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
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
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 I am currently researching how to assess wetland condition through plant community surveys. 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 administrative secretary for the Yoga Club, and I play cello in the University Sinfonia Orchestra. I also love to read, drink tea, and go to concerts. IMG_6099_0.jpg 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 & Public Health 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_0330_0.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 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. linkin.JPG 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 Spring, 2027 Currently, I am in the process of exploring new research opportunities and seeking to join a lab that aligns with my academic interests. I am particularly interested in research within the fields of chemistry or genetics, as both areas deeply fascinate me and offer exciting opportunities for discovery and innovation. I’m eager to contribute to a research team where I can continue building my skills, gaining hands-on experience, and expanding my knowledge in preparation for future academic and professional goals. How has UROP impacted your time at FSU? Participating in UROP has been a transformative experience for me. It helped me find a supportive community and form meaningful friendships for which I am truly grateful. UROP also gave me my first hands-on experience in a research lab, which has sparked my excitement for future research opportunities here at FSU.

As a transfer student, UROP provided the structure and guidance I needed to navigate my new environment. I had the opportunity to present my research with my partner at the Florida Undergraduate Research Conference (FURC), which led to me being invited as a guest speaker at Tallahassee State College—an incredible opportunity I wouldn’t have had without UROP.

Additionally, the mentors I gained through my UROP class were an invaluable part of my journey. I always felt comfortable reaching out to them with questions about school or research, and their support made a big difference in my experience.		 Outside of academics, I enjoy a variety of creative and recreational activities. I love watching anime, which often inspires my artistic side. In my free time, I create resin art and work with Perler beads—both of which allow me to express myself through color, design, and detail. I also enjoy playing video games, which not only offer entertainment but also foster problem-solving and strategic thinking. These hobbies help me stay balanced and energized outside of my academic pursuits. 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 Harry Michel He/HIm Pembroke Pines jonathan.michel@med.fsu.edu Yes Cell and Molecular Neuroscience Chemistry Fall, 2026 At Dr. Sheffler’s Integrative Science for Healthy Aging Lab within FSU’s College of Medicine, our research focuses on expanding access to a nutrition program aimed at promoting brain health through sustainable dietary changes. We are currently evaluating the health impacts of Mediterranean and Mediterranean Ketogenic Nutrition (MKN) patterns, with an emphasis on their potential benefits for both gut and brain health. Our study seeks to determine whether these dietary approaches can reduce risk factors associated with dementia. To do this, we are recruiting participants with mild cognitive impairments as well as individuals with typical cognitive functioning. Given the growing evidence linking gut health to cognitive decline, our research aims to investigate whether MKN can serve as a protective intervention through the gut-brain axis. How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader? As a UROP Leader, I hope to provide my students with an enriching and supportive introduction to research. My primary goal is to inspire curiosity and foster critical thinking by helping them understand the research process and encouraging them to explore their own ideas. I want them to feel confident asking questions, tackling challenges, and engaging with the academic community.

I also aim to create a welcoming environment where students feel comfortable collaborating and sharing their perspectives. By emphasizing the value of teamwork and diverse viewpoints, I hope to prepare them not only for future research endeavors but also for becoming innovative problem-solvers in their respective fields.

Ultimately, I want my students to leave the program with a deeper appreciation for research, stronger analytical skills, and a sense of accomplishment that motivates them to continue pursuing their academic and professional goals.		 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. Michel, Jonathan.jpg 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