Meet the Scholars

Paris Acquah

Hometown: Orlando, Florida
Major: Biological Science
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: To become a physician.
Research_interests: Neurobiology and molecular biology.
Community Involvement: I would love to be involved in music centered and health initiatives on campus.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Godshot
Favorite Meal: Fries and apple.

Arya Amiri

Hometown: Huntsville, Alabama
Major: Cell and Molecular Neuroscience
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: Pre-Med
Research_interests: Medical and health related research, specifically neuroscience research.
Community Involvement: I've volunteered with the homeless community and disabled children, and I plan to continue this.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The Mentalist
Favorite Meal: Kabob

Kira Bahtic

Hometown: Tampa, Florida
Major: Political Science
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: Law practice
Research_interests: Political Science, Psychology, Journalism, Law, Criminology
Community Involvement: Presidential Scholars, Greek Life, FLI
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The Bear & Momento
Favorite Meal: Chicken Caesar Wrap

Sophie Bello

Hometown: Petal, Mississippi
Major: Industrial Engineering
Minor: Political Science
Career Goals: I would like to work in healthcare from an industrial engineering standpoint by optimizing processes in hospitals or other healthcare related settings. In the future I am possibly interested in taking what I learned from working in healthcare and pursue a law degree to advocate for women's rights regarding healthcare.
Research_interests: I would like to conduct research regarding women's healthcare. Some areas I am interested in are how women's healthcare is underresearched, underfunded, and not spoken about as much as it should, which can be detrimental to women. I would like to research on why these things are happening, and research into them to prevent the cycle from continuing. I am also interested in doing research into why people don't vote and how to get more people to go out and vote as voting is one the the best ways to make your voice heard.
Community Involvement: I hope to become a university ambassador and help our community in healthcare or political advocacy.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Obsession
Favorite Meal: Colombian Empanadas

Madeline Benitez

Hometown: Miami Beach, Florida
Major: Behavioral Neuroscience
Minor: Linguistics
Career Goals: Endocrine Surgeon
Research_interests: Endocrinology, Type 1 Diabetes, Social Psychology
Community Involvement: UROP
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Vicious by V.E. Schwab
Favorite Meal: Just a massive bowl of fruit

Peter Berardi

Hometown: Holmdel, New Jersey
Major: Finance
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: My long-term goal is to build a career at a leading law firm or investment bank after attending grad school. Eventually, I'd like to leverage that experience to launch my own firm or achieve partner at my respective company.
Research_interests: I'm interested in the history of financial markets and how political landscapes affect the economies of different areas. I want to understand how governance, policy decisions, and political stability influence how markets behave.
Community Involvement: I would like to get involved with the Finance Society, a pre-law/finance fraternity, and hopefully Noles on Wall Street.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The Sopranos and Game of Thrones
Favorite Meal: Chicken Wings

Lilliana Bieda

Hometown: Melbourne, Florida
Major: Physics
Minor: Philosophy
Career Goals: To be an astronaut for NASA, and work towards the continued exploration of space
Research_interests: Anything in relation to quantum computers; the advancement of that technology will rapidly develop our society as a whole
Community Involvement: I really enjoy volunteering a children's education centers. I plan on getting involved in the Physics Student Association, and running to become an incoming class representative for Presidential Scholars
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The last book I read was Giovanni's Room by James Baldwin (fantastic read, I definitely recommend). The last movie I saw was Hereditary.
Favorite Meal: My grandmothers Pierogi with sour cream and chives

Juliana Brown

Hometown: Lake Mary, Florida
Major: Interior Design
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: As a member of an interior design firm, I seek to transform spaces into accessible, sustainable, and mood-inducing environments. Whether it’s hospitality, residential, or even yacht design, the possibilities are endless.
Research_interests: I am interested in researching the impacts and applications of design and art. However, I am also open to opportunities in fields with which I am unfamiliar.
Community Involvement: Aside from Presidential Scholars and UROP, I am looking forward to joining the FSU Interior Design Student Organization and volunteering in the Tallahassee area. I will also be supporting (and possibly joining) my fellow performers in their theatrical performances.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: On Earth We’re Briefly Gorgeous by Ocean Vuong. The last show I watched was House of the Dragon.
Favorite Meal: Chicken Parmesan

Aiden Cappiello

Hometown: Port Orange, Florida
Major: Economics
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: The end goal is to attend law school to become a corporate real estate attorney.
Research_interests: I'm super interested in economic theory, and understanding how consumer, business, and government behavior impacts economic markets on both a domestic and international level.
Community Involvement: I'm currently involved in UROP and the Presidential Scholars Program, but I love pickleball and hope to be a part of the team here at FSU.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Smallville
Favorite Meal: Avocado Egg Rolls

Mira Carpenter

Hometown: Sarasota, Florida
Major: Exploratory
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: My career goals are still evolving, but I am interested in pursuing work involving research, public policy, communications, or nonprofit and public-sector leadership.
Research_interests: My main research interests center around social inequality, media and culture, political and group behavior, and the ways institutions and technology shape society.
Community Involvement: I hope to continue working in the nonprofit sector, this time in the Tallahassee community and join student organizations involved in film, student engagement, and global service.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Eileen by Ottessa Moshfegh (book)
Favorite Meal: sashimi or arrabiatta pasta

Braden Carrel

Hometown: Orlando, Florida
Major: Exploratory
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I hope to work in either data analysis or business management
Research_interests: I am interested in how AI is optimizing businesses and how that process can be improved
Community Involvement: I am involved in UROP and plan to rush a fraternity
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Spider-Man
Favorite Meal: Seafood Boil

Kiya Chase

Hometown: St Augustine, FLorida
Major: Chinese and Neuroscience
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: Neuropsychologist
Research_interests: Neurolinguistics (anything along those lines)
Community Involvement: Presidential Scholars, UROP, planning to join the Rock Climbing Club, Child Psychology Club, and the Neuroscience Undergraduate Student Association
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Iron Man
Favorite Meal: A really good pasta from Olive Garden

Haejin Chung

Hometown: Wellington, Florida
Major: Social Work
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: At FSU, I plan on graduating with my BSW in Fall 2028 and my MSW in Spring 2030. Upon graduating, I hope to attend law school with a focus on family law. Once I've obtained my JD, I hope to serve as a guardian ad Litem, a family law attorney, and someday as a judge.
Research_interests: Child and family welfare, family law, food insecurity, animal welfare, children's education, classical mythology, Greek and Roman history, world history, and English literature.
Community Involvement: I am involved with Korean American Student Association (KASA), Asian American Student Union (AASU), and UROP. I plan to be involved with Women in Pre-Law Society, the Food for Thought Pantry, and aKDPhi.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The last book I read was Pachinko and the last show I watched was Young Sherlock.
Favorite Meal: My favorite meal is JJamppong (Korean spicy seafood noodle soup)

Lucia Crabb

Hometown: Charleston, South Carolina
Major: Biology
Minor: Psychology
Career Goals: I am excited to pursue a career in oral surgery.
Research_interests: Periodontitis and systemic diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, brain and gastrointestinal system connections.
Community Involvement: I plan to become involved in the intramural volleyball team and younglife this year. in high school, I volunteered by teaching English lessons to Spanish-speaking human trafficking survivors, I played softball, and I was co-president of Spanish Honors Society.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The last book I read was Gone Before Goodbye and the last movie I watched was Kill Bill.
Favorite Meal: My favourite meal is steak and fries.

Samih Daubney

Hometown: Melbourne, Florida
Major: Biochemistry
Minor: Public Administration
Career Goals: I want to improve and transform the field of childhood cancer. Pediatric cancer research remains severely underfunded, while families face numerous financial, emotional, and logistical challenges in caring for their children. My goal is to become a pediatric oncologist while working closely with policymakers to advocate for greater research funding, stronger family support that shape childhood cancer care.
Research_interests: Cancer and policy research.
Community Involvement: I am a strong pediatric cancer advocate. Throughout high school I raised over 45k for childhood cancer organizations and have worked with policy makers on multiple levels. I plan to continue my work at Florida State.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Game of Thrones.
Favorite Meal: Any meal my mom makes!

Teddy Dehn

Hometown: Vienna, Virginia
Major: IMS
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: International medical work.
Research_interests: Social sciences, anthropological research, biological research.
Community Involvement: Presidential scholors, UROP, IMS sports, Climbing club, Survivor club, Honors.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Lanterns
Favorite Meal: Kubbedeh Kabab

Haven Delgado Russell

Hometown: New Port Richey, Florida
Major: Nursing
Minor: Hospitality
Career Goals: Work as an Emergency Nurse Practitioner in an ER or Urgent Care Setting
Research_interests: Healthcare and developmental psychcology
Community Involvement: On campus I want to become involved in the Honors Student Association, the Next Gen Medicine Society, the Hispanic/Latine Student Union, UROP, and the ASLC Film Committee. I am also interested in volunteer service within the community.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Moonlight
Favorite Meal: Beef tacos

Jacob Diaz

Hometown: Miami, Florida
Major: Biology
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I want my career to be base off of things that I find interesting like medicine and research
Research_interests: I would love to be a part of a cancer biology research group or anything along those lines working with cells.
Community Involvement: I am trying to join some clubs along with greek life.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Tropic thunder
Favorite Meal: sushi

Alyssa Dopico

Hometown: Miami, Florida
Major: Psychology
Minor: Studio Art (potentially)
Career Goals: I hope to be an art therapist or talk therapist.
Research_interests: I am interested in why we think and feel the way we do, and right now I am hoping to be a part of a UROP project that would let me explore my questions about these interests further. I also love researching the anthropology of food and the history and current practice of cultures around the world.
Community Involvement: I have joined several art and psych related student societies to enrich my experience in the field of psychology beyond the classroom and meet others who are also interested in psych, and to gain practical art skills (and have fun doing art and meeting other artists!) I have also joined climbing club and am planning on submitting my own artwork to the Kudzu Review, and am planning on joining one of the Pschol Executive boards.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The last book I read was Greta & Valdin by Rebecca K. Reilly, and the last shows I watched were Adults and Hacks.
Favorite Meal: My favorite meal is pho noodle soup.

Billy Duhs

Hometown: East Meadow, New York
Major: Actuarial Science
Minor: General Business
Career Goals: Actuary - Marine insurance
Research_interests: To become an actuary, and to work in a field related to the ocean or beach
Community Involvement: I am joining the sailing club and professional development board
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Outer Banks
Favorite Meal: Spicy Chicken Sandwich from Chick Fil A

Colin Elfring

Hometown: Ocala, Florida
Major: Atheltic Training
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I want to continue onto medical school post-graduation and go on to be a Orthopedic Surgeon
Research_interests: I would love to research the affects of turf and its impact on the rise of injuries in athletes as well as the affect of CTE in later stages of life
Community Involvement: I have been involved with organizations such as FSU special olympics club, Engineering Brigades at FSU, UROP, American Lung Cancer Screening Initiative (ALCSI), and FSU RAM
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The last book I read was the bible and the last show I watched was Landman
Favorite Meal: My favorite meal is my moms spaghetti and meatballs or my dads steak and mashed potatoes (Vi voglio bene, mamma e papà)

Dilon Falloon

Hometown: Apopka, Florida
Major: Pre Biological Sciences
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: A career in medicine
Research_interests: Regenerative Medicine, Tissue engineering, Stem Cells
Community Involvement: No not at this point.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Last Book: My Freshman Year, Last Show: Breaking Bad
Favorite Meal: Chow Mein and Orange Chicken

Kevin Fernandez

Hometown: Miami, Florida
Major: Marketing
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I want to go to law school and possibly go into a marketing firm/company.
Research_interests: I am interested in marketing as well as law so anything in those topic
Community Involvement: I am apart of the presidential scholars program as well as the team manager of the FSU division 1 girls volleyball team
Last Book, Show, or Movie: I am currently watching glee and the last show that I watched was Heated Rivalry
Favorite Meal: I love a spicy tuna roll

Carlos Friguls

Hometown: Miami, Florida
Major: Finance
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: My career goal is to work in the finance industry, hopefully at a company like Fidelity Investments. I want to gain experience through internships and eventually build a successful career in finance.
Research_interests: I am interested in research related to finance, investing, business, and how people make financial decisions. I am also interested in learning how different economic factors affect people and businesses.
Community Involvement: I have been involved on campus through the FSU Honors Program, Presidential Scholars Program, and different campus events. I have also stayed involved in my community by volunteering with the Lucy Fernandez Foundation and helping with events and fundraising. I am looking forward to get even more involved at FSU through clubs, leadership positions, and research opportunities.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Breaking Bad
Favorite Meal: Chicken Parmesan

Julien Gazelle

Hometown: Tallahassee, Florida
Major: Economics & Undecided
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I plan to either get a Phd or go to Law School.
Research_interests: I am interested in Economics, Political Science, and History. Specifically I am interested in topics like the energy transition, connections between household income and educational achievement, and international trade.
Community Involvement: So far I am trying to get involved in FSU grass volleyball club and I work at Kumon Learning Center.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Shadows Upon Time (Sun Eater Series) by Christopher Ruocchio
Favorite Meal: Butter Chicken Curry and Naan.

Antonio Giovannone

Hometown: Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Major: Biological Sciences
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Research_interests: Antonio is interested in research involving medicine and mental health.
Community Involvement: Antonio plans to join a fraternity, play for a club/intramural soccer team, and also get involved with medical organizations or clubs at FSU.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Entourage
Favorite Meal: Vodka Pasta

Guy Hanuka

Hometown: Cresskill, New Jersey
Major: Computer Science
Minor: None right now, but want to add finance
Career Goals: My goal is to own a tech startup. I'm not sure exactly what field yet.
Research_interests: To build something real that can help others. Related to computer science/robotics.
Community Involvement: Presidential Scholar. Rushing fraternities. UROP. Want to be involved in STEM clubs and play some IM sports.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The Odyssey was the last movie I watched
Favorite Meal: Pizza

Mary Harrison

Hometown: Dunedin, Florida
Major: Finance (and Interior Architecture)
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I hope to go into construction, specifically project management
Research_interests: AI or Business
Community Involvement: Alpha Chi Omega (sorority life)
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The People We Meet on Vacation
Favorite Meal: Any sort of bowl (cuban or greek)

Jack Hayes

Hometown: Orlando, Florida
Major: Political Science
Minor: Economics
Career Goals: Undecided
Research_interests: Film/media/politics
Community Involvement: Presidential scholars and attending every movie I can at the ASLC
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Watched: Hundreds Of Beavers recently (all time favorite movie)
Favorite Meal: Whattaburger currently

Emma Huntsman

Hometown: Saint Johns, Florida
Major: Environmental Science & Policy + Economics
Minor: Spanish
Career Goals: To become an environmental lawyer or become a consultant for an international NGO.
Research_interests: Interested in researching marine ecosystems, global energy, and international development.
Community Involvement: Outside of Presidential Scholars, I am involved in the Undergraduate Research program and an ambassador for the second language acquisition network. I hope to become involved with FSView, club tennis, and participate in a summer study aborad.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: A Flower Traveled in my Blood: The Incredible True Story of the Grandmothers who Fought to Find a Stolen Generation of Children by Haley Cohen Gilliland and the last tv show I watched was Derry Girls!
Favorite Meal: The honey garlic salmon that my mom makes!

Abigail Jennings

Hometown: Lakeland, Florida
Major: Chemical Engineer
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: Earning my Masters in Chemical Engineering and my PhD in Chemistry to pursue research positions in academia.
Research_interests: Petroleum impacts on the climate and superconductivity with the MagLab.
Community Involvement: Beyond presidential scholars I hope to join Alpha Chi Sigma (the Chemical Engineering fraternity), Society of Women Engineers, the Service Board, and the Special Olympics Volunteering Club.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman
Favorite Meal: Chicken fettuccine Alfredo!

Allie Jirinec

Hometown: Lithia, Florida
Major: Economics
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: Allie is interested in getting a MBA or MS in Business Analytics after graduation and then going into a job in business management, business analytics, or something in that realm.
Research_interests: Allie is interested in exploring the psychological factors that influence economic decision-making and understanding how human behavior shapes financial and economic outcomes.
Community Involvement: UROP, FSU Presidential Scholars, The Page Turners, and Club or Intramural Volleyball.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Throne of Glass Series
Favorite Meal: Shrimp and scallop linguine alla vodka

Jordan Klonaris

Hometown: Cooper City, Florida
Major: Finance
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I want to have a successful career in business and a happy family.
Research_interests: I am interested in learning about finance and the way it impacts the world.
Community Involvement: I hope to be involved in the finance society, torch society, and I also will be involved by attending all Football and Basketball games.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Project Hail Mary
Favorite Meal: Cheeseburger and fries.

Nathan Krajicek

Hometown: Leawood, Kansas
Major: Public Health & Risk Management Insurance
Minor: Political Science
Career Goals: I want to go into public policy and law, specifically healthcare and insurance policy.
Research_interests: I am interested in researching behavioral and health economics, ADHD, Artificial Intelligence, happiness, and public policy efficacy.
Community Involvement: I'm interested in getting into the Freshman Leadership Institute, Intramural Pickleball, and Greek Life.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Book: The Road by Cormac McCarthy. Show: Modern Family
Favorite Meal: A USDA Prime Ribeye with French Fries, Asparagus, and a Coke Zero

Evelyn Kutny

Hometown: Birmingham, Alabama
Major: Dance and Neuroscience
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I hope to dance professionally in a ballet company. After my performing career, I plan to transition to a career in the healthcare field.
Research_interests: Chemistry, biology, neuroscience, sports psychology, and anything relating to medicine.
Community Involvement: I plan to get involved in the Catholic Student Union and several pre-med clubs.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Iron Man
Favorite Meal: My grandma's beef barley stew

Sydney Marchese

Hometown: King of Prussia, Pennsylvania
Major: Political Science
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I hope to continue my academic career with law school post grad, and after that I hope to pursue a career as a lawyer or legislator. My destination is not completely set yet, however I know I want to help people and continue learning about the legal system.
Research_interests: Some topics I am passionate about researching are educational advocacy, environmental policy, and women's rights.
Community Involvement: Aside from Presidential Scholars, I am involved in the Panhellenic sorority Kappa Kappa Gamma, the Fiction and Film Book Club, and plan to rush a pre-law fraternity this spring.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The last book I read was Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke, and the last movie I watched was Marty, Life Is Short.
Favorite Meal: My favorite meal is penne alla vodka with a side of garlic bread and roasted Brussel sprouts.

EvieM'ree Moore

Hometown: Jacksonville Beach, Florida
Major: Mechanical Engineering
Minor: Business and Spanish
Career Goals: My career goals include pursuing graduate school for engineering and acquiring my professional engineering license. Then, I plan to work in the biomedical industry for a few years and eventually turn my career towards humanitarian work such as with Engineers without Borders.
Research_interests: I am interested in the intersection between technology and healthcare, specifically for people with developmental and physical disabilities. I hope to research prosthetics and adaptable technologies that will improve daily life, provide comfort, and expand abilities.
Community Involvement: I am currently involved in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program and Society of Women Engineers. I hope to further my involvement in the fall with several additional organizations including Generational Relief in Prosthetics (GRIP), Engineers without Borders, and The Big Event.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: 10 Things I Hate About You
Favorite Meal: Cheese Tortellini with Ham and Peas

Griffin Muhlbach

Hometown: Overland Park, Kansas
Major: Behavioral Neuroscience
Minor: Economics
Career Goals: Physician
Research_interests: Health and wellness
Community Involvement: UROP, Catholic Noles, greek life, Seminole Booster Club, and intramural sports
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Curb Your Enthusiasm
Favorite Meal: Chicken parmesan

Allison Pate

Hometown: Ormond Beach, Florida
Major: Digital Media Production NFA (Intended double: Psychology)
Minor: Intended: Film Studies and Art Entrepreneurship
Career Goals: I want to go into the Film and television industry in production
Research_interests: Film, sociology, culture, poverty, psychology, + media
Community Involvement: I signed up for AASU, FSA, and the Animal Society. I hope to join AKDPHI and the Fiction and Film Book Club
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Slaughterhouse Five; Movie: Moonlight
Favorite Meal: Hibachi + Sushi

Grant Phillips

Hometown: Pike Road, Alabama
Major: Cell and Molecular Neuroscience
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: Pre-Med —> Doctor (Don’t know what kind yet)
Research_interests: Scientific-related fields that develop lab skills and contribute to meaningful discoveries.
Community Involvement: Greek Life (Still rushing); Campus Crusaders; Volunteering at my local church weekly as a kindergarten teacher
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Favorite Meal: Starter: Chips w/guacamole, queso, and salsa. Main course: Barbecue Platter w/side of Mac and Cheese and Green Beans

Ananya Purimetla

Hometown: Orlando, Florida
Major: Cell & Molecular Neuroscience
Minor: Chemistry
Career Goals: Physician focusing on underserved populations (e.g. low income patients)
Research_interests: Immunology, Virology, Biotechnology, and Bioengineering
Community Involvement: I'm getting involved on campus and in the community by volunteering locally, especially within clinical/healthcare settings. I'm also getting involved with FSU's wealth of scientific resources through the labs, UROP, and more. Finally, I look for artistic pursuits like orchestra and crochet.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Project Hail Mary
Favorite Meal: Pad See Ew

Joshua Read

Hometown: St. Johns , Florida
Major: Accounting
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I hope to find a career that keeps me on my toes while also being able to interact and mentor others
Research_interests: I am interested in researching psychosocial factors in different reality competition shows that cause the various game dynamics throughout the entirety of the season. Additionally, I am interested in the causes of fluctuating voter turnout on a year-to-year basis in different areas of the country.
Community Involvement: Beyond UROP, I plan to get involved with SGA, The Finance Society, Seminole Student Boosters, and the Undergraduate Law Review.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The last book I read was Washington's Farewell by John Avlon and the last show I watched was Big Brother Season 28!
Favorite Meal: My mom's spaghetti!

Tyler Resnick

Hometown: Miami, Florida
Major: International Affairs & Economics
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: law/IMF/World Bank
Research_interests: International investment and effects of global cooperation
Community Involvement: Played lots of pool at the Student Union and watched movies at the ASLC
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Dune (book) and Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Favorite Meal: Surf and Turf (med rare)

Gabby Rousseau

Hometown: Orlando, Florida
Major: Political Science
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: My current goal is to become an immigration lawyer, but I'm open to all different types of law!
Research_interests: I am interested in voting patterns, political polarization, and the ways government institutions can either reinforce or address racial inequality.
Community Involvement: I plan on joining student leadership boards and the After They Arrive initiative.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The Odyssey!
Favorite Meal: A Cava bowl!

Rebecca Rubio

Hometown: Miami, Florida
Major: Criminology
Minor: Psychology
Career Goals: I want to go to law school and work in the legal field, specifically in criminal law.
Research_interests: I am interested in social science research, like psychology and the justice system.
Community Involvement: I plan to join the Catholic Student Union, Phi Alpha Delta, and more clubs.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The last show I watched was New Girl.
Favorite Meal: Sushi

Kane Ryan

Hometown: Bradenton, Florida
Major: Political Science
Minor: Law and Society
Career Goals: I'm striving to become a litigation attorney specializing in intellectual property, entertainment law, or mergers and acquisitions.
Research_interests: My research interests center on social psychology, particularly why people choose to follow or disregard rules. In high school, I explored this through research on how knowledge and perceived legitimacy affected Florida high school coaches’ compliance with NIL regulations. At FSU, I hope to continue studying these questions with a greater focus on political science and political institutions.
Community Involvement: I am looking to become involved on campus and in the Tallahassee community through voter registration efforts, Freshman Class Council, FSU’s Institute for Governance and Civics, Student Government, and the Freshman Leadership Institute.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho and The Big Short by Adam McKay
Favorite Meal: A bowl of pineapple or anything from Bagel Bagel

Hailey Salas

Hometown: Land O Lakes, Florida
Major: Community Patient Care
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I want to go to medical school and eventually become a pediatrician.
Research_interests: Women's Health, Nutrition, Healthy Living, Child Development, Special Education, Social Work, Preventive Medicine
Community Involvement: I am currently volunteering with FSU Childcare and Early Learning Program. I am also excited to participate in UROP and be apart of the Presidential Scholars program.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Gilmore Girls
Favorite Meal: Fruit and a Chipotle Veggie Burrito

Ashton Salgado

Hometown: Orlando, Florida
Major: Environment and Society
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I aim to become an urban planner in a large city in the U.S. or abroad. When thinking about my future in urban planning, I either want to have a career in transportation, city planning, or in some way tackling the issue of hostile infrastructure.
Research_interests: Transportation, Sustainability, Fossil Fuels and Renewable Energy, Flock Cameras and Mass Surveillance, Developmental Psychology, Youth Subcultures, Sociology, Political Science
Community Involvement: I'm currently involved in UROP, but I'm hoping to join the sailing club (and go to the lakefront more often!!), Pride Student Union, Sketch Comedy, and become a news reporter for one of the campus radio/news organizations
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Don't Let the Forest in by CG Drews
Favorite Meal: Either fettuccine alfredo or my mom's pot pies.

Anika Sanka

Hometown: Tampa, Florida
Major: Political Science
Minor: Editing, Writing, and Media
Career Goals: Immigration/Family Lawyer or Investigative Journalist
Research_interests: Linguistics, Criminal Justice, Anthropology, Social Sciences and Public Policy, Media Studies
Community Involvement: Run club, hopes to join student-led publication (Pulse or FSView), Mock Trial, Book Club
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The Kite Runner
Favorite Meal: Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Gavin Schmid

Hometown: Tampa, Florida
Major: Electrical Engineering
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I plan to go to graduate school and get a master's in engineering.
Research_interests: I am participating in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, and I am interested in pursuing engineering research related to computing and sustainability. 
Community Involvement: I am planning to be involved in several engineering organizations on campus, such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and Engineering Without Borders. I also play violin in the Sinfonia orchestra.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: I last read the Poppy War Trilogy. 
Favorite Meal: Pasta

Sasha Sedykh

Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia
Major: Behavioral Neuroscience
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: Have my own research lab one day
Research_interests: Learning, memory and language and how the brain/nervous system shapes actions and emotions in people
Community Involvement: Phi Mu, UROP, hoping to join MRU
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The last book I read was Normal People by Sally Rooney.
Favorite Meal: Sushi!

Rebecca Sherman

Hometown: Hollywood, Florida
Major: History and Economics
Minor: Latin American and Caribbean Studies and Public Administration
Career Goals: Lawyer and Federal Legislator
Research_interests: Public policy, socioeconomic barriers, historical archives
Community Involvement: FSU's 78th Student Senate Officer Team, Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program, Inter-Residence Hall Council, Undergraduate Law Review, Honors Student Association
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Book: "The Jungle" by Upton Sinclair Movie: "Pitch Perfect"
Favorite Meal: Sushi

Arianna Slaughter

Hometown: Flagler Beach, Florida
Major: Finance
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: Although I am currently a finance major, I hope to go into a career focused on the analytical side of business including actuarial science, risk management, and accounting.
Research_interests: I am interested in researching a range of topics. As a finance major, I am drawn to researching economic disparities within our financial system and working to understand how this can influence systemic inequality. I have also always been interested in researching STEM and environmental risks and determining how I can work to create a more sustainable life for myself and future generations.
Community Involvement: I am looking forward to getting involved in a mix of leadership and service opportunities. I have already begun volunteering on the campus and virtually through organizations like Cancer Kids First. To go alongside my academic goals in Finance, I look forward to connecting with groups like Women in Business while also joining service organizations like The Big Event. Additionally, I aim to stay active and engaged with the campus by participating in intramural sports or a local running club.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The 100
Favorite Meal: Acai bowls w/ extra nutella

Kieran Smith

Hometown: Key West, Florida
Major: Civil Engineering
Minor: None, but interested in Finance/Entrepreneurship
Career Goals: Build sustainable infrastructure in low-lying communities such as Key West.
Research_interests: I am interested in flood mitigation, construction, and sustainable infrastructure.
Community Involvement: Presidential Scholars and UROP. I am interested in getting involved with Peak Pulse Tallahassee, IM Soccer, Greek Life, and more.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The last movie I watched was Spiderman: Brand New Day, and I am currently reading The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins
Favorite Meal: Chicken Fried Rice

Brodan Tiffany

Hometown: Tampa, Florida
Major: Finance
Minor: Political Science
Career Goals: My goal is to earn an MBA and then attend law school, where I hope to specialize in real estate law.
Research_interests: I am interested in researching child psychology and the factors that influence development during childhood.
Community Involvement: Currently I participate in Urop, Honors Legal Scholars, and planning on rushing a Fraternity in the upcoming weeks. Eventually throughout the year I will get involved with things such as the Finance Society, Catholic Noles, and Club Soccer.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Severance
Favorite Meal: Shrimp Tacos

Ruby Vanderwyst

Hometown: Melbourne, Florida
Major: Meteorology
Minor: Thinking of double majoring with Environmental Science and Policy
Career Goals: Environmental Attorney
Research_interests: Environmental efforts, humanitarian efforts
Community Involvement: I helped at the FSU Food bank
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Et si c'était toi? by Clair Delune
Favorite Meal: Pot stickers

Sarah Vinson

Hometown: Barrington, Illinois
Major: Biomedical Engineering
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I plan to work in tissue engineering or advanced prosthetics in the future, and may potentially pursue a PhD after undergrad as a pathway to specialized expertise.
Research_interests: Tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, biomechanics, prosthetics
Community Involvement: I hope to get involved with GRiP, BMES, and FSU Fencing Club.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: White Chicks
Favorite Meal: Tuna and avocado sushi with a side of Coca Cola

Logan Waddell

Hometown: Orlando, Florida
Major: Biochemistry
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: After graduation, Logan hope to attend medical school and become a physician.
Research_interests: His research interests include anything in realm of medicine, genetics, or biochemistry.
Community Involvement: Presidential Scholars, Catholic Noles, and UROP so far.
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Good Will Hunting
Favorite Meal: Flippers Pizza

Kristian Walker

Hometown: Valrico, Florida
Major: Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences Clinical Professor
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: Anesthesiologist
Research_interests: Veteran Mental Health
Community Involvement: MRU
Last Book, Show, or Movie: Obsession
Favorite Meal: Meat lovers pizza

Ashley White

Hometown: Middleburg, Florida
Major: English Education
Minor: N/A
Career Goals: I have always known I'm supposed to be a teacher. What form that takes I am excited to see! I intend to complete my combined BS/MS pathway in English Education at FSU, then move into a teaching position, potentially at a high school level. However, I am passionate about teaching all ages, and have considered pursuing further education in order to instill an appreciation of reading and writing in post-secondary students as well.
Research_interests: I’m open to gaining research experience in multiple fields, from the Social Sciences to the Fine Arts. Where subtopics of various fields intersect with education is what interests me the most. In particular, I want to know more about how individuals engage with information and interact with literary works through historical, cultural, and educational lenses.
Community Involvement: I am currently involved with UROP (the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program), ReachFSU (a campus ministry), and the Page Turners book club. But I'm looking to get involved elsewhere on campus with my interests in music and service!
Last Book, Show, or Movie: The Wind in the Willows
Favorite Meal: Schnitzel, spätzle, and sauerkraut