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
218 Tue, 04/15/2025 - 04:14 PM Anonymous 144.174.210.18 Emma Shoemaker Emma Shoemaker She/Her Satellite Beach, Fl, USA eks23a@fsu.edu Yes Biochemistry Crime Scene Investigation Spring, 2027 My research focused on creating a methodology to assess the quality and condition of a wetland through plant and amphibian community surveys, then field testing the methods to understand what results they yield. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, I hope to have a positive impact on my students. I want to create a safe and comfortable learning environment for my students, foster their love of research, and help them develop the skills needed to be successful researchers. UROP was an incredibly positive experience for me, and I hope my students will feel the same way. Outside of UROP, I am the President of the Yoga Club, and I play cello in the University Sinfonia Orchestra. I also love to read, drink tea, and go to concerts. IMG_7403.jpeg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?token=Ahde3VvTRCjXDYnjap1i-I9V9Glc0lBMVjxjp0PuKZE 2025-2026
217 Tue, 04/15/2025 - 03:11 PM Anonymous 149.154.61.18 Kayla Berge Kayla Berge She/Her/Hers Miami, FL, USA kmb23i@fsu.edu Yes https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-berge/ Criminology and Psychology Crime Scene Investigation and Public Administration Spring, 2027 During my time in UROP, I conducted research alongside Dr. Keller Sheppard within the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice. Our research, which I am still working on now, is a systematic review on the strengths, limitations, and the future of national data sources for research surrounding assaults on the police. How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? UROP has allowed me to feel a lot more involved on campus and all that it has to offer. Between the colloquium, assistantship, and symposium, there are so many opportunities to meet people who share my love of research. UROP helped me make numerous connections, led to an internship opportunity, and provided me with valuable experience. Even after UROP ended, I continued working on my research project and built a great relationship with my mentor and professor. I am so grateful for everything that UROP had to offer. I am a part of the Lambda Alpha Epsilon Criminology Fraternity, I play the violin, I love sports like football and volleyball, and I am a barista at Calvin's Coffee House here on campus!! 20241117_164705_082AFC.JPEG 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=FSQK6FMK0Y4bM025E1RJQ7mOx6xrDvW9iNBImTia5i0 2025-2026
216 Tue, 04/15/2025 - 11:02 AM Anonymous 144.174.210.69 Elyse Verkaik Elyse Verkaik She/her Eustis, FL, USA ejv22c@fsu.edu Yes Behavioral Neuroscience Spring, 2027 My current research looks at how people with Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) understand pauses during conversations. I’m especially interested in whether people with anxiety see longer pauses as awkward, uncomfortable, or a sign that something is wrong. I want to learn how people with anxiety think differently about these quiet moments compared to people without anxiety. This research can help us better understand how anxiety affects everyday social life.

How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? Participating in UROP has given me the chance to dip my toes into the world of research and gain hands-on experience in an academic setting. Through this program, I’ve been able to explore what it’s like to be part of a research team, work on real projects, and see how ideas turn into results. Along the way, I’ve developed many professional skills that I know will help me in both school and future career opportunities. For example, I’ve learned how to write professional emails to professors and collaborators, communicate clearly and respectfully, and manage my time effectively. I’ve also learned how to put together a research poster—something I had never done before—and present it in a way that others can understand and connect with. Overall, UROP has helped me grow more confident in my ability to contribute to research and has shown me that I really enjoy working in this kind of environment. It’s made me excited to keep learning and to keep building my skills as I continue my academic journey. IMG_5707 2.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?token=UXpwTV4S0f9T3h63r8ArSFR18O1KzTd4XHhX0SEFOI0 2025-2026
215 Mon, 04/14/2025 - 10:31 PM AAH22N 69.1.194.57 Abrianna Hernandez Abrianna Hernandez Miami, FL, USA aah22n@fsu.edu Yes http://linkedin.com/in/abriannahernandez Management Information Systems & Marketing Business Analytics Spring, 2027 When I participated in UROP, the primary goal of my research was to investigate the teaching methods used to instruct mathematics to students with disabilities. Effective teaching methods observed in the results will help current and future educators foster a well-supported environment for students with special needs, creating a more inclusive and impactful teaching environment. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? I aim to help students gain a clear understanding of how research works and how it connects to their everyday lives. UROP offers an incredible opportunity for students to explore the research process in depth. My goal is to support them in discovering their role within research, nurturing their interests and passions, and guiding them in turning what they love into meaningful research projects. IMG_1988.jpeg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=R6sZmNm85RYAa0qE_gpVG0CAXW9lmyROw5O_DTqrLjo 2025-2026
214 Mon, 04/14/2025 - 09:06 PM Anonymous 144.174.212.102 Madeline Schmidt Madeline Schmidt she/her Houston, Texas mms22a@fsu.edu Yes Environmental Science General Business Spring, 2026 My current research focus is on investigating and characterizing the Northern Pacific Seamount Chain. I work with the Dr. Amy Baco-Taylor lab to analyze and annotate images of seamounts to better understand their biodiversity. These vulnerable ecosystems need further conservation efforts to protect them from the risks of potential deep-sea mining initiatives. I worked as a research intern through the InternFSU program throughout my junior year. How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? UROP has significantly impacted my time at FSU by getting me interested and invested in research. Since my sophomore year, I have worked in the same research lab and loved every minute. UROP is an excellent opportunity to get to know other undergraduates, graduates, and FSU faculty who are interested in the same field as you! UROP has pushed me out of my comfort zone and truly sparked my passion for research. Being a part of research at FSU has taught me so much, and I look forward to strengthening my knowledge and understanding of research and potentially pursuing a career in research in the future! I am currently the Director of Service for The Maji Project at FSU. This registered student organization focuses on raising awareness, fundraising, and providing service opportunities related to the local and global water crisis. We aim to promote environmental and sustainability initiatives through numerous clean-ups, information GBMs, sustainable crafts, and our annual Walk for Water 5k! Some of my other interests include concerts, thrifting, and anything outdoors-related! DSC04274.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=Q8xQrKE3H70AZwKeUGZ_j1pT-VY9r899KoJ0jQYbQ7Y 2025-2026
213 Mon, 04/14/2025 - 01:49 PM Anonymous 144.174.212.54 Reagan Stern Reagan Stern She/Her Brentwood, TN, USA rs23c@fsu.edu Yes Cell and molecular neuroscience Computational Science Spring, 2027 I am part of Dr. Mohamed Kabbaj’s Lab in the College of Medicine that studies the neurobiology of stress responsiveness and drug abuse in males and females. I also study the change in social behaviors in prairie voles using HDAC inhibitors.
Throughout my time as a student in UROP, I studied arterial dysfunction related to age and lifestyle in Dr. Machin’s lab. How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? UROP allowed me to gain hands-on experience in a wet lab as a freshman. I learned valuable skills, such as communication, time management, accountability, and teamwork. My confidence grew due to presenting at the URS. I met so many amazing peers and gained lots of connections through UROP. I am a member of Phi Delta Epsilon and FSU Medical Brigades. Outside of school, I love running, reading, hanging out with my friends, and trying new coffee shops. IMG_4107.JPG 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=oUR57I6p7ELFI_9fV5toFl83rXIJOb1I9Fd6r0qHIT4 2025-2026
212 Mon, 04/14/2025 - 01:39 PM ito22 144.174.210.36 Isabella Owen Zaya Owen She/Her Orlando, Fl, USA ito22@fsu.edu Yes Behavioral Neuroscience Chemistry, Psychology Spring, 2026 I currently focus on the study of memory and how it can be up/down regulated by transcranial magnetic stimulation. We study other variables as well including enjoyment, imagination, and novelty. UROP, Honors in the Major How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? I hope to impact my students by providing support, a safe space, and resources. I understand how rewarding UROP is, but also how challenging it can be at times. I want to be able to help my students when they need it and celebrate them when they succeed! I enjoy spending time with my friends/boyfriend, playing pickleball, getting outside (especially at the beach!), watching movies/tv, and reading! headshot.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=lpUvvuaZozB3MdVrByrFlxoaOu0u7qAkpKk270TM9Zc 2025-2026
211 Mon, 04/14/2025 - 10:33 AM jgm22l 144.174.210.66 Julia Matheny Julia Matheny She/Her Tampa, FL, USA jgm22l@fsu.edu Yes IMS Clinical Professions Spring, 2027 My research project, Quantifying and Analyzing Rates of Presenteeism, is about exploring the rates and reasons people working in healthcare still come to work while they are sick. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, I hope to build a welcoming and encouraging environment where students feel confident asking questions, sharing ideas, and engaging with the material. I want to help my students grow academically and leave the class feeling more capable, curious, and motivated than when they started. In addition to my academic pursuits, I'm an active member of Chi Omega and participate in Dental Brigades. Both experiences have helped me develop leadership, teamwork, and service-oriented skills that I hope to bring to my role as a UROP Leader. headshot.png 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=cHqQ30_khlqambN4M_GUFhijy-67fascRuxn4XwLJ0g 2025-2026
209 Sat, 04/12/2025 - 04:30 PM Anonymous 104.222.17.161 Becca Sayad Becca Sayad she/her Tampa, FL, USA bms22k@fsu.edu Yes Biological Science Chemistry Spring, 2027 I currently work in the Bass Lab, investigating the functional association of genes sharing cis-acting motifs in maize using bioinformatics and gene ontology analysis!
 In high school, I participated in a biotechnology class that taught me all the groundwork and foundation of working in a wet lab. At the end of the year, I was able to create my own project and present it in a similar fashion to the Undergraduate Research Symposium! How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? What matters most to me when I teach is to support my students’ growing curiosity and confidence. I want my students to feel assured in their research, their research-mentor relationship, and their ability to learn and grow as a novel researcher. I value creating an environment where students want to express their thoughts and engage with the content that is meaningful to themselves.
I like to cook, try new coffee shops, and read! headshot.png 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=RW8ExNeejOCZ1IBdUSC9sF-lkVGVVmpRD2P6StSdvqw 2025-2026
207 Thu, 04/10/2025 - 03:46 PM ALM22W 144.174.212.47 Adria Morales Santiago Adria Morales Santiago she/her/hers Camajuaní, Villa Clara, Cuba alm22w@fsu.edu No Biological Science Chemistry and Interdisciplinary Sciences Spring, 2027 My research focuses on the therapeutic effects of bioactive peptides, particularly the sturgeon-derived peptide LLLE (Leu-Leu-Leu-Glu), in managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). I investigate how LLLE alleviates colitis by influencing gut microbiota composition, fecal metabolites, and inflammatory markers, using a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis mouse model. My work integrates microbiology, immunology, and metabolomics to uncover innovative approaches to treating chronic gastrointestinal disorders. Alongside my current research endeavors, I have contributed to a project centered on conducting a comprehensive literature review to examine the effects of Alzheimer’s disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) on spatial navigation. This work delved into understanding how these neurodegenerative conditions disrupt critical cognitive functions such as orientation, memory, and the ability to navigate within one’s environment. How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? Before applying to UROP, I had already been involved in research and thoroughly enjoyed my experience in the lab. It was there that I first discovered how exciting and meaningful scientific exploration could be. I was deeply engaged in the work and eager to learn more, but I also wanted to grow further and connect with others who shared my passion. Through UROP, I found more opportunities to collaborate, ask questions, and contribute to something important. Being surrounded by driven peers and supported by mentors helped me grow not only as a researcher but also as a student. I am a Certified Clinical Medical Assistant and a member of the Medical Response Unit (MRU) on campus. Outside of my academic and professional commitments, I enjoy reading, experimenting with new recipes, attending FSU sports events, and spending time with friends and family. FullSizeRender (2)_0.jpeg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=BU8OEQpeC2g_2KTiPrcdsKaNOqLnBOwfmitgl9Ye-E0 2025-2026
206 Wed, 04/09/2025 - 12:13 PM Anonymous 144.174.212.66 Kara Lane-Lightfoot Kara Lane-Lightfoot she/her West Palm Beach kll24b@fsu.edu No Biochemistry and FSU-Teach Biology and Math Spring, 2027 My research interests focus on using genetics, biochemistry, and molecular biology to develop new medications and therapeutic approaches for animals. I am particularly interested in understanding how DNA and genetic variations influence disease development, treatment response, and overall health. By studying the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying disease, I hope to contribute to the development of targeted therapies that improve treatment effectiveness while reducing side effects. My long-term goal is to participate in research that translates genetic discoveries into innovative medications and diagnostic tools that enhance the quality of life and longevity of animals. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? Participating in UROP has been one of the most impactful experiences of my time at FSU. As a transfer student, UROP provided the support, guidance, and sense of community that helped me successfully transition to a new university environment. Through the program, I formed meaningful friendships, connected with mentors, and gained confidence in navigating both academics and research opportunities.

UROP also gave me my first hands-on experience in a research laboratory, which solidified my passion for research and inspired me to pursue additional opportunities. One of the highlights of my experience was presenting my research at the Florida Undergraduate Research Conference (FURC) alongside my research partner. That experience ultimately led to an invitation to return to Tallahassee State College as a guest speaker, an opportunity I never would have imagined when I first joined the program.

Perhaps most importantly, UROP connected me with mentors who were always willing to answer questions and provide guidance. Their support helped me grow as both a student and a researcher. UROP has shaped my experience at FSU by opening doors to research, professional development, and lasting connections, and it is one of the main reasons I feel so connected to the university community.		 Outside of academics and research, I enjoy a variety of creative and recreational activities that help me maintain a healthy work-life balance. I enjoy watching anime, reading, and exploring different forms of storytelling and world-building. I also create resin art and work with Perler beads, both of which allow me to express my creativity while developing patience and attention to detail.

In addition, I enjoy playing video games, particularly those that involve strategy, problem-solving, and teamwork. These hobbies encourage critical thinking and persistence, skills that have also benefited me in both research and academics. I enjoy finding creative solutions to challenges and learning new skills, whether in the laboratory, the classroom, or through my personal interests.		 kll24b@fsu.edu-faa9e158.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=k6TmiK2Q1SSAl97S-_8hclpq1smfuDu6OvgkcMYk8YY 2025-2026
205 Mon, 04/07/2025 - 08:55 PM dr24k 144.174.210.99 Darwin Rodriguez Darwin Rodriguez he/him/el Fort Lauderdale, FL | Corinto, Morazan, El Salvador dr24k@fsu.edu Yes https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodrigdar/ Interdisciplinary Social Sciences Sociology & Urban and Regional Planning Summer, 2026 My current research focuses on conducting a scoping review that examines the current state of diversity in federal clinical trials, specifically for LGBTQ+ and HIV-positive populations. This research aims to highlight the gaps in the representation of these communities in federal clinical trials and determine what measures can be taken to improve the representation of these populations. The overall goal is to advocate for more inclusive and equitable research practices in public health and clinical research. Through my Methods of Social Research course, I conducted a mini-group research project surveying immigrants with citizenship and first-generation Americans on their political attitudes in the United States, and how their political views may have shifted over the course of the last two election cycles. Currently, I'm interested in conducting more Urban and Regional Planning-related research! How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? Coming to FSU as a transfer student, UROP has transformed my college experience and made my transition to FSU smoother. It has provided me with the opportunity to engage in a hands-on research experience in my college journey. Through UROP, I've strengthened my communication, critical thinking, and academic writing skills, as well as my network, opening doors to future opportunities. Overall, I've gained a clearer sense of my academic and career interests/goals, and it has made me feel more confident navigating research spaces! I love going to the beach, hanging with friends, going to concerts, and playing Minecraft! 8E2F0035-1072-4C94-9239-6EB88C6F7439_4_5005_c.jpeg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?token=78_tReba_XPOx9pDVi5kfUx7Zp_UPdmk6R2fF1TgDPE 2025-2026
204 Sat, 04/05/2025 - 09:37 PM Anonymous 69.80.131.36 Katherine Jones Katherine Jones She/Her Rockledge krj23@fsu.edu Yes Anthropology History Spring, 2026 I am currently focused on developing a temporary exhibit in the Carraway building encompassing the impact of social elements on textiles. This endeavor incorporates the use of ethnology and an extensive literature review. At FSU, I helped a graduate student process artifacts excavated from the Rotherwood Site (40SL61). This volunteer position allowed me to contribute to the faunal analysis of the pre-contact Mississippian site on the Holston River where I sorted, identified, and cataloged the bones of freshwater mussels, fishes, mammals, and birds. The experience not only enhanced the current understanding of the site's ecology and human-animal interactions but also provided a platform to collaborate with a diverse group of students and faculty.
 How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? UROP has provided a platform for me to pursue research under the guidance of a faculty member in my department - such an experience not only developed my interest in the topics of textiles and cross-cultural comparisons but also allowed me to network with various scholars and specialists across campus. In this way, I was introduced to the FSU research community and was exposed to the interconnectedness of academic projects. Besides the research assistantship, the colloquium exposed me to other opportunities offered by FSU and fostered an environment for like-minded peers to connect with each other and develop ideas to continue research or shift their focus to other avenues. I was a docent for the Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science for five years and eventually went on to assist in the facility's archives. To this day, I am still fond of volunteering there. My other interest extends to curatorial research; I was able to pursue this path during my time working for the Museum of Relics, Inc. during the summer of 2024. Besides going to and working for museums, I enjoy painting and binge-watching documentaries. IMG_20250405_211315 (1).jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=1Jfud4XXH-SHf_xplV1jZsxkm4D0jGBiTGGO8ys3zuI 2025-2026
203 Fri, 04/04/2025 - 07:16 PM Anonymous 71.220.142.47 Arwa Gulzar Arwa Gulzar she/her/hers Mount Dora, FL aag23c@fsu.edu Yes https://www.linkedin.com/in/arwa-gulzar-5b9b60300/?trk=opento_sprofile_topcard Pre-Clinical Professions Fall, 2026 My current research focus is finding solutions to enhancing inclusion in clinical trials through a scoping review for LGBTQIA+ people and people living with HIV.

How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? UROP introduced me to the research world and showed me that research isn't as scary as it seems. There is always a possibility that you find a research project that has nothing to do with your major, as it was with me, but you receive a lot of help from your mentors and peers which really assists you. I love reading and going to the gym. IMG_0618.jpeg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=xurPqTzPvHvpRECn2UJlDProIj1tvYK0q06hiBVc_rg 2025-2026
202 Wed, 04/02/2025 - 06:41 PM Anonymous 172.59.65.153 Shilpa Shiju Shilpa Shiju She/her Tallahassee sms22s@fsu.edu Yes Behavioral Neuroscience Chemistry Spring, 2027 My current focus is on the Hadza tribe, specifically their beliefs about sickness and vaccines. With the help of Eric Shattuck, the head of the SHIRE lab, I explore how cultural traditions, historical experiences, and external influences shape their perceptions of illness and modern medicine. By analyzing these perspectives, my work aims to contribute to a better understanding of vaccine hesitancy and healthcare engagement among indigenous communities. I have a strong background in research engagement. I have participated in high school science fairs and assisted students in finding research labs, fostering their scientific interests and opportunities. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, I hope to help students discover fields they are passionate about, even if those fields are outside of their major. I want to show them the importance of research, not just as an academic pursuit, but as a way to positively impact society. My goal is to inspire students to see the fun and excitement in research, while helping them understand how it can make a meaningful difference in the world. Badminton, Sewing plushies, Reading
Shilpa Shiju_309.jpg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=3wJpyd4OkqFmUKgIFoPwOaOdYecxXgc2EVmYVLHgLQw 2025-2026
201 Thu, 03/27/2025 - 08:13 PM Anonymous 199.66.70.20 Jonathan Michel Jonathan Michel He/HIm Pembroke Pines, FL, USA jhm24@fsu.edu Yes https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-michel-38b381352/ Cell and Molecular Neuroscience Chemistry Spring, 2027 My current research focuses on the interaction of biological, psychological, and social processes across the lifespan that influence functioning in older adulthood. I currently work as a research assistant in Dr. Julia Sheffler’s laboratory at Florida State University’s Center for Translational Behavioral Science Currently, during the summer, I was recently awarded the IDEA Grant, which provides a stipend of up to $4,000 (or up to $6,000 for groups) to support a self-designed project, research topic, entrepreneurial venture, creative work, or artistic performance. Through this grant, I am working with a research partner in my laboratory to investigate how skin carotenoid status may relate to cognitive and motor function, helping to evaluate whether carotenoid levels are associated with these outcomes.

In addition to receiving the IDEA Grant, I am completing an Honors in the Major thesis and have presented research at the Florida Undergraduate Research Conference (FURC).		 How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? UROP has definitely had a significant impact on my time at FSU. Through the program, I was able to join a research laboratory that has helped me grow not only as a researcher but also in developing valuable professional skills, such as phlebotomy and clinical research methods. UROP served as a stepping stone that opened many doors for me, including becoming a UROP Leader, receiving an IDEA Grant, pursuing an Honors in the Major thesis, and presenting my research at a conference.

I would say that your experience in UROP is what you make of it. If you treat it as more than just another class and actively seek opportunities to get involved, it can provide experiences and connections that greatly benefit your academic and professional development.		 In addition to my academic and professional pursuits, I enjoy going to the gym to relieve the stress of daily life, especially the demands of school. I also have a passion for music, particularly old-school hip-hop. Lastly, I find joy in cooking, experimenting with new recipes, and creating meals that bring people together. A7404659_0.jpeg 2025 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=S5h_n67qzhOs1DLD2JpawdJi-XDG4XfQ3EUNarl6v8M 2025-2026
200 Mon, 04/22/2024 - 09:02 AM Anonymous 146.113.150.238 Anne English Annie English St. Augustine, Florida ae22l@fsu.edu Yes Criminology and Psychology May, 2026 I plan on pursuing a career in research focused on crime analysis, mapping, and profiling. Currently, I am focused on expanding my experiences in research in whatever way I can by participating in lab research with professors here at Florida State. I am also interested in neuropsychology as it relates to deviance and criminal behavior. How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? Participating in UROP was one of the best decisions I could've made in my early college years. Not only did it provide me with an incredible and one of a kind experience, it inspired me to continue to pursue my research interests. Being able to see the behind the scenes of research at a top-ranked University has been a privilege. Being a student in UROP allowed me to find confidence in myself, discover more about my own interests, and has opened the door to so many other opportunities. When I'm not in school at FSU, I am at home in St. Augustine laying on the beach or playing with the animals on my farms. I enjoy reading, cooking, and spending time with my friends. If I wasn't pursuing a career in research, I would definitely work with children either by teaching or working at a daycare. IMG_5894.jpg 2024 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=ThKzkzfqKieLcLlw4qm_HX6uo3U_fEf7xKPZ5l0B3YY 2024-2025
198 Sun, 04/21/2024 - 11:31 PM Anonymous 69.1.194.49 Meghan Peoples Meghan Peoples Tampa, FL, USA mjp22e@fsu.edu Yes Cell & Molecular Neuroscience Spring, 2026 My current research centers on reproductive health, exploring how diseases impact its function, particularly regarding testosterone levels and sexual function as indicators for obesity and heart disease. In our lab, we aim to ascertain whether specific dietary components can enhance sexual function, ultimately aiming to improve quality of life.
N/A How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, my ultimate goal is to build a passion for inquiry and discovery among my students. I hope to instill what was instilled within me: the skill and confidence needed to undertake meaningful research projects and to be successful within them. I hope to empower students to ask questions, explore new ideas, and be open to the world of research and all of its possibilities. Screen Shot 2024-04-21 at 11.30.28 PM.png 2024 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=C6wYdq17ksGfH4Li2dMkxcA3LmSIabH0IguCFq7qiU8 2024-2025
197 Sun, 04/21/2024 - 11:12 PM Anonymous 144.174.210.121 Evan Rubenstein Evan Rubenstein he/him/his Coral Springs emr22d@fsu.edu Yes https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-rubenstein/ Psychology Technology and Society Spring 2025 My research focus involves sport and performance psychology with a smaller focus in counseling. As a member of the Laboratory for Emotions, Groups, and Organizations (LEGO Lab), a research group in FSU's sport psychology department, I have worked on projects examining emotional facets of group sports. These projects looked at topics such as how the presence of pride and envy impact team performance, what emotions are experienced in response to teammate injury, and psychological-state focus in baseball, just to name a few. Sport psychology is a new and growing field, and I am lucky to be at a university with such a renowned program for it. If sport psychology is something you have an interest in, feel free to reach out! How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? UROP has impacted my time at FSU by providing me the resources to find and get involved with research in my relatively smaller field. Coming to FSU as an incoming freshman, I knew that undergrad research was something I was interested in doing, but I wasn't sure how. After getting into UROP, this program streamlined the whole process, greatly aiding my involvement in undergrad research. As a result, I have had the opportunity to continue working with the research lab UROP helped me apply to and grow my network significantly. Outside of research and academics, I am involved at FSU's Askew Student Life Center (ASLC). As the Co-Sponsorship Senior Programmer, I will be playing movies for students every week! I encourage everyone to check out a film at the ASLC sometime. I am also a big proponent of the local Tallahassee music scene. There are so many bands made up of fellow students that perform all the time, so check them out! IMG_0028.png 2024 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=uCtMYJE7JvFR47281kOatpU752nsEsVAkecO7whp28k 2024-2025
196 Sun, 04/21/2024 - 10:53 PM Anonymous 69.254.222.6 Jalina Hess Jalina Hess Panama City Beach, FL, USA jnh22a@fsu.edu Yes Nursing Summer 2025 I am currently researching the mother-infant social interaction and how it is impacted by several variables such as infant food type (breastmilk vs. formula) and poverty/income levels of mothers among others. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? I am looking forward to being able to serve and guide my students through the UROP experience. My goal is to be able to share with them my personal experience and advice while also helping them to keep track of the assignments and understand the overall research process. I thoroughly enjoyed the program and want to help my students make the best of this opportunity. Reading, Running, Tennis IMG_8735 2.jpg 2024 Yes https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=c4oTpGs3EsWi-1myaRopnmR30eLerZQv2xLR3uutvXI 2024-2025