UROP Leader Information Submission: Submission #206
Submission information
Submission Number: 206
Submission ID: 19196
Submission UUID: 22906ba1-adbb-425e-ac3d-48beb61195e9
Submission URI: /urop-leader-information-submission
Created: Wed, 04/09/2025 - 12:13 PM
Completed: Wed, 04/09/2025 - 12:17 PM
Changed: Tue, 06/23/2026 - 06:55 PM
Remote IP address: 144.174.212.66
Submitted by: Anonymous
Language: English
Is draft: No
Submitted to: UROP Leader Information Submission
Kara
Lane-Lightfoot
Kara Lane-Lightfoot
she/her
West Palm Beach
kll24b@fsu.edu
No
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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.
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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.
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.
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.
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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