Consuelo Baez Vega

Baez began participating on a research project through the Chico STEM Connections Collaborative (CSC2) that consisted of researching fava beans. Her ability to grasp classroom material then apply it to the research project is a remarkable ability that impressed her professors. Through an entomology lab and a weed science class, Professor Ana Medic began to see an amazing talent in her.

Medic said, “She is very independent and curious, she is very knowledge, and she is always wanting to know why and how we are doing this in our research. This curiosity brings more ideas in the research environment. She requires very little guidelines because of her independence.”

Baez’s research has not just been confined to Chico. Baez had the opportunity to present her research at a conference in Fresno in early 2020 as well as two more virtual conferences competing in a student poster competition. The one over summer was hosted by the Western Society of Crop Science and one in November is through the American Society for Agronomy. Baez’s research project is on the morphological differences of fava beans based on different weed management practices.

Another one of Baez’s supporters, Professor Kyle Brasier said, “I have had the privilege of working with her in the research setting. I got to know her through the experimental learning experiences in the greenhouses and fields environments. I was so impressed by how quickly she picked things up and grasp these complicated subjects. Before I had to explain these subjects, she was already picking up on these subjects by piecing them together in her head.”

Outside of her coursework, Baez enjoys reading, hiking, and drawing. What advice would she give incoming freshmen?

“Take every opportunity that comes your way and always give it your best shot,” Baez said.

The dedication Baez has is truly outstanding. She exemplifies a strong work ethic with a lot of dedication to her classes and her research.

“She is an exceptional student because she explores outside of the classroom by finding a way to learn the material then finding a way to create that connection,” said Ana Medic.