My name is Marcus Ortega, and I am a junior in Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. With plans to attend medical school upon graduation, I am eager to work in a subspecialty of pediatric medicine. For the past two years, I have been assisting in research at the PMNI lab under the guidance of Dr. Ofori. I have thoroughly enjoyed broadening my understanding of neurodegenerative disorders and specifically working with 3D-CSI (chemical shift imaging) in subcortical regions.Outside of the lab, I volunteer at Ryan House, where I assist in caring for medically fragile children, and Hospice of the Valley, where I support individuals in hospice care. I also am on the executive board of the ASU chapter of the NMDP (National Marrow Donor Program) and work as a Community Assistant at Vista del Sol.In the spring of 2024, I had the opportunity to study abroad in the Netherlands at the University of Groningen. Immersing myself in a different culture enhanced my adaptability and broadened my perspectives. In my free time, I enjoy watching basketball, seeing movies, and traveling as much as I can."