University of South Florida Honors College 2017 MOSAIC

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA

HONORS COLLEGE 2017

MOSAIC

HONORS COLLEGE 1

A Message from the

PHOTOS USF Honors College Dean Charles Adams, left, and USF Provost Ralph Wilcox lead new Honors students on the Honors Convocation walk held each fall at USF Tampa.

Detail of “Forum I” - mosiac art by Joe Testa-Secca that adorns the Allen Building, current home of USF’s Honors College.

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DEAN

ACH MORNING WHEN I arrive at the Honors College I walk past a pair of ceramic mosaics that flank the entry to the courtyard of the Allen Building.

Titled “Forum I” and “Forum II”, they were created by Tampa artist Joe Testa-Secca and installed in 1960, the year that the university first opened its doors. I rarely walk past them without slowing down or stopping to appreciate their beauty. Rich fields of varying shades of blue, green, and red jostle each other, forming abstract shapes that one may easily imagine to be people flowing together and apart in an open space of exchange – a forum. Both mosaic panels speak of thought and action, with dark masses pushed together to suggest conversations alternating with open fields of blue evoking reflection. Together, they express the essence of a university, where the quiet work of scholarship complements collaboration and debate.

I can’t imagine a better gateway to the Honors College, or a better inspiration for the title of this new annual devoted to telling the Honors College story. As the following pages will illustrate, the Honors College is itself a

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kind of mosaic. Our students come from every academic college on campus, and nearly every major. Our faculty is drawn from a wide variety of disciplines – art history, physics, anthropology, sociology, philosophy, literature, urban planning, architecture, and environmental sciences. And our interdisciplinary curriculum spans the natural sciences, the humanities, the social sciences, and the arts.

Like a mosaic, the total Honors College experience is greater than the sum of all these disciplinary parts. Out of the dynamic interaction of multiple perspectives in our classrooms and in the hallways of the Allen Building comes an educational experience that is at once transformative and liberating. Through lively discussions of important topics around seminar tables with peers from many backgrounds, our students learn to appreciate the way the complex problems facing their generation require solutions that draw on a broad array of expertise and viewpoints. As they work together to address these challenges, they learn to respect ways of seeing and doing very different from their own.

Future engineers learn to collaborate with future

entrepreneurs, and future doctors learn the value of incorporating humanistic knowledge into their role as healers. They learn the value of breaking down walls between disciplines in order to create new and powerful arrangements of people and ideas.

Our “forum” is a creative and dynamic space in which students and faculty are invited to connect things often viewed as distinct: research and action, global knowledge and local engagement, the arts and the sciences, the classroom and the world. This sustained effort to see the larger patterns of which their personal convictions are just one aspect – the effort, that is, to see their lives as parts of the mosaic of an interconnected world – prepares them to be better leaders in their chosen fields. Just as importantly, this way of seeing prepares them to be lifelong learners, endlessly curious about the world and eager to discover more of its rich meaning.

When Sarina Masso Maldonado (pictured below), a 2017 Honors College graduate in Biomedical Sciences, wanted her honors thesis to express what the College had meant to her, she chose for her medium a mosaic. She donated “Portrait: My USF” to the College before going on to medical school at Indiana University; today it hangs in our lobby and graces the cover of this

Mosaic

HONORS ANNUAL CONTENTS

2017

2 Message from the Dean 3 Contents 4 New Living-Learning Community 6 Tampa Museum of Art Class 8 Giving Back 9 Global Award for Advising 10 Meet the Faculty 12 International Photo Competition 16 Support for Scholarships 18 Learning at Tampa General Hospital 20 Office of National Scholarships 21 Frost Scholars 22 Peer Mentors Help Students Adjust 24 Focus on Research 26 Faculty Research and Leadership 28 Study Abroad Trips 42 Study Away Trip 44 Alumni Spotlights

annual. Sarina’s story, and those of others that you will read about in the pages that follow, are just a few of the facets that make up the whole of the Honors College mosaic. It’s a picture that we are very proud of, and one that gives us great hope for the future.

Charles Adams, Dean Honors College University of South Florida HONORS COLLEGE 3

Honors Students

LIVE AND LEARN

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fter a number of years in Juniper Hall, the Honors College Living Learning Community moved to brand-new Summit Hall in the fall of 2017. Summit is part of The Village complex, the largest Public-Private Partnership in Florida higher education to date, featuring state-of-theart dining and recreational facilities alongside residential halls embodying the very latest and best in student housing. Two residential towers are now open, Summit and Beacon Halls, with three more scheduled to open in the fall of 2018. Honors College students currently enjoy “The Hub” dining hall and “The Fit” fitness center, and soon will have shops catering to student interests and a brandnew Publix supermarket, all within a three-minute walk from Summit Hall. Next year, 500 Honors students will live in Summit.

All of these opportunities make the Honors College Living Learning Community an ever more exciting place for our students to live and learn. Summit offers dedicated classroom and study spaces, social areas, resident counselors responsible for programming, and an Honors faculty member in residence. This year’s resident faculty is Dr. Michael Cross, who lives in Summit with his wife and son. His presence is an invaluable resource for our students, providing a strong bond between their life in the residence hall and the College’s academic initiatives. n The Village was the perfect site for the inaugural meeting in the fall of 2017 of the Honors College Dean’s Council, a group of alumni and friends of the College whose charge is two-fold: to be a mentoring and networking resource for current students, and to bring other alumni and friends into a closer relationship with the College. We look forward to many more opportunities to bring our successful alums into the Honors College Living Learning Community to advise and inspire the next generation of leaders! n Summit Hall is an exciting enhancement of the College’s learning environment, but more is to come. Initial conversations are underway regarding a new home for the Honors College on campus, a building designed to provide our remarkable students with a space in which their curiosity, creativity, and intellectual ambition can find full expression. By the time you read the next Mosaic, we expect to have much more to tell you about this dynamic next chapter in the College’s history. Until then, enjoy the stories to follow, and know that this is just a sampling of what our students, faculty, advisors, and staff achieved in 2017.

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HONORS COLLEGE

2017

BY THE NUMBERS

2,282 Total Honors College students

3.67 Average GPA

234 Students with a 4.0 GPA

70 Majors represented

69% Students in STEM

21% Students with minors

10% International students

438 2017 graduates PHOTO and ILLUSTRATIONS The Honors College Dean’s Council met for the first time in 2017. Inaugural members include (from left to right) Dean Adams, Patrick Mullen ’16, Nevena Pehar ’12, Brian Fender ’96, Lisa Provenzano Heugel ’93, and Terrell Sessums (not pictured). This group of

Honors alumni and friends have volunteered their time and talents to support our students.

Architectural renderings of the USF Cafe on Holly Drive and Phase I of The Village housing community at USF Tampa.

28% Pell eligible students

HONORS COLLEGE 5

Students Volunteer in Program that

HELPS PATIENTS COMMUNICATE BY EXPLORING ART

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OR PEOPLE LIVING WITH dementia, depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) it can often be difficult to express thoughts and feelings. Connections, a joint program between the University of South Florida Honors College and the Tampa Museum of Art, is working to help address these challenges. The program trains Honors College students to engage museum visitors in interactive conversations around works of art using a method that has been shown to improve both mental and social well-being.

“In addition to the debilitating mental and physical effects of these conditions, people diagnosed with these illnesses often experience social isolation as well,” says Dr. Catherine Wilkins, a faculty member in the USF Honors College and instructor for Connections.

“Allowing individuals to express their thoughts and feelings by interpreting works of art in a public setting is an innovative approach to help these patient groups.”

Dr. Wilkins explains that the program was inspired

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Allowing individuals to express their thoughts and feelings by interpreting works of art in a public setting is an innovative approach to helping these patient groups.”

– Dr. Catherine Wilkins, Honors College

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by the “Meet Me at MOMA Alzheimer’s Project” at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, a program that strives to make art accessible to people with dementia.

Dr. Michael Tomor, the director of the Tampa Museum of Art, approached USF about the possibility of starting a similar initiative within the museum. “He thought our Honors students would be a great fit because of their strong work ethic, passion for community service, and interest in research,” says Dr. Wilkins.

The Connections program began in 2015 and just finished its second full year.

35 Honors College students participated in the program during the 2016-17 academic year. These students, who are pursuing a variety of majors, were trained in the Visual Thinking Strategies (VTS) method of art exploration, which allows participants to give their own personal interpretations of works of art without fear of judgment or failure. Research from other museums reveals that this is an effective way for people with Alzheimer’s, depression, and PTSD, to access and express memories, practice or regain their communication skills, externalize emotions, relieve stress and anxiety, and promote positive emotions.

“It was really amazing to see what facilitated discussion can do for both the members of the audience and the facilitator,” says Sara Mustafa, a senior majoring in Biomedical Sciences. “While acting as a facilitator I became more aware of how my actions, even as small as a certain facial expression or body language, could affect others.”

In addition to volunteering with the Connections program, Mustafa was also preparing to take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). She remembers that she and another classmate who was also studying for the test experienced that “practicing VTS helped us notice details in passages and helped us better our scores on practice exams.”

Brittney Gaudet, a biomedical sciences alumna who participated in Connections during its first year, fondly remembers how impactful the program was for one particular Alzheimer patient who, upon joining the program, could not even remember her name.

After exploring the galleries, however, and engaging in group discussions, the woman “was overflowing with words. She spoke of long car rides through valleys with

her husband, and articulated ideas in full and complete sentences,” says Gaudet. “In all, this program is worth every minute of the work it requires, and I would recommend it to anyone who wants to work with patients in their future.”

The program has kicked off its third year and Wilkins has high hopes for its continued success.

“In a short period of time, we’ve seen remarkable benefits for museum patrons and students alike, and outstanding undergraduate research emerging from the program,” she says. “An intergenerational service learning opportunity like Connections is something unique that USF offers students, and it is making a difference in the community. We are looking forward to continuing our partnership with the museum for years to come.”

PHOTOS Top // Honors College students Hannah Skiff and Mikaela Massey practice VTS with their classmates.

Bottom // Honors College students lead a tour in the Connections Program at the Tampa Museum of Art. HONORS COLLEGE 7

Honors College

GIVES BACK

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AST YEAR APPROXIMATELY 1,000 refugee children arrived in the Tampa Bay area.

The Honors College teamed up with the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) Refugee Services Program and the university’s departments of Public Health, Global Health, Anthropology, and Psychology to make these youths’ first winter in America a warmer one.

The groups placed collection boxes across the campus to accept donations of coats, jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, and hoodies for ages ranging from infants to 18-year-olds.

“At one point we had to call for a special pick-up because our box in the college lobby was overflowing,” says Dean Adams.

“I am proud that our students, faculty, and staff have been able to help the refugee community in this way.”

Giving back is part of the fabric of the USF Honors College.

Each student completes a minimum of 50 hours of community service and many groups organize and participate in a variety of charitable programs. For example, our Provost’s Scholars (students in the accelerated three-year degree program housed in the college) raise money each year for Relay for Life, a nationwide cancer research fundraiser, and have been one of the largest supporters of the event at USF. Similarly, students in the Jenkins Scholars Program (funded 8 UNIVERSITY of SOUTH FLORIDA

by Publix Super Markets Charities for high achievers with the strength to overcome adversity) spent time reading to Hillsborough County preschoolers as part of the R’Club, an early learning non-profit, last year.

Another group of students contributing to our area are the Holcombe Scholars. Housed in the Honors College, this scholarship is awarded to first-generation students with impressive community service records. Last year the group volunteered with Tampa Bay Watch, an organization dedicated to the protection and restoration of the Tampa Bay estuary.

The Holcombe Scholars worked to clean up shores to help facilitate the growth of local oyster colonies.

“Whether it’s through time, talent, or funds, our Honors College faculty, staff, and students help build our community,” says Dean Adams. “They truly personify the ideals of our college.”

Honors Advisors Praised for Advancing

INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION

O PHOTOS Above left // Destiny Moore, Holcombe Scholar and Mass Communications and Advertising alumna, participates in a Tampa Bay Watch project to improve the health of local oyster beds.

Above right // USF Honors College students and staff partnered with other groups across campus to raise donations of warm weather coats and jackets for Tampa Bay’s refugee families.

Above center // Casey Semos, Jenkins Scholar and Health Sciences major, donates her time reading to local preschoolers at the R’Club.

NE OF THE MANY benefits of the Honors College is the professional advising staff that offers personalized plans for students throughout their undergraduate career.

The number one priority of this nine-person team is to build relationships with students to understand their passions and dreams in order to help them achieve their goals. This work includes assisting students in their international studies and helping them to acquire a global perspective in their work.

At the USF Global Achievement Awards ceremony for 2016-17, Reggie Lucien, Honors College Associate Director for International and Residential Programs, was presented an award by President Judy Genshaft for his individual contributions to global awareness on campus.

In addition, the Honors College advising staff as a whole was recognized with an award for their advancement of international education at USF. Cayla Lanier, Director of Advising, accepted the award on behalf of the advisors.

“Creating global citizens is a priority for the university and one that we have always believed is especially important for Honors College students,” says Lanier.

Honors advisors regularly support faculty leading international programs by attending

a spring semester class that prepares students for the experience and then traveling with the group in the summer.

“Our advisors have seen up close how these international experiences can change these students and their future paths,” says Lanier. “A pre-med student, after leaving the country, can become someone who is committed to improving global health. This transformation excites us as advisors and inspires us to continue supporting these programs.”

For this reason, a global experience is required of all Honors College students.

Students meet this requirement by studying a foreign language, studying abroad, or participating in other globallyfocused activities.

“It is important for students who are going to become leaders of the twentyfirst century to have that perspective and better understand how to work with others from different backgrounds and be openminded to new experiences,” says Lucien, who has supported faculty leading Honors students on eleven different study abroad experiences.

“I have seen for myself how lifechanging these opportunities are for students,” says Lucien. “It is one thing to learn about another culture in a classroom and quite another to actually go and experience it.”

Right // From left to right: Roger Brindley, USF System Vice President for USF World; Reggie Lucien, Honors College Associate Director for International and Residential Programs; Judy Genshaft, USF System President; Cayla Lanier, Honors College Director of Advising; Charles Adams, Honors College Dean; and Ralph Wilcox, USF System Provost and Executive Vice President.

HONORS COLLEGE 9

MEET THE

HONORS

COLLEGE

Faculty

Dr. Shawn Bingham PhD Sociology, American University M Ed, University of Maryland College Park BA Social Science, Flagler College

The assistant dean of the Honors College, Dr. Bingham teaches courses on consumer culture. A sociologist of culture, he is currently working on a book about the tiny housing movement and has published books in the areas of humor, disability studies, and political art. Whether he is teaching about humor or consumer culture, he want students to leave with an understanding of how efficiency, standardization, and more McDonald-ized approaches to anything – education, careers, dating, family relationships – robs their lives of very rich meaning and deep experiences. Outside of the Honors College, he has a very active family at home – two daughters who are seven and 11 and a spouse. For hobbies, he has been learning finger-style guitar picking and aspires to delve into woodworking.

Dr. Alan Bush PhD Community and Regional Planning, University of Texas MS Sustainable Systems, University of Michigan BA Global Politics and Economics, Pomona College

Dr. Bush is a faculty member who focuses on immersive, project-based courses that allow students to collaborate, explore, test, fail, and learn.

He teaches a range of classes, including Sustainability Practice, Cities of the Global South, Wicked Problems in Social Change, and Geographies of Transformation. Before joining USF in 2016, Dr. Bush worked for more than ten years on projects fostering community resilience. These projects spanned four continents, and afforded him 10 UNIVERSITY of SOUTH FLORIDA

the opportunity to work with the social sector, corporations, and higher education.

His current research includes a National Science Foundation (NSF)- funded project on sea level rise in Tampa Bay, which includes building a computational model capable of generating plausible future scenarios in response to Sea Level Rise.

Dr. Michael Cross PhD Applied Physics, USF BS Computer Science, University of Texas at San Antonio

Dr. Cross is a permanent faculty member in the Honors College who has been teaching in the college since 2014. He enjoys teaching courses on a broad array of topics including creativity, innovation, interdisciplinary research, and community-engaged research. Mirroring this, his research interests range widely, from biomedical engineering to behavioral economics, and anthropology to astrobiology. He is an author on several peer-reviewed publications focused on 3D bioprinting platforms, has two patents pending, and has received grant funding to pursue commercial development of technology. With ten years in the corporate world, six years in a research lab, and five years in the classroom, his research and professional focus can best be summarized as problem solving involving complex systems of people and things.

Dr. Lindy Davidson PhD Communication, USF MDiv Divinity, Reformed Theological Seminary BA Communication Arts, Belmont University

Dr. Davidson is a visiting faculty member in the Honors College and enjoys teaching courses in Global Health, End-of-Life, and Disability. She has

led the Honors College study abroad health service trips to the Dominican Republic three times (and counting)! She designed a semester-long course that culminates in the ten-day trip, where students engage in an immersive experience in culture and global health by volunteering in mobile medical clinics, working on sustainable projects related to food security and other health issues, and improving Spanish language skills. In December of 2017, Dr. Davidson was selected for the Initiative Award by the Kerolle Initiative for Community Health in Sosúa, Dominican Republic. In 2016, she received the Arthur P. Bochner Award for Outstanding Achievement in Doctoral Studies; and in 2013, she received funding for her dissertation research through a competitive assistantship with the Center for Hospice, Palliative Care and End-of-Life Studies at USF, where she is now a member of the Executive Committee.

Professor Atsuko Sakai MArch Architecture, University of New Mexico BA Environmental Design, Kyoto City University of Arts

Professor Sakai is a faculty member in the Honors College who enjoys teaching courses in Acquisition of Knowledge; Geographic Perspectives – Japan; Mandala: The Art and Science of Composition; Design Formula: Human/Nature/Objects/ Ideas; and Illumination – Installation: Playing with Light and Shadow. She enjoys teaching in the Honors College because of the close community of all members including students, faculty, advisors, administrators, staff, and the team at the Office of National Scholarships.

Professor Sakai looks forward to leading Honors students to Japan in 2018 as part of her Geoperspectives Course. She has a background in fine arts, design and architecture and worked for more than ten years at architectural design firms in Washington DC and Albuquerque.

Professor Ulluminair Salim ABD Sociology, University of California San Francisco MPH Public Health, Johns Hopkins BA Social Welfare, University of California Berkeley

Professor Salim is a fulltime faculty member in the Honors College and teaches courses at the intersection of science and society, including Science, Art, and Justice: A Social Autopsy; Beasts and Burdens: Gender Politics in the Global South; and Narrative Medicine: Trauma and Transformation. Her commitment to public health stems from her personal experience as a family caregiver and her scientific study of the social and structural determinants of health. She aspires for her students to leave her classroom feeling more empowered, more socially responsible/aware, and more open-minded and curious about others’ lived experiences. Finally, her goal as an educator is to help students recognize their own unique gifts and leverage those gifts to create more compassion in the world.

Dr. Holly Donahue Singh PhD and MA, Anthropology, University of Virginia BA Religious Studies, Kenyon College

A new faculty member in the Honors College, Dr. Donahue Singh enjoys leading courses such as Fertility and the Future, and Histories of Healing in South Asia.

One of her favorite things about her area of study in anthropology is ethnographic fieldwork, which she describes as spending extended periods of time learning with and from people who might seem ordinary and boring, but are actually full of insights into the diverse possibilities of human life. Long-term research in northern India grounds her scholarly work, which emphasizes women’s

situated perspectives on reproduction, kinship, and health. Dr. Donahue Singh regularly draws on global and applied perspectives on health, healing, and culture to analyze contemporary and historical circumstances. Beyond the Honors College, she enjoys traveling and spending time with friends and family.

Dr. Christopher Stroop PhD Modern Russian History, Stanford BA History and German, Ball State University

A visiting faculty member, Dr. Stroop enjoys teaching the courses Russia Between East and West, and Acquisition of Knowledge.

His educational background includes a dissertation about Russian religious philosophers’ responses to the First World War in which he studied modern Christian thought as religious ideology and looked at its social and political impact. Currently, he is researching the impact of Russian Christian ideas about Russian history and Communism on 20th-century Western Christian thought and anti-Communism. In his free time, he contributes original work to his blog on his website (chrisstroop.com) and publishes freelance writing and policy research.

Dr. Catherine Wilkins PhD Interdisciplinary History, Tulane University MA Art History, Tulane University BA Humanities, USF

Teaching in the Honors College for three years, Dr. Wilkins enjoys leading courses in Arts and Humanities, Capstone, and Acquisition of Knowledge. Her “signature course” is entitled Connections, a course she teaches at the Tampa Museum of Art where students learn to facilitate

interactions with art for people dealing with Alzheimer’s disease, depression, PTSD, and other mental health conditions. In all her classes, Dr. Wilkins strives to communicate her love of culture to students, encouraging them to view artworks not as isolated objects or rarefied artifacts, but as intimate vessels of communication with the ability to connect us to one another and deepen our understanding of the human experience. Dr. Wilkins is passionate about civic engagement, and expresses this commitment through teaching and activism for causes such as animal rights and environmental issues. Outside of the Honors College, she enjoys spending time on the beach and keeping up with contemporary literature and film.

Dr. Benjamin Young PhD Philosophy, USF BA Psychology and Philosophy, Eckerd College

A permanent faculty member in the Honors College who has been teaching in the college since 2008, Dr. Young takes pride in the fact he rarely teaches the same class twice, with new topics motivated by particular research projects and the interests and needs of the students and the college. He is particularly interested in researching aspects of our lives that are closest to us – emotions, desires, memories, perceptions, habits, cognition, etc. – and how these together work to shape our experience with others within various environments and over time. Outside of the Honors College, he enjoys traveling and likes to put himself in situations in which his ideas, abilities, and expectations are at risk, and so from which he might learn better and more adequate ideas and skills.

HONORS COLLEGE 11

International Experiences, Global Vision

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PHOTO COMPETITION

2017

HONORS COLLEGE

HONORS COLLEGE 13

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TOP CONTEST

WINNERS

Photos

3 IN FALL 2017, THE HONORS COLLEGE Student Council sponsored its annual international photo contest, in which students were encouraged to submit a photo taken while studying abroad. More than 50 students entered the contest and each image was posted to the Honors College Facebook page where the number of “likes” determined the winners.

More than 4,000 votes were cast. The winning image, “Reaching for the Sky,” was taken by Honors College sophomore, Felipe Guell Bernardi, on Taishan Mountain in Jinan, Shandong, China.

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“We are thrilled to see the great images submitted by our students,” says Honors College Dean, Dr. Charles Adams. “The photos capture scenes from across the map and reinforce our commitment to global studies.”

Bernardi won a $100 Honors College scholarship and the top images were turned into canvases that now grace the walls of the College. In addition, the College created a 2018 photo calendar using the winning images and are selling them for $10 each with all proceeds going to Relay For Life, a nationwide fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.

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1) “Reaching the Sky” by Felipe Guell Bernardi | Taishan Mountain,

Jinan, Shandong, China 2) “Fall Beneath the Clouds” by Caleb Hall | Gyeongbokgung Palace,

Seoul, South Korea 3) “The Pursuit of Knowledge” by Teresa Kee | Trinity College, Dublin 4) “The Italian Landscape” by Ryan Grabau | Cinque Terre, Italy 5) “Ayninakuy” by Rhea Bhatt | Parque de la Papa, Pisac, Peru 6) “Mt. Ausungate, Peru” by Ian Sanders | Mt. Ausungate, Peru 7) “A Morning in Bremen” by Jessica Finney | Bremen, Germany 8) “Wild Horses” by Lora Bishop | Dover, England 9) “Snowdonia” by Talha Syed | Mt.Snowden, Betws-y-Coed, Wales 10) “Laugavegur, Iceland, 2017” by Obada Kattih | Iceland

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Support for Honors Scholars ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIPS

DR. CAROLINE HONCULADA AND HER HUSBAND, DR. ALLAN HONCULADA, fund scholarships in the USF Honors College because they know first-hand the true value of philanthropy and the life-changing power of education.

From early on as a child in the Philippines, Caroline Honculada always had a passion for medicine. But as one of seven children, she knew that funding her way through medical school would not be easy. “My father encouraged me to consider nursing because it would be more realistic to afford that schooling,” says Honculada, “but I truly had a calling to be a doctor.”

She worked hard and pursued scholarships that allowed her to graduate with her Doctor of Medicine degree. She and her husband migrated to America to pursue their careers in healthcare.

“It was difficult at first,” she says. “When we initially got to the United States we were lucky to have relatives in Chicago who let us stay with them.

We worked in factories and grocery stores while we waited to be accepted into a program here. We know how it feels to be poor and the strength that kept us going was our education.”

Now both successful doctors in Winter Haven, FL (Caroline Honculada is a Gastroenterologist and Allan Honculada is a Pain Management specialist) the couple funds the Honculada Family Endowed Scholarship in the USF Honors College. This scholarship helps motivated students in the Honors College who need financial support.

“We want to help motivated students who have big dreams of success and who take education seriously,” says Honculada. “It brings us great joy as donors to see these scholars pursue and live out their dreams.”

The Honculadas have two sons, one currently in the USF Honors College and one who recently

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graduated. “It is important in our culture to support a close-knit community,” says Honculada. “We’ve found through our children’s experiences that the USF Honors College is such a place, where talented students have vast opportunities to learn and grow and the faculty and staff go the extra mile to make sure that their students succeed.”

She and her husband regularly receive thank you letters from their recipients, and Honculada specifically remembers one meeting with a student who put into words why it is so important to give back. “We were at a lunch seated next to a young man who was a recipient of our scholarship,” she says. “He is in medical school now and told me that someday he’s going to be successful like me and donate back to those pursuing their education. That really felt good.”

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We want to help motivated students who have big dreams of success and who take education seriously.”

– Dr. Caroline Honculada, MD

PHOTO Drs. Caroline and Allan Honculada at home with their two sons, Angelo and Aaron.

HONORS COLLEGE 17

Student Research:

SHADOWING PATIENTS AT TAMPA GENERAL HOSPITAL

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EAR, PAIN, CONFUSION ... these are all feelings experienced by patients waiting in the Emergency Room (ER). The ER employees, including the attending physicians, tirelessly work to understand their medical conditions, but could they better serve the patients by also understanding the emotional state and communication challenges of those they help? That is a question that USF Honors College students are exploring as part of a class that includes patient shadowing in the Tampa General Hospital (TGH) ER. The course is led by Dr. Roberta Baer, USF Professor of Anthropology, and Dr. Jason Wilson, Research Director for the Department of Emergency Management at TGH. Dr. Wilson

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I’ve seen the difference that good communication skills can have with a patient during my shadowing time...”

was once an undergraduate student in Dr. Baer’s USF medical anthropology class and the two reconnected a few years ago and strategized about how to improve physician training. In 2016 they began this innovative course with support from the Honors College.

Their students are trained in the workings of an ER and how to shadow and talk with waiting patients.

“Most of the 16 students in this course want to be physicians one day,” says Baer. “They will shadow doctors and experience the hectic and non-stop environment. In this course they are able to contrast that experience with patient shadowing where they sit for hours at a time

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without much contact or information. It makes them more understanding of the people they will one day help.”

Joshua Colon, an Honors College junior majoring in Biomedical Sciences and minoring in Psychology, experienced this disparity upclose when, on the day his class was scheduled to present their research to the TGH ER management team, his father was in a severe car accident and rushed to the hospital.

“After all the time spent in class discussing issues in physician-patient relations, it felt surreal to be in the ER as a family member and watch the doctor treat my dad in a way that felt robotic and cold,” says Colon. “The doctor only came in once initially to order tests for my dad but never followed up.”

This lack of communication can be explained by the pressing demands on ER physicians, and while it does not mean a lack of care or concern on the part of the doctor, it can easily feel that way for patients and their families.

The students in this course (which receives 100 applications for approximately 16 slots) gain an understanding of the patient experience and will one day use that knowledge to improve communication with their own patients.

“I’ve seen the difference that good communication skills can have with a patient during my shadowing time and know how it could have helped me and my Dad that day,” says Colon. “I want to always make sure I do my best to talk to patients so that I can help with the anxiety and fear that always comes when something is wrong with your body.”

During the class the students created an informational pamphlet to help explain the physician role to patients and encourage clear communication between the two groups.

“We are looking to build better doctors,” says Baer. “These students want to make a difference in their patients’ lives. It’s very rewarding as a teacher to be able to teach a class like this.”

PHOTO Honors College students participating in the TGH patient shadowing course receive a hospital tour with their instructors, Dr. Roberta Baer and Dr. Jason Wilson.

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66 USF NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS LEARNING A FOREIGN LANGUAGE while immersed in a new culture, gaining significant leadership experience, researching and studying abroad, and providing meaningful community service around the world. What do all of these activities have in common?

They are experiences that 66 USF students and new graduates will undertake this year as a result of winning competitive national scholarships.

The students worked with the university’s Office of National Scholarships (ONS) for months in advance of application deadlines to learn about and prepare for these prestigious opportunities.

“National scholarships support student development and serve as a springboard for future engagement in the recipient’s chosen field,” says Dr. Sayan Basu, the Director of ONS. “Our office prepares students to be competitive through one-on-one advising, connections to undergraduate research, and work with faculty mentors.”

Of the 66 scholarship recipients, the most in USF’s history, 15 were awarded Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarships for study abroad, ten received Fulbright grants for study, research or teaching, and three earned Frost Scholarships for graduate study at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom.

In total the students were awarded more than $1 million in external scholarships.

Included in the 66 scholars is Amber Pirson, a USF sophomore and one of only ten US students to be awarded the Fulbright UK Summer Institute Program grant to Bristol. The University of Bristol is one of nine institutions to host the prestigious Institute. These residency programs offer education relevant to their host country’s cultural, historical, and economic environment.

Pirson first visited ONS during her college tour as a high school student. Once on campus, she attended a workshop organized by the office specifically for freshmen and sophomores and quickly

20 UNIVERSITY of SOUTH FLORIDA

began working with Dr. Basu and ONS Associate Director, Lauren Chambers.

“They taught me how to concisely convey my interests and goals in essay form,” Pirson says. “ONS facilitated my self-reflection process immensely, and contributed to better writing and a stronger scholarship application.”

The office works with both undergraduate and graduate students, as well as alumni (when applicable) for the awards.

“We are proud to contribute to our students’ success in these highly competitive national awards,” says Basu.

A new change for the office this year included a campus-wide search, nomination, and interview process for students to compete for USF’s endorsement as candidates for the highly sought after Marshall, Mitchell, Rhodes, and Schwarzman scholarships. Committee members include Marshall Alum Paul Tash, Chairman and CEO of the Times Publishing Company, Marshall Alum and Professor James D’Emilio, Pulitzer Prize winner Dan Ruth, Judge Raymond Gross, Dr. Darlene Demarie, Dr. Sayan Basu, Fulbright recipient Dr. Elizabeth HordgeFreeman, and Lauren Chambers.

PHOTOS Below // Amber Pirson is a USF sophomore and one of only ten U.S. students to be awarded the Fulbright UK Summer Institute Program grant to Bristol. In 2017, USF was home to the most student Fulbright awards in the state of Florida.

Opposite Page // Left to right, Razanne Oueini, Shane Clark and Luis Regalado are USF’s Frost Scholars for 2017-18.

With impressive undergraduate records at USF, all three are pursuing studies in health-related fields.

THREE USF HONORS COLLEGE STUDENTS AWARDED FROST SCHOLARSHIPS TO STUDY AT OXFORD USF HONORS COLLEGE GRADUATES Shane Clark, Razanne Oueini, and Luis Regalado were among a very select group of students statewide awarded 2017 Frost Scholarships for full-time graduate study at the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. The Frost Scholarship Program provides funding for top students from the State University System of Florida (and the University of Miami) to study for a full year in master’s courses in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields. With three recipients out of nine state-wide, USF tied the University of Florida for the most winners this year.

All three Frost scholars graduated from the USF Honors College in May and are studying health-related fields.

Clark, who comes from Fleming Island, near Jacksonville, earned a bachelor’s degree in Cellular and Molecular Biology.

While at USF, he conducted research at the Florida Center for Drug Discovery and Innovation (CDDI) where he discovered two new compounds from an Antarctic coral that have never been isolated before.

Oueini, a native of Tampa, earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Chemistry and Music Studies. While at USF she had her chemistry research published five times, earned a Pharmacy College Admission Test (PCAT) score in the 99th percentile, and was an active member of both the Herd of Thunder Marching Band and the Wind Ensemble.

Regalado, from Miami, earned his bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences with a minor in Public Health.

While at USF, he worked as a research

assistant in both the Morton Plant Mease Cardiovascular Research Department and the USF Health Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute.

“At USF we pride ourselves on the success of our students. Being consistently well represented in national and international scholarship programs, such as the Frost Scholarship, is a great honor for our institution,” says Ralph Wilcox, USF Provost and Executive Vice President. “I wish Shane, Razanne, and Luis all the best in their studies at Oxford, and look forward to seeing more students follow in their footsteps in the years to come.”

Oueini reflected on the impact of this award. “I felt that the opportunity to learn and gain experience from faculty in the Department of Pharmacology at the world’s premier institution for higher education was one that could not be matched,” she says. “To me, this scholarship demonstrates the immense value of education in various STEM fields and the necessity of these subjects for the advancement of our communities.”

Also pursuing a MSc in Pharmacology at Oxford, Clark echoes Oueini’s desire to make advances in the healthcare field.

“The generous Frost Scholarship gives me the ability to broaden my discipline to prepare myself for the newest challenges in the field of medicine,” says Clark, who is particularly interested in pediatric oncology. “This study will allow me the potential to positively affect whole communities and diverse populations through cutting-edge research.”

Also in the medical field, Regalado will pursue a Master’s degree in Global Health

Science at Oxford.

“The program will serve as the base for my career as a physician and will enable me to work on important global health initiatives such as the efforts to control cardiovascular disease, the prevention of premature death, and establishing implementation strategies to lower the infant mortality rate in developing countries,” says Regalado.

Advisors in the Honors College and Office of National Scholarships worked closely with the students to prepare them for this scholarship opportunity.

“We are so pleased that Shane, Razanne, and Luis will get to enjoy the wonderful opportunities provided by the Frost scholarships and we look forward to hearing of their continued success as they undertake graduate study at Oxford,” says Dr. Charles Adams, Dean of the USF Honors College. “I am impressed with the hard work and dedication of these excellent students, and I hope that their stories will inspire current and future Bulls to apply for this and other highly competitive academic scholarships.”

The Frost Scholarship Program is supported by the generosity of the Phillip and Patricia Frost Philanthropic Foundation. In the program’s four-year history, 39 students from Florida’s 12 public universities have received awards.

USF is home to nine recipients of this prestigious scholarship.

HONORS COLLEGE 21

HONORS PEER MENTORS HELP NEW STUDENTS GET STARTED ON CAMPUS

F

OR MANY NEW STUDENTS, the transition into college life can be a bit overwhelming. To help ease some of the stress, the Honors College created a Peer Mentor program in 2015. The College has had current students assisting with summer orientations since 2000, but this new program is an in-depth approach designed to guide students through their first semester.

Every Honors College freshman is scheduled in a fall peer mentor class. This course meets once a week and is led by an Honors College upperclassman. The goal of the program is to familiarize new students with the College and the bounty of resources available on campus, as well as provide a place to discuss the many new experiences college provides.

“We recognize that Honors College students face the same challenges as all first-years, which can include a lack of understanding of university resources, underdeveloped study skills, and a general sense of being overwhelmed,” says Cayla Lanier, Honors College Director of Advising. “The Peer Mentor program allows us to offer additional support at a critical time and to identify any indicators of struggle, such as unexcused absences and unexplained behavior changes. We can then intervene and offer a network of support as soon as it’s needed.

This includes the support of peers, advisors, faculty, and university administrators.”

There are three major learning outcomes for the Peer Mentor course. They include:

• C reating a connection point for new students Peer Mentors explain the importance of getting involved on campus and describe different opportunities to engage. They also introduce new students to Honors College advisors, faculty, and staff.

• D iscussing campus resources important to first-year students Peer Mentors identify and discuss both academic and extracurricular resources available at USF. These include programs that promote healthy lifestyles and global citizenship, and help navigate financial aid.

• D eveloping skills for the path to graduation Peer Mentors explain the importance of time management 22 UNIVERSITY of SOUTH FLORIDA

skills and taking responsibility for one’s education. They also explain the Honors College requirements and help new students create a personal plan for meeting those requirements.

“We know that this program is successful,” says Lanier. “Year after year students have reported that after this course they feel connected to campus, understand university resources, and are more able to establish their own peer groups.”

It’s not just the first-year students who are benefiting from the course, however. The Peer Mentors themselves have four learning objectives as course facilitators. These include:

• F ine-tuning communication skills During the semester, Peer Mentors develop public speaking skills, present information, resolve conflict, and practice patience, empathy, and encouragement in a professional setting.

• D eveloping leadership skills Peer Mentors must study and demonstrate the process and procedure for running meetings and maintain control of their classes.

• D emonstrating time and task-management skills Throughout the course, Peer Mentors plan, lead, and assess twelve one-hour meetings. They create agendas for each meeting and evaluate needed curriculum.

• I mproving self-reflection skills Peer Mentors learn the scope of their own knowledge and when to seek additional assistance. They also monitor their progress toward goals and look for areas to improve.

“In putting themselves in this leadership role, our Peer Mentors learn how to lead, handle conflict, and get along with

others who are not like themselves,” says Lanier. “In addition, they are mentored throughout the semester by Honors College advisors and staff.”

The Peer Mentors meet weekly to discuss their successes and challenges. They assist each other with difficulties and celebrate their peers’ successes together.

“I really enjoyed leading the classes in a relaxed environment,” says Greeshma James, a Peer Mentor and senior biomedical sciences major. “I was able to gain confidence in my public speaking skills and add to my mentoring abilities.”

The Peer Mentor program will enter its fourth year this Fall as we welcome the newest Honors College students to campus.

“As a College, we focus a lot on building a small and supportive community within the larger university,” says James.

“The Peer Mentor class is a great introduction to that – it fosters friendships and community from the start.”

HONORS COLLEGE 23

USF HONORS FOCUS ON

RESEARCH Viewing Climate Change through a PHYSICS

H

LENS

ONORS COLLEGE STUDENTS have a unique opportunity to learn from an internationally-respected climate change scientist. Dr. Peter Wilson is the Spring 2018 Visiting Distinguished Professor-InResidence for the College, a position created in 2017 to bring a diverse set of scholars to campus each semester.

Dr. Wilson holds his PhD in Physics from the University of Otago in New Zealand and also earned a DSc (a degree that ranks above a PhD in many countries) from Roskilde University in Denmark.

Dr. Wilson studies climate change through a physics lens and has spent decades researching ice-binding proteins and the cryosphere and investigating why fish and certain other species can thrive in sub-freezing temperatures without actually freezing, or by actually

“

I want my students to be able to use strong scientific knowledge when they debate with someone on climate change.”

– Dr. Peter Wilson, Physicist

freezing and surviving it. This research passion was discovered while fishing in his hometown of Dunedin, New Zealand thirty years ago, when he met a scientist who was researching fish that seemed to defy the laws of physics by not freezing. Dr. Wilson began working with this professor and even accompanied him on multiple research trips to Antarctica.

Honors College students in his course “Climate Change Today” benefit from his teachings on how scientists measure global temperatures, how the polar regions affect climate, and at what rate the Earth’s oceans are warming.

“I want my students to be able to use strong scientific knowledge when they debate with someone on climate change,” says Wilson. “I don’t want them to rely on word-

24 UNIVERSITY of SOUTH FLORIDA

Left // Dr. Peter Wilson, PhD Physics, is the Spring 2018 Honors College Visiting Distinguished Professor in Residence.

of-mouth or unchecked sources. In my class we start at the beginning with what the Earth is made of, how gravity works, and what science tells us about climate change.”

Dr. Wilson has taught this course at both his home institution, the University of Tasmania (where he is both the Associate Dean of Global Engagement and a Professor in the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Science) and for the past eight years at the University of Tsukuba in Japan as a Visiting Professor.

He is interested in all aspects of the science behind ice and freezing and even works with oil companies to try and combat problems related to low temperatures. “We’ve been working for years to try and prevent oil spill accidents which can be caused by a process similar to freezing,” says Wilson. “I’ve been working on creating materials that these companies can use to try and prevent accidentcausing blockages of clathrate hydrates in the pipelines.”

In addition to this work, Dr. Wilson also created a company, Otago Osmometers Limited, which is the world’s only supplier of nano-litre osmometers, devices that measure the freezing temperatures of liquid samples of extremely small sizes. Professionals who benefit from this technology include researchers, like him, who study ice-binding proteins, optometrists who study dry eye, and entomologists who study the physical make-up of very small insects.

Dr. Wilson’s vast and unique research and professional experience adds depth to his teaching and brings a new perspective to campus.

While spending the semester teaching in the Honors College, Dr. Wilson will also deliver a university-wide lecture to the USF academic community and mentor both

Honors Students Excel at

RESEARCH COLLOQUIUM

O faculty and students across multiple disciplines. “I am very pleased that Dr. Wilson is here this semester,” says Honors College Dean, Dr. Charles Adams. “Our students will benefit greatly from his teachings. This is exactly why I feel the Visiting Distinguished Professor-In-Residence role is so beneficial to our college – for these students to gain insights into fields of study that they otherwise might not be able to access.”

PHOTOS Above // Polar fishes survive in ice-laden waters by utilizing socalled antifreeze proteins. The snail fish, seen here, lacks the amounts of antifreeze needed to survive in surface waters so lives in deep waters where ice is never present.

McMurdo Station, a US science base, is situated at the foot of Mt Erebus, seen here. The photographer is standing on sea ice, above six feet of frozen ocean.

Left // The first USF Honors College Visiting Professor-inResidence was Carlin Romano, Professor of Philosophy and Humanities at Ursinus College and author of America the Philosophical, a critical study of philosophy in American life that won him a Guggenheim Fellowship.

Professor Romano holds degrees in Philosophy from Princeton and Yale, as well as a law degree from Columbia University.

F THE 303 RESEARCH PRESENTATIONS at the 2017 USF Undergraduate Research & Arts Colloquium, 92 were from Honors College students. The Colloquium, hosted by the university’s Office for Undergraduate Research (OUR), allows students to present their work from any discipline in poster, oral, or performing arts formats.

“This event puts a spotlight on the incredible experiences available to all undergraduates at USF,” says Honors College faculty member and interim Director of OUR, Dr. Michael Cross. “In addition, it underscores the tangible benefits and outcomes for undergraduate students engaged in research including achieving higher grades, having a deeper understanding of their chosen discipline, and being more competitive for jobs, national awards, and admission to graduate and professional school.”

The Honors College student presenters were mentored by faculty members from within the college and across USF’s campus.

Each student must present an application for consideration and is notified if their proposal is accepted.

“It’s great that Honors College students made up 30 percent of all OUR presenters,” says Honors College Dean, Dr. Charles Adams. “Research is a vital piece of the curriculum in our college and this colloquium offers our students the opportunity to gain vital experience by presenting their work to a diverse audience.”

Honors College students are encouraged to participate in undergraduate research early and often at USF. Each student must also complete a thesis or capstone project prior to graduation. “These activities help prepare our students for their next step, whether that’s graduate school, the pursuit of a national scholarship, or entry into the workforce,” says Dean Adams. “The skills they learn through performing and presenting research – expanding their knowledge, creating cross-discipline partnerships, fine-tuning communication skills, benefiting from faculty mentorship – all add to the collective undergraduate trajectory toward success.”

Left // Left to right, Kristen Flores, Ryan Lavorata, Neha Pathak, and Nejra Colic were among the many Honors College students to participate in the 2017 OUR Colloquium.

HONORS COLLEGE 25

HONORS COLLEGE

FACULTY

RESEARCH & LEADERSHIP

The Honors College faculty had a very productive 2017. The ten faculty members conducted and presented research, received awards and recognition, and added to their collective list of publications throughout the year. Here is a sampling of their impressive work outside the classroom.

Across the Country: Honolulu, HI: Dr. Catherine Wilkins presented “A New Ecology of Education: Teaching Humanities in the Anthropocene” at the Hawaii International Conference on Arts and Humanities.

Santa Fe, NM: Dr. Holly Donahue Singh presented “Tracing Pathways from Infertility to Child Adoption in India” at the Society for Applied Anthropology Annual Meeting.

Seattle, WA: Dr. Catherine Wilkins participated in professional training at the 2017 Visual Thinking Strategies Beginner Practicum.

Chicago, IL: Dr. Holly Donahue Singh presented “Infertility and Assisted Reproductive Technologies in India: Qualitative Approaches” at the Population Association of America Annual Meeting.

Scotts Valley, CA: Faculty member Ulluminair Salim was named a “Contemplative Social Justice Scholar” by the Association for Contemplative Mind in Higher Education (ACMHE) and attended the ACMHE annual conference.

San Francisco, CA: Dr. Benjamin Young presented a paper, “Playful Bodies: A Gadamerian and Pedagogical Contribution to Carnal Hermeneutics” at the Pacific Association for the Continental Tradition (PACT) conference.

Dallas, TX: Dr. Lindy Davidson presented a paper on “Negotiating personal realities in research: Performing poetry as findings and discussion” at the National Communication Association Annual Convention.

26 UNIVERSITY of SOUTH FLORIDA

Boston, MA: Dr. Lindy Davidson and her students presented “Catering to Younger Minds: Creative Health Education Methods that Lessen Stigma of Epilepsy in Cameroon” at the Global Health Catalyst Summit held at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute at Harvard College of Medicine.

Washington, D.C.: Dr. Holly Donahue Singh presented “Numbering Others: Demographic Surveillance in Contemporary India” at the American Anthropological Association Annual Meeting.

Asheville, NC: Faculty member Atsuko Sakai presented at the Southern Regional Honors Council 45th Annual Conference.

Publications: Dr. Shawn Bingham The Bohemian South: Creating Countercultures, from Poe to Punk, UNC Press, 2017 “I Could Have so Easily been Excluded”: Exploring Narratives of Inclusion and Exclusion in the Lives of Professional Performers with Disabilities book chapter Dr. Michael Cross et al “Microcontact printing of tissue precursors via geometrically patterned shape-changing hydrogel stamps preserves cell viability and organization,” in Bioprinting Dr. Lindy Davidson “The Anvil: A Crushing Conversation” co-authored article in Qualitative Research in Medicine and Healthcare “Defining Communication with Legos: Building an Understanding of the Constructivist Approach” article in Great Ideas for Teaching Students (G.I.F.T.S.) in Communication Dr. Holly Donahue Singh “Fertility Control: Reproductive Desires, Kin Work, and Women’s Status in Contemporary India,” in Medical Anthropology Quarterly Invited review of Transnational Reproduction: Race, Kinship, and Commercial Surrogacy in India by Daisy Deomampo Foreword to How May I Help You?: An Immigrant’s Journey from MBA to Minimum Wage by Deepak Singh Dr. Christopher Stroop “Between Trump and Putin: The Right-Wing International, A Crisis of Democracy, and the Future of the European Union,” for Political Research Associates Dr. Catherine Wilkins “Foreign Domestic: Identification and Differentiation as Pedagogical Strategy in Good Bad People,” in Focal Plane

At Home: St. Petersburg: Dr. Catherine Wilkins presented “A New Ecology of Education: Teaching Humanities in the Anthropocene” at the 2017 Sunshine State Teaching and Learning Conference.

St. Petersburg: Dr. Lindy Davidson was a panelist for the “Performing health, performing mother: The politics of mothering and decision-making in the context of healthcare” presentation at the Museum of Motherhood Annual Conference: Mothering from the Margins.

Dunedin: Dr. Alan Bush and Dr. Catherine Wilkins reported to the City of Dunedin Commissioners on the Adaptation and Communication Strategies for Sea Level Rise.

Orlando: Dr. Michael Cross co-presented “The OURS Peer Facilitator Program: A Student/Campus Unit Partnership” at the Best Practices in Undergraduate Research Conference.

Tampa: Dr. Lindy Davidson was awarded the BOOST Seen and Heard Women’s Leadership Award at USF. Tampa Bay: Dr. Alan Bush was awarded a NSF Smart and Connected Cities Planning Grant— Agent-based Scenario Planning for a Smart & Connected Community against Sea Level Rise in Tampa Bay.

Around the World: Sendai, Japan: Faculty member Atsuko Sakai presented a workshop for the Sendai City Rokugo Elementary School.

Sosúa, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic: Dr. Lindy Davidson received the Initiative Award from the Kerolle Initiative for Community Health.

Stockholm, Sweden: Dr. Alan Bush gave two presentations and performed a “Complexity Leadership Theory & Resilience” movement-based workshop at the Resilience Conference.

HONORS COLLEGE 27

Study

Abroad

WITH THE HONORS COLLEGE

The Honors College hosts a number of study abroad trips each year. These experiences allow Honors College students to travel internationally and participate in academic- and service-oriented experiences.

To accommodate diverse student schedules, these trips are offered in three formats: as part of a semester-long course (with one to three weeks of international travel included), as weeklong spring break trips that are not associated with a class, and as summer programs that incorporate course work.

Dominican Republic 2017 and 2018

During the 2016-17 academic year there were eight Honors College study abroad trips: n Panama Service Break, March 2017: 20 students n Argentina Beyond the Classroom, May 2017: 15 students n Dominican Republic Service Break, May 2017: 21 students n Germany Beyond the Classroom, May 2017: 26 students (Every student who participated in the Germany program was selected to present their research in the 2017 undergraduate research colloquium) n Peru Beyond the Classroom, May 2017: 20 students n Explore and Intern in Sydney, Australia, July 2017: 10 students n London, July 2017: 35 students (Summer) (Record-breaking year for Honors USF in London) n Dominican Republic Service Break, December 2017: 25 students

Argentina 2017 and 2018 Panama 2017

Peru 2017 and 2018

28 UNIVERSITY of SOUTH FLORIDA

2018 trips will includes travel to the Dominican Republic, Germany, Argentina, Peru, Japan, London, Thailand, and Vietnam.

London, UK 2017 and 2018

“Our professors study many regions of the world and offer an impressive diversity of study abroad options for Honors College students,” says Reggie Lucien, Honors College Associate Director for International and Residential Programs. “We have programs in Australia, Europe, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. This allows us to offer options that cater to a variety of interests. Global study is more important now than ever before.”

Germany 2017 and 2018 Japan 2018

Sydney, Australia 2017

Thailand 2018 Vietnam 2017 and 2018

HONORS COLLEGE 29

Dominican Republic S

SERVICE BREAK MAY AND DEC. 2017

HADOWING PHYSICIANS in medical clinics in Sosúa, Dominican Republic, Honors College students got handson medical experience while helping a community in need.

“Students join the Kerolle Initiative (a non-profit community health provider) in improving the overall health of communities in the Dominican,” says Dr. Lindy Davidson, an Honors College faculty member in medical humanities. “We volunteer in mobile medical clinics for a hands-on experience working with patients in a global health setting that is very different from the one we have in the United States.”

In both December and May, Honors students traveled to the Dominican Republic, partnering with the Kerolle Initiative for Community Health, for a ten-day immersive experience in culture and global health. The team of students volunteered at five mobile clinics, helped construct sustainable projects to increase food security in the community, shadowed physicians in the clinics, and learned about Dominican culture and the Spanish language.

“The most important lesson that I learned from my trip would have to be the importance of providing global health,” Samantha Pun, a senior Biomedical Sciences major says. “My ultimate goal is to become a doctor and use my biomedical anthropology studies to travel around the world and provide care. This trip helped me realize the importance of giving back to your community and other communities.”

30 UNIVERSITY of SOUTH FLORIDA

Gaining experience outside of the classroom gave students valuable insights into the world of global health and how it could help them in their fields of study now and in the future.

“It was an experience that solidified the decision for me to study global health and have a foundation of global health before I become a physician,” says Luis Regalado, a 2017 Biomedical Sciences graduate. “If you are a student who is curious about what the healthcare disparity and healthcare access gap actually looks like, I would recommend you go on this trip.”

For some students, it not only solidified their decisions in their studies, but helped them focus their goals for a career in public health.

“The trip changed my life,” says Simran Modak, a Cell and Molecular Biology and Psychology graduate. “I now have a career goal, a passion in medicine, leadership, and cultural experience that I never had before.”

PHOTOS Above // USF Honors College students and community members from Madre Vieja look on as Dr. Lindy Davidson, Amber Pirson, and Dr. Reginald Kerolle cut the ribbon for a kitchen built for the community school through funds from the USF Honors College.

Left // Dr. Reginald Kerolle and his team with students from the USF Honors College in front of a clinic in the community of Valedor.

Opposite page // Dr. Reginald Kerolle explains a women’s health survey to Honors College students Mikeila Perez and Jamie Newland outside a clinic in La Grua Batey.

HONORS COLLEGE 31

Panama

32 UNIVERSITY of SOUTH FLORIDA

SERVICE BREAK MARCH 2017

B

UILDING THE WALLS of a container that would soon provide clean, accessible water to the villages of Alto Nube, Panama, Veneta Dinova, a sophomore Biomedical Sciences major from Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria, looked at the dirt underneath her fingernails with pride. She and her fellow classmates constructed the drinking water storage tank as part of a week-long immersive service-based Honors College trip.

“My favorite part of the experience was when we were up in the mountains helping build the walls of the water container,” Dinova says. “I also enjoyed getting to know the local people and their lifestyle.”

Enjoying the disconnection from modern-day technology, students developed an understanding of Latin American culture, served alongside an indigenous community to construct a drinking water storage tank, and taught public health lessons at local schools.

“There was also hiking in the Ngäbe-Buglé Comarca’s mountains,” says Tanner Lansdale, a junior Communications major from Punta Gorda, FL. “Despite being well north of Panama’s center, we could see south all the way to the Pacific Ocean. I looked out at it for hours when we were working and didn’t realize it was my first view of the Pacific Ocean until the end of the day.”

In addition to volunteering, the group was also able to work on their language skills. Being immersed in Panamanian culture gave students the opportunity to fine-tune their Spanish.

“The most valuable thing I gained from this trip was the ability to speak the Spanish I had studied and truly gain fluency,” says Dinova. “The most important part of fluency is to be able to converse freely and easily with the native speakers of that language. I am thankful for the opportunity to do so.”

The students ended the trip with fond memories, new skills, and a sense of accomplishment.

“Through immersing ourselves in Panamanian culture, one of the key lessons I learned was the joy of communicating in a foreign language,” says Lansdale. “Despite having to reach and stretch for foreign vocabulary, each time I was able to communicate with another person, I found myself uncontrollably smiling. It may very well be the coolest thing in the world.”

The students reflected on their time in Panama – their service and contribution to public health – with the knowledge that these experiences would enrich their careers going forward.

“

The most valuable thing I gained from this trip was the ability to speak the Spanish I had studied and truly gain fluency.”

PHOTOS Above top // Students visited a school in the Ngäbe-Buglé region of Panama to discuss public health with students of all ages.

Above bottom // While on the trip students were able to explore the history and culture of Panama City.

Opposite page // Students enjoyed a motorized canoe ride to visit the village of the Embera people.

– Veneta Dinova, sophomore

HONORS COLLEGE 33

Argentina BEYOND THE CLASSROOM MAY 2017

F

ROM MAY 8 - 20, FIFTEEN Honors College students learned first-hand the status of healthcare in Argentina.

As part of the “Argentina Beyond the Classroom” study abroad trip, they were able to visit an Argentinean public hospital, private hospital, and pharmaceuticals company.

“On this course-based trip, our students learned about Argentina’s history, geography, and culture before spending two weeks in Buenos Aires and surrounding areas,” says Arnie Mejias, Honors College Associate Director of Advising for Health Professions.

“They were able to visit hospitals, explore historical sites, and experience the Argentinean culture.”

The group was exposed to various health situations that allowed them to contrast the benefits of the public and private health sectors. “During one of our outings, we were taken to a ‘Posta Sanitaria’ which essentially was a clinic that was opened in the middle of an impoverished area by the Catholic hospital nearby,” says Honors College sophomore Alexis Coiner. “Being in that setting and seeing the disparity of health care available in such a large city really opened my eyes.”

This is the second Honors College trip to Buenos Aires and a third will depart in May. Faculty members for the trips have included Dr. Adriana Novoa (2014 and 2018) with the USF History department and Dr. Rachel May (2017) with the Humanities and Cultural Studies department.

Many of the students on the trip plan to enter the healthcare field in the future. “The whole trip grounded my thoughts on becoming a physician, and truly influenced my career path. I’m excited to be able to help in the future,” says Coiner.

34 UNIVERSITY of SOUTH FLORIDA

PHOTOS Above // Honors College students plan their day in the middle of Plaza 25 de Mayo, which commemorates independence from Spain in 1810.

Bottom left // Capilla del Señor, or The Lord’s Chapel, is the suburb in which the Estancia (Ranch) Don Silvano is located. They host “parrilladas” or bar-b-ques and gaucho (cowboy) performances.

Bottom right // Honors College students work with Verónica Nahmal from Gador Pharmaceuticals.

Opposite page // Honors College students explored the city.

HONORS COLLEGE 35

Perú H

ONORS STUDENTS travelled to Perú this summer to harvest potatoes, plant native trees, create a sustainable garden, and learn about food issues in the country. The 16 students were part of the “Perú Beyond the Classroom” Honors College course in which they spent a semester studying Peruvian history, culture, and social issues before participating in an immersive service-based trip in El Parque de la Papa (“The Potato Park”) located in rural Pisac. As part of the program, students worked with Andean villagers to harvest potatoes. The food plays a vital role in Perú as close to 4,000 varieties of the tuber grow in the country (many of which are “heirloom” potatoes that have been around for thousands of years). Peruvian scientists even work with NASA to study how it might be possible to grow potatoes on Mars, as they grow in extremely difficult conditions in certain areas of Perú.

The students also observed an increase in insect infestations that is threatening the community’s food security. The presence of new bugs at higher altitudes is forcing the farmers to seek higher and less fertile ground for the cultivation of their crops. “The students saw firsthand the effects of climate change on a global scale and how it ties into food insecurity,” says USF St. Petersburg anthropology professor Dr. Ella Schmidt, who led the Honors College trip for a second year along with Honors College faculty member, Dr. Alan Bush.

36 UNIVERSITY of SOUTH FLORIDA

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM MAY 2017

While on the trip, which was coordinated with Peacework, a non-profit global service group, the students also cleared land adjacent to a Pisac maternal health center and planted many vegetables such as broccoli, lettuce, eggplant, peppers, and cauliflower. “This garden will contribute to the food security and health of the women who travel rigorous terrain to be here,” says Schmidt.

In addition to their work at the potato park and in the community garden, the students also participated in food preparation at a community women’s collective to learn about Andean cooking, including Pachamanca, an ancient technique of cooking food underground with hot stones.

They then spent time planting ten varieties of native trees to reforest the hills, protect biodiversity, stop soil erosion, and decrease mudslide risks. This study abroad course offers substantive help to these high Andean communities, while providing an opportunity for students to learn about the complexity of these rural villages.

“

The students saw firsthand the effects of climate change on a global scale and how it ties in to food insecurity.”

– Dr. Ella Schmidt, USFSP

HONORS COLLEGE 37

PHOTOS Honors College students exploring Germany at the Königstein Festung (fortress) and the Castle building.

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It was my first time out of the country. I really enjoyed getting to know the German students and discussing social issues to get past stereotypes on both sides.”

– Daniel D’Oliveira, Engineering

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Germany BEYOND THE CLASSROOM MAY 2017

I Each student who participated in the Germany program was selected to present their classwork in the 2017 Undergraduate Research Colloquium

N MAY, 26 HONORS COLLEGE STUDENTS arrived in Germany for a cultural enrichment trip to study German language at the University of Osnabrück while also exploring the country and learning about its history and culture. As part of the program, led by Dr. Peter Funke, School of Interdisciplinary Global Studies, the students visited Dresden, Berlin, and Hamburg.

“My favorite part of the trip was the excursion week—specifically, Dresden,” Jasmine Burnett, a junior Biomedical Sciences and Public Health major says. “Dresden is a beautiful city with stunning architecture and it truly has a mind of its own. I’ve never been to a city as eclectic and light in nature and it helped meeting with local students and having them show us around.”

The USF students studied Germany for a semester in the USF Honors College’s “Germany Beyond the Classroom” course before traveling. “The students are able to connect with the German students before traveling there and meeting them,” says Reggie Lucien, Honors College Associate Director for International and Residential Programs.

“The first day that we arrived in Osnabrück, Maiwoche (May Week) was occurring, an annual festival held in the city center,” says Burnett. “There was spectacular lighting, live acts, and a carnival. It was an instant rush of culture on our first night there.”

“It was my first time out of the country,” says Mechanical Engineering student, Daniel D’Oliveira. “I really enjoyed getting to know the German students and discussing social issues to get past stereotypes on both sides.”

This was the seventh consecutive Honors College trip to Germany and Lucien hopes to continue the program for years to come. “Our students come back from this experience each year with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the German culture. This program, funded by the Max Kade Foundation, allows us to promote a true German-American cultural understanding.”

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Australia &London

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N ADDITION TO CLASS-BASED international trips, the USF Honors College also offers students for-credit opportunities while living and learning abroad. Two examples of this are the Honors College cohort in the “USF in London” summer program and the “Explore and Intern in Sydney, Australia” program.

Honors College Dean, Dr. Charles Adams, has taught a course in the “USF in London” program for the past three years. In his course, “Britishness: National Identity in the Global Age,” students study the history and culture of the United Kingdom while considering changing notions of nationalism and citizenship, in the UK and at home. In July 2017, 35 Honors College students participated in the London program.

“One of my favorite parts of the program was the many day trips that we took into the diverse ethnic neighborhoods of London to interview residents for our class project,” says Amber Pirson, a sophomore Anthropology major. “It challenged us to go where we would not otherwise have gone as a tourist, deep into the heart of the city to explore London’s culture.”

Another highlight of their trip included meeting the Right Honourable Henry McLeish, former First Minister of Scotland, during his visit to the London program.

The Honors Bulls in London also had the opportunity to meet Honors alumni Ricci Allen who was at Oxford on a Frost Scholarship finishing her MSc in Clinical Embryology. Allen talked with the students about her experiences and even gave the group a behind-the-scenes look of Worcester College at the

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EXPLORE AND INTERN JULY 2017

University of Oxford.

Also in July, but in a different hemisphere and on the other side of the globe, a group of ten Honors College students participated in an exciting internship opportunity in Sydney, Australia.

For the first two weeks of their program, students were placed in a supervised internship related to their major and were able to gain valuable international professional experience.

During the last week of their trip, the students studied the cultural, historical, and social components of Australian identity. They also had the opportunity to climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, visit the Sydney Opera House, surf, explore wildlife, and experience a bush trek!

In July 2017, 35 students traveled to London – a record-breaking year for the Honors in London program.

PHOTOS Above // With the Tower Bridge in the background, Dean Adams and USF System Vice President for USF World, Roger Brindley, cruise the Thames River in London with Honors College and USF alums living in the UK. Opposite page // Honors College students decided to spread happiness throughout Sydney (where they lived for three weeks) by wearing kangaroo suits throughout the city with their instructor, Dr. Tony Erben.

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STUDY AWAY JANUARY 2017

Study Away Trip to Asheville Broadens Horizons

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s 16 Honors College students and three faculty members sat studying Jupiter on the side of a snowy North Carolina mountain on a January evening, Dr. Shawn Bingham, Assistant Dean, realized that this was a new experience for many of them on a number of levels. For most students this was their first time gaining an up-close look at the giant planet and its moons. For some it was their first time on a mountain. For others it was their first time experiencing snow. And for a few, it was their first time outside of Florida.

“We have the privilege of broadening horizons by traveling to different regions of our country with students who are of

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diverse backgrounds and might not have been exposed to these types of experiences in the past,” says Bingham.

The College’s trip to Asheville, North Carolina, occurs twice a year and is one example of a “study away” opportunity, a domestic version of a “study abroad” trip where faculty lead students to various parts of America to study the life, culture, art, science, and community of a different region within our country.

“We value and promote international study abroad opportunities in our College,” says Bingham, “and I feel that it is just as important to promote the study of other parts of America as well. These students see first-hand that even within our region of the country there are different definitions of what it means to live in ‘the South.’”

When asked why he chose Asheville, Bingham explained, “I wanted to expose the students to a forward-thinking South, one that is welcoming, creative and very different than the South they might have read about in history books. The culture of the Asheville area is a prime example of this.”

As part of the trip the group visited Earthaven Ecovillage, an environmentally sustainable community where members

practice ecologically-responsible forestry and agriculture, develop natural building systems that sustain forest health, and generate renewable energy through good design.

Bingham stresses the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration to the community’s success, pointing out that those living and working there come from backgrounds that include engineering, botany, landscape architecture, and psychology, among others.

“I had never seen that before,” says Honors College senior and Biomedical Sciences and Psychology major from Jacksonville, Ifeoluwa Bolujo. “They live so differently from us, but are still in the same country – it was really interesting to see.”

Caitlin Gish, a sophomore majoring in Physics, was intrigued by the visit. “It was interesting to see a community that defines itself by their overall environmental impact,” she says. “The people there work together to have a place that is more ecofriendly.”

Another environmentally-minded location that the group visited was Living Roofs, Inc., a business that designs, develops, and installs green roof systems that offer both environmental and economic benefits for home and business owners.

Chandler Armstrong, a junior majoring in Mathematics and Physics, thought that this experience was the most interesting of the trip. “We went to the place where they construct and build these living roof ecosystems which made the buildings greener, both literally and from an energy efficiency standpoint.”

In addition to visiting the two sustainability-focused locations, the group also went hiking and stargazing, toured the Moog Music Factory, explored downtown Asheville, and visited a bookbinding shop. Bolujo enjoyed the shop and learning about the art of traditional bookbinding. “I thought that a machine always did it,” she says. “Learning how to do it by hand was really cool.”

Armstrong was impressed with the music factory, explaining that he could see the collaboration of physics, music, and art. He was particularly interested in the beautiful handcrafted instruments whose design was created by musicians, many of whom had degrees in engineering.

All three students agreed that one of the best parts of the trip was bonding with their classmates and professors.

“It’s a great way to make friends and get a feel for the College,” says Armstrong. “The Asheville trip reflects accurately the collaborative and inclusive atmosphere of the Honors College itself.”

Gish echoed Armstrong’s thought, explaining that, “It is fascinating talking with people studying fields that you knew nothing about. This trip is a great way to make friends you may not have otherwise met. There are students on the trip from every field and all different years in school.”

Many of the trip’s activities are designed to get students to unplug and take a break from technology. The schedule of the trip varies slightly each time, with previous travelers exploring tiny-house communities, visiting art museums, and learning how to make homemade pizza.

“The Asheville experience is intended to take the lessons

“

It is important to show the students a different part of our country that they may not have known much about before.”

learned in Honors College classrooms about the importance of cross-disciplinary collaboration and apply them in a working community,” says Bingham. “It is important to show the students a different part of our country that they may not have known much about before.”

Opening new horizons of opportunity for students by introducing them to other regions of America is another benefit of study away programs generally. Bolujo, for one, sees new possibilities. “It opened my eyes to exploring other areas of America,” she says. “It’s great to see how different parts of our country live and connect with each other.”

PHOTOS Above // The retreat campus where the students stay is over 100 acres and includes a garden, sheep, goats, a walking trail, and a 60-acre lake.

Opposite page // Students hiked to Triple Fall in Dupont Forest where segments of the films The Hunger Games and Last of the Mohicans were filmed.

HONORS COLLEGE 43

Alumni PROFILE SPOTLIGHT: PHOTO Shawn Desai and his wife, Annie, welcomed their first child, Jack, into the world in 2017.

Shawn Desai’s Interest in Science Grew into a Passion, and Business Success

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SHAWN DESAI (‘01) HAS BEEN INTERESTED in science, especially chemistry, since he was a young child. “I remember trying to mix vinegar and baking soda to make a volcano and loving it,” says Desai.

He was able to fine-tune this interest into a passion while in the USF Honors College. “While preparing my thesis, I worked in the biochemistry department under

The Honors College was instrumental in my life. The undergraduate research helped fuel my passion to continue learning.”

– Shawn Desai, ’01 Dr. Michael Barber for two years. It was there that I found that I really enjoyed scientific research and made the decision to continue on to graduate school,” says Desai. “I am very grateful for this experience as it helped determine my future career path.”

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After graduating from the USF Honors College, he completed a Ph.D. in Chemistry at Emory University, but his academic career was not yet complete. He decided that if he also earned a law degree he could take a multi-disciplinary approach to scientific research and make a greater impact in the world. This led him to earn his JD from the University of Georgia.

While in law school, Desai learned that the increase in American pain management doctors caused an increase in the need for labs to evaluate medical samples and tests. He created a business plan with partners he found after graduating, and together they founded Aeon Global Health in 2011.

“Our company’s goal is to provide world class medical lab testing to help improve the standard of care throughout the medical profession,” says Desai, the company’s co-founder and chief technology officer. Aeon now employs more than one-hundred full-time staff members and Desai says that they are “busy developing new testing options to offer to our physician clients.”

One example of an innovative solution that his lab offers to physicians is pharmacogenomics testing.

“These tests use a cheek swab from a patient to test in advance what types of medicines will work the best for them, based on their DNA,” says Desai. “We are able to identify how that person’s liver will metabolize different drugs without them ever having to actually take the medicines.” This type of testing can improve patient experiences and overall health and Desai is proud to offer it to his clients.

He credits the USF Honors College with helping him along his path to success. “The Honors College was instrumental in my life,” says Desai. “The classes were all very informative, the environment was supportive, and the undergraduate research helped fuel my passion to continue learning.”

His advice for current students includes keeping an open mind about your career path. When he first entered college, he thought he would become a medical doctor, but his passion led him elsewhere. “I never thought I would be in the medical laboratory business, but I am so glad it worked out that way,” says Desai. “You never know where life will take you.”

YOUNG 2012ALUMNI 2017 Nick Machuca ‘16 is now a board member of Beyond Toxics, an organization that protects and enhances human and environmental health. He is also the director of the Coalition Against Environmental Racism at the University of Oregon, where he is pursuing his PhD in English.

Recently, Nick presented his research on environmental justice at the PAMLA (Pacific Ancient and Modern Language Association) conference in Honolulu, HI.

Christa Beck ‘15 is now pursuing her master’s in Global Communications at The American University of Paris. While in the Honors College, she was a Peer Mentor and Student Assistant and studied Mass Communications before becoming a Copywriter at Tampa’s local ad agency PP+K.

Christopher Allemang ‘16 presented his research at the 75th Annual Device Research Conference at Notre Dame.

He presented his work on transparent, lowcost, and large area power transistors through his paper entitled: “Increased Blocking Voltage in Solution Processed ZTO HVTFTs through Drain Offset.”

Christopher is a doctoral student at the University of Michigan studying Electrical Engineering.

David Bichai ‘16 is pursuing his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine at the University of Florida.

David grew up an animal lover in Egypt. He is working toward receiving two certifications in shelter medicine and business management and is the co-fundraising chair of the 2020 class. While in the Honors College, he traveled on the Germany: Beyond the Classroom and Peru: Beyond the Classroom trips.

Kristina Lamens ‘15 is currently pursuing her PhD in Immunology at the University of Pittsburgh.

She is studying the immune response to Human Metapneumovirus, a common respiratory pathogen in children.Through her involvement with the Honors College, she gained valuable undergraduate research experience at the USF Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute that has helped her succeed in graduate school.

Holly Donovan ‘15 began working as a speechlanguage pathologist for a private practice after graduating with her MS in Speech-Language Pathology. During her time in the program, she diagnosed and treated children and adults with communication impairments at the

USF Speech-Language Clinic, Bay Pines VA Hospital, and Pinellas and Hillsborough County schools. So far, she has worked with patients ranging from one to 100 years old!

Catherine Lim ‘12 is pursuing her creative dreams as the new Creative Designer for Pyper Young, Inc., a full service branding and advertising agency located in Downtown St. Petersburg.

After graduating from the USF Honors College with a degree in Biomedical Sciences she began a career in her true calling, graphic design.

Kyle Novotny ‘15 is currently pursuing his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry.

He knew from an early age that dentistry was his passion and became very involved in the pre-dental society at USF during his time as an undergraduate. Through the Honors College, Kyle traveled with the Germany: Beyond the Classroom course. He hopes to own his own practice upon completing his degree.

HONORS COLLEGE 45

YOUNG 2012ALUMNI 2017 Matlock Mennu ‘17 is pursuing his PhD in Aerospace Engineering, researching Micro Air Vehicles (MAVs) at the University of Florida. For the past two summers, he has worked at the National Institute of Standards and Technology. He received first place for best oral presentation at the Emerging National Research Conference for his research this past summer. He also received the Graduate School Preeminence Award from the University of Florida.

Savanah and Patrick Mullen ‘15 and ‘16 Honors College sweethearts, are pursuing their dreams in the medical field. They met in September 2012 as freshmen in the Honors College LLC and they both studied Biomedical Sciences and worked for the Honors College. After graduating, Savanah was accepted to Barry University to pursue her master’s in Clinical Sciences. Patrick was a 2016 Outstanding Graduate and is now in his third year of medical school at USF. Patrick took time from his busy medical school schedule to teach a semester-long MCAT Prep class to Honors College students with financial need. He and Savanah were married in April of 2017 and continue their studies.

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Ricci Allen ‘16 studied abroad for her master’s degree and now is off to medical school.

While at USF, Ricci pursued a dual degree in Biomedical Sciences and Psychology and was the president of the Honors College Student Council. Ricci was awarded the Frost Scholarship which fully funded her one-year master’s of science program at the University of Oxford. She graduated with her MSC in Clinical Embryology and will attend medical school beginning fall 2018. She plans to become an obstetrician-gynecologist.

Ankur Mehindru ‘15 is currently pursuing his doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine at the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine. While at USF, Ankur completed his bachelor’s in Biomedical Sciences and his master’s of Medical Sciences. He plans on finishing a DO/MBA joint degree to incorporate business and administrative knowledge into his medical practice.

Amanda Koslow ‘15 received her Master of Education from the University of Florida and is now working in higher education at UNCGreensboro in their

Campus Activities and Programs office.

While at USF, Amanda was a member of the Honors College Student Council and worked as a student assistant in the college.

Maie Khalil ‘15 is interning with the United Nations. After graduating from USF with a BS in Biomedical Sciences, Maie was one of two USF students awarded the Frost Scholarship which fully funded her one-year medical anthropology master’s program at the University of Oxford.

Maie is now in Amman, Jordan on a 6-month internship with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). She is working with the Department of Planning and hopes this opportunity will give her insight into the politics and pragmatics of policy making.

Hiram Rios Hernandez ‘15 is now a Foreign Service Officer in Shanghai, China. While at USF, Hiram was a member of the Honors College Student Council and worked as a student assistant in the USF Office of National Scholarships.

He earned four prestigious national scholarships to support his study of Mandarin Chinese and his career in diplomacy. Hiram received his master’s in Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government in 2017, and is now working for the US Department of State as Vice Consul at the U.S. Consulate General in Shanghai, China.

Laura Kneski ‘16 is now pursuing her master’s in Marketing at USF. Laura graduated from the Honors College with her bachelor’s degree in Mass Communications and worked in the university’s Communications and Marketing department as a communications intern.

Laura is a graduate assistant for the USF Muma College of Business where she will graduate with a master’s degree in Marketing and a graduate certificate in Project Management this summer.

Kelly Brabant ‘15 is utilizing her skills and talent to teach. Kelly graduated from USF with a degree in Social Studies Education with a minor in Political Science. While in the Honors College, she worked as the Content Manager of the Honors College website and as a Peer Mentor.

Kelly received a prestigious internship for the Institute for the Recruitment of Teachers (IRT) Summer Program and upon graduation she pursued her Master’s Degree in Secondary History Education (M.Ed) at Boston College.

After completing that graduate degree, Kelly moved to Miami, FL, where she is in her second year as a 7th grade Civics teacher.

Samuel Lee ‘13 is pursuing his Doctor of Dental Medicine at the Harvard School of Dental Medicine. While in the Honors College, Samuel served as a Peer Mentor and traveled to Costa Rica through the Beyond the Classroom Honors course.

Currently at Harvard, Sam is class president, participates in numerous research projects (one of which has been published), and volunteers with several outreach special interest groups.

After graduation this summer, he will continue his training at the University of Connecticut to become a Prosthodontist and plans to work in private practice and teach at a dental school.

Erinn Wolf ‘17 graduated from USF with a degree in Pure Mathematics.

While in the Honors College she worked as a student assistant and a Peer Mentor. She was also part of the National Intelligence Program where she visited the nation’s intelligence agencies and conducted research projects for the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). She is continuing to work at the Honors College in the Fiscal Business Department before returning this fall to pursue her master’s in Intelligence with a focus in Cybersecurity.

ATTENTION

HONORS ALUMNI! We want to stay connected with you. Please email us at alumni@honors.usf.edu with your updated contact information and any news you’d like to share. We are proud of our alumni and want to promote your accomplishments.

Want to learn more about what’s happening in the College?

Connect with us on: • LinkedIn • Facebook • Instagram Be on the lookout for upcoming Honors alumni news and events. Go Bulls!

HONORS COLLEGE 47

For information about the USF Honors College please visit usf.edu/honors call 813-974-3087 or email contactus@honors.usf.edu

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