Meet Point Flagship Scholar Manuel Faria

Why did you choose your major or program? 

I'm studying neuroscience and religion because I love how they both aim to examine the reason and purpose of being, as well as what it means to be present, happy, and mindful in our everyday lives.

What is a fun fact about you that few people know?

I have an interesting condition, called syndactyly, in two of my toes - i.e., I have webbed toes, which runs in my family.

What is your favorite song and why?

My favorite song in Chasing Cars by Snow Patrol. It reminds me of one of my favorite shows: Grey's Anatomy.

What is your current favorite streaming binge and why?

RuPauls' Drag Race All-Stars 6

What is your favorite hobby or activity you like to do in your free time?

Too many - going to brunch, late-afternoon beach days, reading a good novel, and doing some yoga.

How have your identities (race, ethnicity, sexuality, gender) affected your college experience?

Being both gay and Hispanic has helped me remain grateful throughout my education - too many people with similar identities don't have the educational privileges I enjoy, which empowers me to keep pushing forward.

How do you practice self-care?

I meditate everyday! It has been an incredibly game-changer for my self-care routine, which also consists of skincare, exercise, connecting with others, and bullet-pointing 3 things I'm grateful for every morning.

How are you adjusting to the "new normal" as we're emerging from this pandemic? Do you have any tips for other students who are going back to college this semester?

Build a routine! Optimize your day-to-day by building systems that are always bound to keep you in track with your daily goal while your brain is "flying" in auto-pilot.

This post’s responses were submitted by Jeff Ogle & Jeff Stearns Scholarship recipient Manuel Faris (He/Him).

Manny is currently studying Neurobiology at Stanford University. Read more about the Point Flagship Scholarship for LGBTQ students program here.