Research Symposium

BIO

I am a behavioral neuroscience major who loves the brain and all things medicine. I plan on pursuing a masters in anesthesia program for the Fall 2026 cycle.

Auditory and Visual Cueing for Gait Improvement in Parkinson’s Disease

Abstract

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder associated with gait disturbances. Providing medications is common for treating symptoms such as gait disturbances in PD but increasing dosages are required over time. Cueing interventions such as visual, auditory and audiovisual suggests a non-pharmacological treatment for gait disturbances. This meta-analysis the effect of cueing mechanisms on three gait parameters: Cadence, stride length and velocity. A systematic literature was conducted throughout five databases that identified studies examining curing interventions for gait disturbances in Parkinson’s. Studies included measured the three gait parameters. A random-effects model was used with Hedges computing to standardized mean differences and also apply variance estimation. A total of 772 PD patients were analyzed. The results demonstrated curing had no effect on cadence but small positive effect sizes on velocity and stride length. This suggests cueing mechanism do provide a small but nevertheless significant improvement on gait. Cadence remaining unaffected may be due to patient prioritization of step rhythm adjusting in response to external cues These findings though limited demonstrate the potential cueing gait has on improving mobility in patients with PD. Future studies should distinguish auditory and visual cueing, examine curing durations and asses PD severity’s role on gait outcomes.

Keywords: Cueing, Parkinson’s, Visual, Auditory

BIO

My name is Braedon and I am an anthropology and history double major. I am passionate about our evolutionary history! I will be starting my MS in Human Paleobiology at George Washington in the fall. For fun, I enjoy hanging out with my friends, the outdoors, reading, and cooking.

Morphometric Analysis of Hominin Maxillary Molars: Evaluating Evidence for a Monophyletic Paranthropus Clade

Abstract

Evaluating the Evolutionary Development of Paranthropus: A Dental Ontogeny and Allometric Scaling Approach

The evolutionary origins of the genus Paranthropus remain debated, particularly whether it evolved monophyletically from a common ancestor or arose through convergent evolution. This study examines the role of post-canine dentition in Paranthropus evolution by evaluating the third maxillary molar of Australopithecus africanus and Paranthropus robustus. Using dental ontogeny and allometric scaling, I analyzed molar size and development to assess evolutionary relationships. My findings indicate significant morphological overlap between the two species, suggesting a possible evolutionary continuum rather than distinct, independently derived lineages. Additionally, environmental factors influencing dental morphology were considered, particularly in relation to dietary adaptations in Pleistocene ecosystems. Given Paranthropus’s reliance on heavy mastication, understanding third molar growth patterns provides insight into adaptive responses to ecological pressures. These results contribute to the broader discussion of Paranthropus evolution, challenging strict dichotomies between monophyly and polyphyly and refining our understanding of hominin diversity. By integrating paleoecological and morphological data, this research offers new perspectives on the adaptive and evolutionary forces shaping early hominins.

Keywords: Anthropology, Evolutionary History, Paleoanthropology, Dentition

BIO

My name is Ariana Lugo-Trejo, and I am currently majoring in Exercise Physiology with aspirations to become a Physician Assistant in Emergency Medicine. As a first-generation college student from Immokalee, Florida, and of Mexican descent, my passion for medicine and health stems from my experiences growing up in a rural community where healthcare disparities were prevalent. These experiences have motivated me to pursue a career focused on bridging healthcare gaps, particularly for underserved and high-risk populations.

Parent-Child Interactions in High-Risk Families: Impacts on Child Behavior and Development

Abstract

Currently, I am conducting research that explores the relationship between parent-child interactions in high-risk families and how these dynamics affect child behavior and development. This study aims to identify key patterns in these interactions, particularly in families facing challenges like poverty, single-parent households, mental health issues, and substance use. By observing these families, my research seeks to inform more targeted interventions that can promote positive outcomes for both children and their families. I am particularly interested in understanding how the stressors that high-risk families face—such as limited access to resources and increased life challenges—affect their ability to maintain healthy, positive interactions. These interactions play a significant role in the emotional, social, and cognitive development of children, and my research aims to shed light on how these factors influence long-term child outcomes.
I am eager to continue my academic and research pursuits, with the goal of becoming a Physician Assistant and contributing to meaningful change in healthcare, especially for those in vulnerable and underserved communities.

Keywords: Parent-Child Interactions , Health Disparities, Family Dynamics and Child Outcomes

BIO

I'm an Economics and Political Science double major at FSU. I've used my education and data-driven background to research investors in the Florida housing market, a current controversial issue that researchers have taken much attention to. I use my resources at the DeVoe L. Moore Center to execute public policy research to explore market-based solutions to modern economic problems. I'm driven to use the resources and knowledge available to me, alongside my peers, to help shape a stronger economy that works for everyone.

An Analsyis of Florida's Investor-Owned Single-Family Homes

Abstract

More than ten percent of Florida’s single-family rentals are investor-owned properties (Simonton, 2024).  We examine how investor-owned properties could potentially contribute to the rising costs associated with homeownership.  We ask two questions, “Is the rate of investor home ownership increasing or not in Florida, and what are the potential impacts of their market share increasing?” We used a dataset containing 5.5 million observations with every single-family home in Florida provided by Florida Geospatial. 
Our model assumes that an increase in home prices relative to investors can be attributed to the number of investor purchases and the extent to which investors are willing to pay more than consumers. In addition, we have also identified purchasing habits of investment companies and the mechanisms they use to compete with home buyers.
We identified a total of 139,155 homes owned by investment companies, an increase of 22,155 over the last year. Our regression model revealed that investment companies spend $4,261 more on homes than families, relative to the market value of the home. From our results, we concluded that investment companies play a much smaller role than anticipated in increasing home prices.
We recommend a program like the Homeowner Assistance Fund which was responsible for billions of dollars in aid given to families struggling to meet their mortgage payments due to the pandemic.  Future research should continue to examine the role of investor-owner homes in the housing market and track the potential impact of resale of these investor-owned properties over time. 

Keywords: Investors, Florida, Homes

BIO

Hello! My name is Seth!

I am currently an undergraduate student at Florida State University pursuing a B.S. in Public Health

I am a New York City native with a passion for integrative health & science-communication

My path and drive to medicine is personal. Having navigated the complexities of mental health and seeing how lifestyle interventions can drastically improve outcomes, I became fascinated by the gut-brain axis and integrative medicine. Too often, systemic physiological issues are dismissed as purely psychosomatic. I want to change that narrative

As an aspiring MD-PhD candidate, my goal is to specialize in preventive medicine for chronic diseases. I am particularly committed to relaying reliable health data to marginalized communities, ensuring that the next generation of medical breakthroughs reaches those who need them most

Beyond the Chronological Age: Subjective Age, L2 Motivation, and Perceived Working Memory Among People Aged Over 60 years old

Abstract

While Second Language Acquisition (SLA) research increasingly focuses on non-WEIRD
(Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic) populations, studies of older
learners are often based on chronological age alone. This study challenges that
convention by investigating age identity (one’s subjective sense of age) as a more
accurate indicator of L2 motivation and cognitive perception. Using a mixed-methods
design, researchers surveyed 120 L2 learners (aged 60+) from China and the United
States. The study measured the relationship between age identity, the L2 Motivational Self
System (Ideal, Ought-to, and Anti-ought-to selves), and perceived working memory.
Quantitative regression analysis was complemented by semi-structured interviews to
capture cultural variations in the aging process. Key findings indicate that age identity
outperformed chronological age in predicting both L2 motivation and perceived working
memory. Qualitative data further revealed that cultural factors significantly influence how
elderly learners manage cognitive challenges and maintain motivation. By advocating for a
shift from chronological to subjective age, this paper contributes to the goals of equity,
diversity, and inclusion (EDID) in SLA. It emphasizes the need for nuanced, less
standardized approaches to adult education that recognize the psychological diversity of
the third age stage learner.

Keywords: Aging, L2 Learning, Subjective Age, Memory, Social Psychology

BIO

Jeremy is a first year student at FSU. He is from Sterling Virginia, which is just outside Washington, DC. Jeremy is currently studying Environmental Science and intends to pursue a master's degree. He hopes to ultimately work for the Environmental Protection Agency. Jeremy has been analyzing how Regional Climate Models behave and intends to utilize this knowledge in future projects.

CMIP6-based Multi-model Hydroclimate Projection analysis for Pensacola Bay Area

Abstract

Climate change has been affecting many different physical factors that contribute to our climate, such as runoff, temperature, and wind. We are looking to analyze projected data to see how climate change will presumably affect the Pensacola Bay Area. By analyzing projected climate data, we have the potential to predict when major storm systems, such as hurricanes, can affect local areas. At the beginning of this research, we collected projected climate data from a regional climate model (RCM), this data came from many different simulations as well as three different climate projections. From there, we calculated a rate based on the most recent data to contextualize data from different RCMs. Finally, we got the average rates for each period of time (day, month, year) from 1980-2059. Wind is projected to decrease over the described period of time. Runoff is projected to increase over the described period of time. What this data implies is that rates of precipitation will tend to rise over the following years. This project will be continued over the summer to see if we can find specific rates to equate to tropical storms or hurricanes.

Keywords: Climate, Projection, Pensacola Bay, Environmental Science

BIO

Addison is a second-year student from Williston, FL. At Florida State University, she is majoring in English (Literature, Media, and Culture) and Media/Communication. Her research during UROP with Dr. Neal from the Department of English explores visual representations of lesbian relationships on early twentieth-century postcards. Through this project, she has developed essential research, visual analysis, and archival skills. Outside of UROP, Addison is currently working on research for her Honors in the Major thesis, titled “Haunting (Post)-Slavery Stories: Ryan Coogler’s Sinners and Toni Morrison’s Beloved.” Additionally, she is actively involved in Her Campus FSU, Pride Student Union, and Southeast Review. Her involvements have allowed her to develop her editing, writing, and design skills, and she plans to attend graduate school after finishing her undergraduate studies.

Lesbian Relationships on Postcards

Abstract

In my research, I investigated visual strategies that early twentieth-century postcards employed to subtly depict lesbian relationships. My work was guided by the central research question, “What visual strategies are present on early twentieth-century postcards that either encode or create plausible deniability of lesbian relationships?” After identifying postcards from the early 20th century that portrayed lesbian relationships, I conducted an inductive analysis that allowed me to identify the following visual strategies: Sappho, Lesbian Stereotypes, Childlike Imagery, Feminine Women/Lesbians, Romantic Illustrations, and Ambiguous Relationships. To further study my proposed subject, I conducted secondary scholarly sources through FSU databases on lesbians, lesbian history, and the stereotypical portrayals of lesbians in visual media. These frameworks helped me develop categories for the visual analysis of these cards, using a “lesbian perspective” to examine how each card encodes or creates plausible deniability of lesbian relationships. Each postcard was coded using one or more of the six main strategies, as several employed multiple simultaneously. Analyzing how these cards employ different visual strategies revealed further insights into how historical stereotypes of lesbian women shaped visual representations of lesbian relationships. Postcards are one of many visual media sources, but particularly interesting as cultural artifacts because they exist simultaneously in public and private spaces. Further research could look at a larger variety of cards, enhancing studies on how lesbian relationships are depicted in visual media by analyzing more representations of lesbian women.

Keywords: rhetoric, queer studies, lesbian, postcards, visual analysis

BIO

Leslie Abbott is an undergraduate student at Florida State University majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders and minoring in Child Development. She is an Honors in the Major student interested in researching aural rehabilitative communication modalities. She intends to go to graduate school to get her master’s in Speech-Language Pathology. Her research interests include speech sound disorders eligibility, pediatric cochlear implantation, and motor speech disorders. She is obtaining an Interdepartmental Developmental Disabilities Certificate by achieving student teaching experience at a local Leon County Elementary School.

Patterns and Contributing Factors of Perceptions on Total Communication for Children with Cochlear Implants

Abstract

Congenital hearing loss affects about two to three out of every thousand newborns (Renauld, 2021). When such children do not show adequate benefit from hearing aids during a trial period, cochlear implantation may become an option. After cochlear implantation, aural rehabilitation is essential so the child can maximize the implant’s potential and train their brain to recognize and understand sounds, as they would have had little-to-no experience with sound previously. Whether this rehabilitation should be coupled with the use of sign language has been largely controversial.

In this study, I will be examining how students aspiring to become speech or hearing professionals perceive Total Communication (TC) and what factors may influence those perspectives. Since these future professionals will be working closely with families who have Deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children, it is important to assess their attitudes and beliefs about TC as a communication approach for DHH children who receive cochlear implants.

Keywords: Cochlear Implants, Aural Rehabilitation, Total Communication

BIO

Molly is a graduating senior from Fayetteville, Georgia, majoring in English Editing, Writing, and Media and Religion with a minor in Art Entrepreneurship. This research project reflects 3 semesters of work towards her Honors in the Major thesis and will grant her the highest distinction of Outstanding Senior Scholar upon graduation in combination with my 4.0 GPA and completion of FSU's Honors Program. Molly's creative writing has been published twice, in FSU's Kudzu Fiction magazine and in SLAB, a national literary magazine. Upon graduation, she will attend law school with the goal of using her Juris Doctor to protect artists’ rights in the era of AI.

How Should We Talk About Cults? A Meta-study of New Religious Movements and Ethical Responsibility

Abstract

Since the study of New Religious Movements (NRMs) took off in America in the 1970s, there has been a steady increase in research in the field. Colloquially known as cults, NRMs battle a consistently negative legal image. Allegations against NRMs are sensationalized for public entertainment and have defined the twenty-first-century “cult” as one of child abuse, sexual coercion, drug use, and violence.
While initial scholarship approached NRMs as perversions of “real” religion, the modern trend in NRM research aims for a nonjudgmental discussion, recognizing that NRMs are as diverse and nuanced as any other religion. However, the vocabulary shifts have resulted in an inversely biased vocabulary, one that obfuscates elements of an NRM in order to downplay their negative aspects. Scholars are hesitant to outwardly condemn actions, doctrines, and leaders affiliated out of fear that they may be interpreted as having an anti-cult bias. The result of this rhetorical shift is an emerging faction of research that inadvertently discredits the very real damage that NRMs, like any other religious movement or institution, have caused.
By comparing legal, popular, and academic coverage of multiple modern American NRMs accused of sexual crimes (FLDS), suicide (Heaven's Gate), murder (Peoples Temple), and all of the above (Branch Davidians) against a background of NRM history and scholarship in the
United States, this research will illuminate how modern linguistic Choices in academia downplay the harmful aspects of some NRMs and ignore casualties of doctrine-informed violence rather than provide the egalitarian analysis they seek to produce.

Keywords: cult, rhetoric, language, ethics

BIO

I am a first-generation college student majoring in political science, with strong academic interests in law, writing, and public service. I immigrated to the United States from Cuba at a young age, an experience that continues to shape how I approach education, identity, and opportunity. My academic focus centers on understanding legal systems, power, and social structures, particularly how law intersects with lived experience. Through my coursework and independent study, I have developed a deep appreciation for critical thinking, research, and clear, purposeful writing.

Alongside my studies, I have been actively involved in leadership and community engagement. I have held officer roles in student organizations and consistently participated in service initiatives focused on education, civic involvement, and local outreach. I have also volunteered with Miami Dade College on community-based projects and completed a paid internship with the Education Fund, where I supported staff and administrators with summer programming. These experiences strengthened my interest in law, education, and advocacy, and reinforced my commitment to contributing meaningfully to the communities I am part of.

Expanding The Cold War Through Propaganda

Abstract

This project examines the Cold War through Soviet propaganda. Government-produced materials reveal what citizens were exposed to regarding U.S. capitalism and imperialism before the traditional Cold War timeline, showing that the ideological struggle between the USSR and the United States began long before the 1940s.

Many sources were analyzed, including posters, films, and other government-produced media. The primary source base consists of impactful images by Viktor Koretsky, whose work illustrates how the Soviet state consistently portrayed the United States as a political and cultural counterpoint. Together with other sources, Koretsky’s images show that the ideological battle between Soviet and U.S. ideals spanned from the 1930s to the 1980s, revealing the messages citizens received and how propaganda shaped perceptions of the United States while reinforcing early Cold War tensions.

Keywords: History, Propaganda, Cold War, USSR, United States

BIO

Megan Knobloch is a first generation sophomore studying Biochemistry on the pre-medical track at Florida State University. She aspires to become a cardiologist and is actively involved in several campus organizations, including the American Medical Women's Association, CARE, Unconquered Scholars, and Alpha Chi Sigma, where she is a brother of the professional chemistry fraternity. Her academic research includes the relationship between parental interactions with children in high stress families and the advancement of women's health. Through her studies, Megan is committed to pursuing a career in medicine while advocating for patient-centered care.

Momentary Effects of Parental Stress on Parenting and Children's Self-Regulation

Abstract

Parental stress plays a critical role in shaping parenting behaviors and children’s self-regulation. However, most prior studies have relied on cross-sectional designs and overlooked how everyday, temporary stressors influence parents and children, particularly within higher-risk families. To address this gap and inform prevention efforts, we examined how temporary fluctuations in parental stress shaped parents’ immediate interactions with their preschool-aged children and children’s momentary self-regulation. This work aims to support the development of targeted, evidence-based interventions to buffer families from the adverse consequences of daily stress. We hypothesized that greater parental stress would be negatively associated with parenting behaviors and children’s self-regulation. Participants were 15 mother-child dyads from higher-risk families in Florida with children aged 2.5 to 3.5 years. Mothers completed an initial survey, followed by brief ecological momentary assessment (EMA) surveys three times daily (morning, afternoon, evening) for 21 days. EMA surveys assessed parental stress, parenting behaviors (i.e., how well they were getting along with their child), and children’s self-regulation of emotion, behavior, and attention. Multilevel models revealed negative within-dyad associations between parental stress and both parenting behaviors and children’s self-regulation (ps < .05). At moments when parents experienced higher-than-usual stress, they were less likely to report getting along well with their child and more likely to report difficulties in their child’s self-regulation. These findings highlight the dynamic, interrelated nature of parental stress, parenting behaviors, and children’s self-regulation in daily life, suggesting that family-system approaches designed to buffer families from everyday stress may be especially beneficial for higher-risk families.

Keywords: Stress and Children's Self-Regulation

BIO

Joseilys is a freshmen Presidential Scholar at FSU from Kissimmee, Florida pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Meteorology and a Bachelor of Music in String Performance. Her research experience pertains to extreme weather research, with a specialized interest in hurricane and hurricane modeling. She has been awarded the Freshmen Undergraduate Scholarship by the American Meteorological Society and the Project Weather Scholarship by Spectrum News 13 for her achievements in STEM and her long-time interest in meteorology. She hopes to go to graduate school for meteorology, while keeping music performance in her life throughout her studies and career.

Evaluating Storm Energy Metrics as Indicators of Hurricane Structure and Duration

Abstract

Tropical cyclones vary not only in intensity, but also in size and duration, which influence their impact and output of energy. Trying to find comparative and analytical values that best encompass hurricane trends has been a field of interest for decades. While maximum wind speed is commonly used to classify hurricanes, Accumulated cyclone energy (ACE) and Track Integrated Kinetic Energy (TIKE) provide a more comprehensive representation of storm strength over time and space. This project aims to analyze several analytical variables used to characterize hurricanes. Historical datasets from Moody’s HWind dataset and NOAA’s HURDAT dataset were organized in Excel and Python to examine how ACE and TIKE relate to structural and temporal variables, including radius of 34-kt winds (R34), hurricane days, and named storms days. Through correlation assessment and data visualization, this project determines whether trends in storm size, duration, and strength correspond with ACE and TIKE. Analysis showed opposite results from both ACE and TIKE when it came to storms vs. hurricanes. For hurricanes, TIKE is the better indicator of physical size, while ACE is better for measuring duration. These relationships reverse when analyzing broader named storm data. The strong link between storm length and ACE highlights the role of persistence in overall storm impact, while the relationship between R34 and TIKE suggests that storm size contributes substantially to total kinetic energy. Understanding these relationships improves insight into how hurricanes generate and distribute energy across regions.

Keywords: Meteorology, hurricanes, analysis

BIO

Brynn is a second-year honors student from Trenton, Florida, double-majoring in English LMC and Humanities. Within her studies, she focuses on modern literature and the histories and philosophies of law. In her free time, she is active on campus with Her Campus FSU. Brynn hopes to attend law school to pursue a career in family law.

Stitches and Sparkles: Weaving Feminine Narratives through Traditional Sewing and Rhinestone Application

Abstract

Using what is now called the Ghana Must Go bag, Ghanaians migrated from Nigeria between 1969 and 1985. The bags became a cultural symbol of movement and migration, entering the art world and even reaching the controversial Louis Vuitton campaign, where they were sold as luxury items rather than necessities. My mentor, Amarachi Odimba, explores migration, domestic space, and memory through the transformation of these symbolic bags in the ENFOLD project, through bedazzled embellishments and sewing techniques. The embellishments would fall off during transport, and the portraits sewn on would crack when applied, making the process delicate. This experience allowed me to reflect on my family’s artistic endeavors in quilting, where sewing serves as a domestic, feminine practice of care and familial continuity. Quilting is similar to the application of rhinestones in the ENFOLD project, in that it relies on repetition, touch, and plenty of time. Results show how many cultures and family lines have roots in art forms that reflect their femininity. A lot of the art I focused on has a trace back to the artist’s ancestors. In "Everyday Use," Alice Walker draws on her ancestral connections to African quilting to shape her characters and plot. Further research needs to discover other connections found in art and family, rather than just fragility and femininity. In addition, creating more artworks in this context would further develop a person’s pride in their family lineage.

Keywords: art, Ghana Must Go bag, commodity, migration

BIO

Sydney Nichols is a second-year student studying Accounting and Marketing. She is completing her studies on an accelerated timeline through FSU’s Degree in Three program and plans to graduate in Spring 2027. In addition to working on undergraduate research, Sydney serves as President of Pi Sigma Epsilon, the marketing, sales, and management fraternity, and is also a member of Women in Accounting. She recently completed her role as a Delegate for Dance Marathon, supporting the organization’s philanthropic efforts. After earning her bachelor’s degree, Sydney plans to continue her education at Florida State University by pursuing a Master of Accounting, with the goal of building a career as an auditor.

Social Media's Impact on Career Choice of College Students: A Study of Accounting & Finance Professions

Abstract

As social media continues to engulf nearly every aspect of society, it increasingly shapes individuals’ attitudes and decision-making. Simultaneously, both the accounting and finance professions are experiencing a shortage of college graduates. This study examines how social media content and platform source influence students’ perceptions of accounting and finance, and further explores students’ willingness to enter these professions. Within our survey-based study, we manipulated the image source, content type, and the depicted major to examine how each factor or combination of factors influences students’ judgment. Participants enrolled in introductory accounting courses at Florida State University were randomly assigned to view a satirical or neutral meme depicting either accounting or finance. After viewing an assigned meme, participants completed survey questions assessing how the content influenced their perceptions and their longer-term intentions toward the profession. Once all of the survey responses have been completed, data will be analyzed using a factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) to test whether meme type and professional label produce significant differences in students’ career perceptions and effort outcomes. The results are expected to show that exposure to satirical content reduces positive opinions of accounting and finance. These diminished perceptions are expected to lead to lower students’ interest in pursuing these careers, particularly among those who are undecided or less committed to a specific career path. This research provides practical insights for educators and professional organizations seeking to improve recruitment messaging and counteract negative social media narratives.

Keywords: Social Media, Accounting, Finance

BIO

Maria Sanchez is an undergraduate student at the Florida State University Honors College, pursuing a degree in Information Technology with minors in Innovation and Spanish. Her academic interests focus on the intersection of technology, creativity, and community impact. Maria has experience in programming with C++ and Python, web development, and database design, and enjoys applying these skills to projects that solve practical problems.

Beyond academics, Maria has led initiatives such as founding a community service project that collected over 40,000 books and school supplies for indigenous and underprivileged communities and pediatric hospitals in Venezuela, creating three public libraries. She has also gained professional experience through internships in e-commerce, CRM workflows, and site design, developing skills in project management, data analysis, and client-focused solutions.

Maria is passionate about leveraging technology and innovation to improve access, efficiency, and learning opportunities. Her current research explores Algorithms, reflecting her commitment to integrating technical knowledge with social impact. She is also an active member of student organizations supporting women in STEM, cultural engagement, and leadership development.

Online Information Ecosystems: Teens, Social Media, Algorithms

Abstract

Social media algorithms shape the information adolescents and young adults encounter daily, yet less is known about how students understand and experience this influence. This study examines how educational level relates to algorithmic awareness and perceived control over social media content. Guided by Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory, we hypothesized that college students would report greater awareness of algorithmic influence and more intentional efforts to shape their feeds compared to high school students.

Undergraduate students at Florida State University were recruited through campus posters and Anne’s College Study Pool, with additional data collection ongoing for high school participants. The online survey included Likert-style and open-ended items organized around three factors: Algorithmic Social Boundary Blurring, Cross-Platform Algorithmic Synchronization, and Algorithmic Awareness and Control. Participants also submitted examples from their “For You” pages and recent search activity. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to identify patterns between engagement behaviors and recommended content.

Preliminary findings indicate that likes, searches, shares, and watch time strongly influence social media recommendations. Even minor interactions, such as partially watching a video, appeared to shape subsequent content. Early comparisons suggest college students’ feeds reflect more academic-related interests, while high school students’ feeds emphasize social and hobby content. These findings highlight the importance of algorithmic literacy and intentional engagement in shaping students’ online information ecosystems.

Keywords: Algorithms, Social Media, Technology

BIO

Cheyenne Croft is a current honors 2nd year student at Florida State University studying in collaboration with the context lab. She is currently studying to earn two degrees: A Bachelor of Science in psychology with a minor in child development and a Bachelor of Arts in creative writing with a minor in philosophy. Her research interests lay in exploring clinical psychology practices in children with autism spectrum disorder and using her research to advocate for her community. Cheyenne is hopeful to rejoin FSU for her doctorate degree program in earning her Ph.D. in clinical psychology. Currently at the context lab Cheyenne is working with Ananda Eaton and Dr. Haughbrook to produce a meta-analysis inspired by the research presented for this project.

Impacts of Early Identification and Intervention of Environmental Barriers on Children's Speech Development

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand the environmental barriers in children’s speech development, potential speech intervention services available to children, and a brief overview of how effective these services were. This study started as a literature review to survey the field of psychology’s current understanding of the impacts environmental barriers have on speech development but is currently evolving into a meta-analysis with a particular interest in SES and ASD moderators. It was revealed in the literature that there was a correlation between the initial two hypotheses: (1) When an environmental barrier in speech is identified and addressed the better a child’s developmental outcomes will be and (2) the earlier environmental barriers are addressed the better a child’s developmental outcomes will be. Eight articles out of twenty-two reviewed were relevant to the study conducted. It is now the interest of this analysis to study the environmental barriers unique to socioeconomic status, what intervention services are accessible to children with various SES, and how addressing these barriers earlier in a child’s life could influence their development compared to children receiving similar interventions later in life. This project has expanded into a meta-analysis and is preliminarily sharing findings of the research.

Keywords: Environment, barriers, speech, intervention,

BIO

Courtney Lesser is a Class of 2028 student at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology. Striving for excellence, embracing challenges, and pursuing adventure in every aspect of life, she is motivated by a strong interest in the science of exercise, sports performance, and human health. Courtney has been named to the Dean’s List for three consecutive semesters, reflecting her commitment to academic distinction.
Originally from South Florida, Courtney brings a background of leadership and discipline developed through athletics. She is a two-time US Lacrosse Academic All-American, Jackie Pitts Award recipient, and former member of the FSU Women’s Club Lacrosse Team, experiences that strengthened her teamwork, resilience, and leadership both on and off the field.
Courtney is currently conducting undergraduate research through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) at Florida State University under the mentorship of Hannah Eberhardt. Her work reflects her passion for applying scientific research to real-world performance and health outcomes.
Known for her attention to detail and drive for distinction, Courtney aims to merge her interests in research, athletics, and service in a future physician assistant career connecting human performance, medicine, and the military, where peak performance, resilience, and leadership are essential.

Energy Availability, Physical Fitness, and Macronutrient Intake in Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps Cadets

Abstract

Introduction: No data exists examining associations between energy availability (EA) dietary habits, physical performance in Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFROTC) cadets. Therefore, this study aimed to examine correlations between EA, dietary habits, and performance in AFROTC cadets.
Methods: Twenty-six cadets (12 males, 14 females; 20 ± 1 yrs, ht: 171.6 ± 9.1 cm, wt: 69.2 ± 10.5 kg, mean body fat (BF%) 21.8 ± 7.1%, FFM 54.2 ± 10.3 kg) completed body composition testing and a battery of performance tests, including handgrip strength, countermovement jump (CMJ), isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP), push-ups, and pull-ups. Physical Fitness Assessment (PFA) scores were collected from AF cadre. The Abridged Nutrition for Sports Knowledge Questionnaire (ANSQK) assessed nutrition knowledge. EA was estimated over 7-days using a digital food record to assess energy intake (EI) and accelerometry to measure exercise energy expenditure (EEE).
Results: Mean EA was 30.9 ± 12.5 kcals·kg-1 FFM, with 38.5% of cadets experiencing LEA and 46.2% in suboptimal EA. Mean EI was 2406 [1405] kcal·d⁻¹ and EEE was 580 ± 203 kcal·d⁻¹. Cadets consumed 3.3 ± 1.0 g·kg⁻¹ carbohydrate, 1.6 ± 0.5 g·kg⁻¹ protein, and 38% fat. Cadets with LEA consumed significantly less calories and macronutrients than those without (p < 0.05). Cadets with LEA exhibited lower handgrip strength (28.7 [5.3] vs. 42.1 [8.1] kg; p = 0.047). No other performance measures differed between LEA and non-LEA. Average nutrition knowledge scores were 63.6%.
Conclusions: These findings highlight nutrition education imperatives and targeted strategies to optimize performance in AFROTC cadets.

Keywords: Air Force, Energy Availability, Fitness

BIO

Elise Gonzalez is a second-year Biological Science major minoring in Chemistry from Miami, Florida, pursuing a Bachelor of Science. Under the mentorship of Dr. Jamel Ali, she conducts research at the National MagLab through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP).
Elise is deeply passionate about the intersection of the life sciences and the arts. By utilizing advanced microscopy to create Bio-art, she aims to bridge the gap between scientific inquiry and aesthetic expression. Following her undergraduate studies, she plans to pursue a Doctor of Medicine (MD) to help others as a medical professional.

Multimodal Imaging of Harvester Ants: High Resolution Insights into Biological Structures

Abstract

This research aims to investigate how microscopy can bridge the gap between science and art. The central question explores whether the aesthetic documentation of microscopic specimens can enhance scientific communication while still functioning as a medium for artistic expression. The involved methods include imaging of diverse biological samples, including microorganisms, using light microscopy. Data analysis is done by a compositional evaluation based on color theory, symmetry, and abstract form of the specimen. The study used a bio-aesthetic framework, prioritizing two-way identity of the subject as a biological sample and visual narrative. Results suggest that biological microorganisms have inherent geometric complexities that reflect that of artistic principles. The implications of this work provide a more accessible gateway for the public to engage with complex biology and challenge the academic discipline that separates the objective observer from the subjective creator. Overall, this bridge fosters a deeper appreciation for the overlooked architecture of life, proving that art and science are not mutually exclusive, but are complementary perspectives of the same reality.

Keywords: Bioart, Microscopy, Harvester ants

BIO

Alessandra Tiongson is a first year undergraduate student at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Cell and Molecular Neuroscience. She is involved in undergraduate research on mild cognitive impairment and spatial navigation under the mentorship of Dorota Kossowska-Kühn, PhD. Her interests include neuroscience, cognition, and clinical research. Alessandra is also active in service and leadership initiatives on campus such as the American Medical Women's Association, the Phi Delta Epsilon medical fraternity, and the Alpha Epsilon Delta national health pre-professional honor society. She plans to pursue medical school and a career that combines patient care with research.

Cognitive Skills Model for Predicting Alzheimer's Disease​

Abstract

Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) is a condition in which individuals experience cognitive decline beyond what is expected with normal aging, while still being able to complete most daily activities independently. MCI is often viewed as an early stage that may precede Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and provides an important opportunity to identify early indicators of neurodegeneration, though not all individuals with MCI progress to AD. Because of this uncertainty, identifying reliable predictors of Alzheimer’s disease within MCI populations remains an ongoing challenge. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in domain-specific cognitive performance, including spatial navigation, between individuals with MCI and cognitively healthy older adults and to determine which cognitive areas show early decline. We started by importing 1,824 studies into the Covidence program, which were sorted through and screened for admission to the database. We then screened the articles based on title and abstract to roughly narrow the studies, and finally, we completed a full-text review to bring our final number of studies to 600 articles to be extracted. Results show that individuals with MCI perform worse than cognitively healthy older adults across several cognitive domains, including spatial navigation and memory. This shows the connection between spatial navigation tasks and older adults with MCI while highlighting the need for further measures of spatial navigation in screening. The connection proven by our study can be used to modify the current screening procedures in MCI and help better the methods for detecting cognitive decline during that critical early period.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease prediction, Mild cognitive impairment, Spatial navigation, Cognitive assessment, Early dementia detection

BIO

Angelina Szasz is a sophomore at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a minor in Chemistry. A high-achieving student, Angelina is enrolled in the "Degree in Three" program and has consistently earned a place on the President’s List for her academic excellence.

Currently, she serves as a research assistant for the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), where she works with Shannon LaPoint to conduct interviews and transcribe data to help develop a toolkit aimed at making public colleges more accessible for neurodivergent students. Beyond her research, Angelina is deeply involved in the FSU Pre-Dental Society and Remote Area Medical (RAM), where she participates in clinics providing free dental and medical care to underserved populations.

With extensive experience as a medical intern in dental and orthodontic practices, Angelina is dedicated to a career in dentistry. She aims to combine her research insights on accessibility with clinical practice to provide inclusive, high-quality oral healthcare.

Bridging the Gap: A Qualitative Analysis of Academic and Social Barriers for Autistic Students in Higher Education

Abstract

This research investigates the specific academic and social barriers faced by autistic students in higher education and how institutional supports impact these barriers. We aimed to identify gaps in current institutional support by examining the experiences of these students through interviews. Understanding these nuances is relevant for administrators seeking to move beyond basic compliance and toward creating inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming campus environments. This study used qualitative interviews with autistic students and counselors, which were then individually analyzed to identify the gaps between standard institutional accommodations and the actual needs of the students. Data was then looked at through thematic coding to develop actionable solutions for more inclusive campus environments for neurodivergent students. The Qualitative analysis revealed consistent themes of participants describing academic and social challenges that students with autism face. In the interviews, students often reported barriers related to communication with faculty, sensory overload in classroom settings, and difficulty navigating accommodation systems. These results highlight the gap between campus support resources and the actual needs of autistic students. The interviews show the importance of listening to autistic students’ lived experiences when designing support services. Implementing these recommendations may increase student engagement, academic success, and an overall sense of belonging for autistic students. Using this information, we will refine and distribute a toolkit for college counselors and staff and evaluate its effectiveness across diverse campus settings. Overall, this research shows the need for autism-informed support systems in higher education.

Keywords: Neurodiversity, Accessibility, Higher Education, Qualitative Research, Toolkit