Ernesto Acosta

Ernesto Acosta was born in Fresno, CA, and graduated from Cal Poly Humboldt with an undergraduate degree in cellular/molecular biology and a minor in chemistry. During his time at Cal Poly Humboldt, he researched human induced pluripotent stem cells (hIPSCs) and their applications in regenerative medicine. As an undergraduate, he shadowed Dr. Mohammad Ashraf and assisted in his bi-annual free health and dental clinics, helping thousands of Fresno families who could not afford high copays, insurance costs, or were undocumented. Ernesto also volunteered at Community Regional Medical Center in Fresno and participated in free food drives in rural communities in Fresno County. He is currently part of a summer internship program through Cal Poly Humboldt, where he shadows healthcare professionals in a clinical setting while preparing for medical school. Ernesto aspires to serve rural, underserved communities, a goal inspired by his experiences in Humboldt County, where he witnessed a significant need for physicians and specialists. He plans to apply to medical school in the coming year.