Six undergraduates at The University of New Mexico have been chosen to receive the Undergraduate Research Scholarship for Fall 2024. The scholarship, presented by the Undergraduate Research, Arts and Design Network (URAD), is intended to support students who lack resources to be paid for conducting research in their main area of interest.
The recipients are seniors Hailey Aragon, Megan Honnold, and Savannah Phelps; juniors Solomon Gbara and Dustin Roberto; and sophomore Audrey Lee.
Hailey Aragon is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Her research investigates the development and function of gamma delta (γδ) T cells in neonatal opossums (Monodelphis domestica). By examining the timing and role of these immune cells, she aims to uncover how early immunological defenses develop in marsupials, which may differ significantly from those in placental mammals. This study will enhance understanding of comparative immunology and evolutionary adaptations in immune defense mechanisms.
“Exploring the unique immune development in marsupials has been transformative to my education, offering new insights into comparative immunology and deepening my appreciation for the evolutionary adaptations that shape immune strategies,” Aragon said.
Solomon Gbara, who is working toward a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Anderson School of Management, is researching the concept of grit—defined as passion and perseverance towards long-term goals—and its impact on academic success among students at the University of New Mexico. He is continuing a study that began with collaborators at Eastern New Mexico University, investigating the correlation between grit and selection of major. His work explores how cultivating grit can contribute to higher academic achievement and resilience in the face of challenges.
“Researching grit has not only deepened my understanding of academic success but has also revealed the principles I carry that allow me to achieve the success I aim for in my own educational journey,” Gbara said. “This experience has been both transformative and inspiring, motivating me to help my peers unlock their full potential through perseverance and dedication."
Megan Honnold studies homeschooling as it is experienced by students. Centering their lived experience and activism, this work examines their participation as members within homeschooling families across education, household environments, social movements, and identity formation. Her current research involves a qualitative content analysis of alumni testimonials in public blog posts and social media posts, analyzing student depictions of family/homeschooling compared with those of the broader U.S. homeschooling movement.
“Participation in undergraduate research has been the single most impactful aspect of my time at UNM. Aside from prompting key mentorships and opening pivotal doors within and beyond the university, it has empowered me to take ownership of my undergraduate career in ways I would not otherwise have known about or accessed. Most importantly, it has solidified my commitment to ongoing homeschool research as a form of child advocacy,” Honnold said.
Honnold is working toward a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in Sociology and American Studies.
Audrey Lee is a second-year student majoring in Chemical and Biological Engineering while also being an active Honors College student. As a researcher within the Greenberg Research group at UNM, Lee has been deeply engaged in investigating avenues to enhance student success and retention broadly. Her proposed research project seeks to reimagine teaching organic chemistry labs by incorporating plants commonly found in New Mexico, thereby infusing cultural relevance into southwestern students' education.
“For me, research is the compass that guides the pursuit of knowledge, turning curiosity into innovation and dreams into discoveries," Lee said. "This research is not just about scientific discovery; it’s about connecting students to their roots.”
Savannah Phelps is working toward a BA degree in Art History while pursuing Honors.
“In my research over this school year," she said,"I will be investigating the connection between a changing religious worldview and developments in 16th-17th century Spanish religious art.” Combining art historical analysis with medieval/early modern religious studies background hopes to demonstrate where visual/religious expressions coincide.
“This research will culminate writing senior honors thesis Art History marking beginning individual work scholar invaluable practical experience chosen career academia,” Phelps observed.
Dustin Roberto pursues BS Population Health from UNM College Population Health examines manufacturing appropriation influence public health NM/Southwest especially imitation rebranding cultural hallmarks language/art forms.
"My research studies implications cultural manufacturing public health historical accuracy NM/Southwest revising past anthropology practices," Roberto said.
For more on scholarships see URAD website.
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