Claudia Carrillo

About me:  I grew up in the tropical island of Puerto Rico, in a suburb of the capital called Caguas. After graduating high school in 2016, I moved to Iowa to pursue my dual Bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Science and Dietetics at ISU. I am now very close to finishing up my PhD in Nutritional Sciences, still at Iowa State (Loyal forever true!), where I am working as a graduate research assistant in diabetes research. I look into medicine and diet interactions in hopes of discovering more viable treatment options for patients suffering from this lifelong condition, which has been very fulfilling so far, and I cannot wait to see where it takes me. Growing up in a Catholic and very faith-devoted family, I got to know Jesus’ love through them, and now continue to do so with my relationships, particularly with my future spouse. After years of living my faith at a surface level, I felt a calling at the end of my undergrad degree to dive deeper into it and let God enter into every aspect of my life. To say that my life has been changed for the better is an understatement! 

Why did you get involved with Even Now Catholic? Shortly after the calling I felt to get more involved in my faith, I received the invitation from Michael to serve this ministry and be a part of the board of directors. It was the easiest yes I’ve ever said in my life, and I have felt how the Holy Spirit is moving through all of us and helping us transform this ministry from a dream to a reality. 

The namesake for Even Now Ministry is from Joel 2:12, which says, “Even now, says the Lord, return to me with your whole heart...” In a sentence, what stands out to you from this verse? “Return to me” spoke to my heart the most because the Lord is so merciful and gracious that even if we stray away from Him, He always awaits for us to come back to Him with open arms and a heart full of unconditional love. 

What are your hobbies? I love the outdoors! Going to the beach is by far my favorite activity, which is what I miss the most from back home (after my family of course). I love reading fiction novels, taking care of my houseplants, cooking, trying different crafting hobbies (like punch needling), and doing barre and pilates.  

Contact Claudia at claudia.carrillo@evennowcatholic.org.