Name: Luis Y Santiago-Rosario
Current Job: PhD Student
Scientific Discipline/Field: Biological Sciences
Country: United States
Pick some letters (L,G,B,T,Q,+, etc.): G
Twitter or other social media handle: @yadixsant
What does your job involve?
I am a PhD student in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology working on how sodium affects herbivore development and fitness due to natural and anthropogenic causes.
How did you get to this job (education etc.)?
Through hard work, dedication and sacrifice. I have a Masters from the Inter American University of Puerto Rico and a Bachelor from the Universidad de Puerto Rico. Ever since I was a child I always saw myself as a scientist and a teacher which is my main career goal in life.
Do you feel being LGBT has affected your career decisions?
I believe that being Latino has affected more my career choices than being gay (although the combination can exacerbate overall decision making). I started my PhD at an university in Mississippi and it was very difficult to deal with the social prejudice. In Biology there are not a lot of gay role models and sometimes we have to pave our own path.
Have you had any reactions from colleagues about being LGBT, either good or bad?
Sometimes good, sometimes bad, and sometimes very bad. There is an inherent homophobia and lack of tolerance. But many times people are very understanding and supportive. I have experienced the full spectrum.
Did you have any role models growing up (LGBT, STEM, totally unrelated.)?
None.
What are your plans for the future?
I want to be a Scientist and a Mentor for the future generations. My goal is to also help latino and LGBT scientist develop great careers in the sciences. This is highly needed.
LGBTQ+ STEM 
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