STEM Scholars in the Passionate Leaders Program

The Passionate Leaders Project (PLP) supports undergraduate students seeking to enrich their academic and professional interests by funding learning opportunities beyond the boundaries of the traditional classroom. Students may request up to $4,000 through the PLP to fund a variety of activities, including, but not limited to: global experiences, research, internships, service projects, and creative endeavors. For more information, visit simmons.edu/plp.

Bethany Arabic

Bethany Arabic, Biochemistry major and Biostatistics minor, Class of 2021

What is your project?

My PLP project focuses on the effects of three PFAS (per and polyfluoroalkyl substances) known as PFOA, PFOS, and GenX. These are persistent, organic pollutants, which have been used to manufacture a variety of products from Teflon and military equipment to dental floss and microwave popcorn bags. The most common sources of exposure are contaminated food and drinking water. These chemicals bioaccumulate in humans and remain in the body for about ten years. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated links between PFAS exposure and various pathologies, however, the molecular mechanisms between these correlative studies are poorly understood. Exposure to these pollutants has shown links to infertility, bodyweight reduction, hormone disruption, hepatic cancers, testicular cancers, and endometriosis. There is still much to be learned about the possible cellular mechanisms of action of PFAS. Overall, through scratch wound assays, a comprehensive literature review, and data analysis, my PLP project works to address the effects of PFOA, PFOS, and GenX on cell growth, movement, gene expression, and overall human health. We suspect PFOA, PFOS, and GenX increase the expression of genes involved in cell growth and movement, leading to the adverse effects seen, so I am working to identify these key changes in gene expression.

What made you want to apply to PLP?

I started working with Dr. Cassandra Saitow on this research in May 2018. I felt the Passionate Leaders Program would be a natural extension of this project and would give me the opportunity to dive even deeper into this research. I was so thankful a program like this existed at Simmons, where students can pursue their own projects that excite them.

What did you get out of this experience?

Dr. Saitow and I composed a scientific review article, which encompasses the results of this project and we are currently searching for journals to publish it in. The PLP allowed me to gain experience with scientific writing and communication. My favorite part of the program was how it permitted me to develop a relationship with my mentor, Dr. Saitow. This mentoring experience is so valuable and something that is often lacking at larger institutions. I appreciate that PLP allowed for my mentor to not only provide me with advice about the project but also career advice.

What advice do you have for younger students?

Have confidence in yourself! Always apply for different programs, like PLP and SURPASs (Summer Undergraduate Research Program at Simmons). Sometimes students are scared to apply to these programs for fear of rejection. However, some of the best and most rewarding experiences, which have allowed me to grow the most as a student and leader, are because I stepped out of my comfort zone and submitted applications (no matter how scary it can be). My last piece of advice is to use your Simmons network and upperclassman students as mentors. You can always feel free to reach out to me about applying to different research programs (I have also had summer research experiences at Brown University as well and can speak to the process of applying externally for research experiences.). Do not limit your options!

Kathryn Mansour, Biochemistry major and Public Health minor, Class of 2021

What is your project?

I am currently involved in two projects with the Priebe Laboratory at Boston Children’s Hospital. Both projects involve evolved variants of members of Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bcc), which is a collection of pathogenic genomovars that have high comorbidity and co-mortality rates amongst patients with cystic fibrosis. These variants carry mutations that increase resistance to both antibiotics and disinfectants. The first study is a genomic characterization of a Burkholderia contaminans outbreak and the second study is an investigation into the relationship between two mutant genes in Burkholderia dolosa.

What made you want to apply to PLP?

Many internships available in hospital settings require students to either find their own funding or students are compensated with course credits only. The PLP grant offered me the chance to gain the experience I was seeking, earn course credits required for my senior capstone, and provided me with a stipend.

What did you get out of this experience?

I have gained so much from being a PLP scholar and working in the Priebe Laboratory. This experience helped me navigate the process of applying for grants, which includes developing a budget and writing impact statements. In addition, I am continuously learning new lab techniques through this internship, such as qPCR, macrophage invasion assays, minimum inhibitory concentration inhibitoconcentration assays, and cloning techniques. I have also been able to further develop my communication skills by presenting my research in our weekly lab meetings and working one-on-one with my supervisor to edit drafts of my senior capstone papers.

What advice do you have for younger students?

Working in an encouraging environment, where I feel free to ask questions and make mistakes, is more important to me than anything else. I would encourage students to focus on finding opportunities where they feel comfortable learning and are supported by mentors that both challenge and uplift them. I would also encourage students to reach out to their professors and classmates, because they can help you navigate finding internships and other opportunities, such as the PLP. Also, keep in mind that your path is your own and it is important not to compare yourself to others as you look for internships, thesis placements, and other opportunities.