Emely Urbina | Colony Park
UC – Berkeley

Since the age of three, Emely has called Columbia Park—where she lives with her grandmother—home. “This home, this community has been the most stabilizing force in my life,” she recently shared. An aspiring conservation scientist, this first-generation college student is one of the 2025 EPIC grant awardees. This fall, Emely will begin pursuing her bachelor’s degree in Conservation and Resource Studies at UC-Berkeley.

“It’s a major that allows me to explore the connections between ecology, justice, and sustainability,” she explained. “It’s the perfect foundation for my goal to become a scientist and educator who works at the intersection of environmental research and community engagement.”

Emely recently graduated from a Community College with two associate degrees in chemistry and biology and will enter UC-Berkeley as a transfer student.  “Emely is passionate about the environment,” said Jessica LeGault, Mercy Housing California Resident Services Manager. “She wants to help make our planet a healthy and sustainable place for generations to come.”

Emely credits her grandmother’s strength and support for helping her get through every challenge and every success. “In this home, I’ve grown as a student,” she explained. “I’ve studied through difficult semesters, prepared to transfer, and grown into the student I am today.”

Inspiring the next generation 

Outside of academics, Emely has been an active participant in nature and her Columbia Park community. “She has led conservation projects for the California Pipeline Swallowtail and the Grey Hairstreak Butterfly,” Jessica shared. “She has also led science demos for elementary school classes, her college science club, and has volunteered many hours at Muttville, a senior dog rescue.”

Looking ahead, Emely’s goal is to earn her PhD in Environmental Research, Education, and Public Communication. Just as importantly, she wants to “show young people from backgrounds like mine that science is for them too.”

“As a Latina who didn’t grow up seeing women like me in labs and lecture halls, I understand how isolating that path can feel,” Emely explained. “I’m building a future where young girls like me can have a future in science, academia, or leadership. I want to become the role model I never had.”