Yesmarie completed her undergraduate studies in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at Indian River State College in Fort Pierce, Florida. She is a Fellow at the Smithsonian Marine Station conducting research focused on stony coral tissue loss disease. Born in the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico and having grown up in Florida, Yesmarie has always had a fascination with sea life. Her marine research experience has given her a directive for her future graduate studies which will be further supported by obtaining PADI dive training. Ultimately, Yesmarie aims to bring science communication and ocean conservation to young minorities to bridge the gap between underrepresented minorities and STEM careers.