Staff Advisor

Program and Peer Advisors

Ben Kerbs

Program Advisor & Study Groups Coordinator

I hail from the prairies of rural Kansas, a setting that was foundational in shaping my love of natural history and life science. Navigating the sciences as a queer and first-generation student presented unique challenges; I owe it to a rich community of mentors, family, and friends that offered their guidance, and I know firsthand the importance of community in fostering growth and success in academia. My pursuits now often lie at the crossroads of science and social justice, and I am particularly interested in fighting educational inequity and co-creating safe spaces where...

Mariann Torres

Program Advisor & Social Media Coordinator

I am a BSP alumna, class of 2019, double-majored in Molecular Cell Biology and Public Health. During my time at Cal I was able to participate in a number of extracurriculars and internships including the Suitcase Clinic, the Summer Health Professions Education Program, Global Brigades at Honduras and the Program for Early Researchers with BSP, amongst others. After graduating, I solidified my skills during my time at Planned Parenthood and LifeLong Medical. I am really happy to be back with BSP, the community that taught so much and nourished so many of the skills needed for me...

Sameera Hussain

Peer Advisor

Hi! I am a third year studying MCB and journalism. I have been a member of BSP since the first semester of my freshman year, and I am so grateful for the community I have found in this program.

Coming to Berkeley, I was really intimidated about being in such a rigorous, competitive environment, but BSP has truly been a safe space for me to navigate the challenges I've faced at this school. I have received so much support from BSP staff and the friends I've made in this program, and I hope to give back in the same way as a peer advisor.

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Carolina Ibanez Cuadra

Peer Advisor

Hello! I am a fourth-year student studying Public Health and MCB. I have been a member of BSP since my spring semester sophomore year, and the support and friendships I have found since then have transformed my experience at Berkeley. On campus, I am also a part of Paws for Mental Health and Hermanas Unidas de UC Berkeley.

In BSP I have found a home away from home. This community has helped me feel not only seen, but understood in my challenges, and as a peer advisor, I strive to do the same for others. I am so grateful for all that BSP has given me, from lifelong friendships to...