UROP Leader Information Submission

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# Created User IP address First Name Last Name Full name as you would like it to appear on the website Preferred Pronouns Hometown, State, and Country (ex: Tallahassee, FL, USA) FSU email Please check this box if you are willing to be contacted by students interested in UROP LinkedIn URL (optional) Major(s) Minor(s) Graduation Semester and Year (ex: Fall, 2022) What is your current research focus? Are there any other research related activities you participate(d) in? Answer one of the following two questions about being a UROP Leader or your UROP background. Please answer the question you selected above in the area provided. Please list any other hobbies or interests you would like to share Headshot 2026Year2026 Approved Update URL UROP Leaders Years as a UROP Leader Operations
238 Tue, 04/22/2025 - 05:37 PM Anonymous 50.201.88.26 Mallory Lloyd Mallory Lloyd she/her/hers Sarasota, FL, USA mwl22b@fsu.edu Yes Psychology and Human Development & Family Science Child Development Spring, 2026 Overall, I want to research mental health disorders in psychology and how to effectively treat these disorders. When I was a UROP student, I did research in educational psychology regarding how adolescents process information they see on social media. I am still currently part of this project. I am also a current DIS Student for the Keel Lab, which researches eating behaviors and disorders. I want to combine my two passions in research, which are mental health disorders with children and adolescents. In the future, I hope to conduct research on these topics while hopefully integrating trauma related aspects as well. I am a current DIS student for the Keel Lab at FSU. This lab deals with eating behaivors and disorders. I started as a DIS student in Fall 2024, and I'm continuing as a DIS student for the remainder of my time at FSU. In the lab, I work with coding interview data in Microsoft Excel, mail prep for participants, coding survey data, and attending lab meetings. In addition to this lab, I'm also still working for the lab that I participated in as a UROP student. This lab deals with educational psychology regarding how teens interpret and seek information online. How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? UROP has given me the opportunity to become involved in FSU not only with research, but as a future instructor for students. I joined UROP as a student in Fall 2023, and I'm still going to be part of the program when I graduate in Spring 2026. UROP has played a huge role in my personal and professional development. Personally, I have made more connections that I never would have made otherwise. I have grown as a person and as an instructor with my public speaking skills, personal confidence, and networking. Professionally, I have been able to join two different labs as an undergraduate student that will not only prepare me for graduate school, but has further inspired me to continue conducting research. I have been able to gain more skills while working as a member in these labs including interviewing, coding data, collecting data, and organizing data and files. UROP has positively impacted my time at FSU, and I can't picture my time at FSU without it. I love spending time with my friends, going to the beach back at home, hanging out with my family at home, reading, baking, and going to amusement parks! Headshot.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=PuNWrPnybl9T4Tub5SFvtY7olLPCY_IpLnDtSeMlrYA 2025-2026
237 Tue, 04/22/2025 - 01:29 PM Anonymous 144.174.210.152 Charlie Sipple Charlie Sipple Tallahassee, FL, USA cbs22b@fsu.edu No https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlie-s-91a2142b1/ Philosophy and Political Science Spring 2026 When I participated in UROP, I worked on a project that examined social media apps and how the kinds of usage of those apps resulted in positive or negative emotions in users. Furthermore, the project examined the kinds of self-regulating behaviors users developed in response to those negative emotions. How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? UROP has impacted my time at FSU by introducing me to the vast array of research being conducted here in Tallahassee. Aside from the research project I actually worked on, which helped me develop transferable research and teamwork skills, I was able to learn about the hundreds of exciting research projects that are happening at FSU. Learning about this research deepened my understanding and respect for academic research, and it also instilled in me a deeper sense of pride in the FSU community. IMG_1962.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=0-vkLS3KTekhpflccMeeBhdUUfhXLPTKBVkoQU6WLKY 2025-2026
236 Tue, 04/22/2025 - 12:21 PM Anonymous 128.186.46.133 Caitlin Hancock Caitlin Hancock she/they Naples, FL cnh22c@fsu.edu Yes English (Literature, Media, and Culture) and Humanities Spring, 2027 My current research focus has been in American Gothic literature, and my UROP project looked at contemporary African American authors and how they used the gothic to reflect the realities of U.S. infrastructures and systems of oppression. I am also interested in how Queerness intersects with the gothic. I have previously conducted research in adaptation studies for literature and film. How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? UROP helped me see more concretely what research could look like in English at the collegiate level. It has opened both new areas of interest and new opportunities to pursue it with faculty in the department. I spend a lot of my free time watching movies with my friends. 20250323_234950.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=0E1RjrwuvdpfqOqrzxUxR6gCaStDrwXrFd00wA52W28 2025-2026
235 Mon, 04/21/2025 - 09:52 PM Anonymous 172.59.68.176 Khushi Bhalani Khushi Bhalani she/her St. Augustine, FL, USA kdb22j@fsu.edu Yes Business Management Fall, 2027 I am currently conducting research on insurance policy and regulation, with a particular focus on how price regulation impacts insurer performance. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, I hope to create an encouraging and inclusive environment where students feel confident exploring their interests, asking questions, and embracing the learning curve of research. IMG_8079.jpeg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=aqYgeTvRgB3HSM5pmisGnhxztMwJj3I-uel8Tc9u2Pc 2025-2026
234 Mon, 04/21/2025 - 02:18 PM Anonymous 50.30.178.141 Nicole Fowler Nicole Fowler she/her Saint Petersburg, FL, USA nef22@fsu.edu Yes Biomedical Sciences Spring, 2026 My current research focuses on the impact of screen time on child development, with a particular emphasis on how excessive digital media use influences cognitive growth and social-emotional skills in early childhood. I am especially interested in the neurological effects of screen exposure and the developmental milestones it may delay or disrupt. Additionally, my work explores how socioeconomic and sociocultural factors shape screen time habits, aiming to inform more equitable and effective guidelines for families and healthcare providers. In addition to my focus on child development, I am also involved in a research project examining the mental health of first-generation ethnic minority students. Our study explores how experiences of microaggressions contribute to psychological distress and investigates the protective roles of social support systems and mindfulness-based practices. The goal is to identify culturally sensitive strategies that can promote resilience and improve well-being among marginalized student populations. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, I hope to inspire and support my students by guiding them through this incredible program. My goal is to help them find a research project that excites them, while making sure they feel confident, capable, and truly welcomed throughout their journey. I aim to create a warm, encouraging environment where questions are always welcome and growth is celebrated, so each student can thrive both academically and personally in their research experience. Hobbies: Reading, practicing yoga, and spending time with friends. Headshot.png 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=HK-2jd_s7DG8x8KzlYeoB7n4BeLAe-_K24qU8nDCn0s 2025-2026
233 Mon, 04/21/2025 - 01:16 PM Anonymous 166.199.139.19 Sophia Vizoso Sophia Vizoso Miami, FL spv22@fsu.edu Yes https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophia-vizoso/ Cell and Molecular Neuroscience and Public Health Chemistry and International Affairs Spring, 2026 My current research focuses lie at the intersection of cardiovascular physiology, obesity, and health disparities. As a research assistant in the Cardiovascular & Applied Physiology Lab under Dr. Joseph Watso, I study how obesity influences blood pressure reactivity, cardiac output, and other physiological markers using blood and urine samples. I'm particularly interested in how underlying conditions like obesity affect cardiovascular responses to stress and daily function. My broader academic interests include understanding how biological processes are shaped by genetics, disease, and lifestyle, especially in vulnerable populations. Through the Honors in the Major (HITM) program, I will be conducting an independent research thesis over the next academic year. For my thesis, I’m aiming to bridge my two majors, neuroscience and public health, by investigating how neural mechanisms may influence or be influenced by cardiovascular function. Specifically, I’m interested in exploring how stress-related brain activity may contribute to blood pressure regulation, or how altered cardiovascular function in obesity could affect neurovascular coupling. This interdisciplinary approach reflects my long-term goal of understanding the full-body connections between the brain, heart, and health outcomes, with a public health lens focused on equity and prevention. In the past, I conducted research in a microbiology lab where I studied the effects of tiamulin, an antibiotic, on bacterial resistance. We focused on how bacterial populations evolved in response to different dosages of the drug, exploring mechanisms of resistance that could inform more effective treatment strategies. This early research experience sparked my curiosity about how the body responds to internal and external challenges, laying the foundation for my current interest in physiology and public health. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, I hope to create a space where students feel truly supported, heard, and empowered to grow, not just academically, but personally. I want my students to feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and exploring new ideas without fear of judgment. I remember how impactful my own UROP Leaders were when I was a freshman; they were always there to encourage me, guide me, and remind me that I could do research. I hope to do the same by being present, offering consistent feedback, and checking in with students individually. My goal is to build a classroom culture where every student feels valued, respected, and included. I also want to set clear expectations while remaining approachable and empathetic. I want my students to leave UROP feeling more confident in their abilities, more connected to the FSU community, and excited about research. I like going to the gym, reading books, playing trivia games, and going to the beach! Screen Shot 2025-03-20 at 4.09.20 PM.png 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=_SHrWEQxKL13QljO3psfDAzci03T2HBmB5ssnATVrt0 2025-2026
232 Sun, 04/20/2025 - 04:18 PM Anonymous 146.201.179.223 Diya Kochhar Diya Kochhar Reston, VA dk23d@fsu.edu Yes Biology Chemistry Fall, 2026 I am currently working on habitat characterization of seamounts in the Central and Western Pacific. I have previously interned in labs studying the effects of food insecurity on pregnant women in the U.S. and the design, synthesis, and characterization of a glucose-responsive insulin. How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? Through UROP, I was introduced to the world of research at FSU. My class and lab also led me to meet my mentor and countless friends. headshot final_0.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=w0VQIdhCPtt-sScJakfMiIfmeExqpEUCv3ldazVbGWk 2025-2026
231 Sat, 04/19/2025 - 11:26 PM Anonymous 66.176.132.72 Harry Papapanos Harry Spiros Papapanos He/Him Palm City, FL, USA hsp22b@fsu.edu Yes https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-papapanos-a7445b233/ Biological Sciences Chemistry Spring, 2026 I am currently conducting research at the Institute of Sports Sciences and Medicine under Dr. Michael Ormsbee. The name of my current research project is "Resistance Training Modulation of Fat Metabolism in Obese Postmenopausal Women." When I was a UROP student I conducted research under Hannah Grace Lee, Celia Lee and Dr. Mickley Langlais. My project was called "Swipe for Heartfelt Connections: An Examination of Physiological Effects of Swiping on Dating Applications." How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? I hope to impact my students by expanding their creativity and thirst for knowledge. The most important thing to me when I am teaching is that my students feel like they are getting valuable information or experience out of our time in the classroom. Some lessons and activities may be more interesting and engaging than others, but I never want my students to feel like their time is being wasted or could be better applied somewhere else. This is why I will try my absolute best to make our learning experience as insightful and engaging as possible. I want to interact with my students in every class and slowly get to develop better teacher-student relationships. I will work with my students in the classroom through discussions, questions, activities, group work, and individual work. I will also be available at certain times throughout the week if they need any extra assistance with an assignment in class or just general questions about UROP and Florida State University. Some of my hobbies and interests include weightlifting, playing sports, and competing in triathlons. Good suit picture.JPG 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=n-yC9usT59vesvMqcnEEtt-fK49KaE43VWVnzV-H0Yk 2025-2026
230 Sat, 04/19/2025 - 12:56 PM Anonymous 47.202.9.181 Dev Sangha Dev Sangha he/him/his Jersey City, NJ, USA ds23s@fsu.edu Yes https://www.linkedin.com/in/dev-sangha-0b173526b Biological Science Chemistry Spring 2027 My overall research interest is the intersection of medicine and engineering with an emphasis on biomedical tool design for research and clinical applications. My specialty is in the integration of 3D CAD modeling, electronics, and programming to construct devices that address unmet clinical needs in biological data collection and analysis. Currently, my work centers on building a tissue stiffness analyzer designed to measure the mechanical properties of soft tissue, supporting research in pathology, regenerative medicine, and biomechanics. I’m driven by a goal to advance scientific instrumentation through innovative, engineering-driven design. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, I am excited to share my passion for research and show students how enjoyable and rewarding it is to explore questions in a practical way. I hope to create an open atmosphere where they will feel free to take initiative, be creative, and gain confidence in their skills. I want to inspire them to see research as not just something they have to do, but as a useful tool for discovery and contribution. headshot2024.JPG 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=B4SHtrs2bilNBrU1KgSMW3EjzulzC6fBoi4L1o7DP2s 2025-2026
229 Thu, 04/17/2025 - 08:46 PM Anonymous 146.201.179.133 Yvonne lin Yvonne lin she/her St. Petersburg, FL, USA yl22f@fsu.edu Yes Cell and Molecular Neuroscience Spring, 2026 I am currently exploring the role of TBC1-domain containing kinase in neurodevelopmental disorders, with a particular emphasis on its regulation of mTOR signaling pathways and implications for cellular metabolism and autophagy. I work on investigating how mutations or dysregulation of TBCK contribute to progressive neurological decline, such as brain atrophy, hypotonia, and intellectual disability, seen in TBCK encephaloneuronopathy. My UROP research focus was on optimizing the process for synthesizing and purifying S-adenosylmethionine (SAM). This work supports research into DarE catalysis, which is a key part of understanding the biosynthesis of Darobactin, a promising new antibiotic. SAM has therapeutic potential in treating liver disease, depression, osteoarthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease, and it's valuable in the development of novel therapeutics, dietary supplements, and biochemical tools. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, I hope to inspire my students to approach research with curiosity, confidence, and purpose. I want to create an environment where they feel supported to ask questions, explore new ideas, and understand that it's okay not to have all the answers right away. By guiding them through both the challenges and the rewards of the research process, I hope to build their confidence not just as researchers, but as future innovators and problem-solvers. Ultimately, I want them to leave the program with confidence that they can apply their research skills to other areas of interest and develop a deeper connection to their academic interests and belief that they can make a meaningful impact no matter how small or big. I like to sketch, paint, and play piano to unwind after a long day. My friends have recently convinced me to learn how to crochet as well. 36689669-61A5-4DA7-A9F4-F3C4E8D53EFC.jpeg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=0CwtkzygpzySILB1YHFwat3n4iz-iDDxWFt4vlBO5C8 2025-2026
228 Thu, 04/17/2025 - 08:39 PM Anonymous 50.30.143.188 Danielle Epstein Danielle Epstein Fort Myers, FL, USA dne23@fsu.edu No https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-epstein-42b4bb330/ Biological Sciences Chemistry Spring, 2027 I'm currently doing Undergraduate Research in the College of Business. My research focuses on the social impacts of insurance on medical decision-making between providers and patients. I have been asked to continue with this research project next year and am excited to learn about the research process of handling quantitative data as a majority of the research I helped with this year was qualitative data, such as thematic coding of medical provider interviews. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, I hope to create the same welcoming, supportive, and encouraging environment that my own UROP Leaders gave me. They played such an important role in making me feel comfortable, heard, and confident as I navigated research for the first time, and that experience shaped how I want to mentor others. I want my students to feel like they can come to me with questions, concerns, or even just to talk through what they’re learning, without any pressure or judgment. For many of them, this will likely be their first time doing research, and I understand how intimidating and overwhelming that can be. I remember feeling unsure of myself at times, but having leaders who were patient, approachable, and genuinely invested in my success made all the difference. I want to be that person for my students and help them through the ups and downs, celebrate the small wins, and remind them that it’s okay not to have all the answers right away. I also did research in a field outside of my intended career path, so I understand what it’s like to step into unfamiliar territory. That experience taught me how to adapt, learn on the go, and appreciate research from different perspectives. It also helps me relate to students who might not feel completely connected to their project at first or who are unsure how it fits into their broader goals. I want to show them that every research experience, even if it seems unrelated at first, has value and can teach them skills that will help them in the long run, both academically and personally. I'm on a pre-veterinary track and have a large interest in animals. I currently volunteer with the Vet Team under the Vet Team Program at Tallahassee Animal Services and with exotic animals under Animal Tales. I maintain a social balance with my academic and extracurricular activities by being an active member of Kappa Alpha Theta. I'm also studying abroad this summer during summer B in Valencia, Spain. IMG_9073.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=L_Lgda45Geg_XrGJLnNkN8bI-bBNtJjhxLmLfqF6RUU 2025-2026
227 Thu, 04/17/2025 - 11:26 AM Anonymous 146.201.179.219 Bronson Empsall Bronson Empsall he/him Palmetto bbe23@fsu.edu Yes https://www.linkedin.com/in/bronsonempsall/ Behavioral Neuroscience Spring, 2027 I'm currently studying memory at the cognitive neuroscience Hermiller lab; under the PlotTwist project, we examine how trauma affects memory encoding. I also have a big interest in clinical and 'abnormal' psychology, specifically the neuroscience of neurodivergence. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? I'd like to give the students a fun support system to make what is likely their first brush with research enjoyable and educational. I am very passionate about audience-centered learning. I am on leadership for NeuroUnity Alliance Society, the neurodivergent club at FSU. I also founded FSU's first and only metal & punk club, The PIT. You can often find me watching a film at the SLC, reviewing albums that I'm listening to, or catching a local show (shoutout to the Tallahassee music scene!) bronson_headshot.jpeg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=S5gsNfnCo0usXOpLKpMh8qfRgdb5c44TisAS4RJRLkM 2025-2026
226 Thu, 04/17/2025 - 10:33 AM Anonymous 144.174.212.106 Jakyah Hayes Jakyah Hayes She/her Tallahassse jih24@fsu.edu Yes https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakyah-hayes-21075b313/ Anthropology and Arabic Geography Fall, 2026 I am currently conducting research through the Anthropology Museum Website Project under the mentorship of Dr. Amy Kowal. The project began during fall of 2024, and alongside my research partner, Max Sturgeon, we developed a fully functional website that officially launched at the 2025 Undergraduate Research Symposium.

This website addresses a significant gap in digital access to the traditional and valuable history held by university museums. The FSU Anthropology Museum’s content is now accessible to people of all ages and disciplines. Unlike many institutional websites, which often require login credentials, our platform offers open access to museum classes, ceramic exhibits, department history, and more.

Our work continues into the summer and fall of 2025, during which we will create tutorials and templates for future student researchers. These tools will help digitize and preserve their exhibits, continuing the mission of expanding accessibility and public engagement with anthropological collections.		 In the Summer of 2025 I will participate in the Evergreen Plantation Archaeological Survey (EPAS) in New Orleans, Louisiana, under the field direction of Tara Skipton, a Ph.D. student in the Department of Anthropology at the University of Texas. I was connected to this opportunity by previous EPAS field director, Dr. Jayur Mehta, an associate professor of Anthropology at FSU. The primary goal of the excavation is to uncover material evidence that sheds light on the lives of the people who once lived on the plantation. A key focus of the project is identifying the possible remains of a church mentioned in oral histories but absent from historical maps—an important step in recovering overlooked aspects of the site's cultural and religious past. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, I aspire to create a supportive and inspiring environment that encourages my students to explore their full potential in research. I particularly want to embody the paradigm of being a dedicated leader and a committed student, demonstrating that research is a journey of never-ending discovery. My goal is for students to see the vast opportunities that research offers and to inspire them to embrace the process with curiosity and confidence. Additionally, I aim to be a guide throughout their research process, helping them navigate challenges with confidence. I vividly remember how nervous I was during the beginning of my undergraduate research experience, so I want to ensure my students feel supported, empowered, and excited to contribute to their fields of interest. I regularly use my language skills developed in current Arabic courses to bond with members of the Arab community in Tallahassee on weekends. I am a henna artist, emphasizing the importance of mental health and how henna allows one's inner light to shine, through my business called Deep Stain Virgo. I am also an aspiring member of the FSU NAACP Chapter and Black Women's Alliance and am actively involved in volunteering in the Tallahassee community, assisting my mother in providing clothes and food to the homeless through her thrift store, Jenn's Den. I am also deeply interested in underwater archaeology and have a true passion for oceanography, ecology, and maritime studies. Currently, I am earning my diver's license through "Unicorns of Diving," led by President Justin Lovett. My ultimate goal is to become a scientific diver involved in research projects that study shipwreck microbiology and conduct archaeological research on undiscovered or historic slave ships. Additionally, I am creating an academic pathway to specialize in museum law, which aligns with my interests in making historical knowledge accessible and preserving cultural heritage. jih24@fsu.edu-46b3a97c.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=BQ2EBuvmaDJRuHmkeAw1gIBe7bRGaPrqXe4MMVUDh7g 2025-2026
225 Wed, 04/16/2025 - 11:00 PM Anonymous 104.222.21.33 Lily Jones Lily Jones She/her Spring Lake, NJ, USA lkj22@fsu.edu Yes Psychology Child Development Spring, 2026 I am currently working on an Honors in the Major Project with the Cougle lab. We will be conducting an experimental study investigating the effects of viewing body-image related videos on appearance concerns and mood and collecting data starting summer 2025. I am a DIS research assistant in the Eating Behaviors Research Clinic. I work on the Eating Disorders Across Genders, Generations, and Adult Development Stages (AGGA), an epidemiological longitudinal investigation of the different factors that influence eating pathology. During UROP, I worked under Dr. Madeline Dougherty to design and conduct a content analysis of TikTok videos examining various eating/weight/appearance-related themes. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? I want to be a guide to my students as they go through their first year at FSU and instill a love for research! Navigating the first year of a university while simultaneously navigating the various academic and professional paths to reach one's goals is difficult. I want to be a mentor for my students and put them on the path to success while also enlightening them on how rewarding research can be. I am involved in Best Buddies and my Panhellenic chapter at FSU. I also love to go to the beach, spend time with my friends, family, and pets, and go to the gym! REAL REAL Headshot.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=e-paww6xERgn5hZIBdvR4YhH7_G0nVhGkub8Iir_XyI 2025-2026
224 Wed, 04/16/2025 - 10:38 PM Anonymous 172.59.64.98 Sophia Norris Sophia Norris Stuart, FL, USA smn22c@fsu.edu Yes IMS Clinical Professions Spring, 2027 I just completed the Bridges Project this year, analyzing reading comprehension in children. I look forward to future research as a pre-dental student in STEM! How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? I hope to create a supportive environment that fosters learning, growth, and success in and out of the classroom. I will be a mentor for my students, and look forward to being a helping hand along the UROP journey. I love to be outside, on the water, spend time with the ones I love, and travel! FullSizeRender.jpeg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=CcONbuWZZnviJUD2aDkPj6iEmESwo2tCPZ1NHlW0V7g 2025-2026
223 Wed, 04/16/2025 - 10:25 PM Anonymous 199.231.54.25 Harleigh Demchak Harleigh Demchak She/Her Orlando, FL hhd22a@fsu.edu Yes https://www.linkedin.com/in/harleigh-demchak-8b601828a Economics Spring, 2027 Economics, law, and finance are my primary research interests! FSU Debate Team How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? Participating in UROP has been one of the most impactful parts of my time at FSU. Choosing to work one-on-one with a mentor outside my major was a risk that paid off—it gave me a personalized, hands-on research experience that helped me grow both personally and professionally. I developed technical skills like coding for fidelity, improved my digital fluency, and became a more confident communicator, especially through preparing for the Undergraduate Research Symposium. Most importantly, UROP helped demystify academic research and showed me that faculty are approachable mentors. It’s empowered me to seek out new opportunities and think seriously about continuing research in the future. In my free time I love traveling, arts & crafts, games, and trying new things. Headshot.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=ZrTstsn7cy-ppYTYQuSa9IFOXySNH6-F2hMkzDsTaKI 2025-2026
222 Wed, 04/16/2025 - 03:46 PM Anonymous 144.174.212.39 Avery Vargason Avery Vargason She/Her Pensacola aav22a@fsu.edu Yes Biology Chemistry Spring, 2026 Currently, I am working on a research project focusing on an endangered species, Acropora cervicornis or the Staghorn Coral, which used to be a dominant coral species. Research has been, and is currently underway, regarding the restoration of this coral, but substantially less focus has been on the effectiveness of the locations for these restoration efforts. Because not much is known about the interactions between this species and other benthic corals and substrates, this research is important in ensuring that the efforts put forth to aid this species' recovery are productive. To do this, the researchers in my lab photograph year-to-year changes in the benthic communities (coral growth, coral death, patch movement, etc.) in Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean. We also label whether the coral is growing on/near sand, rocks, or rubble. We then analyze these photos in ArcGIS to compare the rates of growth and death of this species and some neighboring species over the years. How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? UROP has been an important part of my undergraduate career. I chose to stay in my lab all 4 years, and throughout that time, I have been introduced to many undergraduates and post-graduates who have shared their different paths and experiences with me. My lab taught me numerous technology skills, such as intro to coding, which I never envisioned being interested in. They went out of their way to facilitate meetings with graduate students from other labs who presented their research, as well as explained the internships and experiences that led them there. I was given a list of internships that were vetted and enjoyed by trustworthy sources, in which I could reach out and ask questions. It also fostered my love for environmental studies, and even though I will most likely not be pursuing research in the future, it was and is still an amazing experience. I am on a pre-veterinarian track and interested in small animal medicine, and specializing in sea turtle medicine. I am also an avid plant mom with a lot of dogs at home. I enjoy intramural sports and the occasional pickleball game. I've been a part of the pre-vet club as well as the environmental club, and volunteered with groups such as Garnet and Gold Goes Green and a few CHAW programs. If you want to get involved with any of that, I can help you reach out to them. IMG_1549 2.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=Hs1GtR6h4BkZ-d-BzlRu3WDhCTnu8M_u3vthKFdqczQ 2025-2026
221 Wed, 04/16/2025 - 11:22 AM Anonymous 144.174.210.54 Kara Adamczyk Kara Adamczyk Jacksonville, FL, USA kea22b@fsu.edu No Human Development and Family Sciences (Pre-PA) Spring, 2026 Many educators struggle to keep up with the unique needs of the growing population of English learners who are simultaneously attaining academic skills and language proficiency through elementary education. The Morphological Pathway to Reading (MAP-R) focuses on improving the morphological awareness and deliver of literacy instruction for multilingual elementary aged students with or at risk of learning disabilities, improving the Florida curriculum and delivery of instruction. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? I hope to be a positive light in the busy lives of my students while giving them a memorable UROP experience. While research, and college life can be stressful, I want to be my students' number one supporter in helping them navigate through the program and any challenges they may face as a student at FSU. I want to create a positive classroom environment in which students can harvest knowledge and grow as an individual throughout the span of the year. I hope for my students to walk out of my classroom as a more confident, successful individual. I have a huge passion for community service and giving back to my community! I am constantly working with numerous local non-profits and organizations to help those around me. I feel most myself when I get the opportunity to watch people grow and pick themselves back up again. Kara_A_Headshot.jpeg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=--9kI2OY5EX1ocdEDXX5gJmUaPD1mgYyMCJmsB2kh6k 2025-2026
220 Wed, 04/16/2025 - 09:53 AM Anonymous 144.174.210.77 Sophia Deitrich Sophia Deitrich Colts Neck, NJ,USA sad23@fsu.edu Yes https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiadeitrich Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Biomedical Sciences Chemistry Spring, 2027 I am in the process of conducting a meta-analysis studying spatial navigation in Parkinson's patients. How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? The FSU Undergraduate Research Program profoundly impacted me by providing the opportunity to explore spatial navigation in Parkinson’s disease. Conducting this research deepened my scientific curiosity and analytical skills. It also inspired me to pursue future research endeavors, as I’m now in the process of writing a paper for publication, an exciting step toward a career in medicine. I am very involved with the FSU Medical Response Unit as well as the Delta Gamma Fraternity. In my free time I enjoy hanging out with friends, watching Jeopardy, and going to the beach! HEADSHOT PHIDE.JPEG 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=CoW_L2oV7fIWAdL4abkcdOahKkyQFFPE0HiPK5M03Gs 2025-2026
219 Tue, 04/15/2025 - 05:42 PM Anonymous 198.90.119.65 Jack Arena Jack Arena Swedesboro, NJ, USA jrarena@fsu.edu No https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-arena/ Chemistry Spring, 2027 Last summer, I spent ten weeks at the University of Nebraska investigating microplastics in food packaging. This fall, I plan to build on that experience by joining a research lab in the Department of Chemistry. I’m passionate about exploring how chemistry can positively impact our community. As Vice President of the FSU American Chemical Society chapter, I help organize faculty presentations to help students discover and pursue research opportunities in chemistry. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, my goal is to serve as a resource for my students. Many participants are first‑year students new to the college experience. I aim to provide the connections and insights they need to thrive in both research and their time at FSU. As Vice Chair of the Campus Recreation Board, I stay busy advocating for our facilities and programs. In my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities such as running, biking, hiking, and scenic drives. I have played tennis since I was five and still pick up a racket regularly. I also enjoy listening to all types of music, watching classic films, and spending quality time with friends and family. jack-arena-headshot.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=-Vx3SA1vJyCGhg0Mbbqz4i_8kC6zvRLdRJ6lmHtqWEU 2025-2026