Second Year Reflection
My second year at the University of Florida was a whirlwind of growth, exploration, and unexpected turns that challenged me to reimagine how I want to use my public health degree to serve communities—both locally and globally.
In Fall 2024, I took a leap into something entirely new: a 5-credit Swahili course. I wanted to go beyond academic research and really connect with the people and patients I would later engage with in Tanzania. Learning the basics of Swahili felt like an important first step in building more meaningful, respectful relationships during my ethnographic fieldwork abroad.
That same semester, I enrolled in "The World of Nonprofits," a class that opened my eyes to the intersection of philanthropy and sustainable business models. I had always seen service as something separate from business, but this course helped me understand how nonprofit organizations can scale impact through strong organizational infrastructure and intentional leadership.
Outside the classroom, I served on the executive board of UF Chi Omega, helping to lead our chapter’s philanthropic efforts. Together, we raised over $40,000 for Make-A-Wish, and it was one of the most fulfilling experiences of the year—knowing that we helped make real wishes come true.
​
The year wasn’t without its challenges. One of the more difficult moments came when NSF funding was reduced in my malaria research lab, cutting undergraduate involvement. I had been preparing to join the team after months of reading and coursework on vaccine development. Still, that door closing led to another opening: I was awarded both the Summer Undergraduate International Research Program (SUIRP) Grant and the Robin Poynor Student Travel Award, giving me the chance to pursue independent fieldwork in Tanzania on the culture of death and dying in hospitals.
I was also deeply honored to receive the National Chi Omega Humphreys Scholarship to support this research abroad—one of the most meaningful recognitions of my commitment to global health equity in emerging market countries.
Spring semester brought a lot of movement—literally and figuratively. I traveled often, became certified as a Wilderness First Responder over spring break, and stepped into a new role as a Trip Leader for the UF CORE program. CORE became a true community for me—one that challenges me to lead thoughtfully, prepare for the unpredictable, and center group safety and cohesion, whether we’re surfing, hiking, or navigating backcountry trails.
I also continued my journey with the UF iGEM team, where we were thrilled to bring home a Gold Medal at the October Grand Jamboree in Paris. Being selected as the Human Practices Lead and Team Co-Captain for the 2025 team was an exciting milestone. I can't wait to return to Paris with a new vision, stronger leadership skills, and a deeper understanding of how synthetic biology can support public health innovation.
This year, I learned that setbacks can be redirections, that curiosity is a compass, and that leadership means knowing when to speak up—and when to listen. As I head into my third year, I carry with me not only new skills and awards, but also a deeper commitment to responsible global research and inclusive community-building.
I started a watercolor notecard business featuring UF landmark themed cards for the graduation season!
For the 2024 season of UF iGEM, I was primarily in charge of iGEM collaborations. This is a postcard I created for an international collab.
As Veterans Affairs Cabinet Director, I helped facilitate the 9/11 stair climb at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.
I had a fun time participating in multiple volleyball related philanthropies representing UF Chi Omega!
In the fall I took a Quest 1 class about astrophotography. We met every Wednesday from 7-10 pm and learned so much! Here is a photo we took and processed in class.
Shoutout to the Bailey Family Foundation Scholarship, it is so cool to receive a yearbook every year to keep in touch with recipients.
The Make A Wish E-board was able to deliver our Wish Kid her Disney Dream! I loved being on this board and the Captain of the Relations team this year.
I spearheaded the annual Veterans Day Cornhole tournament at UF as a Cabinet Event.
I was lucky enough to be able to travel to Kenya and visit various parks, working on my photography skills as well as my Swahili skills.
In the fall I set a goal to run a half marathon in January. I accomplished this, even if I did have the flu three days before. Thanks to Eryn for being my run buddy all throughout first semester!
I loved Microbiology lab! Something about the complexity of the simple things. Fascinating.
I made use of my tuition money and attended Rec Sports yoga at least three times a week, and made a lot of friends as well!
I am so excited to have finished my Wilderness First Responder Certification over spring break. Thanks John Duff!
For a fun service collaboration, I facilitated a dinner with the UF Society for Progressive Black Men. They were amazing!
My role as a UF Honors Luminary has been one of the most fulfilling jobs of my entire college experience. I love meeting new students and I hope they can all see how much I truly love the honors program.
My team on the UF Chi Omega Executive Board. It's no doubt a lot of work to manage a 300 person sorority, but these girls make it happen.
Officially named a CORE trip leader after a semester of hard work and a one week backpacking trip to test all our knowledge. I am so grateful for this community.