BIO

I am a second-year student from Tampa, FL pursuing a biological sciences degree, planning on attending medical school after graduation. I enjoyed working along my mentors, Sayantan Roy and Qian Yin, during the 2022-2023 academic year for this research project.

Biochemical Characterization of Human Guanylate Binding Protein 2

Abstract

Interferon-inducible guanylate binding proteins (GBPs) are contributors to our ability to fight infectious agents. GBP1 is the most well-characterized member of this family. However, recent studies are focusing on the roles of GBP2 and the other members because they also play an important role in immunity that is not well understood. Biochemical alterations of the environment and its effect on GBP2 activity can relate to how the protein functions in cell-autonomous immunity. We created constructs of the GTPase domain of GBP2 (GD) and studied its activity in different environments. This was accomplished through recombinant protein purification using affinity, ion-exchange, and size exclusion chromatography. We also generated a mutant of the GD using site-directed mutagenesis and finally purified it using the same purification strategy as the wild type (WT). We tested the activity of the protein in the presence of different cation co-factors and compared the activity of the WT and mutant at different pH levels. It was found that GD was only active with Mg2+ and Mn2+ cation co-factors.

Keywords: Biology, Biochemistry, GBP2, Protein, Science

BIO

I am a freshman, studying economics and business management. I am currently a member of the FSU rowing team and Alpha Omicron Pi. My research incorporates reading and analyze FBI files, and then summarizing them.

Evaluating the Denominations of Senders of Letters to the FBI About Communist Infiltration of Religion in the 1950s and 1960s

Abstract

This study, based on the FBI file number 100-403529 (Communism and Religion), which has been declassified, examines numerous letters sent to the FBI by private individuals & religious organizations regarding the possibility of Communist Party infiltration in American churches during the 1950s and 1960s. The focus of this study is on the Christian denomination of the letter writers.  The study shows that a plurality of letters came from members of Methodist churches, even though Methodists were not the most common protestant denomination in the United States in the 1960.  Additionally, the study also found that there were very few letters from Catholics or Catholic organizations in spite of Catholicism being the largest denomination in 1960, as well as relatively few letters from Baptists. The pattern observed in the data may be attributed to several factors such as political shift, internal migration, concerns over desegregation, attitudes towards religious leadership, and the actions of significant individuals.

Keywords: Religion, Communism, surveillance, FBI, history, 1950s, 1960s

BIO

Hello! I am a second-year student from Dallas, Texas studying Management Information Systems. My goal is to make people's lives easier and more efficient with technology. To that end, I'm fascinated by projects and topics that attempt to use technology in new and innovative ways, solving problems that exist in various fields or problems that might not even exist at all yet. I hope to take this innovative approach to technology with me into the workforce.

Teaching a Robot to Conduct the Band

Abstract

Digit is a humanoid robot fitted with technology that allows it to accomplish rather complex tasks. In this project, we explore Digit’s capabilities by using it to emulate the motions of a marching band conductor. Conducting patterns are complex and vary with both time signature and tempo. Digit is well suited to conducting, as it can carry out exact motions with precise, precalculated timing. However, conductors must sometimes change their patterns rapidly and on the fly, requiring not only the ability to maintain a steady beat, but also the ability to be flexible and improvise. The main challenge of this project is the implementation of conducting patterns to Digit's hardware. Using open source motion capture software, we translated a simple 4/4 conducting pattern from a real human conductor into 3-dimensional coordinate data. Using an ID controller designed by the Optimal Robotics Lab, this data was then used to calculate and optimize the path of Digit’s arms. A separate system was then designed to allow manual human control and adjustment of Digit’s tempo. In the future, we would like to allow Digit to perform more complex patterns as well as musical cues. Eventually, we hope to test our work by arranging for Digit to conduct a performance of a collegiate marching band.

Keywords: Robotics, Engineering, Three-Dimensional Modeling, Music

BIO

I'm Dina Fakhar, a freshman at Florida State University from Tampa, Florida. I am currently pursuing dual degrees in Psychology and Philosophy with hopes of attending law school in the near future. My research interests primarily lie within the field of suicide research, where I aim to refine measurement of suicidal phenomena and ultimately work towards prevention.

Refining Measures of Suicidal Phenomena: Suicide Intent

Abstract

The present study aims to investigate whether the Suicide Intent Measure is a reliable and valid measure of suicide intent. It’s imperative to refine measures of suicide intent to validly assess a construct surrounded by so much definitional chaos, gain maximal information for predicting suicide-relevant outcomes, detect individuals at risk for suicide, and monitor treatment progress. In this study, it was hypothesized that the Suicide Intent Measure is a reliable and valid measure of suicide intent. The Suicide Intent Measure is a long-form measure with 12 items. In order to refine such a measure, an operational definition of suicide intent was first created. Our operational definition of suicide intent is: “The nonfleeting desire to imminently (i.e., within 48 hours) die by suicide, paired with plans or preparations to imminently die by suicide.” After creating an operational definition of suicide intent, existing long-form and short-form measures of suicide intent were gathered to craft a reliable and valid measure of suicide intent. The last process of measurement refinement included addressing reliability, validity, and other factors of the measure.

Keywords: psychology, suicide, measurement, clinical psychology

BIO

My name is Kayla Stidwell, and I was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. I am a second-year Marketing student at Florida State University. I am interested in market research and understanding what attracts people to buy goods and exhibit certain buying behaviors. I recognize the value of data in marketing, and I am enthusiastic about utilizing data from market research to develop marketing strategies.

Multi-cultural Consumer Behaviors Research

Abstract

This study contributes significantly to the literature in two key areas of impulsive buying (IB) and compulsive buying (CB) research. (1) This study examines the individual level effects of certain Hofstede's cultural dimensions theory on IB and CB, including values of masculinity, long-term orientation, and indulgence. (2) This study compares the impact of these Hofstede’s cultural dimensions on IB and CB. By evaluating the relative significance of various values in relation to one another in motivating IB and CB, the current study would provide a more thorough understanding of the underlying causes of both behaviors. (3) This research also explores the associations between impulsive and compulsive buying in cross-cultural contexts as samples were collected from the United States, India, and China in an effort to better understand both behaviors.

Keywords: Consumer behavior, Compulsive buying behavior, Impulsive buying behavior

BIO

My name is Holly and I am a second-year majoring in Management Information Systems and Marketing, with a minor in Business Analytics. As a participant of the UROP program, I collaborated with my mentor, Dr. Kelly Kelly, school of communication, and three other team members to conduct research on factors that lead to student success in leading a great job upon graduation for communication and advertising majors. Approaching qualitative research, we interview 13 participants in four research areas of academics, internships, extracurriculars, and networking to gain a deeper perspective of what graduates feel is most important throughout the job search process.

Our study noted that internship is the most important factor upon building skills and experience when securing a full-time job offer. The ranking from most important to least is internships, extracurriculars, networking, and academics. Additionally, our participant’s average job satisfaction was around 4 out of 5 with a salary satisfaction of 69% of just working 1-3 years within their field.

Landing that Job: A Study of Communication Graduates, Contacts, and Careers

Abstract

The time period following college graduation marks a significant transition in an individual’s life and often involves searching for full-time employment. Beyond simply finding a job at all, an important aspect of someone’s job search involves finding a career that they love. By reviewing literature in the field and conducting interviews with recent college graduates, this project defines what is considered to be a “great job” and examines the factors that lead to success in securing one. The factors explored fall into four areas: academic performance, extracurricular activities, networking, and internships or part-time employment. Participants were selected using a prospective sampling method (all were graduates of Florida State University’s School of Communication) and were asked a series of questions regarding their satisfaction with their current job, involvements in their undergraduate career, and what they thought helped them stick out to employers the most. Our findings consistently showed that internship experience provided the most relevant experience for their respective career paths and was also viewed as the most important area (of those studied) for landing a job.

Keywords: Communication, advertising, full-time job, internship

BIO

My name is Benjamin Alboucrek and I am from Pompano Beach, Florida. I am a Clinical Professions major in my Sophomore year and my goal is to go to medical school. Some of my research interests include medically related topics such as potential treatments for diseases, cancer, and mental issues. Additionally, I am also interested in research topics related to climate change.

Light and Iron Effects on the Ecophysiology of Southern Ocean Phytoplankton

Abstract

The Southern Ocean is characterized as being one of the most productive oceanic regions in the world. However, certain areas in the Southern Ocean are characterized as being limited by the macronutrient Fe. As the climate continues to change, the availability of light and Fe are expected to change. In order to understand the effects that these changes will have on phytoplankton, we did our study on the species of Antarctic phytoplankton Thalassiosira Antarctica. We grew our species under different treatments, each with different iron concentrations and different light conditions. The treatments that the phytoplankton were grown in had similar conditions to the Southern Ocean as well. The results of the experiment showed us that Fe amounts had much more of an effect on the phytoplankton growth rates than light did. We also measured photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm) of our phytoplankton populations. Under Fe depleted populations, the photochemical efficiency was much lower than populations with high Fe. Light had little effect compared to Fe on photochemical efficiency. The results of our experiment showed us that Fe is a necessity for phytoplankton growth in the Southern Ocean.

Keywords: Climate, Ocean, CO2

BIO

My name is Isabella Adia, and I am a first-year public health major from Boynton Beach, Florida. My inspiration to study in this field stems from wanting to advocate for and implement changes that promote health equity for all. I am fascinated by the intersection of public health and law and how they can be used together to address inequalities in healthcare. Currently, my career goal is to pursue a JD/MPH dual degree program with the aim of becoming a health lawyer and reforming policies concerning unequal representation and care. This research project has enhanced my passion for learning more about the underlying causes of health disparities and how to mitigate their effects, particularly in communities around the world. I look forward to exploring the intersection of public health and law and using what I have learned to make a meaningful impact on public health.

An Investigation of the Prevalence of Dermatological Conditions in Rural Honduras

Abstract

Honduras, located in tropical Central America, faces notable health challenges. One example includes skin diseases, which are prevalent due to the warm and humid environment which facilitates the growth and spread of microorganisms causing infections and other skin conditions. Researching the prevalence of dermatological diseases in Honduras, specifically the rural communities such as Gracias a Dios, is beneficial for the prevention and progression of improving the quality of life of the individuals from those communities. Our research study examined the prevalence of skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis (AD), a chronic skin condition distinguished by dry, itchy, and scaly skin, psoriasis, and fungal infections that can be caused by a wide range of environmental and lifestyle factors.

From our literature review and the administration of IRB-approved surveys, we were able to discover the prevalence of AD among the villagers in the rural community of Gracias a Dios. Based on our preliminary observations, it showed that Honduras has a notably high rate of pediatric prevalence and associated symptoms of AD when compared to other regions across the globe. Our future projects will allocate resources, enhance efforts to identify risk factors, target prevention strategies aimed at minimizing the spread among certain populations, and reveal distribution patterns in disparities in access to healthcare services. Not only does understanding the prevalence and severity of dermatological diseases act as a catalyst for the implementation of early diagnosis and treatment, but it also improves knowledge of and access to prevention strategies and practices.

Keywords: Dermatology, Honduras, Skin, Disease, Rural

BIO

My name is Colin Sorenson. I am a biology student at Florida State University. I graduated highschool from a small town in suburban Minnesota. In my free time I like to spend time outdoors doing activities such as snowboarding and water skiing. I hope to get accepted into medical school after my undergraduate studies are through. The research that I have done was eye opening in the fact that ecosystems heavily impact surrounding communities just like Apalachicola Bay, one hour south of Florida State University!

3-D Model Analysis of Artificial Oyster Reefs in Apalachicola Bay

Abstract

Abundant and healthy oyster populations are essential for many marine ecosystems and communities. Oysters promote clean waters, provide essential habitat, and serve as keystone species. Apalachicola Bay has noticed a severe decline in the local oyster population within the last decade. Due to anthropogenic and environmental stressors in 2013, the ecosystem collapsed and was declared an environmental disaster causing FWC to place a moratorium on commercial harvesting of oysters in 2020. Working alongside the Apalachicola Bay System Initiative (ABSI) team, the goal of my research was to work with FSUCML staff to help construct 3D models of artificial oyster reefs to be used in ongoing research and future deployments. Reef Ball models were placed in varying geographical locations around the bay to better track growth rates and settlement of the local oyster (Crassostrea virginica) population. Multiple water quality parameters were recorded at each of the deployment sites. Each model was compared to its original structure in six-month intervals, aiming to illustrate the difference in size and volume of the artificial reefs. Reef balls will be retrieved up to three additional times for further analysis prior to the completion of the two year project in April of 2024.

Keywords: Oysters, Marine, 3D modeling, Apalachicola Bay

BIO

I am a Florida State University (FSU) sophomore majoring in chemistry, from Clearwater, Florida. The science of chemistry is my passion. As a chemist, I am determined to understand and analyze the boundless components of the world. Chemistry has numerous areas of study, all of which have individual facets aimed at understanding the world further. As a rising scholar in chemistry, I have many goals related to my studies. I strive to be at the forefront of chemistry. To accomplish this goal, I challenge myself every day through my undergraduate education classes, Learning Assistant position, and research assistantship. After obtaining my B.S. in chemistry, I plan to attend graduate school as a solid-state chemist. From there, I want to devote my career to research and development in the field of inorganic chemistry.

Investigation of Magnetic Properties of Cr-Intercalated VTe2

Abstract

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) are layered materials with appealing magnetic and electronic. Nevertheless, in some cases, such as VTe2, air and moisture sensitivity limits their use in real-world applications.1-3 Intercalation of metals between the TMD layers is a viable approach to stabilizing these materials and controlling their magnetic properties.4 In this contribution, we describe intercalation of Cr into the VTe2 structure to yield a new crystalline phase, Cr0.1VTe2. We report characterization of structural and magnetic properties of this compound and theoretical calculations aimed to help with interpretation of the experimental results.

Keywords: Chemistry

BIO

I am in the final year of my Bachelors in both Russian and East European Studies & Political Science at FSU. I am pursuing undergraduate certificates in Emergency Management and Homeland Security and U.S Intelligence Studies. At FSU, I have had the opportunity to conduct two research projects focused on collaboration and disaster resilience. Outside of university, I am an intern at Walton County Emergency Management where I have gained real-world experience and insight into emergency management planning. When I graduate, I hope to use my research and passion for public service to pursue a federal career in intelligence.

Resilience in Dual Disasters: Florida's Hurricane Preparedness, Response, and Recovery Amid COVID-19

Abstract

This research presents a qualitative analysis to understand the challenges of dual disasters
and the resulting coping strategies in Florida's coastal communities. Coastal communities in
Florida faced the challenge of mitigating the COVID-19 pandemic in the face of an active
hurricane season in 2020 and 2021. Combining the COVID-19 pandemic and hurricane
vulnerability requires re-evaluating disaster response, planning, and recovery scenarios. There is
little examination and research on the effects of dual disaster vulnerability. As a result, it is
critical to investigate this further through first-hand accounts and interviews. Using these
interviews, we evaluate the challenges faced from the perspectives of parties across federal, state,
and local government agencies in Florida and nonprofits involved in emergency management.
Our results indicate that the primary challenges were navigating sheltering and COVID-19
prevention, insufficient financial resources and supplies, inadequate ICT information and
communication technology, and unclear responsibility in multi-agency collaboration. Strategies
for emergency management entities to address these dual disaster challenges are discussed. This
research aims to assist local governments in finding an effective way to address disasters and
emergencies that cause vulnerability in the provision of public services regionally.

Keywords: preparedness, resilience, disaster, hurricane, COVID-19

BIO

I am a first-year Presidential Scholar at Florida State University from New York City. I am majoring in Behavioral Neuroscience and have research interests in mental health, psychology, and the connections between dance and science, whether physical or mental. On campus, I am involved with University Ambassadors, Forward FSU, Student Senate, and the Presidential Scholars Outreach Board. I am unsure what in particular I want to do with my career path, but I hope to attain a master's degree in Neuroscience and devote my life to both science and the arts.

The Slow Regard of Silent Things: Building Mental and Emotional Resilience for Dancers

Abstract

This study evaluated an educational intervention targeted at building mental and emotional resilience in dancers and documents the prevalence of mental health stress in a university dance environment.  Five BFA dance majors completed the intervention: six modules in an application developed by a clinician who works with dancers and one-hour weekly meetings. This study observed the influence of mental resilience training on behaviors relevant to dance performance. Training was evaluated using a multiple-baseline-across-dancers experimental design with secondary measures of the RAND Mental Health Inventory, a Mental Health Knowledge Base Questionnaire, and Social Validity ratings. Results show targeted behaviors improved for every dancer who completed training with mean improvement of 50%. Scores on the RAND and Knowledge Base questionnaire improved by averages of six and thirteen points respectively. Results support previous research, corroborating that dancers are facing mental stress. Findings also suggest that completing six application-based, individually coached, weekly mental resilience training sessions improved the quality of pre-professional dancers' interactions with their training environments and self-reported mental health levels. This study was run as a systematic replication of the study done in the 2021-2022 school year with similar results expected. 

Keywords: Dance, Mental Health, Emotional Resilience

BIO

Current sophomore meteorology major from Suwanee, Georgia.

Correlative Effect of Prominent Objects with Lightning Flash Density

Abstract

Does lightning preferentially strike tall towers? Above a certain height, the rate of lightning is expected to drastically increase. Various hypotheses have been formed regarding the correlation between height and lightning flash rates, but our research suggests that there is a certain height at which lighting rates exponentially increase, resulting in a logarithmic relationship. The importance of finding a height at which lighting rates increase could allow for more modern building construction codes and more economical engineering of prominent objects. Our research considers several clusters of towers around the state and the rate of lightning flashes within each with a range of heights. To determine the critical height, we survey towers across the state of Florida and determine flash densities in small areas surrounding the tower. The densities are then graphed with the tower height, which allows us to find an inflection height in lighting flash density. 

Keywords: Lightning, Meteorology, Weather

BIO

Ella Garcia is a first-year student majoring in political science with a background in advocacy and research. She has served as Chair of Florida High School Democrats and on several political campaigns. She currently works as a community organizer with the SEE Initiative and as the Political Advocacy Director of Florida State's Student Policy Forum. Her interests include educational inequality, prison reform, and political communications. As a Presidential Scholar, she represents FSU's premier merit-based program and was recognized by the prestigious Garnet and Gold Key Honorary for academics and leadership at Torch Night. She is pursuing an accelerated Master's degree in Applied American Politics and Policy through the More in Four Program and hopes to pursue a career in civil rights law.

An Analysis of Local Resilience Challenges in the United States

Abstract

This project analyzes the prevalence of multiple resilience challenges within local U.S. governments. These challenges can be broken down into five different classifications: Natural Environment Resilience and Climate Change (E), Natural Disasters (D), Socio-Economic Resilience (SE), Built Environment and Infrastructure Resilience (I), and Government and Institutional Resilience (G). In order to identify the incidence of these challenges, a survey was emailed to 11,148 local government leaders from 1,246 cities with a total population of more than 30,000 residents. The survey received 496 responses with 254 complete responses. The results were analyzed utilizing Excel and basic statistical measures to determine which challenges are most prevalent in local communities. Results are preliminary; however, it appears that the most frequent responses include those concerning economic inequality and climate change. Local governments struggle to cope with manifestations of these issues, such as rising carbon emissions and a lack of affordable housing.

Keywords: local, government, sustainability, resilience, challenges

BIO

John DeCaro is a second-year pre-medical student from Tampa, Florida majoring in IMS - Clinical Professions at FSU. As a UROP student, he assisted Ph.D. candidate Paul Baker in FSU's Laboratory of Integrative Vascular and Metabolic Physiology, examining the potentially beneficial effects of the popular athletic supplement creatine on blood flow. After undergrad, John aspires to go to medical school. In his free time, John loves to fish, play the guitar, and spend time with friends!

NOX and Creatine Monohydrate Supplementation Impact Microvascular Blood Flow

Abstract

Endothelial dysfunction is a serious health issue that impairs the functioning of the vasculature and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death worldwide. One of the key features of endothelial dysfunction is an elevation in oxidative stress, which is worsened by factors like aging and unhealthy lifestyle choices. Oxidative stress occurs with the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), for which a major source is NADPH Oxidase (NOX). Creatine monohydrate (CM), a commonly used sports performance supplement, has recently been shown to reduce oxidative stress. The aim of this study is to determine whether five days of creatine monohydrate supplementation can reduce in-vivo ROS concentrations and improve blood flow in sedentary overweight post-menopausal women. The study utilizes a pre-post design, and ROS and blood flow measurements are taken using the novel microdialysis technique both before and after the consumption of a high-sugar or high-fat meal. One microdialysis probe contained a control solution of ethanol and saline while the other probe contained control solution plus 1mm Apocynin (a NOX inhibitor). After consumption of the high carb/fat bolus, there were greater ROS concentrations (H2O2) in the control probe compared to the APO probe. In the APO probe, there was increased blood flow compared to the control. Post creatine supplementation, some participants showed reductions in ROS concentrations and improvements in blood flow, while others demonstrated the opposite effect. Further research is needed to determine the potential benefits and risks of using creatine monohydrate as an intervention for oxidative stress.

Keywords: creatine, blood flow, supplementation, reactive oxygen species, NOX

BIO

I am an undergraduate in the Honors program at Florida State University on the pre-med track. In the future I would like to pursue dermatology; however, I am open to exploring other medical related professions such as a general surgeon or physician assistant. My fascination with the medical field began in my high school in Palm Harbor Florida, where I completed the International Baccalaureate program. In this program I was introduced to varying rigor in the sciences and provided with the opportunity to complete my own research and extended essay; this freedom allowed my curiosity to roam where it was satiated but also magnified. At Florida State University, I have continued to expand my experience with research through the UROP program. Further involvements at the school include being an Inspiring New Leader for Dance Marathon and FSU CRU. Additionally, I enjoy the beach, reading, working out at the gym, and spending time with loved ones. As I continue to learn, I hope to add to my experience and gain greater opportunities where I can share my knowledge and gain insight on the perspectives of my peers.

The Emergence of PTSS and PTG Following Hurricanes Maria and Michael

Abstract

Natural disasters are distressing to those affected; however, they may also lead to positive developments within an individual. The presented study investigates survivors from Hurricanes Maria and Michael and the factors influencing posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and posttraumatic growth (PTG). Relations between intense factors, coping strategies, and character strengths and their impact on PTSS, PTG, or both are analyzed. The survivors that experienced negative emotions, implemented counteractive coping mechanisms, or had low optimism were more likely to report PTSS. On the other hand, PTG was associated with longer amount of passed time, younger age, positive emotions, and greater optimism. The results depict the strong positive correlations between both PTSS and PTG and their respective attributes following a traumatic event.

Keywords: PTSS, Posttraumatic growth, Hurricanes

BIO

My name is Isabel Sosa and I am from the Fort Lauderdale area in South Florida. I am currently a second year junior at FSU with plans for a career in Nursing and hopes to become a labor and delivery nurse practitioner. My current involvements include FSU's Student Nurses Association and Animal Society and, next year, I'll be continuing my involvement with the UROP as a UROP Leader. My research interests include human and health sciences as well as psychology. I plan to continue conducting research and hope to, eventually, put together a research project of my own.

Physiological Affects of Ghosting and How it Relates to One's Attachment Style

Abstract

Various studies have started to explore the role of ghosting for psychological health. Freedman et al. (2022): people who ghosted someone were more likely to express guilt and relief, whereas those who were ghosted were more likely to express sadness and hurt feelings.
The physiological effects of ghosting are still unknown. Therefore, we plan to assess physiological measures before and after someone has been ghosted to understand potential physiological effects. Past studies have shown that rejection in romantic relationships has significant negative effects on psychological and physical well-being, but while ghosting is similar to rejection, it’s also uniquely different.
Ghosting: when one person suddenly ignores or stops communicating with another person, without telling them (Kay and Courtrice, 2022)
Initial studies reveal a negative relationship with ghosting and psychological well-being but no studies to our knowledge have examined the physiological effects of ghosting

Keywords: Ghosting, Attachment Style, Psychology, Human Sciences

BIO

Kailey Blye is from Winter Park, FL and is a second-year student at Florida State University majoring in Psychology. She sparked an interest in the research guided by Deidre Gilley due to her experience working alongside her peers with extensive support needs throughout her school years prior to FSU. Kailey has enjoyed learning more about the field of education and is excited to see the progress in the implementation of modified schema-based instruction to solve mathematic word problems for students with extensive support needs.

Modified Schema Based Instruction Targeting Ratio and Proportion Problem Solving of Secondary Students with Intellectual Disability

Abstract

There is not a one size fits all solution to providing all students an effective education. For example, students with intellectual disabilities (ID) often struggle with academic instruction, especially academic skill areas such as mathematics, thus needing individualized education to achieve academic achievement. It is essential to adapt the general education curriculum to provide access to their grade-aligned academic standards. The General Curriculum Access (GCA) Lab implements Modified Schema Based Instruction to provide access to math problems pertaining to an understanding of ratios and proportions. Through one on one individualized instruction, the GCA Lab seeks to determine if MSBI is a sizable intervention in the retention of mathematical concepts for students with ID.

Keywords: Math, Modified schema-based instruction, Problem solving, Intellectual disability

BIO

My name is Makenna Jenkins and I am a first year from Lehigh Acres, Florida studying Cell and Molecular Neuroscience. I joined the Gratton Lab during August of 2022 and have loved every moment of my time in the lab. My research interests include physiological data, migraines (heritability, neurological locations and differences, and treatments), genetic applications to neuroscience, and the medical applications of hallucinogens (as well as many others). I plan to pursue a higher educational degree after undergrad, and am currently deciding between Medical School and Graduate School (or both). Along the lines of my future goals, I intend to continue my research career and possibly become a PI of my own lab.

Physiological Data and fMRI

Abstract

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) is currently one of the best ways for researchers, scientists, and doctors to view and map the brain. Different from MRI, fMRI measures changes in the ratio of oxygenated to deoxygenated blood in the brain, which gives us the blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) signal. Understanding how heart rate and respiration (physiological) data affects fMRI is imperative not only to the researcher, but to anyone who follows their research. BOLD signals are often noisy, meaning the images aren’t clear due to motion, systemic complications, and physiological alterations. A measure as simple as breathing can introduce more noise into the BOLD signal in fMRI, but is usually glossed over even though it has been identified as one of three main reasons for noisiness. Specifically, breaths can cause motion in brain images, largely impacting data quality; it even alters the results of Functional Connectivity analysis, a measure of how strongly connected parts of the brain are at rest or during tasks. Physiological data is collected through scanner tools such as a pulse oximeter and respiratory belt, then generated through different steps of coding applications like MatLab. This turns into a full scale image of every breath taken, and heart rate, throughout the scan. Physiological data’s effect is commonly disregarded by many cognitive psychologists, which is why this presentation will discuss the importance of collecting and analyzing this data, as well as how to potentially apply it to individuals for measure comparisons (amount of sleep, anxiety/stress levels, caffeine intake).

Keywords: Physiological data, fMRI

BIO

I am an ambitious, driven Junior studying Finance. I am a part of the Florida State Honors College and the Seneff Honors Program. I am involved in numerous activities here on campus including, but not limited to, Securities Society, Financial Management Association, and the National Association of Business Economics. I am originally from the Midwest and enjoy golfing, options trading, and reading. I have a passion for traveling and learning about different cultures.

Landing That Job: A Study of Communication Graduates, Contacts, and Careers

Abstract

The time period following college graduation marks a significant transition in an individual’s life and often involves searching for full-time employment. Beyond simply finding a job at all, an important aspect of someone’s job search involves finding a career that they love. By reviewing literature in the field and conducting interviews with recent college graduates, this project defines what is considered to be a “great job” and examines the factors that lead to success in securing one. The factors explored fall into four areas: academic performance, extracurricular activities, networking, and internships or part-time employment. Participants were selected using a purposive sampling method (all were graduates of Florida State University’s School of Communication) and were asked a series of questions regarding their satisfaction with their current job, involvements in their undergraduate career, and what they thought helped them stick out to employers the most. Our findings consistently showed that internship experience provided the most relevant experience for their respective career paths and was also viewed as the most important area (of those studied) for landing a job.

Keywords: Marketing, Jobs, Communication