Undergraduate Research Ambassador

Major: Anthropology with a focus in field and maritime archaeology

Research experience: Last year as a Research Rookie, I conducted a project of an anthropological inquiry of virtual reality experiences to see how virtual spaces can operate as cultural spaces.

Career goal: I am planning on moving South, most likely to South Carolina, to work in field archaeology positions and work towards a maritime archaeological career.  

Interesting fact: I am such a huge fan of KISS that I own (just about) all of their vinyl records along with countless other pieces of memorabilia.

Advice for fellow undergraduate researchers: Research can take up a lot of your time and energy, but do not let that defer you from engaging in research, you will need to prioritize and manage your time so that you do not neglect your research or class work.  There are plenty of supports around NIU to help you learn to manage your time effectively, and fellow students can have some very helpful advice and strategies as well, so don't hesitate to reach out to someone. Once you find the research you enjoy doing you'll never want to stop, it can be such a fun and rewarding experience.

Favorite thing about NIU: My favorite thing about NIU is that there is something for everyone here. No matter year, major, or interests, you can without a doubt find a class, a club, a friend, or experience you'll enjoy.

Majors: biological sciences and nursing with a minor in chemistry 

Research interests: the research I've been doing focuses on the ways in which microbes affect ecosystem health.

Career goal: after graduation I plan to work as a nurse for a couple of years before going to medical school. My end goal is to go into cardiothoracic surgery.

Interesting fact about me: I have two pet chickens named Tinga and Chicken Nugget.

Advice for fellow undergraduate researchers: starting research can be scary and it's completely normal to feel scared or intimidated. You're entering a new environment with tons of new things and the fear of making a mistake can be scary. It's important to remember that this feeling is part of the learning process. The best researchers make mistakes, but they end up learning from them. Every error is an opportunity to grow and deepen your understanding. Take advantage of your opportunities and don't hesitate to seek guidance from your mentors when needed. Remember that your peers are likely feeling the same way and your mentors felt this way before. By facing your fears and working through the challenges you might encounter, you will become a better researcher.  

Favorite thing about NIU: the large variety of clubs and organizations on campus.

Major: Biological Sciences major with a Chemistry minor

Research Experience: I am currently researching biodegradable plastics made from soy protein isolate (SPI), with a focus on improving their mechanical strength, flexibility, water resistance, and potential use in sustainable food-packaging applications. I am also developing soy-protein-based wound-healing patches containing antibiotics, with the goal of creating flexible, durable materials that can provide antimicrobial activity, controlled drug release, and support wound healing.

Career goal: My career goal is to become a physician, with a particular interest in anesthesiology.

Interesting Fact: I love traveling and have visited more than 20 countries. I’ve also been raised in three different countries, which has given me the chance to experience many different cultures and perspectives.

Advice for fellow undergraduate researchers: Get involved in research as early and as much as you can. It can be challenging at times, but with patience, consistency, and effort, it becomes an extremely rewarding experience. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, make mistakes, and learn from the people around you. The more time you invest, the more confidence, skills, and opportunities you will gain.

Favorite thing about NIU: My favorite thing about NIU is the supportive people and faculty. I’ve had the opportunity to work with professors and mentors who genuinely care about students and help them grow academically, professionally, and personally.

Major: Computer Science

Research Experience: I am currently involved in two research projects. The first examines the effects of short-form content on attention and emotional well-being. The second addresses a specialized computer vision problem: counting biological cells in fluorescence microscopy images, with a focus on evaluating the performance of modern techniques.

Career goal: I plan to enter industry as a software engineer with a focus on machine learning and artificial intelligence. During this time, I intend to continue developing my startup ventures while gaining hands-on professional experience. After several years in industry, I plan to pursue a master's degree to deepen my technical expertise and build on the practical foundation I have established.

Interesting fact: I love playing all kinds of sports, but soccer and volleyball are my favorites.

Advice for fellow undergraduate researchers: My advice to undergraduate researchers who are just getting started is to never be afraid to ask questions. Research is a learning process, and mentors and peers are often more willing to help than you might expect. Asking questions early and often saves time, deepens your understanding, and helps you build stronger relationships with the people you work with. I would also encourage new researchers to define what they hope to gain from their projects early on, whether that is technical skills, a publication, or clarity about future career goals. Having a clear objective keeps you focused and helps you make the most of the experience.

Favorite thing about NIU: My favorite thing about NIU is its faculty. They are incredibly supportive and inspiring, especially toward new and developing researchers.

Major: English with an Anthropology minor.

Research Experience: Open education resources implementation

Career goal: Public librarian

Interesting fact about me: I play cello with the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra! 

Advice for fellow undergrad researchers: Take lots of notes at all of your meetings and don't be afraid to ask questions! 

Favorite thing about NIU: My favorite thing about NIU is how interconnected everything is, from the curriculum to the campus, to the organizations.