Project Title: “The effects of fluoxetine in socially isolated mice and their vulnerability to cocaine in adulthood” (faculty mentor: Shawn Bates)
NAME: Gelsey Aldana
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Psychological Science
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied to the Adelante Program to further my research skills and better understand some of the research topics I am interested in.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? From this opportunity, I could dedicate more time to my research, allowing me to gain knowledge and experience on my topics of interest.
FUN FACT: I have a dog named Ponyo!
Project Title “Factors that promote or hinder Market Match use at farmers’ markets among federal nutrition assistance recipients” (faculty mentor: Keiko Goto)
NAME: Jovita Avila
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Nutrition and Food Science Dietetics
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I received the Adelante Research Scholarship last summer 2021 and wanted to continue and expand on my research. I previously conducted a quantitative study and found very interesting results, so I wanted to dive deeper and include qualitative research this time. Aside from having the opportunity to conduct my research during the summer, this scholarship also helped fund the dietetic internship cost (my next career step to becoming a registered dietitian).
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? The Adelante faculty supported my pursuit of higher education and helped advance my research skills tremendously. I had the privilege to work with Professor Keiko Goto for two consecutive summers on my research. Her positive attitude, flexibility, and motivation made this research experience educational and fun. Thank you for all you do, Adelante, and again, Professor Goto, for being my faculty mentor.
FUN FACT: I enjoy snorkeling at different Northern California lakes and hope to explore open water diving soon as a hobby.
Project Title: “Anthropogenic effects on foliar fungal endophyte communities.” (faculty mentor: Dr. Gerald Cobian)
NAME: Nayellie Barragan-Mejia
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Microbiology - Research
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I was very excited to talk to Dr. Cobian about this opportunity because a year ago, I decided that I would like to pursue a Ph.D. I enjoy being in the lab, learning different skills, doing research, and reading about new research to date.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I was very thankful to work closely with an advisor to learn what it is like to work in a lab setting. Working with my advisor has opened the doors for other opportunities and research projects!
FUN FACT: I love learning to cook different types of dishes from all around the world!
Project Title: “Monitoring Presence of Chytridiomycosis in Amphibians by Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction” (faculty mentor: David Keller)
NAME: Maredith Cassandra Berdeja
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Evolutionary, Ecological & Organismal Biology
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied to the Adelante Research Program because I wanted to meet more people within my major and saw this as an opportunity to grow in research. I am glad that I applied and met so many people who have helped guide me with my academic career. I have met many other amazing students and faculty that share similar goals as I do and have created lifelong bonds with them.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I had the privilege of working alongside an excellent team of students and faculty that continue to show me tips and tricks for research. They have provided me with a great support system. This research opportunity also reassured me that I am in a field I genuinely love and want to continue pursuing. I want to continue building my research skill sets to help preserve the many ecosystems worldwide.
FUN FACT: I have a 2-year-old bearded dragon named Ruco, whom I love very much, and I am not a fan of carrots! I am also afraid of all Nematodes!!
Project Title: “A Comparison of Two Stable Isotope Sampling Methods of Dentinal Collagen” (faculty mentor: Eric Bartelink)
NAME: Erin Boyle
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Biological Anthropology
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? As a first-generation college student from a low-income family, I often require help from the community to achieve my academic goals. Funds from the Adelante Research Program have enabled me to purchase the necessary equipment, materials, and lab tests to conduct this research.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? This opportunity has allowed me to grow my skills in research design, organization, planning, and budgeting. Completing this research project, made possible by the Adelante Research Program, will allow me to finish my MA thesis and become the first person in my family to earn a graduate degree.
FUN FACT: I knit all my socks.
Title of Project: “Heavy Metal Concentration in Non-and Livestock Mortality Compost.” (faculty mentor: Kasey DeAtley)
NAME: Dana Yount
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Masters in Regenerative AgricultureResearch
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied for the Adelante Program because it was an opportunity for my professor and me to work on our research for my thesis project. The Adelante program allowed us to focus on making significant progress toward our goal and set us up to replicate our trials this fall.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I had no idea about all the various types of research at Chico, and it was great to see so many undergrad students excited about their projects and future work!
FUN FACT: I went to Chico State for my Undergrad, and I have a twin sister!
Project Title: “The cause of proprioception defects in pak2b gene CRISPR fish lineage” (faculty mentor: Kristen Gorman)
NAME: Ashley Brown
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Cellular and Molecular Biology, Microbiology
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied to the Adelante Research Program to connect myself to a community of like-minded individuals who are also passionate about research. As a working student athlete, Adelante provides a financial opportunity that allows me to dedicate time to my research that otherwise would not be possible. The program elevates opportunities that students at Chico State can receive, and gives us resources to be successful members of the scientific community.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? Doing research at Chico State has given me a passion to follow for my life. It made me realize how much I love applying science to ask and answer complex questions. Because of this opportunity, my goal is to become a physician scientist so that I can apply research to improve the lives of people with complex medical conditions.
FUN FACT: I throw javelin for the track and field team at Chico State.
Project Title: “Women’s Critiques of ‘The Cult of Domesticity in Gilded-Age California” (faculty mentor: Alisa Wade)
NAME: Renée Brown
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: History
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I was going to write my paper on my own, but my friend told me about this program that would help with money and allow me to have an advisor help me through the writing progress!
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I gained new knowledge of how to write research papers, also I now understand how to use programs that allow me to look at primary sources!
Project Title: “Increasing Parental Engagement of Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Black and Latinx Elementary School-Aged Children” (faculty mentor: Heather Werner)
NAME: Etta Callum
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Sociology
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied to the Adelante Program because I had some ideas that I wanted to study. My instructor at the time, now a mentor, encouraged me to apply.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I have gained insight about how research does not always go as planned, even when you are organized. There are situations that can arise and impede the progress of the project. Most importantly, I learned that it is a learning experience that can be improved and built upon in the future. I also know that perspective is important while working on a project.
FUN FACT: A fun fact about me is that I love to watch Anime. My top favorites are My Hero Academia, Demon Slayer, and Naruto!!
Project Title: “Analysis of Instrument's Ability to Measure Small Ground Level Pressure Fluctuations” (faculty mentor: Shane Mayor)
NAME: Efrain Cobian
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Mechanical Engineering
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I was interested in doing something that isn't necessarily in my field of study but required following scientific process and enginuity. Working with Dr. Mayor last summer made me want to work with him again this summer in atmospheric science.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I gained a lot of hands-on experience. Not only did I get field experience, but I also learned how to communicate with other people when I needed help.
FUN FACT: I Practice film photography. I shoot, develop and process all my film!
Project Title: “What are the Challenges and Promotive Factors to Parental Engagement of Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Black and Latinx Parents of Elementary School-Aged Children?” (faculty mentor: Heather Werner)
NAME: Emily Curiel
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Sociology
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I was inspired by my research partner Etta Callum who shared the importance of parental engagement. I applied to the Adelante project because I saw it as an opportunity to gain experience as a researcher and try to research disadvantaged groups that are not usually represented in research.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I gained so much from this research opportunity; It is hard to find a place to begin. I gained confidence in myself, new skills, and a real research opportunity.
FUN FACT: The first concert I ever attended was Projekt Revolution when I was only 11. My Chemical Romance and Linkin Park were so amazing to see live!
Project Title: “De Eso No Se Habla: How Latinx Communities Communicate About Sex (Education)” (faculty mentor: Jennifer Malkowski)
NAME: Samantha Di Lelio -Boice
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Communication Studies
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied to the program because I wanted to experience opportunities I had never even dreamed of as a first-generation college student. Usually, opportunities like this are rare for individuals like me. Still, the Adelante Research Program is a program that provides students like me with unique and amazing opportunities to gain valuable research experience.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I gained a greater knowledge of what goes into a research proposal and project, and with that, I gained a new confidence that has helped me get over the imposter syndrome that comes with being a Latinx female in grad school.
FUN FACT: I once sang backup for Foreigner in high school.
Project Title: “How are Children of Mexican Immigrants Building Resiliency in Pursuit of a Four-Year College Degree?” (faculty mentor: Judy Vang)
NAME: Karina Diaz
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Master in Social Work
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? Our amazing mentor encouraged my group to participate in the Adelante Research Program. My group believes that our topic is important and gives much-needed representation to our target population.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? The opportunity to give voices to our target population and immense pride in my group for how far we have come in our educational journey.
FUN FACT: I've seen my favorite band, "The Maine" live in concert more than 20 times.
Project Title: “Transcriptional activity of the OTX2 gene during early pediatric growth” (faculty mentor: Kristen Gorman)
NAME:Stephanie Duarte-Amezcua
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Biology: Cellular and Molecular
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied to the Adelante Research Program because it is an amazing program that funds research for low-income Latinx undergraduate students like me. It gives us an opportunity to be part of a research and get hands-on experience. To get out of our comfort zone and fight the imposter's syndrome. With the help of Adelante, I felt represented and able to be part of something in a world where we are a minority.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? Aside from knowledge, connections, and research skills. I was able to fall in love with my project and my lab peers. With the help of the best advisor ever, Dr. Kristen Gorman, I was able to understand that it is okay to fail sometimes, as long as you stand up and try again. I have been working with Dr.Gorman since my freshmen year, and she has been there for me since the beginning, she's taught me everything that I know. She is always there for me to ask questions and when I need advice, she is open to my ideas and so I feel ownership of the project.
FUN FACT: I love journaling and doing crafty stuff!
Project Title: “Optimizing Deep Learning Tool for Segmentation of Hyperspectral FTIR Imaging Data and Developing a Clustering Tool for FTIR Data using Machine Learning Techniques” (faculty mentor: Zahrasadat Alavi)
NAME: Josh Huskisson
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Computer Engineering
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? It seemed like an excellent opportunity to learn something new over the summer and develop my interests in my field of study.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I learned a lot about topics that wouldn't be included in my classes. It helped me to refine my goals for what I want to do after graduation and helped me to pursue a path I wouldn't have taken otherwise.
FUN FACT: I like to read, but my "to read" list always seems to grow faster than my "finished reading" list.
Project Title: “Investigating the use of Manganese-oxidizing bacteria in the degradation of plastic and lignin” (faculty mentor: Kati Gesvain)
NAME: Pagna Khov
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Microbiology with Clinical Laboratory Science, Minoring in Chemistry
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I wanted an opportunity to start a new research project and continue to work with my research mentor over the summer, and Adelante Research Program was the perfect fit for me.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? From this research opportunity, I gain lab experience and data for my research project. Most importantly, I learned from my research mentor, Dr. Geszvain, who has years of experience in research and laboratory settings.
FUN FACT: I was born and raised in Cambodia.
Title of Project: “How are Children of Mexican Immigrants Building Resiliency in Pursuit of a Four-Year College Degree?” (faculty mentor: Judy Vang)
NAME: Victor Lopez
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Master in Social Work
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? Adelante provided me with an excellent opportunity to work on a research project that is both important and interesting. It is essential to provide a medium for underrepresented individuals who seek higher education to voice their journey and encourage others to follow suit. Becoming part of Adelante gave me the opportunity to investigate this topic.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I worked with a great group of MSW peers and my research professor Judy Vang. This also helped me practice the research knowledge I gained in class. I will cherish this opportunity and continue to exercise these skills in more projects down the road.
FUN FACT: I can’t say no to karaoke.
Project Title: “The Behavioral Ecology of Food Insecurity in Young Adults” (faculty mentor: Patrick Johnson)
Name: Emily V. Mansilla
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Psychological Science
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? To be able to focus on my research during the summer to stay competitive in doctoral programs
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? This experience taught me that there is support for Latinx and low-income students. It allowed me to focus on research and academics without the added pressure of finances. The program also incorporated workshops to shape my resume and presentation skills.
FUN FACT: I'm a proud cat mom of two lovely fur babies!
Title of Project: “The Effects of Peer Mentorship on the Outcomes of SLP Graduate Students” (faculty mentor: Kenyan Martin)
NAME: Ash Martinez-Aguilar
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Communication Sciences and Disorders Master's program
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM?The Adelante research program allowed me to hone my research skills and continue my path of being a student scholar. As a first-gen, I experienced "first of many"; this opportunity was a gift to allow myself to do it in a way where my voice and perspective were heard. I had the privilege to work in an area I am interested in (mentoring) and add to the field of CMSD. Also, one of my professional goals is to pursue a Ph.D., and conducting a research project allowed me to explore it safely. It brought me one step closer to reaching that goal.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I learned that research is an area I want to continue to explore in my career. My faculty mentor, Dr. Martin, was a great resource and gave me confidence. She was able to walk me through the processes and execute my plan. We're excited to see the outcome of this study. It has been a great experience thus far.
FUN FACT: I've played guitar since I was 14.
Title of Project: “Nutrient Intake, feeding behaviors, and gastrointestinal issues in children with Autism: A case-control study” (faculty mentor: Julie Holland)
NAME: Lucia Martinez
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Nutrition and Food Science Graduate Program
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I had the opportunity to listen in on some of the research projects during the spring semester and they all sounded amazing and I wanted to be a part of that.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I gain so much insight into all of the work that goes into making a research study and to just go with the flow
FUN FACT: I love to read and go hiking on my free time.
Title of Project: “Qualitative data analysis for USFQ Ecuador and CSU Chico, identifying strategies for increasing campus-level cultural competency through community-engaged Collaborative Online International” (faculty mentor: Keiko Goto)
NAME: Sally Mead
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Nutrition & Food Sciences
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied to Adelante because I wanted to gain experience in research and work under my professor, whom I greatly admire. She clarified that everyone has to start somewhere, and if you apply yourself, anything is possible. As a low-income student supporting herself through college, this program called to me because I met the applicants' requirements and wanted research experience. I considered the summer's research opportunity a challenge and told myself I could do it.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I learned how to combat imposter syndrome, collect and code data, schedule my work remotely at my own pace, manage my time meeting participants, as well as be flexible and accommodating to them, and I learned how to interpret results professionally. I was able to ask a research question, come up with hypotheses, and analyze the results.
FUN FACT:I love snowboarding and cold weather. I'm from South Lake Tahoe, CA, and I love my community there.
Title of Project: “How are Children of Mexican Immigrants Building Resiliency in Pursuit of a Four-Year College Degree?” (faculty mentor: Judy Vang)
NAME: Letty Mejia
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Master in Social Work
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied because Dr. Judy Vang told my group about this opportunity. It felt like something big that I could not say no to. It was an opportunity I could not pass. I knew that I would learn a lot. I knew it would set me off for success if I wanted to pursue a Ph.D.I am grateful to Dr. Vang for showing me an opportunity I never knew was possible. I found research work very interesting and exciting.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I gained so much professional and personal growth. Throughout this experience, I heard so many validating and relatable stories of people like me. I gained three other best friends as we worked together and grew as a team. This opportunity has prepared me to write my thesis. I have gained many research skills I will take with me for the rest of my career.
FUN FACT: A fun fact about me is that my picture was on the local public transportation bus as a community college ad.
Title of Project: “Understanding Barriers to Usage of Basic Needs Programs at Chico State” (faculty mentor: Gabby Medina Falzone)
NAME: Dania Mabiel Moreno Ruiz
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Spanish and Int. Chicanx/Latinx Studies
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied to the Adelante Research Program because I saw a great opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and enrich my knowledge of qualitative research, which I plan to do soon.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? As I mentioned before, I want to do research soon. This opportunity has allowed me to understand better the basis of deductive and inductive coding, which has helped me improve a lot when using qualitative coding software.
FUN FACT: I speak three languages: Miskito (Nicaraguan Dialect), Spanish and English.
Title of Project: “Binge-eating alters anxiety- and depression-like behaviors in adolescent female mice” (faculty mentor: Shawn Bates)
NAME: Parnaz Boroon
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Psychological Sciences
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied to the Adelante Research Program because I know how passionate they are about helping students on campus excel in their research through various resources and opportunities.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I learned so much about other research studies conducted at Chico State. Knowing how much research is geared towards various minority groups warmed my heart and made me feel proud to be a part of this campus.
FUN FACT: I'm obsessed with my hamster, Jennie.
Title of Project: “How are Children of Mexican Immigrants Building Resiliency in Pursuit of a Four-Year College Degree?” (faculty mentor: Judy Vang)
NAME: Janette Rodriguez
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Master in Social Work
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? My classmates and I worked on a research proposal for a class assignment for our graduate research class. Our professor loved it so much and saw potential that she encouraged us to move forward and conduct actual research. Dr. Judy Vang believed in us, advocated for us, and supported us throughout this journey. I am deeply passionate about this topic because I am a child of Mexican immigrants myself, along with my colleague conducting this research. We are representing.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I have gained nothing but knowledge and opportunities to grow and learn. I have learned how to write a research proposal, conduct research, code qualitative data, and more.
FUN FACT: I completed my Bachelor’s Degree at CSU, Chico, in 2017 in Recreational Therapy.
Title of Project: “The Politics of the Streets; Irish-Americans and the New York 1863 Draft Riots” (faculty mentor: Robert Tinkler)
NAME: Riley Rosenberg
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Master in History
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM?I applied for the summer research program because it is an excellent opportunity to get ahead on a thesis project while getting paid for it.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I gained a good understanding of the topic I intend to specialize in and got to work with my incredible faculty advisor, Dr. Robert Tinkler. The experience was truly invaluable for me.
FUN FACT: I was a child actor.
Title of Project: “Investigating the co-localization of histones and mitochondria in Arabidopsis thaliana” (faculty mentor: Kristopher Blee)
NAME: Sophia Thao
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Biological Sciences
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied for the opportunity to gain experience in presenting research and to focus on making research my full-time job. I also wanted to join a community with my fellow researchers.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I was able to conduct my research in a timely manner and gather information and data that I wouldn't have otherwise during the summer.
FUN FACT: I have a phobia of frogs.
Title of Project: “Do students learn best when using hands-on artifacts?” (faculty mentor: Rachel Teasdale)
NAME: Stephen Torres
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Geoscience with a concentration in Science Education
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I'm a first-generation Hispanic student that believes there needs to be more representation of the Latinx and low-income student populations in these research programs. It allowed me to work with an amazing professor (Dr. Rachel Teasdale) and do research relevant to my future career as an educator. Also, I was crazy enough to simultaneously work on my master's degree and the Adelante Program here at Chico State during the summer.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I built a stronger connection with my mentor as she supported me through this research opportunity. Not only did I develop more relationships, but I also gained valuable knowledge that I will use in my future classrooms when I teach. I plan on using the skills I acquired from the Adelante Program and will apply these skills to my master's degree in teaching here at Chico State. (Shout out to CLASS cohort 3!) It was a pleasure being a part of this program, and I recommend students participate.
FUN FACT: I was the only geoscience student to graduate from Chico State in the spring of 2022. (Go, class of 22'!)
Title of Project: “Regulation of Manganese Oxidation in Pseudomonas putida GB-1 by a Two-component Regulatory Pathway” (faculty mentor: Kati Geszvain)
NAME: John Vang
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Biology
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I wanted to get more skills in bacterial genetics, and this program allowed me to spend the summer working on this project.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I learned more skills in bacterial genetics and molecular techniques.
FUN FACT: I like to go fishing.
Title of Project: “Uruguay as a Destination for Migration” (faculty mentor: Claudia Sofía Garriga-López)
NAME: Victoria Villaseñor
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: History and Multicultural & Gender Studies
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? This past spring semester I was fortunate enough to study abroad in Montevideo, Uruguay and while I was there, I formed relationships with people who had recently migrated to the country. I was curious to see what were some of the factors that had contributed to their decision to move to Uruguay in particular. I applied to the Adelante Research Program in hopes of amplifying migrant voices and highlighting a country that is often overlooked. The opportunity to conduct funded research on a topic I hold near and dear to my heart is one I will forever be thankful for!
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I gained confidence in my ability to conduct research and pursue a Master's Degree (and/or) Doctorate Degree. I also gained a deeper appreciation for Uruguay and a more critical understanding of the history and politics of my host country.
FUN FACT: I’m proud to say I have been a Bad Bunny fan since 2017!
Title of Project: “Intergenerational Conflict in the Hmong Community” (faculty mentor: Martin van den Berg)
NAME: Pa Yang
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Psychological Science
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM?I applied to this program because of the supportive people of this program. This program would also provide financial support and accountability for my research thesis.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? From this research opportunity, I could efficiently construct, meet, and convey my research abstract and project goals. I shared my project with a group of like-minded researchers and mentors who support each other despite the differences in majors and topics. Additionally, I learned a bit about research different students are working on or worked on, and this made me more appreciative of the breadth of research knowledge. Thankfully, I have also been reminded every research project is essential.
FUN FACT: I am an aunt to 20+ nieces and nephews!
Title of Project: “Protest & Politics, Rural Responses ” (faculty mentor: Amy Magnus)
NAME: Tatiana Ybarra
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Master in Political Science
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I wanted to explore and expand my research skills to take what I learned back to my Temoak Shoshone Reservation.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I gained valued guidance from a well-respected mentor and ongoing motivation for my passions and shared interests.
FUN FACT: I am a mama to three amazing boys who keep me going because they deserve the good things life offers.
Title of Project: “Future Temporal Perspective and Acculturation as predictors of Eating Behavior, Exercise, and Body Image among Latinx Undergraduates” (faculty mentor: Andrés García-Penagos)
NAME: Maria Zepeda
MAJOR/AREA OF STUDY: Study in Psychology, Major in Psychology and Multicultural and Gender Studies
WHY DID YOU APPLY TO THE ADELANTE RESEARCH PROGRAM? I applied to the Adelante Research Program to better understand how research works in the psychology field and have the opportunity to work with my professors outside of the classroom.
WHAT DID YOU GAIN FROM THIS RESEARCH OPPORTUNITY? I gained a better understanding of how to create a research project and the procedures to launch a study and analyze data ethically.
FUN FACT: I have a dog named Doki, a Chihuahua!
