Desireé Elena Ruiz Lugo’s commitment to health and her desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives are the driving forces behind her journey. She has been a part of Fundación Kinesis through the Bright Stars program and is currently in her third year of a bachelor's degree in biomedical sciences at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico.
Her entry into Fundación Kinesis in ninth grade, coming from the Dr. Pedro Albizu Campos School of Science and Mathematics in Ponce, was crucial for her academic performance and for guiding her university studies. Through Fundación Kinesis, Desireé discovered the possibility of combining disciplines through minors, which led her to merge biomedical sciences with her passion for community wellbeing.
As the first in her family to pursue higher education, Desireé made her dream of studying at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico a reality, where she successfully aligned her interests and expanded her goals. From a youthful age, her mother instilled in her the importance of health and well-being, values that continue to define her life.
“In biomedical science courses, we are not usually taught how to apply our ideas in the field of community wellbeing; we do not get those tools as part of our training. With Kinesis’s support, I was able to bring those ideas to life. I aspire to promote health and wellbeing, which is my passion,” said Desireé. “Health is a complement, not a supplement to our skills, and from there, there are many opportunities to explore,” she added.
Balancing her numerous ideas with her desire to always do more has been a challenge for Desireé. However, she has learned to balance her life by dedicating time to various associations such as Ángeles de Esperanza and Abriendo Caminos, while also enjoying moments with family and friends, watching movies, or capturing memories with her love for photography.
Currently, Desireé is considering pursuing a Master’s and Doctorate. Among her future projects is the development of wellness and mental health programs for students. In the long term, she hopes to have her clinic and start a family.
“We all need someone who believes in us, and I want to be that person for others. I love Puerto Rico and want to stay. There is much to be done here, and it is my moral responsibility,” Desireé reaffirmed.
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