A Mexican-American from a low-income, unstable household, Manuel Gonzales didn't plan on attending college. After high school, while battling homelessness, he immediately began working full-time. After realizing the value of education, he enrolled in community college and has since flourished in every aspect.

Manuel is a senior majoring in psychology with a minor in public health at San Diego State University. As a student researcher in the Body Image, Sexuality, and Health Lab, Manuel has assisted in authoring three publications, including one on which he is the first author. He is also a member of the Psi Chi Honors Society and the Honor Society for Leadership and Success, while finding time to volunteer as a Peer Leadership Consultant through the Office of Student Life and Leadership.

Manuel plans to earn a doctoral degree in clinical psychology and pursue a career as a California State University faculty member, where he will conduct research on Hispanic health and mentor the next generation of diverse minority scientists.