Hispanic Heritage Month is held annually in the United States from September 15-October 15 to recognize the achievements of people with roots in Spanish-speaking countries and honor the cultures of Latin America.
This month, we’re featuring Hispanic/Latinx students who are advancing the future of healthcare as part of the UC Irvine School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Cesar Zevallos’s family immigrated to the U.S. from Peru when he was very young. He has lived in Orange County for most of his life and began his undergraduate degree as a biology major at Saddleback College in Mission Viejo before transferring to UCI to study pharmaceutical sciences. Currently, he is beginning his journey in the PharmD program as part of the incoming class of 2027.
What was your inspiration for pursuing your PharmD at UCI?
“I decided to study pharmacy because I have always been interested in the science behind drugs and how we use these drugs to combat diseases and sicknesses. I have also been in the mindset of wanting to help people around me, and as a pharmacist, I would be able to help improve the health and well-being of others.
The inspiration for studying for my PharmD at UCI was the learning environment I experienced during my undergraduate years. I found that my classmates and teachers were very collaborative, which made learning about pharmaceutical sciences enjoyable.”
How has your culture influenced you? What makes you proud of your heritage? What are some cool things about your culture that everyone should know?
“My culture has taught me that passion and hard work will get you far in life. The effort you put into something is what you get out of it!
One of my favorite destinations in Peru is Machu Picchu, which was made in the 15th century by the Incas. This place shows how advanced their civilization was. Llamas were used by the Incas to transport goods and are still used in Peru today. They are sacred animals in the culture.”
What are your post-graduation goals? How do you hope to use your degree?
“My post-graduation goal is to finish my residency and begin working in a pharmacy at a hospital.”
Why should other students consider studying pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences at UCI?
“Students should consider studying at UCI because of the collaborative environment. The teachers are very accommodating to students’ needs and encourage us to learn and work together.”
