Biology graduate and softball player Paola Zamacona ‘25 is already looking ahead to her next step: radiology school in Arizona, followed by medical school.
Originally from Tucson, Arizona, Zamacona transferred to Newman from Clarendon College in Texas, a public junior college (JUCO). There, she earned her prerequisites and played on the Clarendon Bulldogs softball team.
At Newman, she continued playing the sport she loves as a pitcher. She started in 11 games, earned one save and recorded 24 strikeouts for the Newman Jets.
“It means everything to me since I have been in college, thanks to athletics and being able to play the sport I love just a bit longer after high school,” she said.
First-generation graduate
Earning her degree in biology was just as meaningful for Zamacona’s family as it was for her, especially as a first-generation graduate within her family.
“Coming from a background where my parents were born in Mexico … I have learned the value of adapting to new environments while staying connected to my roots,” she said. “I was able to do this with all my supporters: my mom, my grandma and my dad, who’s now in heaven.”
She represented her dad on graduation day with a picture of him on the tassel of her graduation cap.
Beyond the challenge of being away from her family in Arizona for four years, she said, Newman took some getting used to.
“Newman is a different atmosphere compared to what it was at a JUCO,” she said. “But I figured out all the professors are super nice and are willing to help no matter what.”
That help was especially needed during a more difficult upper-level science course.
“I was struggling with genetics (class) to graduate, which was scary,” she said. “But Dr. (Daryl) Goad was really understanding and helped me with what I needed to study, tutoring and everything.”
Goad, who’s an assistant professor of biology, said Zamacona stood out for her approach to learning and her engagement in the classroom.
“Paola is an engaged and intellectually curious student who consistently leans into challenges,” he said. “She approaches complex problems with persistence and thoughtfulness, and she brings positive collaborative energy to her work.”
Goad added that her mindset and work ethic make her well-suited for radiology.
“It is no surprise that she is pursuing a career in radiology — she has the discipline and the analytical mindset to succeed,” he said.
On top of academics and athletics, Zamacona balanced her role as a purchasing manager for a jewelry manufacturer, which she said helped her develop her leadership skills.
“It was only two years that I was here, but it was a really good experience, especially with softball,” she said. “The professors are really understanding and willing to help with everything, and that really helped a lot.”
Newman was just the first step in her plan. Next is a radiology school in Arizona, then medical school.
“I am confident that these experiences will allow me to contribute meaningfully to society by providing compassionate care in the medical field,” she said.
As she leaves Newman, Zamacona said she hopes she’s remembered by the people here for her character.
“Just that I was a really loving person,” she said. “And that I’m always here for them for anything they need.”
Newman’s biology program
Acquire knowledge and develop skills needed for careers in healthcare, science, and research.
