Name: Kaylie
Tenure: 3rd Season
Hometown: Hayward
Occupation: Research Associate
College: UCLA
Degree: B.S. in Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology and Marine Biology
Hobbies: Baking, snorkeling, hiking

Favorites
Song: Fantasy – Mariah Carey
Movie: The Avengers
Quote: "I can do this all day" – Steve Rogers
Food: Mango Sticky Rice
Travel Destination: Kauai
Holiday: Christmas
TV Show: Spring Baking Championship
Color: Purple
Chips: Pringles
School Subject: Marine Biology

How do you spend your time outside of Gold Rush?
I love spending time outdoors and discovering new places—whether it's hiking trails around the Bay Area, exploring the coast, or checking out new food spots. I'm always up for an adventure!

What are you passionate about?
I'm extremely passionate about coral reef conservation. During my research in French Polynesia, I gained a deep appreciation for these vibrant ecosystems, which are home to countless species but are increasingly threatened. Protecting and preserving coral reefs for future generations is incredibly important to me.

What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
I'm proud to be a published author in a behavioral biology journal. My team studied blue-tailed skinks and discovered how their perception of threats varies with environmental predation levels. Contributing new insights to the field was a rewarding experience.

Tell us more about your job.
I work at a biomedical research institution studying drug repurposing and Alzheimer's disease. Our goal is to find new uses for existing medications to help develop treatments for diseases with limited options. I'm passionate about advancing research that can truly make a difference for patients.

Who or what inspires you?
My Gold Rush teammates inspire me every day! They are talented dancers and also engineers, teachers, scientists, and professionals across many fields. Being surrounded by such accomplished individuals motivates me to grow and strive for excellence.

What is your favorite memory at Levi's Stadium?
My favorite memory is from the NFC Championship game against the Lions! At halftime, we were down 17 points, but Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'" lifted everyone's spirits. The second-half comeback was electric and led us to the Super Bowl—it was an unforgettable experience.

Who is YOUR biggest cheerleader?
My family has been my biggest support system throughout my life. Their encouragement has carried me to where I am today.

Who is your favorite 49ers player?
Brock Purdy! His journey from last pick in the draft to leading the team to a Super Bowl is incredibly inspiring. His dedication and perseverance are a true example of hard work paying off.

Tell us about your favorite community appearance that you've attended as a Gold Rush Cheerleader.
Visiting Nellis Air Force Base was unforgettable! We learned about different Air Force roles, suited up in firefighting gear, and signed an F-15 jet. Spending time with those who serve was an honor and an experience I'll never forget.

If you could attend a historical moment in 49ers history, what would it be?
I would attend "The Catch"—Dwight Clark's game-winning touchdown from Joe Montana in the 1981 NFC Championship. Witnessing that moment and feeling the energy firsthand would have been unforgettable.