Graduate Spotlight: Larissa Fernandez Estevez

Larissa Fernandez Estevez is a driven biological sciences graduate who plans to turn her passion for science into a powerful future in healthcare. She will be the Spring Commencment Speaker for the Bethlehem campus ceremony this May.

Originally from Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic, and now living in Allentown, Fernandez Estevez had the pressure of finding her way as an immigrant from a low-income family. She’s thankful for the scholarships that helped her afford her education like the Dubacher Family Endowed Scholarship, Harold A. (Hap) & Marcia Wagner Scholarship, and Suleiman (Sunny) and Camie Modjadidi Annual Scholarship. 

Fernandez Estevez’s dedication to her studies was obvious through her daily routine. She would ride the bus for a one-hour commute to get to campus. Most days, she'd spend the whole day in the library working on assignments, studying with her classmates, and she'd go back home at sunset.  

Fernandez Estevez chose to study biology because of her deep fascination with medicine and the human body. At NCC, she’s discovered how impactful scientific research can be—especially behind the scenes. “Completing this major allowed me to explore the breadth of research and the value of biologists and scientists in healthcare,” she shares. 

At NCC, Fernandez Estevez grew through the Honors Program, where supportive faculty helped her develop her academic potential. She also stayed actively involved in campus life through Hispanic Club, Film Club, and Honors Club—building connections with her peers. 

Looking ahead, Fernandez Estevez plans to transfer to continue her bachelor’s degree while gaining hands-on experience working full-time at a hospital. Her ultimate goal is to earn a master's in public health, research Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome, and eventually attend medical school.