Julissa Nuñez
Hometown: Lemont, IL
University: University of Illinois
Degree: Ag & Bio Engineering
Undergrad: B.S. in Integrative Biology
BIOGRAPHY
Hi, I’m Julissa Nuñez, a second year Masters student in Agriculture and Biological Engineering. I am pumped to be the 2022 Ride Leader, alongside Marie. I first rode in 2017 and had the best summer of my life with 26 incredible teammates/lifelong best friends. I absolutely love to travel, be outdoors, and try new things. In my free time, you can catch me cooking, watching Netflix, reading or working on a good puzzle. Having done the ride once, I know this summer is going to be life changing. I’m excited to see how I grow as a person, meet and hear stories on the American cancer experience, and see new parts of America with 21 new teammates. Thanks for visiting my page!
PERSONAL STATEMENT
When I first applied to be a rider in 2016, my best friend at the time had lost his mom to cancer. This was my first experience losing someone close and it was a whirlwind of emotions. That summer, I thought about Donna every time there was a tough hill or I was descending a beautiful mountain. As I prepare for the ride a second time, I think about Donna and the impact her and her family had on my life. I am forever grateful for the time I got to spend with her.
Recently, a dear friend of mine had an experience with cancer. Luckily, it was easily removable and she is back to sending funny memes and baking cookies. Sandi is a retired nurse and during the pandemic, we lived in the same building and got very close. I am so lucky to have her as a friend.
It’s often said that everyone knows someone who has or had cancer, unfortunately, in mine and many others experience's, this is true. This summer, I will be riding for Donna, Sandi, and everyone who’s families or friends have been touched by cancer.