Humans of Gettysburg: Desi Flores '27
Originally from El Salvador, Desi Flores ‘27 was first captivated by the opportunities Gettysburg offered to pursue a biochemistry and molecular biology degree. What she didn’t anticipate were the many experiences that would open up beyond the classroom.
During the summer after her first year at Gettysburg, Flores joined Biology Prof. Jennifer Powell’s lab in the Biology department through the Cross-Disciplinary Science Institute (X-SIG), investigating the effect of cold stress on lipid reallocation in C. elegans. She continued her passion for research over the following two summers in the Chemistry and Biochemistry department with Prof. Emily Dieter’s X-SIG lab, where she worked on expressing, purifying, urifying and characterizing novel radical SAM enzymes.
Beyond her research, Flores has found ways to support fellow students academically. As a peer learning associate, she tutors students and helps them understand the complexities of chemical equations. This opportunity, in addition to the daily encouragement she receives from Prof. Dieter and other faculty, has shaped Flores's aspiration to get her Ph.D. and become a college professor.
Desi Flores '27 performed research as part of the Cross-Disciplinary Institute at Gettysburg College (X-SIG) this past summer.
Outside of academics, Flores joined the women's rugby club team as a first-year and currently serves as one of the team captains. More recently, Flores joined the new women’s wrestling team and is grateful for the camaraderie with her teammates and coaches.
In her free time away from classrooms, rugby fields, and wrestling mats, Flores serves on the leadership team of the Disciplemakers Christian Fellowship, where she helps build a community centered on faith. She also enjoys spending time with friends and going on walks on the battlefield.
Balancing academics, research, extracurriculars, and her faith has taught Flores the importance of managing her time while keeping her priorities in perspective.
“Time management is the most important skill,” Flores said. “It is not easy, but I also know that my worth is not centered on what grades I get, how much money I earn, or how well I do in my sports. Instead, I find my worth in my faith and relationship with God.”