making science more inclusive and connected to communities like my own.
Tips
One tip I would share with future students is to lead with honesty and by that, I mean being authentic and accountable to who you are and to your story. It can feel scary to write about the challenges you’ve faced, but I’ve learned so much from this process and from leaning into that vulnerability. What has helped me the most at every step is being open and honest about my journey and how it has shaped me into the person I am today.
