UROP Leader Information Submission: Submission #202

First Name: Shilpa
Last Name: Shiju
Full name as you would like it to appear on the website: Shilpa Shiju
Preferred Pronouns: She/her
Hometown, State, and Country (ex: Tallahassee, FL, USA): Tallahassee
FSU email : sms22s@fsu.edu
Please check this box if you are willing to be contacted by students interested in UROP: Yes
LinkedIn URL (optional): {Empty}
Major(s): Behavioral Neuroscience
Minor(s): Chemistry 
Graduation Semester and Year (ex: Fall, 2022): Spring 2027
What is your current research focus?:
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.

Are there any other research related activities you participate(d) in?:
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.

Answer one of the following two questions about being a UROP Leader or your UROP background. : How do you hope to impact your students as a UROP Leader?
Please answer the question you selected above in the area provided.:
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.

Please list any other hobbies or interests you would like to share:
Badminton
Sewing plushies 
Reading 


Headshot: https://cre.fsu.edu/system/files/webform/urop_leaders_information/19176/Shilpa%20Shiju_309.jpg
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2025Year2025: 2025
Approved: No
Update URL UROP Leaders: https://cre.fsu.edu/urop-leader-information-submission?element_parents=elements/headshot&ajax_form=1&_wrapper_format=drupal_ajax&token=3wJpyd4OkqFmUKgIFoPwOaOdYecxXgc2EVmYVLHgLQw
Years as a UROP Leader: 2025-2026