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Amanda Elaine Chalfant
Computer Science
Amanda Elaine Chalfant LinkedIn
Computer Science
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Becoming a member of the 2018 Husky 100 honorees!
aechalf@gmail.comMy time at UW has been shaped by many amazing and challenging experiences. As a student in Honors and Computer Science, I've learned from amazing faculty how to think critically and creatively on everything from Shakespeare to systems programming. As a future leader in the software industry, I've interned at companies in Seattle and the Silicon Valley, such as Microsoft, Apple, and Google. As a member of this diverse campus, I've been involved in Greek life, advising, and other organizations that aim to better the experience for students across campus. And as an individual, I've endured challenges of the last four years and ultimately become more confident and open-minded. This fall I will begin my career as a Software Engineer at Microsoft working on cloud computing, and I am so grateful for my experiences at UW that have prepared me for the future.
Interdisciplinary HonorsTags:
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Jeffrey Adair Taylor-Kantz
Public Health - Global Health
Jeffrey Adair Taylor-Kantz
Public Health - Global Health
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Realizing that the field I chose to study is an extremely critical service in our world right now.
My Website taylojef@gmail.comI am now graduating with my Bachelor of Science in Public Health -Global Health. I'm studying to be an epidemiologist and will be attending graduate school here at UW in the Department of Epidemiology starting in autumn. I'm a laid back guy who loves reading, long walks, and longer conversations. I am very thankful to all of the people who have supported me over the years. I am proud to be graduating with everyone now, and I wish my fellows all possible luck and skill in their next steps.
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Bridger Machus
Natural and Environmental Resource Management
Bridger Machus LinkedIn
Natural and Environmental Resource Management
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: My entire college career has been a moment of pride for me, my mother always dreamed of seeing me attending UW as a continuation of her legacy, but never got the chance. This was because she passed away my junior year of high school from cancer. I spent a great deal of time in mourning but once I saw a future at UW I knew I had to make her dream a reality. Now that it's 2018 and my graduation year, I truly feel like I’ve make her proud as well as myself.
Thesis: The Effects of Pond-Leveler Devices on Salmon Migration through Restored Riverine Beaver Pond Complexes
Born and raised on Lake Chelan, Washington, I followed in my mother’s footsteps and became a UW student, pursuing a degree in Natural and Environmental Resource Management. Since then I have accomplished a great deal, from my thesis looking at salmon migration sponsored by King County, to my role in refounding Acacia Fraternity, I have seen a lot of success at UW. This can be greatly attested to the brilliant staff here, along with the support of my friends and family over these 4 years. I plan to use my newfound understanding and knowledge to pursue a career in resource conservation, beginning with a seasonal job with the Forest Service this summer in the eastern Cascades and continuing with a trip to Bali, Indonesia to volunteer in turtle conservation. With the foundation UW has helped me lay I look forward to the rest of my life, continuing my education with my every pursuit.
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Makayla Akuyah Ndamele
Public Health-Global Health
Makayla Akuyah Ndamele LinkedIn
Public Health-Global Health
Human Rights
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Starting UW Mutual Aid to support BIPOC, LGBTQ+, disabled, undocumented, and/or first-generation UW students with Students of Color for Public Health. As of June 2021, the community build around our mutual aid program has raised over 60k for over 125 students!
mndamele@gmail.comHello, my name is Makayla, and I am graduating with my B.A. in Public Health-Global Health with a minor in Human Rights. I have lived in Washington my whole life but am proud to be the daughter of my mom who is from Chamula, Mexico and my dad who is from Balai, Ghana.
During my time at UW, I have had the honor of being both and intern and fellow with ROOTS Young Adult Shelter where I created educational trainings for volunteers on root causes of homelessness, anti-oppression, food safety, conflict response, and best practices and policies at ROOTS. This experience was supported by the CELE center where I have been able to grow a community. I have also been able to serve on the School of Public Health Dean’s Advisory Council for Students where my UW community only grew. My coursework has been such an incredible opportunity to work with others, reflect on my positionality, and advocate for others with intersectional, anti-racist, and abolitionist praxis. I created a virtual board game simulating how structural barriers, identities, and policy all interact and affect access to healthcare and wellbeing as one of my ad-hoc projects which I am hoping to continue developing alongside my partner. Community has been at the center of all my work and will be what drives all my work to come. I plan to pursue an MPH in the near future after I gain more experience working directly with my communities.
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Evan Edmund Cunningham Epstein
Chemical Engineering
Evan Edmund Cunningham Epstein LinkedIn
Chemical Engineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: This past winter I had the opportunity of organizing Introduce a Girl to Renewable Energy as the Outreach Director of Women in Chemical Engineering. 193 girls showed up for an afternoon of hands-on instructional demos provided by UW STEM organizations
Thesis: Establishing a Method for the Quantification of Poly-ethylene Glycol Surface Density
evanepst@gmail.comHi! My name is Evan and I use he/him pronouns.
I moved to Seattle from Boston to attend UW. It's true what they say... west coast, best coast. Since moving here, I've discovered a love of the outdoors: hiking, camping and skiing on REAL mountains. I made some amazing friends, both in and out of Honors. But maybe most importantly, I found a direction.
I committed to Chemical Engineering in Sophomore year without any idea about what Chemical Engineering was. As researcher in the Nance Lab, a ChemE lab which engineers nanoparticles for use in the brain, I discovered a passion for applying my education and abilities to challenges facing pharmaceutical research. I took this new passion and interned for Just Biotherapeutics, working to overcome the limitations viscosity imposes on protein-based therapeutics. I hope to continue this work for years to come.
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Stephanie Taylor Wong
Human Centered Design & Engineering
Stephanie Taylor Wong LinkedIn
Human Centered Design & Engineering
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Finally embracing my dad's lifelong advice that "It's not what you know, it's who you know" and dedicating my last quarter to strengthening my friendships and enjoying my last few months in Seattle
My WebsiteI'm a lifelong learner who is fascinated by the people, places, technology, and interactions around me. My curiosity to understand more about how humans interact with each other and their products led me to human-centered design. Meanwhile, my internships with two Seattle nonprofits sparked my desire to use my career to actively and positively impact my community. During my career as an experience designer, I hope to work on products that create social good while also having the flexibility to pursue my dreams of learning a new skill every year and traveling the world.
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Carolyn Brager
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Carolyn Brager LinkedIn
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: The quarter I spent interning abroad, learning the language, and traveling alone
My Website carolynbrager@gmail.comI am leaving college with an eagerness to work on human-centered disease research, a resiliency towards unexpected challenges, and a goal to have a life of intention and variety. My four years at UW were filled with epic days in the mountains, the chance to work in Ecuador and Nepal, the opportunity to contribute to cutting edge biomedical research, and support from incredible friends, mentors, and family. I am excited to lean into challenges and discomfort and make the most out of any path I choose to take.
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Diego Molina Ochoa
Biology(Physiology)
Diego Molina Ochoa LinkedIn
Biology(Physiology)
Global Health
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Getting into the Scans Design Internship on Pain Medicine Research program
As someone who has always strived to gather a wide range of knowledge and experiences, the honors program has been a huge part of my undergraduate career. I learned so much more and experience so many different things that would never have happened had I stuck to a pure biology based undergraduate career. Thanks to the honors program I've fleshed out my interests in global health and medicine, and as I continue down my path of clinical research and medicine, I will look back on my time at the UW and the honors program proudly.
Interdisciplinary HonorsTags:
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We love Honors
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Vivian Phan Jones
Chemical Engineering
Vivian Phan Jones
Chemical Engineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I was very honored to be offered the opportunity to pursue Departmental Honors and use the knowledge I had gained as an undergraduate research assistant toward an independent project!
Thesis: Molecularly Imprinted Chitosan Beads for Selective Removal of Perfluoroalkane Sulfonic Acids (PFSAs) in Water
vphanjones@gmail.comPursuing a degree at UW, I knew that I could make a difference in the way people interact with the environment through engineering. I'm very grateful for my time in the Aquatic Innovations in Materials Science (AIMS) Lab, where I was able to narrow the scope of my education and learn about current topics in water treatment. After graduation, I am looking forward to a career in sustainability for the betterment of people and the environment!
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Grace Shannon Woodard
Psychology
Grace Shannon Woodard LinkedIn
Psychology
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment was receiving a call from President Cauce that I am the President's Medalist for the Class of 2018.
Thesis: Fear Generalization and Avoidance: Reactions to Ambiguous Stimuli Contributing to Post-Trauma Psychopathology
gracesw@uw.eduDuring my time at UW, I have been deeply involved in academics, student leadership, and service for which I was awarded the Class of 2018 President's Medal. I was elected to the Panhellenic Executive Board and instituted many programming changes for which I earned the national award for Outstanding Leadership and Educational Programming. I was involved in the ASUW Mental Health Working Group, Honors service study abroad, tutoring/mentoring at a local high school, and helping to raise $55,000 for Court Appointed Special Advocates of King County. I completed my undergraduate thesis in the UW Center for Anxiety and Traumatic Stress and received a scholarship to present my research at UCLA. Next year I will be working at Dr. Dorsey's Dissemination and Implementation Lab as a Research Coordinator before applying to PhD programs.
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Em Chapple
BS Psychology
Em Chapple
BS Psychology
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Writing a short story for my study abroad independent project!
I'm Em, and I'm graduating in the class of 2020 whoo! I loved being a Husky, and although I'm sad to see my time at UW end, I am so happy that I got to have all of the experiences I did. I was an HFS tour guide, I worked as a research assistant in three different settings, joined my sorority Alpha Omicron Pi, fell in love with my now UW grad boyfriend, and studied abroad in Italy- Rome, Venice, and Florence! I am starting my Master of Public Health at the Boston University School of Public Health this fall, and hope to work in community health practice. Bye UW, and thanks for all the memories!
Interdisciplinary HonorsTags:
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Anders B Peterson
English
Anders B Peterson
English
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Co-founding and directing an improv workshop series through the Undergraduate Theater Society that I’ve kept running since my Sophomore year.
Thesis: ‘Prince Farming’ and His Helicopter: The Environment and Technology in Heterosexual Coupling on The Bachelor
An essay on Cher got me accepted to the Honors Program, and through these four years I’ve continued to include my love of most things pop culture in my work. I came into UW as a Seattlite open to studying most anything non-STEM, but had a sneaking suspicion that I would land in English. Unsurprisingly I did, but over time I ended up mainly thinking and writing about television and film - “The Bachelor” really does have my heart. Many of my key experiences during these four years have happened off campus, especially through working on and sometimes performing in shows at Jet City Improv. Whatever comes next, I’ll keep making it up as I go along.
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Sophie I Muro
Anthropology
Sophie I Muro LinkedIn
Anthropology
Art History
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: The summers I have spent in the field, living and working as an archaeological researcher in Oregon!
Thesis: “Through a Screen”: The Photogrammetry and Digital Curation of Belongings from the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde”
sophimuro@gmail.comHi! My name is Sophie and I am a recent graduate of the Anthropology Department Honors Program! I am passionate about decolonizing museum collections and archaeological methods in order to create accessible resources for extant community members. In Fall 2020, I will begin a graduate degree in Museum Studies at George Washington University in Washington, D.C., with the long-term goal of working in collections management and curation. My time as an honors student has allowed me to travel, research, and build lasting connections with professors and community members!
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Georgia Coleman
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Georgia Coleman
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Quantitative Science
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I've had so much fun and have learned so much in my research of ravens in Yellowstone National Park. Getting involved with research was one of my goals going into college, and I'm so thankful for the opportunity I've had to be involved in the whole process, from data collection, to analysis, and finally the presentation of results.
Thesis: Using Fine-Scale Movement Data to Analyze Common Raven (Corvus corax) Roost Sites Across Time and Space in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Hello! My name is Georgia and I have spent the last four years immersed in the world of wildlife ecology. I never could have imagined all the opportunities that have come my way during my time at the UW. From studying abroad in Costa Rica, to leading students on field trips as a TA, to spending a week in Yellowstone National Park conducting research on ravens, it has been the most delightful adventure. Along the way I've learned to closely observe and identify nature in my surroundings and have gained a strong interest in ornithology, a field of science I now hope to pursue. With the support of my environmental peers and passionate professors (especially my mentor Dr. John Marzluff) I've gained the skills necessary to begin a career in wildlife science. I'm so excited to put my knowledge to use as a wildlife field technician and plan to eventually attend graduate school to further my skills as a wildlife biologist.
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Jake T Woods
Communication
Jake T Woods
Communication
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Participating in a Study Abroad program in León, Spain.
Thesis: The Communication of Families of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
I am 22 years old and ecstatic to have completed my undergraduate education. I will be moving on to put my Communication degree to work in the healthcare industry, starting in Olympia, WA. One of my main interests is driving a racecar all across Washington State, which I have been doing for over 12 years. I am thankful for my time at UW and proud to have completed a Thesis for my departmental honors study.
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Aarthi Ganapathi
Business Administration - Operations and Supply Chain Management & Information Systems
Aarthi Ganapathi LinkedIn
Business Administration - Operations and Supply Chain Management & Information Systems
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: I should hope that my proudest moment at UW is only yet to come. My involvement with this institution will not end at graduation!
aarthi.ganapathi@gmail.comI couldn't be more proud to be graduating college with the ability to call myself a Husky! Both the university's Interdisciplinary Honors Program and the Foster School of Business guided me through an incredible four years of learning, exploration, and personal growth. After graduation, I'll be headed across the pond to London, England to start a career in investment banking - hopefully while retaining my extracurricular passions for graphite portraiture and delving deeply into my Netflix recommended list.
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Chiara Rose DeSantis
Public Health - Global Health and Spanish
Chiara Rose DeSantis LinkedIn
Public Health - Global Health and Spanish
Diversity
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Being selected as a Husky 100 has been one of my proudest moments at UW.
ChiaraRDesantis@gmail.comThe University of Washington’s welcoming and open nature propelled me to embrace all parts of myself, especially my multiracial identity and hair loss disease, Alopecia Areata. Throughout my four years, I learned that there is power in looking different and want to use my platform to pay it forward. I chose to pursue a degree in Public Health-Global Health so I can use my own experiences within the healthcare system to bridge inequities and make it more inclusive and accessible for all.
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Marium Raza
Biochemistry & CHID
Marium Raza LinkedIn
Biochemistry & CHID
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Being honored with the Sedlock Icon Award and the Mary Gates Research Scholarship the same day, for my research with the Gordon lab.
My Website mariumraza99@live.comHi, my name is Marium Raza, and I'm graduating with degrees in biochemistry and comparative history of ideas. I consider myself part scientist, part innovator, and part social justice advocate. I have spent the past four years researching in a biophysics lab, building my organization Elixir to support undocumented immigrants, and volunteering with University District Street Medicine. You can find me sipping a cup of chai or a London Fog most mornings, and I love trying out new restaurants. I also love spending time with my family, travelling, and watching movies. After graduating, I'll be moving to the East Coast to attend Harvard Medical School.
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Chang (Kelly) Lu
Accounting
Chang (Kelly) Lu LinkedIn
Accounting
Dance
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: One of the proudest moments for me at UW were those time when my teams won several very competitive business case competitions.
Thesis: ASC-606 Readiness and SAB 74 Disclosure Quality
kellylc31@icloud.comI am an international student from China. I have had a challenging but wonderful 4-year experience here at UW Foster School of Business.
Foster has helped shape and define who I want to be in the future, and will continue to remind me of who I used to be, what I learned from my past and how I can take the lessons learned with me going forward.
As I am graduating, I am on the way to start my career at Deloitte Consulting NYC office. I hope Huskies can keep connected no matter where we go. Go purple, be gold!
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Oakley Reid
Microbiology
Oakley Reid LinkedIn
Microbiology
Spanish
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Becoming fully bilingual
I grew up on Vashon Island, right outside of Seattle, and plan to remain in the city following graduation. Despite majoring in Microbiology, language has always been one of my favorite subjects, leading me to pursue a minor in Spanish. I've been fortunate enough to try out undergraduate activities ranging from undergraduate research for UW's Biology department, to shadowing and volunteer work at Harborview Medical Center, to working with patients myself as a Medical Technologist. The one box I was unable to check as an undergraduate at UW was studying abroad, so I've made it a goal to live outside the US for at least a month before 2021 is over (pandemic-permitting).
I plan to apply to medical school this summer and spend my gap year working, spending time with family, pursuing other interests, and making sure I truly want to be a physician.
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We love Honors
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Nicholas Philip Radulovich
Physiology (B.S), French Honors (B.A)
Nicholas Philip Radulovich LinkedIn
Physiology (B.S), French Honors (B.A)
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment has been establishing the UW Eye Club; an organization that promotes vision care awareness and related philanthropic opportunities.
Thesis: The evolution of French in a province surrounded by English
My Website radnick9@gmail.comI have always had an interest for the complexities of the human. My passion has guided me towards a career in healthcare. In particular, i’ve found the technical aspects of surgery to be most appealing. After conducting research for over three years, i’ve come to appreciate the finer details of biology and how fascinating the life sciences can be. I was honored to be chosen twice as a Mary Gates scholar for my research. Sharing my research with others at the Undergraduate Research Symposium has been quite a memorable experience for me, where I’ve been able to converse with individuals and observe their diverse research interests. It was quite an inspiring event where I learned about the amazing work being done at the UW. Moreover, completing a dual-degree has given me the privilege to learn about two completely different studies, while still integrating them into my daily life. I’ve found that French gets me to think about every other educational aspect that Physiology cannot cover solely by itself. Whether it may be the practicality of learning the language itself, global and cultural history, or even philosophy and literature, I’ve felt like French has been a significant contributor in providing me a well-round education. I am eager to begin the next stage of my educational journey. Currently, I am completing my remote EMT training with the intent of joining my local county’s emergency services department and their search and rescue crew. Through this, I am hoping to gain useful life experience before I attend medical school.
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Conor Miles
Psychology, BS
Conor Miles
Psychology, BS
Informatics
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Getting a chickadee to land on my hand in Grieg Garden.
Hello everyone! I'm Conor, a psychology graduate with an interest in autism research. I've spent my time at UW working at two disability offices--Bellevue College's Neurodiversity Navigators and UW's Disability Resources for Students. I'm proud to have helped students with accommodations and academic resources and I plan on using my future research and academic experiences to examine accessibility barriers, particularly in mental health resources. I've also had the pleasure of volunteering at UW's Research in Autism and the Brain Lab, where I developed my research skills and worked with a team of amazing researchers to conduct novel research on rare genetic groups. I hope to continue developing my research skills upon graduation through lab work before pursuing a PhD in clinical or cognitive psychology.
Outside of school, I have a passion for all things art--especially writing, digital art, and film--and spend a large chunk of my non-work time drawing or typing up short stories. I also enjoy feeding birds around campus, exploring the city, and hiking, especially with friends.
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Teshan Laucirica
Anthropology of Globalization
Teshan Laucirica
Anthropology of Globalization
History
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Getting accepted into the Honors Program and having my thesis approved.
Thesis: Upon the Pyre - The Fiery Funerary Practices of Vientiane, Laos
teshal@uw.eduI am the mother of a UW graduate and a no-eyed cat, a nurturer of plant life, and an enthusiastic cook. As a late bloomer in the world of education, previous episodes of my existence included working at Pike Place Market, cooking in New Orleans, and as a professional hairstylist in Seattle. The anthropology honors program was an incredibly fulfilling experience for me as it allowed me the independence and freedom to focus my research on an area of personal interest. I am passionate about human rights, politics, history, culture, and all of these as they are concentrated in Southeast Asia. I am grateful for the education that I have received from the University of Washington which will equip me to work in fields related to these passions and I am very excited to continue in the Master's program here and to see what lies beyond.
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Shoaib Nahas
Business Administration (Marketing & Information Systems)
Shoaib Nahas LinkedIn
Business Administration (Marketing & Information Systems)
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: When I truly begun perceiving opportunities with excitement and eagerness as opposed to a sense of burdensome
Thesis: IoT in Space Exploration: Integrating the Customer Journey Value Chain
shoaib.nahas@gmail.comI'm honored to have accelerated my undergraduate education to 3 years while pursuing both Marketing and Information Systems. I cherished my education by consistently engaging in academic and community projects in Seattle. Now, I'm thrilled to continue learning and developing as I embark into management consulting at ZS Associates.
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Katie Champoux
Neurobiology and Psychology
Katie Champoux
Neurobiology and Psychology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Becoming a member of Phi Beta Kappa as a junior.
Thesis: Differential Development of Myelin in the Zebra Finch Song System Corresponds to Faster Song Tempo
One of my most significant experiences has been undergraduate research in Dr. David Perkel’s lab studying the neural mechanisms of learning, memory, and vocalization that allow singing in songbirds like zebra finches. I discovered how much I enjoy the challenges of research and understanding how research can translate into clinical medicine and patient care.
I have thoroughly enjoyed my coursework to earn degrees in Neurobiology and Psychology. I love studying everything and anything about the nervous system, from molecular mechanisms to anatomy, from neuropharmacology to the neural basis of human behavior.
During my Husky years, I discovered my passion for helping others. I now know that I want to help people improve their health and I plan to attend medical school. I am very grateful for love and support from my family, friends, and mentors. I am also proud to earn Departmental Honors in Neurobiology and be a part of the UW Honors Family.
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Jesse Du
History and Human Centered Design & Engineering
Jesse Du LinkedIn
History and Human Centered Design & Engineering
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Interviewing the late Prof. Ezra Vogel on behalf of the UW Commitee on China-US Dialogue, and being told "thank you for reading my book so carefully."
Thesis: Bad Neighbors: The 1967 Zenrin Student Hall Incident and Transnational Student Radicalism in China and Japan
My Website jess113@uw.eduComing from a fine arts background, love history, and passionate about technology and design, I tried to figure out what I really want to do with life. I think UW gave me as good of an answer as I could ever hope for.
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Ethan Spencer
Microbiology
Ethan Spencer LinkedIn
Microbiology
Global Health
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Either getting published for the first time on a peer-reviewed paper or publishing the Microphiles Journal!
Thesis: Use of Surrogate Bacteriophages to Model Persistence and Disinfection of Viral Pathogens
Hello! I am Ethan Spencer (he/him/his) and I am about to graduate with a degree in Microbiology. I spent a significant amount of my time at UW as a member for the Microphiles Club and Journal, as well as conducting as much research as I could. Anything related to infectious diseases is absolutely fascinating. Outside of academia, I am a proud dog dad, plant dad, love to try cooking as many new things as possible, and playing dnd with my friends.
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Sabrina Suen
Political Science, Political Economy
Sabrina Suen LinkedIn
Political Science, Political Economy
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Finally finishing my thesis and winning the Lev Award
Thesis: How the Rise of Local Identity Eroded Pan-Chinese Nationalism in Taiwan and Hong Kong
As a Taiwanese American, the nuances of Taiwan's complicated relationship with China has always fascinated me and is also a catalyst for my interest in political science and international relations. Throughout my undergraduate career, I was involved with various on-campus organizations that focused on important international issues. Most notably, I served as President for the Model United Nations club at UW. Through my role, I attended and staffed various international and local conferences where I was able to gain a better understanding of and appreciation for the dynamics of the international community.
This fall, I will be attending UW Law School as a Gregoire Fellow. This unique opportunity will offer me the chance to receive mentorship from former governor Christine Gregiore and to intern at a variety of local law firms, government agencies, and corporations. As a future law student, I hope to study international business law and continue to learn about Asian law and government.
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Christine Dien
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Christine Dien
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Data science
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Meeting other WRF fellows and getting to know the community!
I am excited to pursue my career in bioinformatics at the Fred Hutch! I intend to go to grad school after a few years of working. I am an avid baker and love drawing, both digitally and on paper!
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Thu Thu May Oo
Medical Anthropology and Global Health
Thu Thu May Oo LinkedIn
Medical Anthropology and Global Health
Nutritional Sciences
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Thus, after completing bachelor's degree at this amazing UW, I hope to pursue my dream of becoming medical doctor and the medical anthropologist and hope to serve as the stepping stone towards inclusive community-building with cultural humility here and in Myanmar.
Thesis: apartheid, the State of Exception, and Rohingya Women in Myanmar (Burma): An Auto-Ethnographic Intervention
trinity.ttmo@gmail.comHi there! My name is Thu Thu and I am originally from Myanmar (Burma). Studying at the UW has been a great privilege for me as I have got to meet so many passionate and amazing people who have now become my family. From cliff diving and dipping my feet in taro farms during the study abroad trip in Hawaii to excavating the role of my own in the society fueled by apartheid and health disparities, the UW has given me so many opportunities to challenge myself beyond my own fear and the limits! What's more, through writing poetry, auto-ethnography, and storytelling, I have become more mindful and aware of the racial disparities and injustice around us.
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Elise Victoria Aydelott
Psychology
Elise Victoria Aydelott
Psychology
Spanish
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Working as a Peer Adviser with UW Undergraduate Academic Affairs Advising!
eliseaydelott@gmail.comHello! My name is Elise Aydelott, and I'm graduating from the University of Washington Interdisciplinary Honors Program with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Spanish. I plan on getting my CNA this summer and going to nursing school next year, with the goal of becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I'm very passionate about expanding access to mental health care and breaking the stigma associated with it. I'm looking forward to taking a year off of school to explore the health care field and gain some experience before applying to nursing school.
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Rae Wang
Finance, Marketing
Rae Wang LinkedIn
Finance, Marketing
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Getting the Foster Undergraduate Scholarship
raewang98@gmail.comI'm thankful that the honors program has challenged me to research more in my interested academic areas. For my two ad hoc projects, I completed a research paper discussing America-China Trade War and one regarding "Clustering Performance Comparison Between Expectation Maximization Algorithm and K-means Using Spotify Data". Cheers to all the hard work and happy graduation to all the class of 2020 huskies!
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Kelly Crebs
Biology
Kelly Crebs
Biology
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Watching the Huskies beat WSU in the Apple Cup during all of my years here--fulfillment of a childhood dream!
kellycrebs@gmail.comHello! I'm Kelly, and as you might be able to tell from my biology major, I love science and exploring the great outdoors. I was born and raised here in western Washington, and in my free time I enjoy hiking with my family, playing with my two dogs, and reading. My family loves to tease me that many of my other hobbies make me seem like an old lady, especially the fact that I crochet and typically listen to music released no later than 40 years ago. During the pandemic, I also discovered a love for classic and arthouse film, which I play to continue exploring as I leave UW and pursue a career in biomedical research. In my time here, I was lucky enough to explore the diversity of scientific career options through internships in a microbiology/immunology-focused research lab and at the citizen science seabird monitoring program COASST. I was also fortunate to serve as Vice President of Internal Communications of UW's Crohn's and Colitis Club during my junior and senior years. Moving forward, I plan to take at least one year to work in my field and then consider continuing my education in graduate school. Wherever the wind blows next, I am very grateful for the opportunities that UW has afforded me and for the support of my family and friends. Go Dawgs!
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Gina Pak
Environmental Studies
Gina Pak LinkedIn
Environmental Studies
Urban Planning and Design
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Completing my 9 month long capstone project and finding an amazing team of support throughout my journey at UW.
Thesis: Utilizing Technology for Interpretive Materials in Urban Parks (Friends of Discovery Park)
pakgina96@yahoo.comI'm entirely grateful for my experience at the University of Washington. I have learned so much about how to think critically and work with different groups of people on a variety of projects, while also balancing work and a social life. I'm so passionate about the environment, sustainability and building community! I cannot wait to use these skills I have gained through my undergraduate experience to make an impact on the world, no matter how small or large!
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Aradia Elenor Webb
English, Language and Literature
Aradia Elenor Webb LinkedIn
English, Language and Literature
Education, Learning, and Society
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW has yet to come, but will certainly be when I submit this Honors thesis in June!
Thesis: Bolstering “less-than-ideal lovers”: an analysis of the treatment of heroes in modern Jane Austen film adaptations
My Website webb.arad9@gmail.comThroughout my time at UW, I changed my major about 17,000 times, slipped in Red Square three times, and took more than one Zoom class in my pj's in a closet in order to get a bit of quiet. With all of that said, I had an absolutely, mind-blowingly amazing time. I have met life-changing people, settled on a degree that I absolutely love (go, book nerds!), and have had countless experiences that have made me a better thinker and a kinder person. I am so lucky and ever-so-thankful to have attended this university and to have been a part of English honors. Thank you so much to everyone who supported me along the way.
I look forward to a hopeful career in editing following my graduation because, after four years of reading a bunch of words, apparently I just haven't had enough.
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Rohnin W. Randles
Political Science
Rohnin W. Randles
Political Science
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Seeing the public release of the Washington Legislative Explorer, a database project that was the culmination of more than a year of hard (and often arduous) work.
Thesis: Judicial Prescience: How Judges Incorporate Expectations in Grants for Certiorari
My WebsiteWhen I got to UW, I was going to be attending my third college; after receiving an A.S. from North Idaho College and transferring from the University of Oklahoma, my curiosity always got the better of me and I could never settle on a field. Nonetheless, I was determined and the faculty, resources, and opportunities at UW allowed me to grow into my passion. Over the last three years, I was able to complete a research fellowship, the political science honors program, write two independent research papers, and produce a web database to help citizens educate themselves on the activities of the Washington state legislature. Even more fulfilling are the bonds to friends, faculty, and a community of scholars.
I am taking my next step in the fall as I start a Ph.D. in Politics at Princeton, where I was honored with a Centennial Fellowship. To my friends, family, professors, and all those who supported me -- thank you and Go Dawgs!
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Chengjun Zhang
Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences, Economics
Chengjun Zhang LinkedIn
Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences, Economics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Co-author an academic paper that will publish soon.
chengz96@uw.eduGlad that I spent the most memorable four years as a husky. I was lucky to get involved in multiple life-changing research projects, preparing myself for the coming Ph.D. studies. The experience, and the connections with faculties and friends are the treasures for the rest of my life, and I believe everybody feels this way.
Congratulations to all the graduates!
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Zoë Love Mertz
English / Creative Writing
Zoë Love Mertz LinkedIn
English / Creative Writing
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW is the day I finally got the chance to take a picture with Dubs, a true UW icon and legend
Thesis: "Witches Are Not So Delicate": A Feminist Revisionist Take on Madeline Miller's Circe
I am an English / Creative writing graduate with a love for all things literary (my favorite unofficial holiday is Seattle's annual Independent Bookstore Day!) During my time in UW Honors, I have spent two years bonding with classmates over lesson planning and reviewing four-year plans as an Honors Peer Educator, three years collaborating over community events and opportunities for handing out free food as an Honors Community Ambassador, and countless hours chattering away about the benefits of the UW Honors program at prospective student info sessions. My three years in college have also been devoted to proudly proclaiming the most ridiculous responses to writing prompts possible during Writing Club, teaching children of all ages how to punch and kick in my job as a martial arts instructor, slowly but surely learning how to make soup and sheet pan dinners without burning down the kitchen, and advocating with all my heart for the importance of arts and humanities education. Next year I plan to say a heartfelt goodbye to Seattle (for now!) and head east to Emerson College in Boston to pursue my Masters of Fine Arts in Fiction Writing, though I eagerly anticipate the chance to return for potential in-person grad celebrations and the long-awaited opportunity for pictures with the W in my cap and gown.
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Gabrielle Anjelica Gersten
Public Health--Global Health
Gabrielle Anjelica Gersten LinkedIn
Public Health--Global Health
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments is when I was able to share my research about e-cigarettes with legislators in Olympia, WA to lobby for public health bills.
gabbygersten@gmail.comI was born and raised in Seattle and I am so proud to graduate from the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Arts in Public Health--Global Health. I have learned so much and have made so many meaningful relationships these past four years that I will always cherish. After graduation, I will be continuing to work as a Behavior Technician, a challenging yet rewarding position, and I hope to attend graduate school to earn a Master's in Occupational Therapy within the next few years.
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Neta Simon
Microbiology
Neta Simon LinkedIn
Microbiology
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Publishing a co-first authored paper
Thesis: Maternal Microchimerism in Malaria-Endemic Settings: The Role of Maternal Microchimerism on The Developing Infant Immune System
I'm very grateful to have spent the last four years studying Microbiology at UW and am leaving with a passion to improve human health through medicine.
Some favorite moments from the past four years include:
- a 22-mile hike through the Enchantments
- studying abroad in Israel and volunteering as an EMT
- every weekend spent with my housemates (fun fact: half of us met at Honors orientation)
- working in a lab researching maternal-fetal interactions of malaria
- establishing the Loaves of Love program with ChabadI am so thankful for the memories I've made with my friends, the mentors I've gained, the time spent outdoors, and every opportunity for growth that the UW has provided me.
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Shana Reka Edouard
Earth and Space Sciences
Shana Reka Edouard
Earth and Space Sciences
Dance
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment was receiving a study abroad scholarship to study in Canada through the Killam Fellowships Program.
My two passions in life are earth sciences and performing arts. I am so glad that I was able to pursue both at the University of Washington, majoring in Earth and Space Sciences with departmental honors and minoring in Dance. Throughout my years in college, I have received three scholarships, studied abroad for four months in London, Ontario, CA, and became involved in two research projects with the Earth and Space Sciences and Atmospheric department. I am proud to be graduating with departmental honors and cum laude.
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Melissa Valasky
Biology
Melissa Valasky
Biology
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Joining my sorority and UW Relay for Life!
I originally came to UW for the opportunities but stayed for the people. These past four years have been incredibly humbling and have helped give me the confidence to be who I am today. I have grown so much and would not be where I am today without the support of the friends, role models, and mentors I have met along the way!
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Wylie Fu-Xing Kau
Chemical Engineering
Wylie Fu-Xing Kau LinkedIn
Chemical Engineering
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was successfully fabricating and testing a high efficiency perovskite solar cell!
My WebsiteGrowing up on Orcas Island, it was a pretty big transition moving away from home and to the UW. Since then, I've grown to love the city of Seattle and the abundant opportunities UW offers its community. I've become fascinated with solar technology, competed for UW in the NC3 Climbing circuit, co-authored a cutting edge research paper, and cemented many lasting friendships. I look forward to summer bike packing trips and helping facilitate a global shift to renewable energies!
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Madisen Mead
Accounting, Finance (Business Administration)
Madisen Mead LinkedIn
Accounting, Finance (Business Administration)
Spanish, Certificate of International Studies in Business (CISB) program
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I had the opportunity to be a TA for Accounting 215, the introductory financial accounting course. As a TA I was able to inspire interest, and hype up the fundamentals of accounting to students, while also mentoring students beyond the classroom to chase their goals at UW and in life!
Thesis: How Macroeconomic Events Shape Venture Capitalist's Investments
Hi, my name is Madisen Mead and I graduated with a B.A. in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting and Finance. I am passionate about international business and world travel, and have studied abroad in Barcelona and Ireland, and completed the Foster Certificate of International Studies in Business (CISB) program and minored in Spanish.
My research in to the impact of world events on venture capitalist's investments, further inspired my interest in the growing Seattle startup and venture capital space!
I am excited to start at Deloitte in their audit practice in the Fall, and am a huge husky football and basketball fan- go dawgs!Departmental HonorsTags:
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We love Honors
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Sophie Ye
Business Administration: Finance; Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences: Quantitative Finance and Mathematical Economics
Sophie Ye LinkedIn
Business Administration: Finance; Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences: Quantitative Finance and Mathematical Economics
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment was when my team and I designed an eco-friendly produce label that won Seattle University's Harriet Stephenson Business Plan Competition!
Hi! My name is Sophie and I'm a Finance and ACMS: Quant. Finance and Math. Economics major. During my time at UW, I had the opportunity to serve on the board for AIESEC and the Undergraduate Women in Business with incredible women, two amazing organizations that support and develop future leaders. And through both of these RSOs, I have found friends and a community. Through the Honors program, I expanded my knowledge by researching and writing papers on the dollarization of economies and the hostile takeover of Versum by Merck Group. I am so thankful for my experiences at UW and am excited to join MFS Investment Management this fall!
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Tanmay Sapre
Bioengineering
Tanmay Sapre LinkedIn
Bioengineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: The proudest moment is being awarded the Mary Gates Scholarship for my research conducted at UW.
Thesis: A Biodegradable, Multifunctional Hydrogel as a Vascular Graft Sealant
My professional interests are studying physiology and biochemistry and trying to engineer low cost, reasonable, and effective solutions to problems that arise in the human body such that they can be treated successfully. This passion will hopefully lead me towards a career in medicine where I hope to contribute towards revolutionizing the way medicine is practiced. Participating in a translational research project for 3 years has sparked my interest in the field of research and how it is related to medicine. During my spare time I am interested in playing and watching basketball, cooking, and exercising.
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Maria Dyann Osborne
English, Mathematics
Maria Dyann Osborne
English, Mathematics
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Receiving the 2014-2015 Sophomore Medal
Thesis: Close Encounters: Bodily Politics of the Dissolving Human Subject in James Tiptree, Jr.'s "Slow Music" and "The Only Neat Thing to Do" (English Honors Thesis)
maria.d.osborne@gmail.comHi, I’m Maria! I am, among other things, a PNW local, a dancer, a baker, a traveler, and a reader. I also have a B.A. now, with majors in English literature and mathematics. Over the last 5 years, I’ve focused on studying gender and sexuality studies, postmodernism, rhetoric, and science fiction. Now more than ever I believe in the power and importance of stories, and have a special fondness for genre fiction and other forms of storytelling not generally considered high brow literature. Simultaneously, I’ve nurtured my love and appreciation of numbers, equations, and logical thought. In total, I’ve written more essays and proofs during my time at UW than I care to think about.
Besides my standard coursework, I’ve been on a research team with the WXML (Washington Experimental Mathematics Lab), studied abroad in Romania and Georgia, and volunteered in local 9th/10th grade math classes. From Eastern Europe to Seattle high school classrooms, these last 5 years have been a journey to so many places I never expected. In the future, I hope to combine my interests in the humanities and quantitative sciences by studying statistics in application to demographic issues and trends.
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Iman Mustafa
Law, Societies and Justice
Iman Mustafa LinkedIn
Law, Societies and Justice
Human Rights
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment was getting the opportunity to attend UC Berkeley's Goldman School of Public Policy as a Law Fellow through the Public Policy and International Affairs Program
Thesis: School To Prison Pipeline
imanm1998@gmail.comI am a first-generation college student and the daughter to Ethiopian immigrants. My passion for choosing this path of education is to one day shape Public Policy around issues of bias in our criminal justice system, more specifically in their use of punishment. I am passionate about working to dismantle mass incarceration because of how it is disproportionately affecting Black people and all people of color. My honor’s thesis gave me a deeper understanding of the School-to-Prison pipeline and has allowed me to determine how I want to create in the world after my time at the University of Washington. I plan on pursuing a Master’s in public policy with a focus on criminal justice and education to create systemic change and equity to these issues.
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Cen Wei
English and Economics
Cen Wei
English and Economics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Majoring in English
Phi Beta Kappa, English departmental Honors, OWRC tutor, Engl 281 TA,
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Chi T Truong
Biochemistry
Chi T Truong
Biochemistry
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW is completing my senior thesis after two years of research.
Thesis: Novel Biosensor Design for Small-molecule Drugs and Neuropeptides
I am from Vietnam. I am thrilled to be graduating in BS Biochemistry this June. At UW, I have spent my time in Dr. Liangcai Gu's lab in Biochemistry department studying biosensors. I had a strong passion for pharmacy since I was young. In my free time, I love traveling, cooking, and reading history books. After graduation, I will be staying at UW to pursue my PharmD program.
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Jakar Delacruz
Public Health - Global Health
Jakar Delacruz LinkedIn
Public Health - Global Health
Global Health
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest UW moment was presenting at the UW SPH Undergrad Symposium on Standardizing Gender Affirming Care as I had the trans flag ripping across the powerpoint screen. I am proud of being a part of the work in creating access for folx in 6 states in adovcating for health care needs.
Thesis: Implementing ED-PrEP to prevent HIV for MSM within LMICs in community health settings
jakari.dxc@gmail.comHello! I am a community health worker and public health researcher advocating for LGBTQIA+, Gender & Racial equity through community-based partnerships locally and globally to overcome systemic health barriers in access, prevention and education. From conducting oral histories of front line workers during the COVID-19 pandemic to delivering HIV medications for the LGBTQIA+ community abroad using social media; My goals are to uplift my community by developing tools and agency needed to liberate themselves.
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Sofia Dolce
Industrial and Systems Engineering
Sofia Dolce LinkedIn
Industrial and Systems Engineering
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Leading a project for my RSO, the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers, to invite first generation and low-income students predominantly from Eastern Washington to visit UW. Seeing their faces while they interacted with students and professional engineers made all the work to get a Mary Gates Leadership Scholarship worth it.
From joining Husky Marching Band and leading the Alto Sax section to being an officer (and eventually President) for three years in SHPE, I am lucky that I was able to meet so many amazing individuals through my leadership experiences. I enjoyed studying abroad in Rome and jamming in jazz combos with my Honors peers, and hope to continue these experiences past graduation. While I am entering the workforce as a consultant this summer, I will take my college experiences with me as I aim to give back to my communities whether that may be in music, my heritage, or experiences abroad.
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Lais Lastre Conceicao
Neuroscience, Biochemistry
Lais Lastre Conceicao LinkedIn
Neuroscience, Biochemistry
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: I am proud of the growth I have seen in my person over these past years.
Thesis: Investigating the Properties and Mechanism of Action of Potential Novel Analgesic AS1
Lais is an avid scholar with an interest in neuroscience, biology, nutrition, and more. During her time at the University of Washington, she worked in the de la Iglesia lab on a project on the NaV1.1 channel in Dravet Syndrome, for which she won the Mary Gates Research Scholarship in winter of 2019. She then was a Pain Research Scholar in 2019 and moved to the Dhaka lab. She wrote her Neuroscience Departmental Honors Thesis on her work in the Dhaka lab on the impact of a potential novel analgesic AS1 on aversion in zebrafish.
Outside of school, Lais spends time volunteering through COPE and at ROOTS Young Adult shelter. She also enjoys biking, drawing, and reading.Departmental HonorsTags:
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Anastasia Evgenievna Voronina
Business Administration - Entrepreneurship
Anastasia Evgenievna Voronina LinkedIn
Business Administration - Entrepreneurship
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Getting invited to join Foster's Honors Program
My entire life I traveled the world with my circus family, and only in the last five years have I settled down. In this time, I have managed to participate in the Running Start program, thereby saving two years worth of time and tuition, and complete Foster's Honor's Program! Although prioritizing my studies has been well worth it, I think I'm ready to return to my roots and rejoin the artistic community. Except now I have the ability to both be on stage as well as run the business.
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Christine Lew
Disability Studies, Psychology
Christine Lew LinkedIn
Disability Studies, Psychology
American Sign Language
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Becoming the Director of the ASUW Student Disability Commission!
Thesis: Disability Gain: Exploring the Advantages of Different Bodies and Minds
My Website lewchristine3@gmail.comHeyo! My name is Christine. I am a Disability justice advocate and CODA (Child of Deaf Adults). Most of my work has centered around creating inclusive and accessible spaces for people with disabilities. I'm always happy to answer questions you may have, or just participate in a nice invigorating conversation about the world in general. Let me know if there's any way I can support you :)
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Kylie H Sahota
Aquatic and Fishery Sciences
Kylie H Sahota LinkedIn
Aquatic and Fishery Sciences
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Holding a baby octopus caught in a bottom trawl during a research cruise on the RV Rachel Carson!
Thesis: The Effects of Increased Salinity on the Behavior and Survival of Juvenile Dungeness Crab (Cancer magister): Implications for the Control of Burrowing Shrimp in Willapa Bay, Washington
As a SAFS major, you might guess I love just about anything that has to do with water or the things that live in in, and you would be correct! Some of my favorite activities include swimming, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, paddle boarding, fishing, hiking, and spending time outdoors with my family and friends. In my free time, I also love to read, ride horses, dance, hang out with my pets, cook, and bake.
I worked throughout my time at UW at the Burke Museum Fish Collection, Biology Department Field Trip Program, and the Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team. With these organizations I was able to gain valuable experience and connections, and still managed to maintain a high GPA and consistently receive awards and recognition from my School and College.
I am also a first generation college student, and as the first in my family to graduate from a University, I am especially proud to say that I was able to fully fund my higher education with the help of contributions from generous scholarship donors. I am so thankful to all those who have supported me on my pursuit for education, and will forever treasure my UW family and memories!
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Samantha N Fredman
Law, Societies, and Justice
Samantha N Fredman LinkedIn
Law, Societies, and Justice
Disability Studies
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Coming to the full realization that I had developed trusting, close relationships with the faculty that I felt most attached to and inspired by
Thesis: “Hurt People Keep Hurting:” Trauma Informed Care in Young Adult Homelessness Services
My WebsiteI am an aspiring doctor most passionate about equity, justice, and accessibility of essential services. I am most passionate about building a world that deeply understands, or even simply acknowledges, the different challenges people face as a result of dehumanizing systems and structures; a world that intentionally centers relationships and encourages empathetic relations as an act of radical interdependence.
I currently work to promote housing equity through my work in emergency shelters providing basic necessities to unsheltered young adults. I am driven by my relationships with young people and excited about the change we can promote through developing healing centered trauma-informed practices.
Even though the last few paragraphs may have spoken otherwise, I very rarely take myself seriously. I love to sing (and clumsily play guitar, ukelele, or tambourine), to laugh at myself, to engage in general tomfoolery, and to drink consume absurd amounts of pepper chips, coffee, and chocolate.
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Dani A Benedict
Social Welfare
Dani A Benedict
Social Welfare
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Conducting research on a topic I was so passionate about!
Thesis: Photovoice: Illuminating the Impacts of Inclusive Education Services in United States Public Schools
My Website daniellebenedict7@gmail.comDani is graduating from the University of Washington with honors and a BA in Social Welfare. Throughout her journey through the School of Social Work Honors Program, she has used the opportunity to critically reflect on the current state of inclusion and special education services in our public schools using a Community-Based Participatory Approach to allow students with disabilities to advocate and be the primary voices for special education reform. While at UW Dani has filled the roles of Vice President for the Mortar Board Tolo Chapter National College Honor Society, Community Service Co-Chair for the Organization of Student Social Workers, acted as a First-Year Interest Group (FIG) Leader, Dawg Daze Leader, and former UW Dream Project mentor and High School Lead. In her future Dani will be continuing her academic career by pursuing a Masters in Social Work with a concentration in Children, Youth, and Families. In her future Dani looks forward to supporting people with disabilities in attaining inclusion through meaningful employment in the community and having equitable access to education.
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William Karl Selboe Ojemann
Bioengineering
William Karl Selboe Ojemann LinkedIn
Bioengineering
Applied Math
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Making a difference for low resource setting health care while studying abroad in Nepal!
I am a bioengineer fascinated with the brain and pursuing science that can help people suffering from neurological conditions. I will be attending the University of Pennsylvania next year as a doctoral candidate for a PhD in bioengineering, and I can't wait to continue being interested in science, trail running, and learning new things in a new city across the country!
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Ann Nguyen
Nursing, Public Health
Ann Nguyen
Nursing, Public Health
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: For as long as my passion for pediatrics has existed, I had an extraordinarily ironic fear of working with premature infants. My senior capstone clinical at the UWMC Neonatal Intensive Care Unit has allowed me to overcome my fear in providing care for the smallest humans and become a confident caregiver to children of all ages and sizes.
Thesis: The Doorway Cafe: Addressing Youth Homelessness with a Cafe Model
As my undergraduate career comes to a close, I reflect on all that I have accomplished in the last five years at UW and all the personal and societal values that hold more closely as a direct result of my public health and nursing education. I believe that my two deepest personal values, family and good health, are consistent with the values of most people. My future career as a pediatric nurse and practitioner not only upholds these two values, but gives me the unparalleled fulfillment of helping youth to live healthy lives so they too can become the nurses, doctors, engineers, teachers, and philanthropists of the coming generation.
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Aleenah H Ansari
Human Centered Design & Engineering; Comparative History of Ideas
Aleenah H Ansari LinkedIn
Human Centered Design & Engineering; Comparative History of Ideas
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Presenting my research at the Undergraduate Research Symposium!
Thesis: Gentrification, Displacement, and the Question of Responsibility
My WebsiteI see myself as a story-listener who believes that she can learn from everyone, which I have done through writing articles about diverse communities on campus, work as a writing tutor, and internships at Microsoft as a UX writer and content creator. I'm working at Microsoft as a writer post-graduation, but I feel the most whole when writing love letters, discovering new murals, and sampling seasonal flavors of ice cream at Salt & Straw.
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Megan Renee Sellman
Dance; Education, Community & Organizations
Megan Renee Sellman LinkedIn
Dance; Education, Community & Organizations
Anthropology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Reflecting on how far I have come as a dancer, artist, and educator, I am most proud of the blend artistic and academic work that I have been able to accomplish while at UW. From choreography to performances, research projects and community building, I am leaving UW with a mosaic of fulfilling experiences.
Thesis: Dance in Color Guard Educational Programs
sellman.megan@gmail.comMegan began dancing at her local dance studio, alongside various color guard programs, most notably the Blue Devils Drum Corps. During her time at the university, she has served as the president of the Dance Student Association, worked as the Assistant for the Chamber Dance Company, and has completed honors research connecting dance, education, and color guard. She is looking forward to continuing a career in dance after graduation, and is thankful for the generosity, creativity, and community in the Department of Dance.
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Arwa Mokdad
International Studies
Arwa Mokdad LinkedIn
International Studies
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Arwa organized "Celebrate Yemen" an exhibit on Yemeni culture. It included photographs, a fashion show, local artists, traditional foods, and artifacts from across the country. Through this event, Arwa was able to share her culture with the UW community.
Thesis: Remembering the Lebanese Civil War: A Comparative Analysis of Discourse Among the Diaspora
Arwa Mokdad is graduating with a B.A. in International Studies. Her studies have focused on human rights in the Middle East. As a child of Arab immigrants, she is passionate about peace efforts and activism in the region. She has spent time in Egypt, Turkey, Qatar, Lebanon, Yemen, Oman, U.A.E, and Jordan. Growing up between the U.S. and Middle East solidified her global perspective on regional challenges. While at UW, Arwa was able to study abroad in Nizwa, Beirut, and Rome. These experiences furthered her interest in international cooperation and cross-cultural exchanges.
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Zeyu Ye
Comprehensive Physics, Electrical Engineering
Zeyu Ye LinkedIn
Comprehensive Physics, Electrical Engineering
Mathematics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Being accepted to the two major programs.
I explored cold atom experiments and photonics in labs at UW, and I will start my graduate study this year. I hope that I can become a good experimentalist.
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Sydney C Bowker
Biochemistry
Sydney C Bowker LinkedIn
Biochemistry
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Organizing and teaching a six week intensive lab internship program for four local underprivileged high school students!
Thesis: How Does the Cell Polarity Protein Crumbs Regulate Tube Formation in Drosophila Melanogaster Egg Chambers?
sydneybowker@comcast.netHey, I'm Syd and I'm graduating with a BS in Biochemistry with departmental honors! I worked as a researcher in Genome Science's Berg Lab for all four years of college. I'm hoping to pursue a career in clinical research coordination after graduation. During my time at UW I made a some great friends and learned a lot about myself and my interests. I am proud to be a first generation student, and glad to be graduating in Seattle, the city I grew up in.
With huge thanks to my family and friends who have supported me throughout my life, and especially over the last four years.Departmental HonorsTags:
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Anya Zhen Watson
English and Philosophy
Anya Zhen Watson LinkedIn
English and Philosophy
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Playing at the Rainy Dawg Radio Battle of the Bands with my band, Cherry Tomato, during my junior year.
Thesis: Does Alcohol Consumption Serve the Interests of the Capitalist State? An Exploration of the Placating Effects of Alcohol and its Role in the Cultural Ideological State Apparatus
My Website anyaw@uw.eduI love playing guitar, running, and drawing. During college, I really enjoyed being involved in extracurricular activities. I was a copy editor and illustrator for the student-run travel magazine, Voyage UW. I also served on the executive board of my sorority for two years. In addition, I was part of a pre-law fraternity, Phi Alpha Delta. I was the outreach officer for The Philosophy Society and was promoted to the position of president during my senior year. I was also an officer for the Songwriting Circle, a UW RSO. Outside of UW-related extracurricular activities, I play bass in a band called Cherry Tomato. I also work at the Odegaard Writing and Research Center as a writing tutor and at The Princeton Review as an SAT instructor.
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Cameron Alexis Wood
Human Centered Design & Engineering
Cameron Alexis Wood LinkedIn
Human Centered Design & Engineering
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Getting published at CSCW 2020 for my research on HCI + misinformation!
My Website cameronalexis@gmail.comHi, I'm Cam! I'm a human-centered designer with a passion for products that facilitate connection. I love climbing, concerts, and my cat, Harley.
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Samara Danielle Kleinfinger
Environmental Studies
Samara Danielle Kleinfinger
Environmental Studies
Chemistry
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was finishing my 30-minute documentary that shared the voices and stories of the indigenous people on the Olympic Coast.
Thesis: Ocean Acidification and Native Tribes: Sharing Stories from the Olympic Coast
Throughout my time at UW, I've had so many great experiences. As a two-year member of the SURE-EH (Student Undergraduate Research Experience in Environmental Health) program, I have completed two year-long independent research projects under the guidance of my faculty mentor Dr. Tania Busch Isaksen. Last year, my project focused on improving food waste sorting and recycling at Kirkland Middle School in Washington. During this project, I had the opportunity to first design my own methodology to conduct a waste audit at the school and then was able to instruct and work alongside students to help complete the audit. After analyzing the data with the specific goal of identifying barriers to proper food waste disposal, I created a poster to be displayed in the school’s hallway and collaborated with the school's Green Team to guide future targeted recycling improvement efforts. Continuing with the topic of food waste but at a larger scale, my project with SURE-EH this year involved improving the food waste management system of local food trucks. The City of Bellevue, a community with a robust food truck culture, was looking to revise its current food truck permitting process and was interested in incorporating a sustainable waste management component. In collaboration with two graduate students, I performed a policy analysis to identify the best practices of successful existing sustainable food truck operations around the country. From there, my team and I created qualitative interview questions and surveys and conducted interviews with key stakeholders in Bellevue such as food truck operators, waste management contractors, food donation organizations, and customers. My findings from this research will then be used to inform key recommendations to the City of Bellevue in launching their new sustainable food truck permitting program. Outside of SURE-EH, I also performed research as part of my senior capstone project. I interned with Washington Sea Grant on a project that involved partnering with indigenous coastal communities to examine how ocean acidification is affecting key marine resources as well as overall tribal well-being on the Olympic Coast of Washington. Within the project, my primary role involved conducting and recording in-person interviews with key partners involved in the project such as scientists, oceanographers and tribal leaders which I then edited into a short documentary highlighting the voice of native tribes and the effect these climate-related ocean changes have on their well-being. From there, I then conducted my own research on the vulnerabilities of Olympic Coast’s native peoples to ocean acidification from a food security, economic, and cultural perspective. Besides research, I'm is also currently working with King County DNRP Solid Waste Division as a Recycling and Environmental Services intern. For the past year, I have collaborated and assisted on a multitude of different projects ranging from the Green Schools program, transfer station recycling, the Threadcycle campaign, and many more. In this position, I have completed tasks such as updating public webpages with climate change information, designing infographics and displays to be distributed to schools, analyzing landfill waste tonnage data for potential recycling opportunities, and produced a video demonstrating ways to reduce food waste. Lastly, I've been a member and officer with UW's LUX Film Production club for the past three years. With this club, I've had the fun experience of working with other student filmmakers to write, create, and edit short films each quarter. As one of the club's many screenwriters, I'm so grateful to have had the chance to write dozens of screenplays and improve my writing ability. UW and the range of experiences it has to offer has allowed me to explore my interests and have worthwhile experiences that have lead me to be both prepared and excited for my journey after graduation.
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We love Honors
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Aniruddh Saxena
Bioengineering
Aniruddh Saxena LinkedIn
Bioengineering
Applied Math, Entrepreneurship
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Getting in the department of Bioengineering and completing my first symposium presentation
Thesis: A Novel Drug Screening Platform to More Accurately & Cost Effectively Discover Cures for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
My Website aniruddhs98@hotmail.comHi! I am passionate about stem cell therapy and using it as a means to cure disease that are currently known as incurable. I am also passionate about increasing healthcare access and solving challenges in the field of healthcare.
In my free time, I really enjoy going on hikes, video games and swimming.College HonorsTags:
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Hannah Farrell
Law, Societies, and Justice
Hannah Farrell
Law, Societies, and Justice
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Receiving a Library Research Award for a paper I wrote, inspired by my time at the Washington State Senate. Also… working for the Washington State Senate!
My WebsiteMy time at UW has been transformative academically, socially, and personally. These three years have been rife with opportunities for growth and challenge. Some highlights were studying abroad in Berlin, working at Leschi Elementary School, my job as a writing tutor and director of a support program for multilingual writers at the Odegaard Writing and Research Center, joining the UW climbing team, working for Washington State Senator Patty Kuderer, taking a class alongside prisoners in Monroe, throwing concerts at my house (called the Pink Castle), and embarking on a nine-day backpacking trip/“environmental science class” in Olympic National Park. At UW I have become an avid skier, an enthusiastic rock climber, a road bike novice, and a pie baker extraordinaire. UW has instilled in me a passion for equity, inclusion, and sustainability. In the coming years, I hope to pursue environmental law or policy in order to equitably and thoughtfully address climate change’s urgencies. But first I’ll be taking a year off to ski bum in Montana.
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Taylor Blau
Computer Science
Taylor Blau LinkedIn
Computer Science
Mathematics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Working on problem sets with my friends are both the proudest and most rewarding moments that I've had at UW. Solving some 446 problems with Luke are definitely the most memorable of the bunch.
Thesis: Verifying Strong Eventual Consistency in δ-CRDTs
My Website ttaylorr@cs.washington.eduI am graduating with a BS in Computer Science with Departmental Honors from the Paul G. Allen School for Computer Science, and a minor in Mathematics. My thesis is about verifying that δ-CRDTs achieve Strong Eventual Consistency. After graduation, I am continuing to work at GitHub full-time.
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Annie Marie Lewis
English and History
Annie Marie Lewis
English and History
Jewish Studies and Spanish
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments at UW was being selected as a nominee for the Dean's Medal in the Social Sciences.
Thesis: Honors English Thesis: "Reacting to the Past: Dismantling the Reductionist View of Identity"; Honors History Thesis: “Precarious Whiteness: Reimagining the Seattle Sephardic Origin Story”
annieml@uw.eduHi there! My name is Annie. I double majored in English and History and double minored in Spanish and Jewish studies. Intellectual challenge, community building, and student empowerment—three of my top values—are exemplified by my participation in three University Honors Programs: Interdisciplinary Honors, English Departmental Honors, and History Departmental Honors. My specialty knowledge in English is focused on trauma studies, identity and identity-based conflict, and modernity. In history, I am most well-versed in race and immigration studies studies, Jewish studies, and European history.
After graduation, I plan on pursuing a career in Academic Support Programs and will take my first steps towards that goal by traveling for 8 months with the Bonderman Fellowship. As an aspiring educator, I hope to use my travels to explore diverse expressions of vulnerability and gain greater multicultural awareness. Upon returning to the United States, I hope to create new types of culturally-sensitive academic support programs that better assist underrepresented, underserved, and marginalized groups. To explore how higher education can be more equitable and intentional about supporting social justice, I will travel to China, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, India, South Africa, Tanzania, and Morocco.
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Karen Zhang
Biochemistry, Microbiology
Karen Zhang LinkedIn
Biochemistry, Microbiology
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Publishing my first scientific paper!
Four years feels at once too long to have passed by so quickly, and too short to have left such a blazing impact on my life. In this time, I discovered a passion for synthetic biology by conducting exciting and thought-provoking research at the Molecular Information Systems Lab. One summer, I took a leap of faith and spent five weeks studying the humanities in the UK, an experience that to this day feels like a dream. I've traveled far in my intellectual pursuits as well. Apart from delving into biochemistry and microbiology, I've taken classes on machine learning, travel writing, prisons, and even J.R.R. Tolkien. I'm grateful to have garnered such an inspiring collection of interdisciplinary experiences as I step into the next part of my journey. This fall, I will begin a PhD in Bioengineering at UC Berkeley-UCSF, where I hope my fledgling scientific career will finally take wing.
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Katie Rainsberger
Human Evolutionary Biology; Medical Anthropology & Global Health
Katie Rainsberger
Human Evolutionary Biology; Medical Anthropology & Global Health
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My senior year I scored 13 points at the PAC-12 meet and helped our team place 3rd, our highest ever team finish!
Thesis: Testing for Evidence of High Altitude Adaptations among Endurance Athletes
Hello! My name is Katie and I am a graduating senior in HEB and MAGH. You can find my outside running, hiking, or camping when I am not working on my honors thesis! I am a member of the UW track and field team and a 13 time All-American. I was born and raised in Colorado and you can find me back in the mountains once I graduate this June!
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Mackenzie Shen
BA in Accounting, BA in Economics
Mackenzie Shen
BA in Accounting, BA in Economics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Graduating with honor from UW
During my 5 years in UW, I grew my interests towards accounting and economics. As an international student with a completely different cultural background, I developed a curious mind as to with regards to international economics issues. Due to this, I decided to get into the economics major and learn more about the economic dynamics behind the issues. While economics helped me dive into the financial world from a macro perspective, Accounting allowed me to analyze major market players in a microscope. I decided to study Business Analysis in my graduate school, using my knowledge in economics and accounting to analyze financial events with the help of technology.
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Kelsey B Kinoshita
Philosophy (Honors) and Law, Societies, and Justice
Kelsey B Kinoshita LinkedIn
Philosophy (Honors) and Law, Societies, and Justice
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I helped to establish the new Law, Societies, and Justice Student Advisory Council in order to further student goals and promote antiracist policies and practices in the department. Through this experience, I not only had the opportunity to do meaningful work and give back to my academic community, but also got to work with my super awesome fellow council members!
kelseybkinoshita@gmail.comHello my name is Kelsey! I just graduated with a BA in both Philosophy and Law, Societies, and Justice. I'm interested in the intersections between law and philosophy, especially pertaining to ethics and justice at both a national and international level.
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Jennifer Song
Physiology
Jennifer Song
Physiology
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Founding the first Timmy Global Health college chapter in the state of Washington and being awarded the Mary Gates Research Scholarship for my work in the Gottlieb lab
I graduated in Fall 2020 with a degree in Physiology. I am super grateful for my time here at UW and will cherish the great memories and experiences I’ve had. I look forward to starting medical school this summer!
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Kate Turk
Biology (Physiology)
Kate Turk LinkedIn
Biology (Physiology)
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: becoming a published author on an academic article in the Journal of Endocrinology.
My WebsiteI am an energetic, science-loving, outdoor enthusiast who wishes being in school were a career in itself.
During my four years at UW, I volunteered weekly at Seattle Children's hospital, helped bring healthcare services to under-resourced communities in Latin America through Global Medical Brigades, and conducted research in UW Medicine's Department of Nutrition. I also took classes that focused on everything from biochemistry to Latin American Jazz, drank an obnoxious amount of coffee, and made lifelong friendships.
Next year, I will be working for a Global Health nonprofit organization, and I hope to eventually pursue a career in medicine.
Thank you for the adventure, UW!
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Elizabeth Mayer
International Studies; Russian Language, Literature, & Culture
Elizabeth Mayer LinkedIn
International Studies; Russian Language, Literature, & Culture
Arctic Studies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Finishing the Russian language series
Thesis: Information Operations in Action: Russian Trolls and Black Lives Matter on Twitter
Coming from Texas, I had no idea what to expect from both UW and Seattle, but after four years I have found my academic passions and a great community! I learned Russian, studied abroad in Moldova and Greenland, and discovered my passion for both cybersecurity and climate change. Developing and writing my honors thesis on disinformation was perhaps one of the most intellectually challenging things I did during my time at UW, but it is something I'm incredibly proud of completing. During my time at UW, I researched for the UNFPA and Microsoft, worked as a writing tutor at the POL S/JSIS/LSJ writing center, and served as a mentor to international students. Even though studying at UW was often challenging, I am sad to be leaving the campus and incredibly glad I chose to make Seattle my home.
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Annelise Colburn
Psychology and Scandinavian Area Studies
Annelise Colburn
Psychology and Scandinavian Area Studies
Danish
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moments have been in performing with the Husky Marching Band! The collective pride and energy after finishing a half time show is unreal and I will miss it.
amctapps@hotmail.comMy goal is to become a licensed School Psychologist after grad school. My interests include Scandinavian area studies, marching band, and gardening.
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We love Honors
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Komal Susheela Ghirnikar
Sociology and Communication
Komal Susheela Ghirnikar LinkedIn
Sociology and Communication
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest memories at UW was being able to present my research at the 2021 Undergraduate Research Symposium with my family and friends in the audience.
Thesis: Exploring Cultural Competencies within Ethnically-Defined Alcoholics Anonymous Groups
These four years at UW have been such an amazing experience! I have had the pleasure of taking amazing classes within both Sociology and Communication where I've met likeminded students and supportive professors. This past year, I had the privilege of being a part of the Sociology Honors Program. Working on my independent research has been so fulfilling and I am so grateful to my advisors, cohort, friends, and family for encouraging me every step of the way! I am proud to end my time at UW with the ability to present my research that I have worked so incredibly hard on. Beyond academics, for the past four years, I have been a team member on UW's premier Bollywood dance team, UW Kahaani. My senior year, I had the opportunity to be one of the captains for Kahaani and build on my leadership and choreography skills. I cannot thank my team enough for being some of the best people I have ever met and I owe some of my best memories at UW to them! I am so thankful for the people that I've met during my time at UW and will truly miss them all!
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Annie Mae Barker
English Language and Literature
Annie Mae Barker
English Language and Literature
Education, Learning, and Society
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest memories is working with high school students on college admission through the Pipeline Project.
I recently graduated from the University of Washington magna cum laude with a degree in English. I'm currently pursuing a Masters in Teaching at the UW with a Secondary English Language Arts Endorsement, and I hope to become a high school English teacher in the Seattle area.
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Brian Dang
Drama and English Literature and Language
Brian Dang LinkedIn
Drama and English Literature and Language
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Writing and producing a site-specific play (Ratskin) with an amazing, collaborative group of immigrants.
Thesis: Drama Thesis - Ratskin, a new play // English Thesis - Embracing the Monster: "The Shape of Water" and its Fairy-Tale Utopia
My Website dang.brian97@gmail.comBrian Dang majored in English Literature and Drama. Brian, throughout his time at UW, got involved with collaborative storytelling.
At UW, Brian was the Creative Development Director for the past two and a half years, connecting fellow undergraduate peers with educational opportunities as well as curating, coordinating, and mentoring playwrights in the annual New Works Festival. While Brian primarily focuses on playwriting, he has experience in sound and light design, improv, directing, and dramaturgy. Recent productions that he has been a part of have been Anton (Parley) as the playwright, The Goat, or Who is Sylvia? (UTS) as a co-director, Sleep is for the Weak V (Theatre Battery) as a playwright, and Goldie, Max and Milk (UW School of Drama) as the sound designer.
Brian is interested in pursuing an MFA in Playwriting and a Ph.D. in Performance Studies.
Last but not least, Brian is passionate about the power of stories and the intersection between creative and critical writing. On the side, Brian likes to read, write, watch movies, revel in hopeless romanticism, pet cats, and eat bread.
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Adrienne Elise Hubbard
Geography
Adrienne Elise Hubbard LinkedIn
Geography
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Thesis: Understanding Geographies of Fear and Safety in Urban Transit Space
adriennehub@gmail.comMy parents met when my mom was a TA for a class my dad took during his undergrad; attending UW has always been my goal and dream. I feel immensely proud to be a third generation UW graduate. The last two years here have been challenging, transformative, and more meaningful than I know how to articulate right now. After receiving my associate degree through Running Start at Bellevue College, I immersed myself within the Geography department at UW and found my place within academia. Geography is a field wide enough to encompass all my interests; cartography, emotional geographies, public transportation, urbanism, feminist and gender studies. I love collecting maps and riding trains and talking to people about the emotions they experience in the cities they love. I am forever grateful to the UW geography community for teaching me how to experience and think critically about place and belonging. Being a part of the Geography department honors program allowed me to write the thesis I have felt compelled to write, a project that emerged from my own lived experience. I don't know exactly where I'm going next; maybe urban planning, or teaching social studies to high school kids, or working for a non-profit. Grad school is on the horizon, somewhere and at some point in time. I'll spend this summer riding trains across the country and catching up on all the reading I have been meaning to do, and then I'll find a place where I can help create some tangible change in this world (or at least in this city). I'm about to turn twenty years old and I know that my most important accomplishments are yet to come.
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Caleb Ellington
Computer Science, Bioengineering
Caleb Ellington LinkedIn
Computer Science, Bioengineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Being inducted to the Husky 100
Thesis: Deep Learning Applied to Unreliable Contact Prediction in De Novo Protein Models
My WebsiteI'm a new Ph.D. student at the joint Carnegie Mellon -- University of Pittsburgh Computational Biology program. My primary research interests are improving out-of-the-box deep learning methods for computational biology and biological simulation. I aim to improve therapeutics development and bioinformatics availability in low resource settings.
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Elena Orlando
Law, Societies & Justice
Elena Orlando
Law, Societies & Justice
Human Rights // Environmental Cultures & Values
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Student organizing during the summer of 2020
My WebsiteI am passionate about community organizing and building collective power. I am a current intern with Collective Justice, a local Restorative Justice organize building community pathways for healing and accountability.
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Anand S Sekar
Computer Engineering
Anand S Sekar LinkedIn
Computer Engineering
Training Program in Neural Computation and Engineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: During the final gallery demonstrations for DXARTS 471: Mechatronics Art, my friend's art project was suddenly failing. They had invited their family and were in tears that after all the work they put in, it was inexplicably breaking. While other students demonstrated their projects, I applied my experience with embedded systems to debug the project. Approaching the last minute, even after being told by my friend to give up, I figured out what was wrong and got it working again. The demo went flawlessly. My friend hugged me and their mom thanked me, and I don't think I've ever felt more proud of myself.
Thesis: Hardware Implementation of a Wireless Backscatter Communication Protocol for Brain-Controlled Spinal Interfaces
My Website anand272@cs.washington.eduMy purpose is to make the world more beautiful, sustainable, and efficient through innovation and empathy. Solving complex problems, defined through engineering, is the core of my character. I'm developing a strong foundation in computer engineering, which I'll apply to fields such as neural computation and engineering. Through my experience at UW, I've contributed to a variety of innovative projects (robotics competitions, hackathons, neural engineering research, virtual reality in prison, etc...) utilizing a variety of tools (code, laser cutters, oscilloscopes, soldering irons, etc...). I've met some of the most amazing people and learned some of the most fascinating concepts here, and I'm excited to pursue my Master's here in the fall.
My hobbies include free skates, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and playing video games like Titanfall 2. My favorite shows include Avatar the Last Airbender and Star Trek: The Next Generation. Taking Neuroethics and Moral Issues of Life and Death, while witnessing local activism over the last couple quarters, has motivated me to delve into essential questions relatively unrelated to engineering, but an engineering perspective doesn't necessarily hurt. So while I'm interning at Cisco Webex Teams this summer, I'll also be reading up on topics like ethics and intersectionality.
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Megan Christina Robillard
Public Health-Global Health
Megan Christina Robillard LinkedIn
Public Health-Global Health
Education, Learning, and Society
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at the University of Washington was creating an ethnographic scrapbook about Japan’s health outcomes, complete with interviews of my family and friends.
megan.r333@gmail.comHi! My name is Megan and I am majoring in Public Health-Global Health and minoring in Education, Learning, and Society. My interests lie in promoting inclusive and accessible spaces and advocating for equity among people of all races and genders. I have worked at the Fred Hutch COVID Clinical Research Center during the coronavirus pandemic. I enjoy using my public health background to connect with people from diverse backgrounds while being a part of new and exciting research. Thank you to all my professors, friends, and family for supporting me through my honors experience!
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James Julian Means
English
James Julian Means
English
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Getting accepted in the Columbus School of Law with a full scholarship
Thesis: Dysfunction: A Terminal Family Illness
I hail from Virginia and have lived there my entire life. However, for college I knew that I wanted to get off of the East Coast. After visiting UW, I fell in love with it and was determined to attend, and now I find myself about to graduate with a degree from an incredible university. The UW has been great to me. I have found the facility and people on campus incredible. Originally a chemistry major, a mishap in Calc 124 lead me to rethink my decision. I took a single english class the spring of my freshman year. It was American Lit 250 with John Griffith, and from there I was hooked! I changed majors and became an English major. I instantly fell in love with the program and the department. The professors were incredible! At UW, I have had plenty of Professors I did not like. But in the English department, I loved all of my professors! They are all great! And my fellow students were also great! Very friendly and intelligent. I decided in the spring of 2018 to apply to the English Honors Program and I am so glad I did because my experience in the program has been great! It takes the best parts of the English program and makes them even better! Overall, I am incredibly happy that I became an English Major and that I took the honors track.
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Meghan E Frisch
B.A. Public Health - Global Health
Meghan E Frisch LinkedIn
B.A. Public Health - Global Health
Diversity
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: My time at UW was compiled by many small moments of pride, however, the most frequently I felt proud was rock climbing with the Climbing Team at UW. Whether it be a mental or physical barrier, the effort put in and the improvement that followed made me proud of myself and of my team!
The best I can describe my time at the University of Washington is as a journey of exploration. My direction evolved from one path to the next after experiences and courses began to build my personal resume of what I found important and inspirational. With every quarter came intentional decisions on where and how I would spend my time in order to further narrow my course of study and better understand myself personally. I entered the UW with no definitive direction; my perspective was open to college presenting the opportunity to explore every interest, in which I would trust my reflection and draw my personal and educational paths.
My path was not one without disappointment or confusion, but within my experiences morphed an exponential presence of enlightenment and excitement. Some of my favorite experiences at the UW included traveling to Zimbabwe for a population health study abroad where I was introduced to the public health field, working at IHME - a public health organization that many of you may now know of due to their COVID-19 response, and working as a Professional Ski Patroller and EMT at the local ski resort over the winter months. I have grown into my niche of study, with many of the same people by my side from the beginning. And when I say from the beginning - I mean the first person I met and sat next to at my orientation day, who also happened to be in my orientation group and living in the Honors LLC. My earliest friends and my amazing family have created a support system I will never take for granted, and for which I have the UW to thank.
I will never forget my time at the University of Washington, but I look forward to where the tides take me.
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Mengfei (Anna) Liu
Psychology
Mengfei (Anna) Liu LinkedIn
Psychology
Nutrition
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Complete my Honors!
Thesis: The Effect of Bilingualism on Episodic Memory
mengfeiliu9514@gmail.comI am an international student from China, I have always been interested in Psychology and all different kinds of psychological research. Completing the Honors program is a big accomplishment in my college career and I do not regret doing it at all. I have learned so much through the process. High recommend doing Honors if you want to have a small sense of what graduate school is like.
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Diego Andreas M. Lingad
International Studies (Development)
Diego Andreas M. Lingad LinkedIn
International Studies (Development)
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Helping lead the Filipino American Student Association during the centennial year of Filipino organizations at the UW.
My WebsiteI've always wanted to learn more about the world. My UW experience allowed me to do just that—and then some. In my classes, I've learned about Singaporean foreign policy, represented the Czech Republic in an EU simulation, and co-edited a task force report on Japanese politics. My desire to learn more about the world led me to Singapore, where I spent a year as an exchange student. I've gotten involved in Voyage UW, a student-run magazine that provides a platform for students to share their travel stories. While I was learning about places far and wide, I'm glad to have found a home community at the UW with the Filipino American Student Association (FASA). Serving as FASA's Historian my sophomore year taught me lessons in leadership and the importance of community.
While I've done a lot these past few years, I know there's so much more world for me to learn—and I can't wait to get out there.
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Katie Chua
Business Administration (Marketing Concentration) & English: Language and Literature
Katie Chua LinkedIn
Business Administration (Marketing Concentration) & English: Language and Literature
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments is the time I spent abroad where I really grew as an individual during a challenging time.
Thesis: “I get out and start walking”: Refusal of the Asian American Family Unit by Exploring Debt, Migrancy, and Queer Reproduction in Ling Ma’s Severance
Originally from Boulder, Colorado, I've lived in 5 different cities during my college experience. Movement has characterized my understanding of the world and meeting new people and learning new things is something I always seek in my life.
I'm graduating with a BBA with a Marketing concentration and a BA in English: Language and Literature. The English Honors program was one of my favorite endeavors in college because I truly loved getting to know my cohort and learning in a supportive environment. I also learned how much I enjoy learning about critical theory and conducting research and I look forward to applying to graduate programs to continue my research on racial capitalism, Marxist feminist studies, and Asian American literature!
At UW, I worked at doughnuts and coffee shops, literary agencies and publishers, and focused on mentorship with my RSOs. I have fond memories of speaking with professors after class outside Suzzallo, reading in the quad during Spring Quarter, and hosting brunches with my roommates. It's been an incredible 4 years!
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Camila Palacio
Electrical Engineer
Camila Palacio
Electrical Engineer
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment was when my family came to see me graduate from UW EE. My oldest brother flew in from Colombia and my other brother has been there to support me the entire time.
I am excited to say that I will be working in the HoloLens team at Microsoft in July! I am thankful for all of the opportunities I've had as an electrical engineer in departmental honors at UW. For my honors project, I developed a circuit board for the Husky Satellite Lab and wrote a hardware emulator for PWM control on an FPGA.
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Ken Aragon
Computer Science
Ken Aragon LinkedIn
Computer Science
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Seeing one of my past students become a TA herself, making me a “TA Dad”.
I’m 21, have plans to continue to work at Microsoft as a Software Engineer, as well as pursuing hobbies such as traveling and aviation.
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Jesse Du
History (B.A.), Human Centered Design & Engineering (B.S.)
Jesse Du LinkedIn
History (B.A.), Human Centered Design & Engineering (B.S.)
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Interviewing the late Prof. Ezra Vogel on behalf of the UW Commitee on China-US Dialogue, and being told "thank you for reading my book so carefully."
Thesis: Bad Neighbors: The 1967 Zenrin Student Hall Incident and Transnational Student Radicalism in China and Japan
My Website jess113@uw.eduFrom a fine arts background, love history, and passionate about technology and design, I tried to figure out what I really want to do with life. I think UW gave me as good of an answer as I could ever hope for.
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Maya Kay Norton
Comparative History of Ideas
Maya Kay Norton LinkedIn
Comparative History of Ideas
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Being a featured artist in Human Condition Magazine.
Thesis: Let the Body Speak: Stories of Food and Self through Art and Oral History
My Website mayakaynorton@gmail.comI love drawing surrealist portraits, every dog I have ever met, and singing loudly along with Frank Ocean songs. I have loved these past four years at UW, and owe what I have been able to accomplish to the support and love of my wonderful family, mentors, professors, and the Honors community.
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Priyanka Taneja
Physiology
Priyanka Taneja
Physiology
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment was when my PI asked me to be the youngest co-author of their paper on the very first research project of my life.
Hi, My name is Priyanka. I came to UW from a very small high school so naturally I was a little nervous to be starting at such a big school. However, I came in with a strong passion for medicine which helped me stay on track, and a strong desire to find my community. I can honestly say that over the past four years I have met some of the most amazing people and professors that have helped me navigate my interests in medicine while teaching me a lot about myself.
One of my biggest goals in college was to do something related to breast cancer, so after a lot of trying I finally got the chance to work at the Fred Hutch and contribute towards advancing chemotherapy treatments. Another thing I noticed is that whether I was working as a Resident Advisor or doing research in lab, every opportunity I have explored in college has helped me become a more aware and understanding individual. Compared to my freshman year self, I have definitely become a more confident, strong, and risk-taking woman.
On a more fun note, I am always down to watch a James Bond movie with a side of chicken wings which I for sure did a lot of in college. When I graduate, I plan on taking a nice break over the summer before I move away to start medical school.Interdisciplinary HonorsTags:
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Katherine Germond Biely
Political Science
Katherine Germond Biely
Political Science
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Sailing for UW at ICSA Match Race nationals and keeping my fiddle leaf fig plant alive!
I am a lifelong husky fan and was born and raised here in Seattle, WA. After graduation I will be working in digital marketing. Otherwise, my post-grad goals are to read for fun more often and to one day sail around the world!
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Gabrielle Elizabeth Endicott
Biology (MCD) and Philosophy
Gabrielle Elizabeth Endicott
Biology (MCD) and Philosophy
Chemistry
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: I have always dreamed of going to veterinary school, and I knew that with enough hard work I’d make it there. What I did not yet know was the amazing community of people I would surround myself with in my time at UW who helped me reach my goals and celebrated my success by my side.
The opportunities I’ve been given as a UW student have shaped me into the person I am today, and continue to push me forward toward achieving my goals. Through my sorority, I have discovered my strengths as a leader and the power of teamwork. Through the UW Pre-Vet Society, I built connections that helped me gain first vet assistant job, guided me through the vet school application process, and brought me new friends. Academically, several professors on this campus pushed my thinking and challenged me in ways I didn’t expect, and I am better for it. I am fortunate enough to have received several scholarships that made it possible for me to attend UW while saving for veterinary school which I’ll be starting this fall.
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Tian (Sky) Qiu
Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences - Data Science and Statistics
Tian (Sky) Qiu LinkedIn
Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences - Data Science and Statistics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Got accepted into a PhD program.
Thesis: Risk Factors for Hospital Readmission in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Using Survival Analysis Methods
tq21@uw.eduI grew up in Suzhou, China. I’m broadly interested in the statistical methodology used in Epidemiology and Causal Inference. My undergraduate honors thesis focuses on applying survival analysis methods to identify risk factors for hospital readmission of type 2 diabetes patients. I love animals, especially dogs and seals. I also enjoy watching classical concerts.
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Nitya Sampath
Linguistics
Nitya Sampath
Linguistics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Completing my thesis and graduating with honors
Thesis: An Evaluation of an Automatically Generated Grammar of Ik
I am most interested in studying computational linguistics and historical linguistics. I found linguistics accidentally when I decided to take an intro course as an elective in my freshman year. I realized I liked it so much that I switched majors the next quarter. I am also interested in history, astronomy, evolution and computer science. I got to study abroad in Rome this past year and it was one of my favorite experiences at UW. After graduation, I am looking forward to returning to UW for a master's program in computational linguistics.
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Praphanit Doowa
Communication: Journalism
Praphanit Doowa LinkedIn
Communication: Journalism
Writing and Nutritional Sciences
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: My honors thesis on #MeToo, my EDUC 401 program, where I mentored three individuals for three separate quarters, and winning second place at the Deloitte Case Competition for consulting.
Thesis: #MeToo: To what extent does hashtag activism around #MeToo spur cultural and institutional changes?
My Website pdoowa@uw.eduI was born and raised in Bangkok, Thailand and I moved to Seattle for my undergraduate studies at the University of Washington. I am graduating with a Journalism degree with minors in Nutritional Sciences and Writing. During my time at the UW, I have received two scholarships, the Max & Monica Journalism Scholarship and the Marjorie Kaczor Alhadeff Endowed Scholarship for Journalism. I am interested in pursuing a career in consulting and marketing post-graduation but I have a passion for travelling so I'll be doing that during the summer!
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Alexander David Peterson
Economics
Alexander David Peterson LinkedIn
Economics
Statistics
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Running for ASUW President and feeling deeply connected to a group of people who genuinely cared about the well-being of UW students
In 2015, Alex Peterson served as the elected chairman of the Washington State Legislative Youth Advisory Council, representing the needs of state youth to the legislature. At UW, Alex has continued his political activism in the ASUW Senate and as a member of the UW Democracy Through Dialogues advisory board. In the summer after his Freshman year, Alex received a US-UK Fulbright Summer Institutes Scholarship to study Middle Eastern politics at the University of London, and he was later named a finalist for the Rhodes Scholarship. In the summer of 2018, Alex conducted original research on the relationship between Modern Hebrew and political identity in Israel, and the following summer, he worked as a humanitarian aid worker in Dominica with the NGO IsraAID. Pursuing a degree in economics and participating in the Interdisciplinary Honors Program, Alex was awarded the UW President's Sophomore Medal in 2018 as the student with the highest academic standing at the university for his first two years of study. Alex plans to pursue a degree in law at Stanford university and later enter a career in public service.
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Sam Wooley
English
Sam Wooley
English
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Finding my best friends at Rainy Dawg, completing my thesis, and graduating Magna Cum Laude!
Thesis: "We Gon' See the Future First": Subjection, Melancholy, and Queer Utopian Aesthetics in Frank Ocean's Blonde
My Website samwooley@comcast.netOriginally from Edmonds, Washington, I transferred to the UW my sophomore year after a short stint at Occidental College in Los Angeles. I quickly declared my English major after taking Jessica Burstein's captivating course on Modern and Postmodern Literature, where I fell in love with Oscar Wilde and Virginia Woolf. In my senior year, I completed the English Honors program, which allowed me to more closely explore my interest in popular media and its relation to temporality and identity. Specifically, I explored Frank Ocean's recent album Blonde and the future-oriented queer utopian aesthetic I understood it to be articulating. Outside of school, I have been involved with Rainy Dawg Radio since my first quarter on campus. That Fall, I applied to be a volunteer DJ at the student-run radio station. I ended up DJing there for two years, and this most recent year, I was able to serve as the station's Music Director. Rainy Dawg was a wonderful experience for me, allowing me to ground myself in a community within this massive campus. My future plans are currently undecided: in the next year, I hope to travel, write, and keep making rent, and in the long-term future I aim to pursue a career in either academia, high school education, literary publishing, or public radio, or perhaps some combination of these.
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Brian Lusby
Biochemistry
Brian Lusby
Biochemistry
Chemistry
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Thriving in the honors chemistry series freshman year and making so many amazing friends and connections.
brianjlusby@gmail.comHello! My name is Brian and I am from Vancouver, WA. I am extremely involved in olympic weightlifting and exploring the outdoors in any way I can. My professional interests surround community medicine, medical anthropology, and community activism.
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Piper S Cramer
Bioengineering
Piper S Cramer
Bioengineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest memories at UW was having the opportunity to share my passion for bioengineering with other students through my position as a TA!
Thesis: Regulating chimeric γc cytokine receptor expression through CRISPR/Cas9-mediated targeted integration
Hi, I'm Piper! It has been an amazing four years at UW, and I'm so grateful for the many amazing experiences I've had here. It was a pleasure learning alongside so many brilliant students and having the chance to explore my passions through classes, volunteering, and research. I am excited to spend the next couple years working before heading to grad school or medical school! Thank you to my professors, friends, and family for their never-ending support and encouragement in the pursuit of my dreams.
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Ruby Virginia Rawlinson
Law, Societies & Justice
Ruby Virginia Rawlinson
Law, Societies & Justice
Spanish
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Student organizing to shut down the Northwest Detention Center
ruby22rawlinson@gmail.comI graduated in March 2021 with my degree in Law, Societies and Justice and a minor in Spanish. I am specifically interested in restorative justice and environmental justice. Looking forward, I will be taking a gap year to teach English in Spain before pursuing my career in public interest law.
I am so grateful for my time in the interdisciplinary honors program, as I feel like it allowed me to explore areas of study that I would not have otherwise prioritized. This helped me not only figure out what I wanted to study, but also allowed me to meet incredible UW students with varied interests and backgrounds. Thank you to the amazing advisors and professors in this program!
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Jingshu (Cynthia) Jiang
Finance
Jingshu (Cynthia) Jiang
Finance
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment is when I got into the Foster School of Business with one single try! I know there are so many talented people out there so it felt even more special knowing how strong my competitors are. I really appreciate the opportunity which introduced me to the Foster community and taught me so much throughout the years =)
Thesis: "How Does the COVID-19 Affect the Market of Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)?" / "Emergence of Self-Indexing in the ETF Market"
I am so incredibly humbled and honored to be graduating as an honor student in the finance major. Throughout my years at the UW, I am so grateful to work with so many amazing researchers, scholars, professors and collegues. Being alongside so many insanely talented people has really taught me to never stop challenging yourself while to always remain humble because there's simply so much to learn from everyone out there.
Academically and career-wise, I mainly focus my studies around financial asset management and pricings. I did two of my research topics alongside two proficient professors and experienced researches surrounding topics on the Exchange-Traded-Funds markets. My passion in finance is to utilize the knowledge as an efficient tool to help companies make more well-rounded decisions and help consumers make wiser choices. I aim to always analyze problems in a multi-faceted fashion therefore I look forward to working with so many different people with different perspectives after graduation.
I would like to take this opportunity to appreciate everyone who has been in my life so far. Special thanks to Professor Zeng and Professor Song for aiding and guiding me through my research. Thank you to my great parents who supported me and gave me the uttermost understanding throughout my four years in college.
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Max Bryla
Economics
Max Bryla
Economics
Informatics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: The Rainy Dawg studio is the most magical place on campus bar none. I spent many hours there on my show, planning operations of the station, and bonding with my staff and DJ corps.
Thesis: Right-to-Work Legislation and its Effects on Employment, Wages, Disability, and Healthcare Coverage: An Investigation Using Panel Survey Data
maxbryla@gmail.comI was the General Manger of Rainy Dawg Radio for 2 years. I was the host of the Hot Sauce Time Machine, my weekly radio show. I love ambient, shoegaze, and punk music, among many genres. I'm also interested in data and economics, and hope to use skills I've gained to advance social equality and improve material conditions for the global and national poor.
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Cristian Josue Rivera Nales
B.S. in Psychology
Cristian Josue Rivera Nales LinkedIn
B.S. in Psychology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was receiving the Guthrie Prize for the best empirical paper
Thesis: Effectiveness of a Transdiagnostic Evidence-Based Treatment on Improving Child Clinical Outcomes in Washington State Community Mental Health
cjrn1@live.comI am a first-generation student that is originally from Puerto Rico who loves to go out dancing. Since my father is in the military, I have moved all around the world and had the opportunity to interact with a variety of individuals from different cultural backgrounds. This has helped me understand and communicate with individuals more readily and has given me a fair amount of opportunities that I would not have had otherwise. I am passionate about both the research and clinical sides of psychology and hope to eventually receive my Ph.D. in child clinical psychology.
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Hanna K Puetz
B.A. in Business Administration, Marketing & The Professional Sales Certificate
Hanna K Puetz
B.A. in Business Administration, Marketing & The Professional Sales Certificate
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I am proud to graduate with a degree from the Foster School of Business while also completing the Interdisciplinary Honors Program, two goals I set out with at the start of my freshman year. I am proud of the personal and professional growth I have witnessed in myself over the past four years, growth that has pushed me to dream big and strive for things I would not have before. I am proud of my academic success, the leadership and real-world internship experiences I have gained, and the unbelievably amazing, lifelong friends I have made largely thanks to Gamma Phi Beta.
Hi! My name is Hanna Puetz. Born and raised in the Greater Seattle Area, I came into UW with the intention of pursuing a business degree, although without knowing what focus or career path I wanted to pursue afterwards. I am excited to say I have found my path over the past four years.
I am a undergraduate student earning a B.A. in Business Administration from the University of Washington's Michael G. Foster School of Business with a focus in marketing and the Professional Sales Certificate, graduating Spring 2021. As a student in the Interdisciplinary Honors program, I also enjoyed a rigorous, cross-disciplinary curriculum that complemented my business degree and provided a more holistic, well-rounded education. After college, I will be working on the Global Sales and Services team at Slalom Consulting in Seattle.
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Hope J Dorris
Law, Societies, & Justice and Political Science
Hope J Dorris LinkedIn
Law, Societies, & Justice and Political Science
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Getting into my LSJ major!
My Website hjdorris@uw.eduDuring my undergrad studies, I was drawn to questions of human rights, criminal justice, public policy, and international relations. My coursework included topics such as race/ethnicity, global health, homelessness, impoverishment, disability studies, women’s rights, educational equity, international law, sexuality, human trafficking, & climate change. I loved how my majors and Honors informed my passion and curiosity for these topics and provided me with more questions than answers. Two of my favorite academic experiences were participating in a course inside the Monroe Correctional Complex and studying abroad in Jamaica!
For all 3 years at UW, I have loved being a campus tour guide, helping to connect prospective students and families to resources and communities on UW's campus. I also interned with two non-profit organizations, the World Affairs Council and the Human Rights Defense Center, while helping one of my professors as a research assistant on her upcoming book project.
After I graduate from UW in the summer, I plan to attend graduate school, read good books, and travel internationally whenever possible. Being from Olympia, I also hope to get involved with state government, elections, and local change-making. I am so grateful for my time at UW and all of those who have made it so meaningful!
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Madeline Elizabeth Ile
Music (Voice), Communication
Madeline Elizabeth Ile LinkedIn
Music (Voice), Communication
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments at UW was performing in Latvia and Estonia with Chamber Singers and Chorale!
madelineile@hotmail.comI am a singer and activist from Wayzata, Minnesota. I have loved my time at UW singing in choir and being a member of Huskies for NARAL Pro-Choice Washington. I plan on attending law school after a gap year, with the goal of working for a public interest law firm.
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Emily Rose Flanagan
Statistics, Mathematics
Emily Rose Flanagan
Statistics, Mathematics
Spanish
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Organizing the statistics directed reading program
Thesis: Identification and Estimation of Direct Causal Effects
Hi I'm Emily and I love statistics! During my time at UW, I have worked as a tutor in the statistics study center, advocated for women in STEM, and was chosen as one of the Husky 100. My experiences in WAMM, as a research fellow at NOAA, and more inspired me to co-found the statistics directed reading program with the aim of getting students from all backgrounds involved in statistics. I am excited and grateful to begin the next chapter in my story as I pursue a PhD in Statistics at UC Berkeley.
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Autumn Capper
Biology (Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental)
Autumn Capper LinkedIn
Biology (Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental)
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moments at UW have been marching in the 2019 Rose Parade with the Husky Marching Band and being an Orientation Leader/Coordinator!
autumn.capper@gmail.comHey y'all! I'm Autumn, and I'm a Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology graduate! Throughout my time in Honors, I have spent time as a Peer Educator (shoutout to my amazing cohort, section AC!) and as an Honors Community Ambassador. Stepping outside of the world of biology, I've been so grateful to be able to explore all sorts of unique courses like "Women in Greek and Roman Antiquity" and others about public health, business, and political science. Outside of Honors, I have spent the last four years as a trumpet player in the Husky Marching Band, as an Orientation Leader and Coordinator, as a General Chemistry Peer Facilitator, and working to make a difference in and raise awareness about rural healthcare through Healthcare Alternative Spring Break (HCASB) program. After graduation, I plan to take a gap year as I apply to medical school to work towards becoming a pediatrician. During my gap year, I plan to continue gaining clinical experience, relaxing, staying involved with music, and hopefully traveling! Thank you all so much for an amazing experience in Honors, and GO DAWGS!
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Lena H Nguyen
Social Welfare
Lena H Nguyen
Social Welfare
Education, Learning & Society
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: being in Jumpstart program!
Thesis: Roles of Gender and Parental Involvement on Southeast Asian Adolescent Mental Health
Hello! My name is Lena and I love listening to kids and youth tell their stories, speak their truths and humble me to the ground. I am grateful for the BASW Cohort of 2021 for their support throughout my time at UW and for our small departmental group for keeping each one of us going through the hardships of it all. Big shout out to Jane Lee for guiding me through this mini project.
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Lorraine Alexa Abagatnan
Classics
Lorraine Alexa Abagatnan
Classics
Anthropology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Presenting my research at the 2020 Undergraduate Research Symposium
Thesis: The Role of Food in the Hellenistic and Roman Colonization of Ancient Trans-Jordan
lorraine.abagatnan@gmail.comI am a graduating senior from the Classics department. I focus on Classical art and archaeology. My research interests include food and commensality studies, archaeological theory, and ancient expansion (i.e. colonialism). I have studied abroad in Jordan to work on a Near Eastern archaeological project. I am currently assisting with the Issei at Barneston Archaeological Project. Outside of archaeology, I am especially interested in Sappho and Greek lyric poetry, Greek and Roman epics, and Roman love poetry. I am proud to have completed my undergraduate education at the University of Washington! Special thanks to my two departments for taking good care of me.
My identity as a Filipina-American is very important to me. Despite having lived in the PNW for most of my life, I still consider myself a Southern-California girl through and through. That means a fond love of the ocean, swimming, playing hide and seek in citrus gardens, and other fun things.
My favorite hobbies are things I can do in my living room: reading, writing, playing music, and being with my friends and family. I love the outdoors, so hiking, camping, and general exploration is a must-have in my life! I also practice (and love) judo.
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Alex Ianchenko
Architectural Design
Alex Ianchenko LinkedIn
Architectural Design
Danish
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Cutting the ribbon on a project that our studio designed and built for Nathan Hale High School!
Thesis: No building is an island: the role of design in sustainability, stewardship, and culture
My WebsiteWhen I was accepted to UW, I wasn't sure which direction I was going to go - I decided to give architecture a shot as a compromise between science, art, research and action. Four years later, I have found a passion for built environments and their role in a rapidly-changing world. UW has given me the opportunity to hone an interest into a career path, while staying true to my values - balancing technical as well as theoretical aspects of scholarship and practice. I use the skills the Department of Architecture has given me every day, as I continue to negotiate between research and industry for sustainable future cities.
It takes a village - polishing my passion for architecture would not have been possible without my mentors and colleagues, who challenged me to think farther, broader, and deeper in every studio. I am extremely grateful to Kate SImonen, Gundula Proksch, Rob Peña, Jen Dee and Kristian Næsby for their guidance, patience and optimism - and to my classmates and friends for always lending their ears, advice, kindness and various drafting/modeling supplies that I forgot to bring.
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Anna Dong
Neuroscience; Biochemistry
Anna Dong
Neuroscience; Biochemistry
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I received a note from a student who met with me in Peer Wellness Coaching and they thanked me for my help in their journey to self-compassion. It was a simple, beautiful, and unexpected instance of gratitude.
My Website anna.dong98@gmail.comLearning, growth, change, and challenge are all priceless gifts that I have been abundantly given in the past four years. My professors, friends, supervisors, and colleagues facilitated so many of those moments of uncertainty, and often frustration. It was certainly a challenge to excel academically while still enjoying the process of integrating into higher education and the real-world. I was also able to practice community stewardship as a Peer Health Educator and, recently, a Peer Wellness Coach. In both of those roles, I was able to sow my knowledge and passion for well-being and mindfulness in the university community, a privilege I hope to never take for granted. One lesson, of many, that I will take away from my undergraduate career is that the past and future are simply in our minds but it is the present, which is right in front of us, that we have influence on. I leave UW impassioned to be a part in creating a more loving, caring world, in whatever arena and career I may land in.
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Max Florian Steiner
Chemical Engineering
Max Florian Steiner LinkedIn
Chemical Engineering
Applied Mathematics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Seeing my friends with whom I transferred from community college graduate from the UW and continue to carve out their own path.
steiner.gen@gmail.comBorn in Boston, grew up in Austria, fell in love with music early on and eventually took an interest in chemical engineering. I enjoy long-distance running, lining up for archery sessions, hanging out for some Dungeons & Dragons, and am almost always down to learn a new skill. My time here at the UW, with its resources and research environment, allowed me to pursue many of these interests, and provided an education that I know has already had a lasting effect on my trajectory forward.
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Harrison Sarsito
Chemical Engineering
Harrison Sarsito LinkedIn
Chemical Engineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Working together with 4 fellow Chemical Engineering undergraduates and 1 MBA student to win the Social Impact Prize at the 2019 Dempsey Startup Competition
My experience as a Husky is defined by so much more than just working through challenging engineering problems. It was a time where I really got to explore my true passion, potential and purpose.
In my time here, I have been fortunate to have my family, mentors and friends support me in all of my personal and academic endeavors. For all that I have been able to achieve during my time here, I owe it all to them.
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Caitlin E McIlwain
Economics
Caitlin E McIlwain LinkedIn
Economics
Applied Mathematics
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Taking a leap of faith to study abroad for an entire year!
Thesis: The Supply Side Responses to The Affordable Care Act
My Website caitlinmcilwain@gmail.comMy name is Caitlin and I am an avid runner, aspiring economist, an Irish-American, and a lover of family, cats, pastries, public policy, and marathons (in that order). When I began my journey at UW, I knew I wanted to study economics to reach the end goal of becoming a stock broker on Wall Street. Little did I know that I would leave UW with an immense passion for public policy, and a goal of fighting "the good fight" by using my economics background (and hopefully a Master's in Public Policy) to do so. After taking a course on global challenges, I discovered that I wanted to use my economics background to build and analyze economics models that could explain how policy affects consumers, firms, and the economy. I tacked on an Applied Mathematics minor in order to give myself a more robust math background for whatever future path I follow.
During my time at UW, I experienced many successes: I have run five marathons (qualifying for the Boston Marathon four times, running it twice), I studied abroad at the world renowned London School of Economics for an entire year in an unaffiliated study abroad program, I surprised myself by my success in my mathematics courses, I found an new passion for creative writing, I wrote my Economics Departmental Honors Thesis on the Affordable Care Act, reinforcing my passion for Public Policy, and in August 2017, I accepted a full time job offer to work for EY doing economic analysis in the field of Transfer Pricing. But while at UW, I also grappled with uncertainty, fear of failure, the meaning behind my own privilege, global challenges, institutionalized marginalization, problematizing culture, challenging (and at the time, unsolvable) mathematics and economics problems, and my own self confidence. During these challenges, I am reminded of my support system that consists of my parents (and three little brothers at home), my very loyal dog (and not so loyal kitty), my friends who have seen me at my worst, my professors who have doubled as mentors, and my relationship with God which as grown immensely since I set foot on campus in 2014.
To quote T.S. Eliot, "We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time." Thus, I don't think of this as the end of something, but merely as the beginning.
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Drake Anthony Russell
B.S. Biochemistry, B.A. Medical Anthropology
Drake Anthony Russell
B.S. Biochemistry, B.A. Medical Anthropology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Going to Russia for a conference on arctic relations.
Thesis: The Development of an Assay for the Large-Scale Measurement of the Gaseous Biomarker Hydrogen Sulfide in Blood
ddrruss@uw.eduHello, I started college in 2013 here at the University of Washington. I will graduate with a B.S. in Biochemistry and a B.A. in Medical Anthropology. Departmental Honors was a good choice, it kept me on top of my grades and it made me feel like my research was noteworthy. I am glad that I attended a school with so many research opportunities and such a multitude of classes to choose from; I was able to take everything from a class on CAD design to 2.5 years of Russian language. The research opportunities at this university were the big pull for me to attend and they did not disappoint. Conducting undergraduate research was such a good experience for me, that I realized research is what I wanted to do full time. I developed a passion for analytical chemistry and I am now coming back to UW this fall to begin a PhD program in the Department of Medicinal Chemistry. I am quite excited for what the future will bring.
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Alice Ranjan
Microbiology & Molecular/Cellular/Developmental Biology
Alice Ranjan
Microbiology & Molecular/Cellular/Developmental Biology
English
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: I helped to found and direct an organization at UW called Capillaries: The Journal of Narrative Medicine. Capillaries is a quarterly journal, intended for undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and staff from all departments in the humanities and sciences to explore the commonalities we share as humans and to understand how both objective facts and subjective feelings intertwine in healthcare. Since February 2018, we have worked to provide a safe space for community members to discuss and share their most vulnerable and often silenced experiences through writing and art. Recently, we published our Spring 2020 journal, featuring 60 works of narrative prose, poetry, and artwork, created by students and healthcare workers about their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic: https://www.capillariesjournal.com/
Thesis: The Role of STING in Latent and Lytic KSHV Infection of Primary Endothelial Cells
Hi, I’m Alice! Looking back on the past four years at UW, perhaps the word that best captures this experience is “homeostasis” –the process by which a living entity maintains a steady internal system while adjusting to changes in its external environment. Although the term is often used in a biological context, it has resonated with me on a more philosophical, human level: My UW experience has involved constant interrogation and assessment of my own internal values and aspirations in response to the university environment. Upon starting college, I was interested in understanding both the biological and psychosocial facets of human health and thus immersed myself in classes ranging from medical bacteriology to medical anthropology. I was also drawn, however, to my classes in the English Department. The process of writing and sharing my own poetry was empowering, and studying literature ranging from Victorian novels to modern short stories from Ghana provided the most powerful examination of what it means to be human –from how we navigate moments of love and loss to how we make sense of our positionality in our community and the broader world.
I am humbled to have also had the opportunity to conduct and publish research through UW’s Microbiology Department, to found and lead a literary journal (“Capillaries”) dedicated to empowering students to share their stories on health and healing, and lastly, to give back to my community through volunteering/social justice work. These experiences have shaped my desire to pursue medicine in the future and to continue finding balance between various goals –conducting research, honoring the stories of the community through the arts, and helping others to navigate the most vulnerable moments of their life and attain their own sense of personal homeostasis.
To my mentors and professors who instilled in me a love for learning, to my labmates, project collaborators, and friends for their warmth, laughter, and support, and to the programs and organizations that provided me with research funding and grants for launching and sustaining Capillaries: Thank you for taking a chance on me these past four years. I am indebted to you all~
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Carra N Bowes
Philosophy
Carra N Bowes
Philosophy
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Being able to pull my grades and requirements together in 2 years to graduate with UW honors
I started my college education in Oregon where I first discovered traditional philosophy and political philosophy-- immediately falling in love. As I progressed in my studies, I felt unfulfilled, as philosophy often makes one feel. So I packed up my life and left to study in the heart of it all; Rome. While learning amongst some of the oldest structures of "modern" government, I was also able to travel around Europe visiting historical landmarks such as the Acropolis, Sachsenhausen, and the Sagrada Família. I visited 7 countries and saw everything Italy had to offer from the Northern mountains to the bright blue coast, and the rolling hills of Tuscany. Here, I decided I needed to be at a university that had like-minded people willing to seriously question the condition of the world my generation is inheriting. I found these people in my philosophy classes at the University of Washington. Being able to be surrounded by an environment where being a "nerd" is the status quo, I felt I didn't have to hide how much I cared about my studies anymore. Thus, over my short two years here I have been challenged and grown so much. After Trump was elected, I started an internship at Senator Patty Murray's office through UW which taught me the value of individual citizen's voices, local government, and grassroots organizations. In my academics at UW, I have learned so much from my peers and my professors as well as from myself. UW truly has fostered the academic environment I needed in my undergraduate career in order to introspectively reflect on how I want to be as a person.
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Meena Sethuraman
Neurobiology
Meena Sethuraman
Neurobiology
Music
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: I am proud of the research I have done at UW! Being named a Mary Gates Research Scholar and a Levinson Emerging Scholar validated my identity as a scientist and a researcher.
These last four years at UW taught me how to be an engaged learner, an analytical researcher, a selfless caregiver, and a passionate student. My significant research experiences shaped my excitement for science, something that was graciously supported by the Mary Gates Research Scholarship and the Levinson Emerging Scholar Award. My service activities outside the classroom were most meaningful to me because of the opportunities I had to work together with people in my community on amazing projects. I hope to take the skills I have learned at UW and use them to create positive change in the world.
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Griffin R Dugan
Psychology (B.S.), Communication (B.A.)
Griffin R Dugan LinkedIn
Psychology (B.S.), Communication (B.A.)
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: The one that comes to mind for me was winning an award for a speech I have on Red Square about advocating for domestic violence survivors.
My Website griffindugan@comcast.netHello! My name's Griffin Dugan, and I graduated from the UW Interdisciplinary Honors Program in June 2020 (a very tumultuous time) with a dual degree in Psychology and Communication. I'm a pretty introverted guy who enjoys comedies, video games, dogs, and pasta. In my time at UW I had a lot of amazing experiences, including studying abroad in Ecuador, researching social connection and microaggressions, being a TA and a Peer Educator, and working as a tutor and an intern. The experiences that have meant the most to me have been the ones that have allowed me to work with some amazingly driven students and to support these people in their passions. Going forward, the future for me is still uncertain (especially in a pandemic), but I am excited to see what opportunities I will have to make connections with new people and to help foster growth in others.
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Levi J. Sy
B.S. in Biochemistry & B.A. in Russian Language, Literature, & Culture
Levi J. Sy
B.S. in Biochemistry & B.A. in Russian Language, Literature, & Culture
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Working as a House Manager at Meany Center for the Performing Arts
Thesis: Film, Medicine, & Moscow: Translations of Maxim Osipov's "Little Lord Fauntleroy" & "Fantasy"
levi.j.sy@gmail.comMy time at UW has certainly been one of unexpected, yet completely fulfilling, events. Coming to UW four long years ago, I knew that I wanted to get a degree in the physical sciences, likely in chemistry or biochemistry. While that did come to pass, it was one of the few parts of my education that followed my initial plans. Little did I know then that I would begin studying the Russian language, study abroad in St. Petersburg for a summer, and pursue an additional degree from the Department of Slavic Languages & Literature, much less write a translation thesis, translating two contemporary short stories from Russian into English. Despite the unforeseen nature of all of this, I wouldn't change it for the world.
Beyond classes, I enjoyed playing the French horn in various bands and orchestras on campus, as well as working at Meany Center for the Performing Arts as an usher and now a house manager. Looking forward, I hope to take a year or two off of school and then pursue a higher degree, likely in international relations or political science. Thank you to all of my friends, colleagues, and professors for your support!Departmental HonorsTags:
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Riti Biswas
Bioengineering
Riti Biswas
Bioengineering
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Watching a little group of friends turn into a big family of musicians through our RSO, Unplugged.
Throughout the past four years, I've realized that it's possible to find a balance in life among seemingly disparate interests. I love doing research in protein design, I love playing music, and I love dancing—and I've been able to get deeply involved in all of these. But my biggest takeaway? No matter what you're doing, people matter most.
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Alexander Le
Electrical Engineering, Geography
Alexander Le
Electrical Engineering, Geography
Mathematics, Classical Studies
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Designing and assembling an E-bike motor drive for my EE capstone project entirely at home!
alexcle97@hotmail.comDuring my undergraduate career, I've always taken the idea of a well-rounded education to heart. Through UW and the Honors Program, I've been able to pursue interdisciplinary opportunities ranging from glaciology research to studying abroad in Peru, all while pursuing a double degree and two minors. I am incredibly thankful for these last four years and look forward to what comes next!
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Patricia Popp
Computer Science
Patricia Popp LinkedIn
Computer Science
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments was hearing from my former female students whom I taught and teaching assistants whom I trained that I had inspired them to pursue a career in tech, during my 3 years serving as a CS Teaching Assistant and Teaching Assistant Coordinator.
My WebsiteHi! My name is Patty and I just graduated from the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering with a degree in Computer Science. During my time at UW, I have had the opportunity to be very active and involved in the introductory CS TA program and research in the UW Security & Privacy Lab. In my free time, I enjoy hiking to alpine lakes, reading philosophical novels, sipping assorted teas, attending farmers markets, and exploring this beautiful world we live in. In August, I will start working at Microsoft as a Software Engineer where I will build accessible technologies that empower people. As I find myself at this peak that represents the culmination of my time at UW, I look out onto the horizon and see that there are still so many mountains left to be climbed. Thankfully, after 4 years of hard work, I am well-equipped for whatever this next part of my journey has in store. Onward to the next peak!
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Marissa Lorberau
English
Marissa Lorberau
English
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Reading My Poetry at the UW Bookstore
marissalorberau@gmail.comLooking back, I am immensely proud to have been able to spend the last few years at the University of Washington. I am especially grateful to the Interdisciplinary Honors program for enriching my undergraduate years with so many unique courses and opportunities. Some of my adventures have included working as a Resident Advisor, tutoring at the Odegaard Writing and Research Center, reading manuscripts for a literary agency, writing content for an online educational resource, and spending an incredible month in Rome with the UW Honors program.
Storytelling has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. Throughout my time at UW, that passion has evolved into a much richer understanding of what words can mean to people. Going forward, I hope to further cultivate my passion for stories by pursuing a career in publishing. My goal is to support diverse authorship and boost voices that are often excluded from mainstream literary narratives. Everyone has a tale to tell and I look forward to the chance to listen.
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Ashley Tang
International Studies
Ashley Tang
International Studies
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Completing two Honours study abroad (the Netherlands and Sweden) in one summer
My WebsiteI am graduating two years early with a degree in International Studies and plans to apply to law school. Throughout the past two years, I worked at the UW Attorney General's Office as a student assistant and at the Seattle City Attorney's Office as an assistant paralegal intern. I also finally experienced what it is like to participate in a Model United Nations Conference.
I took a lot of classes with the Honours Program and the Jackson School that pushed me out of my comfort zone - particularly the time I spent studying abroad and as the student coordinator for our Task Force project on the potential of Europarties. I am thankful for the opportunities and experiences UW has given me!
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Katrina Salazar Punzalan
American Ethnic Studies and Law, Societies, and Justice
Katrina Salazar Punzalan LinkedIn
American Ethnic Studies and Law, Societies, and Justice
Oceania and Pacific Islander Studies, Diversity, Labor Studies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: I am proud to have served as the ASUW Pacific Islander Student Commission Director from 2016-2017 and to have been named a Husky 100.
Thesis: Precarious Histories: Legacy Workers in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
I am the child of Filipino migrant contract workers to the CNMI and embody the culmination of my parents' sacrifices. My Husky Experience gave me a platform to find empowerment in my identity as a queer Filipinx born in the Northern Mariana Islands through opportunities that enabled me to apply my own story and my family's story in leadership and academia. My goal is to serve as an attorney for the people of the Marianas, especially migrant workers and Pacific Islanders marginalized by U.S. federal law and policies.
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Alishia E Orloff
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Alishia E Orloff LinkedIn
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Quantitative Science & American Indian Studies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Acknowledging the Original Stewards of the Land when presenting my thesis at the Research Symposium
Thesis: Interdisciplinary Approaches to Environmental Engagement
alishia.orloff@yale.eduAlishia Orloff is an undergraduate researcher currently in her last year obtaining a B.S. in Environmental Science and Resource Management. She has a strong interest in terrestrial and riparian ecology. Conducting ecological research across the nation, she has developed a greater appreciation for Traditional Ecological Knowledges as a lens for developing holistic land management. Alishia aspires to share her experience in holistic scientific methodology and ultimately challenge dominant narratives of western ways of knowing. Aside from her ambitions in her field, she also takes great efforts to engage communities on sustainability through education in the Pipeline Project, restoration in the Society of Ecological Restoration, and food sovereignty at the UW farm. Alishia enjoys playing piano and flute in local ensembles and symphonies as much as she does freelancing and busking. Over her years at University, she has picked up interest in Ultimate frisbee, rock climbing, lifting, yoga, and oil painting. Continuing her endeavors, she will continue to question frameworks and push boundaries at Yale University for graduate school.
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Ariana Winkler
Environmental Science & Resource Management and Environmental Studies
Ariana Winkler LinkedIn
Environmental Science & Resource Management and Environmental Studies
Quantitative Science and Restoration Ecology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: On top of winning "Best Poster Presentation" at the Program on the Environment Spring 2019 Capstone Symposium for her internship project, the trail recommendations she produced from a nine week long camera trap study were accepted and included in the Conservation Plan of her organization, Bainbridge Island Land Trust. This showed that Ariana's work and studies were meaningful and impactful for positive environmental change!
Thesis: Barking Up the Wrong Trail: How Trail Users and their Dogs Impact Wildlife
arianamwinkler@gmail.comAriana Winkler is graduating with degrees in Environmental Science and Resource Management (BS, Honors) and Environmental Studies (BA, Honors) with minors in Quantitative Science and Restoration Ecology. With an interdisciplinary approach to academia, her interests include environmental justice, wildlife, camera traps, statistics and modeling, restoration ecology and climate change mitigation. She appreciates the use of statistics and environmental knowledge to solve socio-ecological problems. Over the four years at UW, she has gained experience in camera trapping, analytical science, ecological field research and the interdisciplinary studies of the environment.
Being out in nature is one of Ariana's favorite features of her studies. Her most treasured memories include fieldwork classes like the Friday Harbor Laboratory Marine Biology Quarter, ESRM 459 Wildlife Conservation in the Northwest, ESRM 304 Environmental Resource Assessment in Pack Forest, the entire Restoration Ecology Capstone series and a Costa Rica study abroad course, where she hiked up to three times a day. In partnership with Osa Conservation in Costa Rica, Ariana modeled occupancy for ocelots on the Osa Peninsula, integrating her passions for wildlife and statistics.
With two degrees, she participated in two amazing capstones. As part of a team of six students, Ariana planned and implemented the restoration of a degraded forest ecosystem located in North Rose Hill Woodlands Park. In her other capstone, she interned with Bainbridge Island Land Trust to design and deploy a nine week long camera trap study, producing over six thousand photos. She used this camera trap data to create ecologically sound trail recommendations based on wildlife and human disturbance.
In addition to her studies, Ariana worked part-time throughout college, using her analytical and scientific skills as a lab technician at a private environmental laboratory. Applying her interest of environmental justice and climate change mitigation, she was a Regional Organizer for the Fossil Fuel Divestment Student Network and was heavily involved in DivestUW.
Ariana hopes to apply her skills in wildlife, land management and statistics to a job in the environmental sector. Nonetheless, Ariana knows learning never stops. After gaining some experience and getting a break from academia, she will look into pursuing a Master's degree in quantitative wildlife ecology.Departmental HonorsTags:
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Thelonious Goerz
Sociology
Thelonious Goerz
Sociology
Data Science
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Working at the Daily and meeting a bunch of great people there!
Thesis: Race, Class, and Light Rail Transit: Examining High-Income Demographic Change In after Light Rail Transit in Seattle
My WebsiteI came to the UW interested in working as a journalist, with research as the last thing on my mind. But, through my time at UW, I gained a passion for demographic research through the support of my peers and mentors in the department of sociology. This year, I have been working on my honors thesis which has been one of the greatest learning experiences so far. I was fortunate to be paired with an excellent faculty advisor and to have many other informal mentors help along the way. I was fortunate enough to win the Mary Gates Research Scholarship for my thesis and be invited to present my work at the American Sociological Association.
This summer, I will continue my research in the social sciences as a pre-doctoral fellow at The Johns Hopkins University Department of Sociology.
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David Alejandro Alvarez
Communication
David Alejandro Alvarez
Communication
Diversity; Gender, Women's, Sexuality Studies,
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Actually graduating
Thesis: Engaging transfer voices An analysis of communication and information exchange between transfer students and university program
davigator@comcast.netDavid is a transfer student from Seattle Central Community College. He was a reading tutor for the Washington Reading Corps at Solid Ground and a Middle School English Teaching Instructor in Foshan, China before enrolling at UW in January 2014. At UW, he was involved with various activities including as a Resident Adviser, Husky Leadership Initiative peer advisor, Unite UW facilitator, Dream Project mentor, First-Year Programs transfer ambassador, Office of Minorities and Diversity Student Advisory Board member, and a research fellow for the Center of Communication, Difference, and Equity (CCDE). This summer, he will be participating in a Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education (NASPA) National Undergraduate Fellowship Program internship at the University of Missouri, before becoming Unite UW Early Fall Start Program Leader. He hopes to continue advocating and supporting students who transfer and identity as underrepresented as he eventually pursues a Ph.D. in education.
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Kari Hope Bergstedt
Human Centered Design & Engineering
Kari Hope Bergstedt LinkedIn
Human Centered Design & Engineering
Global Health
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My biggest point of pride and gratitude was leaving the familiar to study abroad in Kathmandu during autumn quarter of 2019. It was three months filled with growth, learning, and constantly pushing myself out of my comfort zone!
My Website kariberg@outlook.comEven before I came to UW, I knew I wanted to pursue the field of design. I'm currently planning to start full-time work as a product designer, and I love how this type of work enables me to problem-solve and exercise my creativity within the digital realm. I thrive on moments of creative collaboration, whether that's brainstorming in a room filled with sticky notes or engaging in participatory design with communities. I also have an interest in the world of global health and am always looking for ways to engage with initiatives in this area.
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Sophia Bidinger
Materials science & engineering
Sophia Bidinger LinkedIn
Materials science & engineering
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: When my PI said my work should be the "gold standard" for undergraduate research.
My WebsiteIn the beginning, I was really unsure of whether engineering was right for me. However, after I started my research, I learned that passion is something you develop for a project you work hard at and believe in. It's not just something you find out of the blue. UW has been the perfect place for me to develop my scientific passions and to develop personally as an independent adult. I'm so excited to continue this development as I work toward my PhD at the University of Cambridge.
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Nikou Lei
Physics (B.S.), Mathematics (B.A.)
Nikou Lei LinkedIn
Physics (B.S.), Mathematics (B.A.)
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I am a first generation college student.
My Website nikoul@uw.eduHello! I am Nikou. I study in physics and mathematics at UW. On campus, I was a student worker at HFS, a research assistant in the physics department and I-LABS, a math tutor, and an undergraduate research leader. The experience together has shaped my perspectives and goals. I am grateful for my undergraduate journey at UW and I will be pursuing a PhD in medical physics in the fall.
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Jaclyn Shallat
Microbiology
Jaclyn Shallat
Microbiology
Global Health
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Organizing "Summer Breeze: Cannon House Arts and Crafts Exhibition" as a Jackson Munro Public Service Fellow the summer after my second year of college.
My Website shallatjaclyn@gmail.comHello! My name is Jaclyn Shallat. I am a senior at the University of Washington in Seattle, where I study Microbiology and Global Health. Coming from a small town in Central Illinois, I've been excited to use my time on the West Coast to explore these two disciplines through research, volunteering, and classroom opportunities. I look forward to using my experiences from the past four years to inform a career in population health.
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Ganesh Shrestha
Architectural Design
Ganesh Shrestha LinkedIn
Architectural Design
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: When my first studio project was selected for student archive for the departmental cite.
Thesis: Building with Bamboo: An exploration of joinery between traditional and contemporary method.
shresthamartin@yahoo.comArchitecture has a power to change the world. In a way, architects are like a magician, who can make fantasy into reality. With the modern approach, our world is getting rather boring with predictable designs and box architecture everywhere. So, as an architect my interests are to make interesting architecture that deviates from the normal ones and the one that enhances human experience, which also aids for the better and sustainable future.
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Eleanor Mount
Political Science and Law, Societies and Justice
Eleanor Mount LinkedIn
Political Science and Law, Societies and Justice
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Speaking to students in Dr. Jessica Beyer's Cybersecurity class about my summer research experiences at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. It was a great opportunity to encourage social science students to get involved with technology research!
Thesis: Solving the Cyber Cooperation Conundrum: Lessons from Land, Sea, and War
My Website eleanormount1@gmail.comI'm passionate about using technology to improve institutional inefficiencies and making complicated subjects simple. I've applied my interests and skills in a number of settings, including my Honors thesis with the Department of Political Science, a National Laboratory in a cybersecurity internship program, and most recently, my new job at a Healthcare tech company!
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Tessa Katherine Kolstad
Biology, Nursing
Tessa Katherine Kolstad LinkedIn
Biology, Nursing
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Volunteering as a lead at UW Nurse Camp and seeing my campers/future nurses graduate!
Thesis: Improving Pediatric Asthma Shared Management: Development of the Symptom Monitoring and Response Module for the Child Asthma Management Program (CHAMP)
tkolstad@uw.eduI have a previous degree in biology from the University of Washington and worked as a research scientist at Seattle Children's for four years. I came back to school to pursue nursing because my experiences at Seattle Children's showed me that what is really important to me in healthcare are relationships with people, and no one has more intimate relationships with patients than nurses. In whatever work I am doing, my purpose is always to help children lead the healthiest, most fulfilling lives possible.
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Alexis Malia Marcelino Calma
Art History & English Language and Literature
Alexis Malia Marcelino Calma LinkedIn
Art History & English Language and Literature
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Studying abroad on the Department of English’s "Navigating the Fables and Spaces of Rome" program
Thesis: Stability and Flux: Examining Temporality in Paul Cézanne’s Landscapes
I have always been interested in exploring different mediums of storytelling, whether that be through analyzing the brushstrokes of a painting or close reading the text of a novel. Throughout my time at UW, it has been my mission to challenge myself as a scholar by taking on new experiences such as studying abroad and taking part in both the Art History and English Honors Programs simultaneously, culminating in three theses: "Stability and Flux: Examining Temporality in Paul Cézanne's Landscapes," "Revealing the Modern Woman: Depictions of Berthe Morisot and Victorine Meurent in Édouard Manet’s Paintings," and "Expatriate Interpretation: Painting, Sculpture, and Artistry in Nathaniel Hawthorne's The Marble Faun." Alongside my studies, I have worked as a technical writer at UW's Sensors, Energy, and Automation Laboratory and a co-managing editor at UW's Bricolage Visual and Literary Arts Journal. I plan on pursuing a career in publishing in the future and to continue refining my skills as a writer.
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Kristina V Randrup
Environmental Science and Resource Management: Wildlife Conservation
Kristina V Randrup
Environmental Science and Resource Management: Wildlife Conservation
Math, Quantitative Science
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Completeing undergraduate research and presenting my capstone at the research syposium.
Thesis: Black Bear Occupancy Modeling in Washington State
When I'm not studying, I make time to read and run everyday. I race trail and ultramarathons competitively and make sure I always find time to prioritize my passions outside of school.
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Courtney Claire Renaud
English
Courtney Claire Renaud
English
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Finally learning and accepting to look past my GPA and focusing on the knowledge and relationships I built during my time at UW.
Thesis: Translingual Acceptance in English Composition: Emphasizing Meaning-Making for Students in Code-Meshing Curricula
As a former Running Start student, now graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in English two years early, I am beyond thankful for the numerous opportunities UW has given me in reaching my personal goals. My academic achievements and enrollment in the English Honors program have allowed me to challenge myself in new ways, revealing a form of perseverance within myself to maintain success through more strenuous academics. This has guided me further in wanting to become a secondary teacher in the near future, and the excitement I feel for educating students in the subject of English once I complete my Master's in Teaching! I hope to obtain my final degree by the end of the 2022-23 school year.
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Maia Mae Cunningham
Medical Anthropology & Global Health
Maia Mae Cunningham LinkedIn
Medical Anthropology & Global Health
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Running home to Gamma Phi Beta after recruitment week, getting 100% on my research paper in my HIV/AIDS course, moving to France alone to study French and Global Health, securing my internship and first job at Seattle Children's Research Institute
maia.cunningham@hotmail.comI am from Vashon Island, WA where I lived with my mom, dad, younger brother, and dog (Major). I came into college with the intention of pursuing a medical or dental degree, but quickly found that my passions and interests aligned with Public - Global Health. I chose to declare my major as Medical Anthropology & Global Health and never looked back. Career-wise, I am particularly interested in pediatric clinical research and plan to pursue a PhD in order to facilitate my own lab. After college, I will be working as a Clinical Research Coordinator at Seattle Children's in the Pediatric Pain and Sleep Lab.
Outside of work and school, I love to cook new recipes, play card games, travel, and read.
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Becky Darrow
Bioengineering
Becky Darrow LinkedIn
Bioengineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Becoming a Battelle Scholar through Washington State Opportunity Scholarship
Thesis: Preventing Guidewire Loss During Venous Catheterization
Becky is working with Renda Palo and anesthesiologists Dr. Amber Franz and Dr. Bukola Ojo of Seattle Children’s Hospital to optimize central venous catheterization through UW Engineering Innovation in Health. Outside of school, Becky matches people in mentorship pairings as BMES Crosslink chair, and she spends most of her free time dancing. She fell in love with dance at the age of 4 when she took her first ballet class and throughout her childhood she was classically trained in ballet while also practicing modern, jazz, and lyrical dance. After a few years away from dance, she reentered the scene by learning salsa and bachata as she began school at the University of Washington. She was a member of the UW salsa club and assisted Professor Juliet McMains teaching salsa levels 1 and 2. After graduation, she will spend the summer working at Glossier in the Seattle Pop-up, teaching salsa and bachata dance, as well as learning how to dance zouk. In the fall, she will begin her role as a Consulting Analyst at Accenture.
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Lingke Zhong
Biochemistry
Lingke Zhong
Biochemistry
Chemistry
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: In my last quarter at UW, even with the fear of public speaking, I managed to present at the Annual ISCRM Symposium and at the 24th UW Undergraduate Research Symposium as a Mary Gates Scholar. I am proud that I overcame my fear and became more confident in making presentations.
Thesis: Combating COVID-19 with An Innovative Therapeutic
lingkz@uw.eduWhen I was on the PKX=>SEA flight 4 years ago, I was destined for the day I head towards the East Coast to continue my goal of being an entrepreneurial scientist. Now that I'm sitting on the plane flying from SEA => BOS, the reality is striking me quickly.
A mixture of science, business, and a two-year research experience at UW nurtured my path. People I've met in the past 3 years at UW truly influenced me to be boundless. I have become wiser and more motivated to push the frontier of combining science with business to promote forefront science to the general public. To my peers: I can’t wait to see what we will build for this world in the next 20 years!
I want to thank my parents for their unreserved support that allowed me to study abroad. I am also beyond grateful to have some close friends who were always there for my ups and downs in my college life. Lastly and most importantly, I want to thank myself for making it through all the obstacles and becoming stronger and stronger every time.Departmental HonorsTags:
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Stephanie Douglas
Bachelors of Arts in Business Administration
Stephanie Douglas
Bachelors of Arts in Business Administration
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Completing my first case competition!
I'm excited to graduate with a business degree and a Certificate of International Studies in Business. At UW I was able to get involved with various programs and clubs which were influential in my college experience. During my time at UW, I was able to participate in two study abroad programs, one to Ecuador with the Honors Program and one to Spain with the Spanish Department. All of the memories and experiences from my time at the University have shaped me into who I am today, and I'm excited to be graduating and starting my next chapter.
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Alissa M Jean-Baptiste
Art - Concentration in Painting and Drawing
Alissa M Jean-Baptiste LinkedIn
Art - Concentration in Painting and Drawing
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I felt proud when I first saw my paintings hung on the walls of the Jacob Lawrence Gallery
Thesis: Moments of Joy
My Website alissa.mjb@gmail.comBio
Alissa was born and raised in the forest of Monroe WA, and now resides in Seattle WA. She was homeschooled which gave her much time to explore her interests in the arts through dancing, drawing and music. The joy, movement, and colors of nature all show themselves in her art practice. She attended Bellevue college then took an eight-year hiatus to work and travel. Throughout her life she has traveled to eight different countries which have caused her to grow in empathy towards others and gather inspiration that have thus informed her work.
She then attended the University of Washington and concentrated in painting and Drawing. Because of her wide range of interests, she calls herself an interdisciplinary artist with a current emphasis on oil painting, music production/performance, and mixed-media digital art. Her interest lies in depicting the moments of joy and hope found in the simple, overlooked moments, often utilizing the human figure and portraits in the work.Artist Statement
The word Honesty has been a theme in the artwork that has been produced during my time at the University of Washington. In my current paintings I strive to embody and highlight the glimmers of hope found during these long months of covid lockdown. It is an intimate view of moments of calm and joy and the dark and often soul-crushing loneliness that accompanies that. The ultimate hope in my work is that it would be an encouragement to the viewer by reminding them that they are not alone in their experiences, and to inspire the viewer to have hope. I accomplish this through not only the subject but also through depictions of color, movement and brushstrokes that harken to freedom.
Soon I hope to experiment with different mediums such as pen and ink, gauche and watercolor. I also plan to dive deeper into the world of art and movement via 2D digital and analog animation and find ways to incorporate that with my other passion of music composition and video production.Departmental HonorsTags:
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Kendall Horan
English (Creative Writing)
Kendall Horan
English (Creative Writing)
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: I'll never forget a student I tutored telling me writing never made sense to her until she heard me talk about it. I don't think there's a more profound moment of fulfillment and validation for a writing major.
Thesis: Identifying with the Immortal: The Superhero Icon and the Identificatory Paradigm
kendallkmh@gmail.comSome six or seven years ago, my family took a trip to the far and distant Seattle, Washington, and I got it in my head and heart that this city and its big old purple and gold school was where I wanted to be. Now, I couldn't be more certain it's where I was meant to be. My time at the University of Washington and in the Interdisciplinary Honors Program allowed me to indulge every one of my interests and pursue every one of my passions. Though I decided early on I'd be abandoning the path of an engineer for that of a creative writer, UW, thanks in no small part to the Interdisciplinary Honors Program, never required me to give up on my STEM side completely. This school allowed me the confidence and freedom to step blindly but securely into a host of exceptional opportunities. From a quarter spent writing poetry among real live scientists and their real live research at Friday Harbor Laboratories, to the hours I spent problem solving in on-campus creative writing and English thesis workshops, the remarkable thought and reflection I was allowed to facilitate as an Honors Peer Educator and CLUE Writing Tutor, and the unparalleled experiences I shared with peers within my field and well beyond, I've so enjoyed being a Husky. The growth I've undergone these past four years has prepared me to continue following my dreams, as I set my sights on a career in screenwriting. Though I'm loath to leave Seattle, the goals UW has enabled me to pursue will take me to Los Angeles in the next year, and hopefully, before long, to a theater (or television screen) near you.
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Shih-Hsuan Hsu
Economics and Computer Science
Shih-Hsuan Hsu
Economics and Computer Science
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: I completed my economics honors thesis.
Thesis: The Impacts of Universal Health Insurance on Educational Attainment: Evidence from the Seguro Popular Program in Mexico
My Website shhsu@cs.washington.eduPlease visit my website for more details about me.
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Jacque Li
Computer Science
Jacque Li
Computer Science
Mathematics, Diversity
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Working as a CSE Student Ambassador and unravelling the challenges of diverse and equitable technical education
In moments of pure joy, it's never the memory itself that stay with me, but rather the people in those moments are what always make me smile. As a lifelong student who is always eager to hear more about every story, I say thank you to all my peers and educators at the UW that have helped me find some semblance of direction these past four years!
As I soon enter into the real world, I hope to continue to learn from the people around me, and especially to keep learning about challenges in tech and higher education; but I also hope to find time to tap into my interests in sustainability, music, and exploring the big world around us :)
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Rachel Kisela
Sociology
Rachel Kisela LinkedIn
Sociology
Informatics, Music
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I became president of LUX: Film Production Club here on campus right before COVID, so although it was an unexpected year to lead the organization, I'm proud of our community and the adaptations we've made during this difficult year.
My WebsiteHi, I'm Rachel! I graduated with a degree in Sociology and two minors in Informatics and Music. I'm interested in technology's impact on society, and wrote my honors thesis about the body positivity movement on social media. I'm also a freelance video editor and will be attending USC for a Master's degree in Journalism next year.
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Kera Smith Zegar
Environmental Studies
Kera Smith Zegar
Environmental Studies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Being apart of the Student Employee Leadership Board and representing UWild Adventures.
Thesis: Human-Wildlife Conflict in the Peruvian Amazon: How Community Engagement Can Change Wildlife Conservation
I always tell everyone that I joined PoE for the field trips. Everyone who knows me knows that what really drew me to Environmental Studies is my love of outdoor spaces. My time at UW has allowed me to a gain greater understanding of what privileges I have that allowed this love affair. The adventures I've had so far taught me that it is an opportunity to struggle and to pick myself back up both indoors and out. The accomplishments I'm most proud of are not those on paper but the impact I worked so hard to make on the people I worked for, young people, and my peers.
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Evyn Grace Kuske
English & Education, Communities, and Organizations
Evyn Grace Kuske LinkedIn
English & Education, Communities, and Organizations
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was being elected Chapter President of my sorority, Alpha Omicron Pi. I believe the person I am now, bold, confident, outspoken, was always somewhere inside of me. But becoming the AOII Chapter President gave me the opportunity to see it for myself and show everyone else the person I was always capable of being.
Thesis: The Continued Importance of American Prison Literature: A Brief Exploration of Writings from Incarcerated Black Men
The past four years have been characterized by growth and personal development. I struggled to adjust my freshman year, and was forced to reflect on where I wanted to be three years later: pursuing my dream of becoming a lawyer. Since that moment, I have put every ounce of myself into setting these dreams in motion. During my time at the University of Washington, I have interned with Chelan-Douglas County Volunteer Attorney Services, Washington State Employment Security Department, Washington Pro Bono Council, PNW Anti-Defamation League, served as the Student Support Committee Chairman for the UW College of Education, volunteered with Family Law CASA of King County, been a member of Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity, and served as the Chapter President of Alpha Omicron Pi.
I am so proud of everything I have accomplished in the last four years, and am excited for the next chapter of my life. This fall I will be attending the University of Oregon School of Law to pursue a J.D. with specializations in family law and child advocacy!
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Chelsea Shu
Biochemistry
Chelsea Shu LinkedIn
Biochemistry
Global Health and Chemistry
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: In my senior year, I created ISAIV, a non-profit dedicated to bridging survivors of interpersonal violence with crucial resources. In 1 year, we have made national connections and worked alongside UW faculty to strengthen mutual aid within Seattle.
Thesis: Optimizing mRNA Vaccines at the Intersection of Protein Engineering, Biochemistry, and Global Health
During my 4 years at UW, I explored a multitude of disciplines. I conducted biomedical research at the King and Ruohola-Baker lab, created an RSO that used art to improve student mental wellness, and established a non-profit dedicated to combating interpersonal violence. I also met incredible people that have shaped who I am today. My mentors in biochemistry and global health nurtured my love for entrepreneurship and research. My friends and family supported me through every step of my academic career and challenged me to chase after my goals. As of now, I am a step closer to achieving my dream of helping others through medicine, science, and advocacy. I will now be continuing my career as a post-baccalaureate at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute at Harvard Medical School.
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Kisho M Fukuoka
Neuroscience
Kisho M Fukuoka
Neuroscience
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Being able to spend study abroad and make lifelong friends in Leon, Spain and Tokyo, Japan.
My Website kishofukuoka@hotmail.comFrom friends, memories, and classes, my 4 years as a Husky has been amazing. UW has allowed me to explore my interests and learn so much more than I had ever imagined. My major has piqued my interest in medicine and I plan on traveling while applying to medical school this year.
Thanks to my family, friends, and mentors that made my experience possible.
Go Dawgs!
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Fredrik Mansfield
Comparative History of Ideas
Fredrik Mansfield
Comparative History of Ideas
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: It took me by great surprise when Dr. Boers of UW Chamber Singers shared with me that he wanted to use my first choral composition for our 2018 Spring concert. Just weeks before graduation, the concert was the culmination of much of what I have worked on at UW, and I was able to celebrate with family and friends.
Thesis: Beyond Prayer: Liberationist Christian Praxis in the Contemporary U.S.
My Website fredrik.mansfield@gmail.comI am a soon-graduate of the University of Washington with a Bachelor of Arts in Comparative History of Ideas (CHID). Deeply passionate about life, social justice, and unconditional global love, I find himself devoting all my free time to community groups all across the spectrum, often involved in some form of outreach. Personal pastimes include running, delving into the great outdoors, singing, and spending time with loved ones. My plan is eventually to pursue some form of radical living project (Christian commune). Thereafter, I hope to be inspiring and challenging people of all walks of life to practice bold and sacrificial love to all peoples, especially those most marginalized by the structures in our society. Fun fact: I walk everywhere barefoot and get the most surprising reactions for it. Some people think I'm disgusting, others praise my initiative and ask for my social media (which is pretty much nonexistent).
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Sanne Casello
Neuroscience
Sanne Casello
Neuroscience
Art History
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Kicking off my last year as a dawg by running the Seattle Marathon!
Thesis: Stress activates the dynorphin/kappa opioid receptor system in the prefrontal cortex to disrupt cognition
sannecasello@gmail.comI'm so grateful to have immersed myself in my two passions, neuroscience and art history, during my time at the University of Washington. Studying abroad in Florence summer quarter of my freshman year ignited my love for art history and inspired me to pursue a minor. The opportunity to take these classes bestowed a breadth of knowledge I wouldn't have otherwise obtained and have been some of the most enlightening classes I've taken at the UW - many thanks to the lovely professors of the Art History department!
In academic contrast, the opportunity to be a member of the Chavkin Lab the past four years has shaped my undergraduate experience. Neuroscience has always been one of my passions, but my positive experience in the Chavkin Lab has solidified my desire to pursue Neuroscience as a career. The ability to develop as a neuroscience researcher, influenced by such positive mentors, is why I was able to accept a position at the National Institutes of Health in Washington D.C. to participate in research on psychiatric disease before applying to graduate school.
Ultimately, I'm beyond thankful for the friendships I've fostered during undergrad. From the neuroganglia to 4727, I can't imagine undergrad without you. Thanks for the mems University of Washington & go dawgs!!!
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Gurdeep Gill
Philosopyhy
Gurdeep Gill LinkedIn
Philosopyhy
Education, Learning, and Societies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Presenting research at the 21st UW Undergraduate Symposium with my lab partner, Hannah.
I entered the University of Washington knowing that I wanted to study Philosophy. At the time, I was unsure of how I could use Philosophy to impact the world beyond academia, but I was driven by my curiosity to study it nonetheless. I wanted to understand the world and to me, studying Philosophy was the best way to do this. Through my classes, I was able to engage in discussions concerning identity, quality of life, and what it means to be an epistemic agent in the world. I was given the opportunity to connect these discussions outside the college classroom by working with the Philosophy for Children Center, which focuses on empowering k-12 students through providing them the space to explore their own ideas. By working with k-12 students, I found that the students were asking the same questions, trying to understand the world similarly as me. I also found that many students were unable to fully engage with these questions because of overarching issues. Being a first-generation student myself, I understood the difficulties of focusing on school when other issues are prevalent. It made me passionate to learn about and address these issues through classes and research. I began dedicating myself to learning about ways to address inequities in education, focusing primarily on accessibility issues. As I leave UW, I hope to continue to learn and implement ways to make education accessible to all because a good education leads to more opportunities to live the life one wants, which in many cases increases the quality.
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Siobhan Mary Wells
Political Science: International Security
Siobhan Mary Wells
Political Science: International Security
Russian Language
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Any time I am able to speak coherent Russian is a proud moment for me.
Thesis: Power Not Influence: The Impacts of Russian Foreign Policy in Georgia from 2008-2020
s.mwells@yahoo.comHi there, my name is Siobhan and I love to study international security, specifically in the post-Soviet states. I was fortunate enough to participate in both interdisciplinary and departmental honors during my time at the University of Washington, and have been able to conduct independent research on modern Georgia-Russia relations. I love a physical challenge just as much as a mental one, so you can often find me outside either swimming, running, or doing CrossFit. I am so very grateful for the experiences that I have had in these last four years, and am excited to see what comes next.
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Zuoying Gloria Liu
Economics
Zuoying Gloria Liu LinkedIn
Economics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I had my very first job, and got my first paycheck ever.
Thesis: Examine the effects of Covid-19 on Crime Incidents in U.S. Cities
Hi, my name is Gloria. I feel over the moon to graduate this summer with a departmental honor. It has been a wonderful four years, although we were hit by an unprecedented pandemic, here we are celebrating the graduation of Class 2021! Out of classroom, I love music and you can probably catch me with earphones on most of the time. I also enjoy traveling, wondering around the city with a few friends and families, there is nothing more healing than that.
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Claire Prianka Kasinadhuni
Environmental Studies
Claire Prianka Kasinadhuni LinkedIn
Environmental Studies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Being a part of Husky 100 for 2019
I am very stoked to be graduating from UW PoE! I majored in environmental studies and am very interested in public policy, history and political science. I started out farming at the UW and ended interning with King County and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal. I have loved my time at UW and cannot wait to enter this hectic world and participate in making it better.
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Joanne Chen
Finance and Marketing
Joanne Chen LinkedIn
Finance and Marketing
Real Estate
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My fondest memory was studying abroad in Madrid during in 2019. Living, walking, and existing in a new place forced the growth that I needed. When I came back, it gave me a newfound appreciation for the little things about ordinary days in Seattle I overlooked before.
Hi, I'm Joanne and I am from Bellevue. But Taipei, Chicago, Madrid, and Seattle are all places I call home.
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Maria Isabel Zamora
Interdisciplinary Visual Arts
Maria Isabel Zamora LinkedIn
Interdisciplinary Visual Arts
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: I am proud that I used my time at UW to raise awareness about the ongoing crisis in Venezuela through my artwork, and had the freedom to explore a wide range of mediums finding ways to improve and innovate my work and its powerful message.
I started my path in the Arts in my country of origin, Venezuela, and I could not be more excited to finish my degree in Interdisciplinary Visual Arts at UW. Although Venezuela is no longer my home it is still my main source of inspiration. I am looking forward to use the skills I learned during my time at UW to keep creating meaningful art outside of the classroom.
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Nikki Kurtz
Law, Societies and Justice
Nikki Kurtz LinkedIn
Law, Societies and Justice
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Completing my internship with Books to Prisoners.
Thesis: From Buyer Beware to Ending Exploitation Collaborative: The Nordic Model and Human Rights of Sex Workers in King County
I graduated in December of 2018 with a Bachelors' of Arts in Law, Societies and Justice. I focused my honors research on the violations of human rights perpetrated by the local government and prosecutors in Seattle and King County against women working in the sex trade, particularly through the use of pseudo-legalization. Since then, I've been working on preparing my thesis for publication and have been working as a residential rehabilitative counselor at an in-custody competency restoration center for those found incompetent to stand trial with Washington State Department of Social and Health Services.
I will be moving to Dallas this summer to begin attending Southern Methodist University School of Law. I will be working towards my juris doctor for the next three years and hope to work in civil liberties law in Texas after graduation and after taking the bar exam.
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James Oliver Randall
Social Welfare
James Oliver Randall LinkedIn
Social Welfare
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Submitting my Research Presentation to the Undergraduate Research Symposium
Thesis: The Effectiveness of Veterans Treatment Court: A Participant Perspective
I’m a runner who is passionate about social work, therapy and treatment targeted toward trauma, substance use, and mental illness. I transferred from Bellevue College in 2019, and will be continuing into the Master in Social Work program following graduation.
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Yinan Xu
Psychology
Yinan Xu
Psychology
Japanese
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: I participated in the UW Research Symposium, and shared great ideas and novel insights there.
Thesis: Bilingual Code-Switching and Semantic Ambiguity Resolution
The capacity and uniqueness of the human brain have always been the field that intrigues me. Four years in UW I've developed great interest and passion in human executive function, especially language and other cognitive processing. I've brought my passion in psycholinguistics into my language learning, and done research in combining cognitive psychology with human linguistic behavior. After graduation I'll continue to pursue my research interests.
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Rhyannon Elizabeth Hayes
History, Political Science (International Security)
Rhyannon Elizabeth Hayes LinkedIn
History, Political Science (International Security)
Environmental Studies
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: The Honors field study I did in 2019 in Washington's 3 national parks was such a formative experience for me to discover what I was capable of, make great new friends, and was the beginning point of my main path diverging from politics to conservation. I think about those 2 weeks in the wilderness with those 11 amazing people multiple times a week and I'm so grateful for that experience.
I love hiking and backpacking in the national parks and developed this love on an Honors Field Study with Aley, Brook, and Laura in 2019! Now I'm happy to announce I am pursuing a career in the National Park Service working this year at Shenandoah National Park!
Additionally I have remained active in my passion for voting rights and social justice with the Seattle-based organization Common Power
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Bryce Martz
Computer Science
Bryce Martz
Computer Science
Gender, Women, & Sexuality Studies
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments at UW was finishing my first Android app with my team from our Software Engineering course.
Hi I’m Bryce, and after I graduate, I will be staying in Seattle and heading to work as a software engineer at PayScale. When I’m not coding, I love to snowboard and have game nights with friends, and you can catch me doing pub trivia every Tuesday. A fun fact about me is I’ve been to three continents and hope to visit the rest.
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Hyae Won Hannah Redden
Bioengineering, Biochemistry
Hyae Won Hannah Redden LinkedIn
Bioengineering, Biochemistry
Chemistry, Classical Studies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Organizing outreach visits to high schools to teach bioengineering to schools with diverse populations that have traditionally been underrepresented in the field of bioengineering.
Thesis: Classification of Alzheimer's Disease Patients using Resting State Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging-based Network Connectivity Analysis
hkredden3@gmail.comHello! My name is Hyae Won (Hannah) Redden and I am a senior graduating from the Department of Bioengineering and the Department of Biochemistry. I was born in Seoul, South Korea and immigrated to the U.S. when I was three years old, growing up first in Little Rock, Arkansas and later University Place, Washington, before starting school here in Seattle.
Throughout my time at UW, I have been fortunate to have taken part in so many transformative experiences through taking engaging courses, participating in extracurricular activities, and interacting with so many extraordinary people. Some of my most meaningful experiences include coordinating a reading program at Seattle Children's Hospital and the UW Neonatal Intensive Care Unit; receiving a Gilman Scholarship to study abroad in Nepal, where I was able to assess health technology needs in the OB/GYN department; coordinating a website for Science Explorers, a graduate student group that develops science lesson plans for elementary-aged students; serving as Outreach Chair for the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) at UW for the past 2 years; and being a part of the Department of Bioengineering Diversity Committee, where I was not only able to contribute to improving efforts to improve diverse outreach, but also reflect on inequalities that exist in society and in higher education and think critically about action items to address such issues. These experiences, in conjunction with my research and academic studies in biochemistry and bioengineering, have fueled both existing and new passions and I hope to take these perspectives with me as I pursue a career in healthcare.
In my free time, I enjoy bullet journaling, hand lettering, taking on miscellaneous arts and craft projects, reading (especially autobiographies and memoirs), and traveling. My favorite travel memories during my time as an undergrad include holding a newborn baby at an outreach center in Bolde, Nepal, working as a patisserie assistant in a tiny little town called Nitry in France, and learning more about my home country. After graduation, I hope to continue learning about different cultures in the communities around me as well as while traveling abroad.
And of course, I wouldn't be here today without all of the amazing people that have helped me along the way, so thank you to the amazing peers, professors, and mentors that have contributed to such a great undergrad experience! Also, I'd like to thank my family for all of the endless love and support!
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Sean Milad Toulouie
Bioengineering
Sean Milad Toulouie LinkedIn
Bioengineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Rushing the field after beating Stanford at Husky Stadium my sophomore year.
My interests are soccer, traveling, and going to new restaurants with my friends.
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Mimi Reed
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Mimi Reed
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Quantitative Science
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Studying abroad and meeting lifelong friends
Thesis: Evaluation of Maasai-Water Relationships in a Changing Landscape: A Case Study of Former Kimana Group Ranch
As an Environmental Science major, I started at UW with an interest in protecting our environment and wildlife, and after these four, short years that interest has grown into a dedication for the decolonization of conservation practices and the inclusion of communities in environmental decision-making. I worked in the SEFS advising department, interned at King County for three summers, studied in Kenya, volunteered, danced in two dance departments shows, and made a lot of good friends and memories along the way.
I am so grateful for my time here and my support system. I couldn't have done it without them. I hope to effect positive change and work towards a more sustainable future, as well as hike, sew, and drink lots of tea.
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Kiran Singh
Political Science: International Security
Kiran Singh LinkedIn
Political Science: International Security
Law, Societies, and Justice; Human Rights
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Watching my parents find my profile on the Husky 100 page! :)
Thesis: Designed to Fail: The Impact of Correctional Education on PIC-Driven Recidivism
harkiran.singh00@gmail.comMy passions are equity and progress at all intersections of our society, specifically through legal and political reform; so, I've kept busy by advocating for DEI in higher education, health-focused drug policy, expanded access to civic engagement, and agricultural laborers' rights through different on- and off-campus experiences.
And still, the best part of my UW experience was all of you! I learned more from my peers than from any (over-priced) assigned textbook, and I'm indescribably grateful for the many mentors who only expected the best from me. I only hope the time spent serving my communities amounts to a fraction of the love, support, and encouragement shown to me by faculty, staff, friends, and family as I work to pursue pathways to justice.College HonorsTags:
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Elizabeth Rylance
Neuroscience
Elizabeth Rylance
Neuroscience
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: It's hard to pick! Traveling to Peru on a study abroad trip and doing field research in the Amazon rainforest was a huge one. Also, receiving the Mary Gates Research Scholarship for my work towards my Honors thesis, and finishing my thesis in general!
Thesis: Olfactory learning and memory in the mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus
My Website lizzyrylance@gmail.comHi! I'm Lizzy Rylance and I am graduating from the Neuroscience major at UW with College Honors. I am so grateful for the incredible opportunities and experiences I have had over the past four years, and especially grateful for all the people I have met along the way. I wouldn't be half the person I am today without the friends, mentors, faculty, coworkers, and classmates that I met throughout this journey.
As I move forward, I am more determined than ever to live fully, meaningfully, and with constant gratitude. I am planning on taking a gap year (or several) to travel, gain research experience, snowboard, backpack, read, listen, learn, and figure out how I can use my education and the opportunities that I've been given to contribute to a better future. Once I'm ready, I plan on pursuing graduate education somewhere in the realm of neuroscience, biology, ecology, psychology, or environmental studies.
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Nathan Mock
Environmental Studies
Nathan Mock LinkedIn
Environmental Studies
Political Science
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I am proud of the research project I have worked on over the past 6 months in which I have had the opportunity to dive into field and lab work with two of my favorite professors at UW as we explored the potential for kelps to be used in carbon sequestration.
nathanmock4102@gmail.comI am a native Seattleite and loved growing up here. Attending university here as an environmental studies major has allowed me to come to a whole new understanding and appreciation for the region and its social and natural history.
I pan to attend law school starting this fall and am excited to put my environmental studies background to use as I begin studying environmental law. While I will be attending Lewis & Clark Law School (in Portland) I hope to return to Washington to practice. I am not certain what sector of environmental law I will pursue yet, but I have a lot of interest in the emerging field of aquaculture in our state, specifically kelp aquaculture, which I have spent the last 6 months researching as a part of multiple courses and research projects.
Aside from law and kelp my interests include gardening, skiing, hiking, and biking.Interdisciplinary HonorsTags:
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Katherine Gwyn
Political Science & Communication
Katherine Gwyn LinkedIn
Political Science & Communication
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Proudest moment was getting into law schools and making the final decision to attend Stanford Law School.
My WebsitePNW native, dog lover, car camper, budding world traveler, news junkie, future JD. I am proud to be leaving the UW and Honors with a greater understanding of all things from the philosophy of gender to African-American political theory to my own aspirations. College experiences include: Honors peer educator, summer abroad in Montpellier, legal assistant at the Housing Justice Project, campaign intern x2, research intern on far-right movements at IREHR, president of Tri Delta at the UW. Many thanks to the faculty, advisors, classmates and friends that contributed to a wonderful four years.
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Kyla E Wright
Neuroscience
Kyla E Wright
Neuroscience
Bioethics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Each years' Apple Cup -- go Dawgs!
Thesis: Neuromodulation Effects of Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide (CGRP) on Zebra Finch Premotor Nucleus
I participate in neuroscience research on campus and completed a research fellowship at Swedish Epilepsy Center last summer. Additionally, I volunteer as a mentor for disabled students with DO-IT Access STEM, and at an organization near campus that serves those facing homelessness. In my downtime, I enjoy dancing, being outdoors, and exploring Seattle. I’m looking forward to continuing my studies next fall at NYU School of Medicine!
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Emily Paige Menz
B.S. Economics, B.A. Environmental Studies
Emily Paige Menz LinkedIn
B.S. Economics, B.A. Environmental Studies
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Seeing my research on carbon sequestration in Icelandic wetlands displayed as one of seven out of 400 submissions at Odegaard Library. Also performing at the Rose Bowl with the Husky Band to support UW Football.
Thesis: A New Approach for Valuing Biodiversity: Lessons from the Peruvian Amazon
My Website emilymenz1@gmail.comI am so thankful for the opportunities that UW and the Honors program have given me over the last four years. I was lucky enough to study abroad three times on three different continents, all focused on examining environmental problems in these unique regions of the world: Iceland, Peru, and China. I participated in our spirited culture by playing trombone in the Husky Marching Band and as a team member of the UW Women's Club Soccer team. I have lived in the dorms, in the Greek Community, and off-campus. I will soon graduate with two degrees. And all of this has led me to my next step - moving to London this fall to attend the London School of Economics and pursue my MSc in Environmental Economics and Climate Change. I am looking forward to dedicating my career toward finding systemic economic and business solutions to environmental problems.
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Indigo A Doll
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Indigo A Doll LinkedIn
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: I am proud of all the opportunities I have taken to give back to my community.
Thesis: Effects of Regenerative Agriculture on Soil Health
I would like to make large-scale impacts in the world of environmentalism. I have been so grateful for the opportunities I have been given at the University of Washington. The most notable is simply access to the amazing outdoors of the pacific northwest. My program allowed me to spend so much time among the trees where I am happiest!
Thank you to everyone I've met along the way and to all of those who have made me into the woman I am today. I could not have achieved this without all of you.
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Sierra Bonilla
Bioengineering
Sierra Bonilla LinkedIn
Bioengineering
Mathematics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment is more of a collection of little moments. I was honored with the job of being a TA for two quarters and every time a student would come to me for help, we would work together to best tackle the topic at hand. My happiest and proudest moments at UW were simply watching the student's expression change from confusion to understanding.
Thesis: In-vitro Bubble-Enhanced Heating for Focused Ultrasound Treatments in the Brain
Hi, I'm Sierra. Although this is not exactly how I pictured the end, I am still so proud and thankful for the last four years. I have had the great pleasure of putting something of myself into every piece of my work here at UW and have found a passion and love for medical imaging and its applications in global health. I want to thank my family, friends, and co-workers for their constant support. And now, I am off to graduate school. TTFN!
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Stephen Anthony Chmelewski
Political Science, Spanish
Stephen Anthony Chmelewski
Political Science, Spanish
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Getting into Honors! I was not admitted when I applied as a senior in high school, but I reapplied at the end of my freshman year (after taking an Honors course during each of my first three quarters, despite not being in the program) and got in! Huzzah!
At heart, I'm just a pig-raising Eastern Washington boy who somehow found himself in the bright lights of big-city Seattle.
When I arrived at the ol' U Dubya, I knew deep down that I just wanted to study Political Science and Spanish. It was because of these two deep and abiding interests that I found some of the most formative experiences of my college career. My love for politics took me deep into the halls of power (or at least the front desk of Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal's office, where you could catch me on Friday afternoons fulfilling intern duties like shredding paper and answering phones). My affinity for the Spanish language took me all the way across the world (three whole flights! each way!) to the seaside Spanish town of Cádiz, where I spent the entirety of my junior year pretending to do homework while actually eating tapas, chatting with my host mom, and going to the beach every day. It was the life.
So what's up next for the Stephenator now that he's likely peaked and his glory days as an undergrad are coming to an end? Great question, and to be completely honest, y'all have as good of an idea as I do! Perhaps a lil' bit of traveling here, a lil' bit of applying to law school there. No one knows. Anyways, go Dawgs!
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Lyddie Jo Austin
Environmental Engineering
Lyddie Jo Austin LinkedIn
Environmental Engineering
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: When I started at UW, I thought it was a good idea to do the advanced series for General Chemistry. What that meant was instead of 3 quarters of chemistry classes, they were condensed into 2 quarters (with the same amount of material). It went about as good as you would imagine, and as someone who enjoyed chemistry but was not gifted with an immediate understanding of the material, it was a hard time to say the least. When I finished my second quarter I was insanely stressed about the final, and I remember getting my grade back while I was on the roof of Terry Hall. I got a final grade in that class that made me jump out of my seat (in excitement), and I don't think I will be forgetting that anytime soon.
I grew up in Spokane, and I have always had a passion for the environment. That's what drove me to major in EnvE, along with my love for math, chemistry, and biology. Outside of my career, I am an avid knitter, hiker, baker, and I enjoy playing video games with my friends. Throughout my time at UW I loved cooking for my friends and learning to perfect recipes passed down by the Mexican side of my family. Long term in my career, I hope to do good not only for the environment but for the people of my community,
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We love Honors
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Nona Lynn Hunter
Nursing
Nona Lynn Hunter LinkedIn
Nursing
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: That day I was called on in class and had the right answer (at least I think that happend at least once)
If I wasn't a nurse I would probably bake cakes. Since baking cakes = eating cakes, I'm glad I chose the healthier route of nursing. The path to my BSN was not quick. It took about 10 years, taking 1 nursing pre-req at a time while developing my career in healthcare leadership. While the journey took longer than expected I'm glad I have context and direction in who I want to be as a nurse. I believe nurses are uniquely equipped to change healthcare for the better and I want to be a part of that. I didn't expect nursing school to change me but it has. I have been surrounded by compassionate and inspiring faculty, patients, and colleagues. They've made me a great nurse and an even better human. I am grateful to walk away changed.
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Mengwei (Crystal) Chen
Marketing & English
Mengwei (Crystal) Chen LinkedIn
Marketing & English
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was founding my RSO and see it grow in numbers over the years and host meaningful events that made a impact to cultural diversity. On top of that, it would be my summer internship working for the White House AAPI projects to better represent and promote the AAPI community during a time that's filled with fear and xenophobia to make a positive difference.
Thesis: "Extinction: The Bargain with Humanity - Climate Change and Social Marketing"
My Website mengc12@uw.eduMengwei (Crystal) Chen was born in Kaifeng, China, and immigrated to Washington State with her family when she was eight years old. She is graduating with Departmental Honors this Spring majoring in Marketing and English. By using the narrative skills from English and packaging skills from Marketing, she practiced innovative campaigns such as "Selling Climate Change" with social marketing. As the Founder and President of the Ancient Chinese Association (ACA), she conceives that marketing shouldn't be limited to "products" and that it's possible to market a "culture." She believes miscommunication is a catalyst to a majority of the crises in this world, and her goal in the future is to enhance message flow and combat miscommunication for individuals, groups, and societies at large. Outside, she's also a motivational speaker who traveled to different high schools promoting students to seek higher education and ways to practice personal branding. In summer 2020, she interned for the White House Initiative on Asian American and Pacific Islanders (WHIAAPI), aiming to learn strategies to enhance the construction of narratives and other skills to better represent and promote the AAPI community. She's also worked as an advocacy intern at the Bellevue Chamber of Commerce assisting local projects and as an outreach specialist for the City of Seattle through ECCC. As a former competitive swim team member, she's very active and seeks the opportunity to go swimming during her spare time and other activities such as hiking and archery.
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Elise Lynn Jacobsen
Law, Societies, and Justice
Elise Lynn Jacobsen LinkedIn
Law, Societies, and Justice
Human Rights
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Giving a speech in Red Square about the need for disability inclusion in emergency services for a public speaking class!
Thesis: Racial Stereotypes and News Media: An Exploration of United States Drug History
Elise is also completing her Yoga Teacher training through the University of Washington, and continuing to grad school in the Fall.
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Madeline O'Dwyer
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Madeline O'Dwyer
Environmental Science and Resource Management
French
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments has been when I represented UW at an international conference and had the opportunity to sharing my research.
Thesis: Winter under-ice patterns of greenhouse gases in lakes of interior Alaska
I have had moments of great joy in the last four years of UW. Not all my moments were as joyful as others but there were certain parts of my UW life that kept my spirits high against the coursework and winter weather of UW. Working in David Butman's lab pushed me out of multiple comfort zones and as a result gave me one of the most steady and consistent parts of my UW career. I have to thank UW Women's Rugby for giving me a community which turned into forever friends and best roommates. Lastly, I loved all of my ESRM classes and I have treasured this experience that started with an interest and grew into a passion making me not only a scientist but more of a steward of the Earth.
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Tina Chen
Computer Science
Tina Chen
Computer Science
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Performing at the Rose Bowl with the Husky Marching Band!
I came to UW without a single clue what my next four years would be like. I had no major, only a few friends, and absolutely zero certainty about the future. Looking back, it seems like everything somehow fell into place - I found a subject that excites me, met wonderful people, and was able to practice meaningful hobbies like music and yoga throughout the journey. Of course, I faced many obstacles along the way, but all I really had to do was put in my best effort and go with the flow... I rode the wave and here I am continuing to grow as a software developer working on Amazon Alexa!
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Zoe Moser
Psycholgy
Zoe Moser LinkedIn
Psycholgy
Informatics
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments at UW was submitting a very vulnerable essay about my "personal philosophy" in an Honors class that I had thought was out of my wheelhouse. I received the most thoughtful, positive feedback to my writing (that I have kept to this day), encouraging me to share this essay with friends and family. The pride I felt reading the feedback from my professor, as well as my friends and family, motivated me to share my creations more.
My name is Zoe Moser, and I'm graduating from the UW with a major in Psychology and minor in Informatics. Throughout my years at UW, I have been lucky enough to be involved in activities that have shaped my college experience, prepared me for the future, and helped me grow into the person I am today. Interdisciplinary Honors has provided me with many opportunities that I attribute to that growth, as well as the importance of reflection while doing so. Check out my Honors Portfolio to read more about how Interdisciplinary Honors has impacted my life!
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Savanna Yee
Computer Science + Informatics (Human-Computer Interaction)
Savanna Yee LinkedIn
Computer Science + Informatics (Human-Computer Interaction)
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: When I found out that some teaching tools I made were being used in lecture demonstrations for hundreds of students
Mentor, maker, teacher, performer, advisor,/
advocate, researcher, event organizer./
I’ve constantly lost and found myself here,/
uncertainty is something I’ve learned not to fear./
Here I’ve gained new perspectives, been inspired by brilliance,/
opened up about depression, healing, resilience./
U-dub has fueled my interdisciplinary mind,/
always enticing me with more connections to find./
By combining technology, ethics, wellbeing, and art,/
this is how I’ll empower people--or at least how I’ll start.Interdisciplinary HonorsTags:
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Vanessa Hannah Lim
Psychology
Vanessa Hannah Lim LinkedIn
Psychology
Disability Studies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Completing my degree in three years and exactly 180 credits!
Thesis: Elements of Compromised Autobiographical Memory and PTSD
vanesl@uw.eduI love music, good reads, and getting outside! It was a pride and joy to lead The Veritas Forum at UW for three years and I have a similar desire to be gracious and conversational with people who think differently than I do. I love themes of generativity and creativity out of trauma, and I hope to bring such components of healing into my work with trauma populations in the future.
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Maya Green
International Studies & Art History
Maya Green LinkedIn
International Studies & Art History
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Serving as the editor for my JSIS Task Force report! Despite only meeting over zoom, our group bonded and produced more knowledge in 10 weeks than I ever imagined was possible. I’m proud to have pushed myself into accepting a leadership role that allowed me to learn so much from my peers.
Thesis: Covering Just Cause: U.S. Media and the 1989 Invasion of Panama
mayagreen555@gmail.comAt UW I’ve held two roles that shaped my experience. As a research fellow at the Center for Human Rights, I found a passion for freedom of information and archival research. Working as a writing tutor for intro-level Art History courses has both greatly improved my own writing and allowed me to encourage other students to explore the arts beyond just satisfying university requirements.
Writing my thesis over the last year was challenging and eye-opening. It allowed me to connect with expert faculty I wouldn’t have otherwise built relationships with and see many different ways to approach what initially seemed like a clear-cut problem.
For the summer after graduation, I’ll be continuing my work with the Center for Human Rights. In the fall will be moving to Madrid to work for the Spanish Ministry of Education as an English language and cultural assistant. I’m eternally appreciative for the professors, graduate student instructors, and staff who helped me grow and made the next steps possible!
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Maia Luz Sinteral-Scott
English
Maia Luz Sinteral-Scott
English
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: I'd have to say my proudest moment at UW was getting into the English department Honors program and fulfilling one of my academic goals. Being able to learn and work with the faculty and my peers has been amazing, and I literally could not have picked a better time to be in an Honors cohort focusing on temporality and human extinction.
Thesis: In the Wreckage of Humanity: Ruins, Agency, and the Art of Post-Apocalyptic Video Games
My experience at the University of Washington has been defined by my commitment to literary scholarship and health care, as well as the personal empowerment I've felt in pursuing both English literature and STEM. This has all set me on my path towards becoming a physician, (hooray for studying for the MCAT soon!), and I'm hoping to keep up my writing as much as possible in the future. My love for creative writing and English has only grown in the English Honors program, and I can't be more excited for what's next.
I'm beyond grateful for the friendships I've made during my undergrad, and for everything I've been able to learn. Cheers to four years, UW.
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Tayler Hoftell
Materials Science & Engineering
Tayler Hoftell LinkedIn
Materials Science & Engineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Being able to graduate in 4 years from such an amazing university and program! It's been an incredible journey and I'm so thankful for the things I've been able to achieve in my time here.
tayler.hoftell@gmail.comAs a first generation college student, I never thought I would be where I am at today. I've been able to accomplish literally my wildest dreams here at UW. Before I started college, I knew I wanted to be an engineer. I found the MSE department my freshman year at UW and knew that was the path I wanted to go down. Although there have been plenty of ups and downs throughout my time here, I’ve found this degree to be so rewarding and I sometimes I can’t believe how far I’ve come since my freshman year. I've been involved with incredible research in the MSE department and with the Boeing Advanced Research Center on campus that has truly shaped my undergraduate experience here. After graduation, I'll be starting my career as an engineer at Honeywell Aerospace and I couldn't be more excited!
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Randall Rodriguez
Philosophy
Randall Rodriguez
Philosophy
Labor Studies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was when a professor that I greatly respect told me that a paper I had been working on was good enough that I should try to have it published.
I am a non-traditional student. On top of being a transfer student, I am married and a father. I love to read and am devoted to playing and watching soccer. At this stage of my life, I could never have graduated if it hadn't been for the patience and support of my family. I was lucky that my partner has always been willing to take time away from her garden (her happy place) to read my papers and our daughter has been interested in the classes I have taken and books I have read.
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We love Honors
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Justen Thomas Hardaway
Biology Physiology
Justen Thomas Hardaway LinkedIn
Biology Physiology
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Creating an educational workshop through livewell around the importance of movement, sleep, and nutrition that can be taught to future huskies
My Website justenhardaway@gmail.comDuring my time at UW, I have been involved in a variety of organizations and opportunities. During my sophomore and junior year, I served as a peer educator for the honors program which allowed me to develop my teaching and communication skills. I was able to then hone and refine these skills during my senior year as a peer health educator (PHE) as Livewell teaching my peers about health promotion and harm prevention. I've also served as the IFC Director of Recruitment where I was able to make the recruitment process more accessible for potential new members.
One experience that I am really fortunate I was able to have was an honors study abroad to Italy in the summer of 2019. Little did I know that a few months later all travel would be closed. Italy was a place I had always dreamed of going to and I'm really happy to have those memories and come out of the experience with friends I'm still close to today.
This past year has forced me to grow comfortable with uncertainty. Whether it was uncertainty about what I want to do with my life or uncertainty about the pandemic, I've had to grow to realize that it's okay not to know what will happen next. We can plan all we want, but so much can happen that can derail those plans. Someone told me this last year that the best step someone could take is the next one. My next step is an internship at Seattle Children's this summer. I'm hoping is to treat this experience as an opportunity to explore my options in healthcare before deciding on a path I want to do.
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Linda R Zhang
History; International Studies (Asia)
Linda R Zhang
History; International Studies (Asia)
Microbiology
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Seizing opportunities available. A microcosm of the greater world, the UW community composes of a diverse group of people exploring a wide variety of majors. Pushing the boundaries of what I was familiar with, I went outside my academic interests to work on collaborative campus wide projects. From Dream Project to Svoboda Diaries, I know I made the most of my college journey.
Thesis: Blood Logs: Factors in the U.S. Decision to Classify the Japanese Biochemical Warfare Program
My research interest focuses on American foreign policy in postwar Europe and East Asia. I'm fascinated with how public memory and nationalism shapes identity, especially how the legacy of the Japanese Empire continues to endure in Asia.
Aside from depressing historical research, my outside activities include editing articles for the UW Journal of Microbiology, researching trade routes in the Ottoman Empire, coordinating volunteer work in the Evergreen School District, and serving as a teaching assistant for the College of Education.
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Krithi Basu
Bioengineering
Krithi Basu
Bioengineering
Law, Societies & Justice
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment was when I drafted and sent a department-wide email signed by about 100 other students to my department's faculty and administrators urging them to consider granting extensions and accommodations for Black students and students of color who were trying to balance completing their finals and contributing to the Black Lives Matter protests and other ongoing anti-racist movements. Over the years, I had noticed that there was a broad trend of apathy in the STEM community towards non-medical social issues so I was glad that I could bring in my social justice and ethics perspective to call attention to it in my department and see results when professors began to offer accommodations to their socially engaged and active students.
I started out at UW as a direct admit to the Bioengineering program, but little did I know that I would find my true passion in the field of law. I am so grateful for the Honors program for opening gateways for me to explore subjects outside of STEM and be my most authentic self. Despite being an introvert, watching my peers in the Honors program inspired me to take on leadership roles in the UW community, including Vice President of Delta Kappa Delta Sorority, Inc. (a South Asian interest professional service sorority), Professional Development Chair of Phi Alpha Delta (a professional pre-law fraternity), and the Director of Judicial and Secretarial Affairs of the Multicultural Greek Council. I have learned how to balance school, a part-time job, and these extracurricular commitments, and I could not have done any of it without the wisdom of my professors and the support of my friends and family. I am so excited to see where I go next, and I am very proud of everyone who is graduating today!
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Jacquelyn E Mixon
Art History and Honors Painting and Drawing
Jacquelyn E Mixon
Art History and Honors Painting and Drawing
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW is graduating as a first generation college student!
It has been really awesome to be a UW student. I've really found my passion here, in art no less (every mother's worst nightmare!) But UW has shaped me to be who I am today and has set me on a life path where I can actually be happy.
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Sylvia Jurgens
Art
Sylvia Jurgens
Art
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Being a Student Producer of the Animation Capstone
My WebsiteI decided to pursue an art degree at UW in order to have a creative-based career. Currently, I want to create concept art for video games, and I believe that having a solid fine arts background was the first step to accomplish that. I think my time at UW has allowed me to grow both academically and as a person. I have a much better balance between working hard and spending time with friends and family. Outside of school, I enjoy baking, playing games, and visiting new places. I'm excited to see what surprises the future has in store for me.
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Adree Songco-Aguas
Neurobiology
Adree Songco-Aguas
Neurobiology
Applied Math
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: I was very proud when our manuscript on rod-cone retinal signals was approved for publication in Annual Reviews. It will be my first scientific paper.
My WebsiteIn 2014, UW Honors welcomed me with the Betty Eberharter Scholarship. Since then I joined Dr. Fred Rieke’s lab and became particularly interested in the retinal computations behind human vision. The combined generosity of Fred’s lab, Honors, UW GenOM, and UW Computational Neuroscience has yielded many amazing opportunities I would’ve thought impossible with my EOP status: including studying surrealism in France, presenting work at several conferences, and teaching a lab skills class to incoming freshmen.
In the coming year, I will further develop my research, and I hope one day to see our models implemented in prosthetics that restore vision for many people.
I cannot thank those who have stuck with me this whole journey enough. I know who I am because of you - nung malayug ing talakad tamu iti pauli ning makatalakad tamu karing dakal a pago ding nunu tamu.
Interdisciplinary HonorsTags:
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Chyenne N. Andrews
Art History & History
Chyenne N. Andrews LinkedIn
Art History & History
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Receiving an internship with a PNW artist!
I will be graduating from UW as a first-generation college student with a BA in Art History & History. During my time at the UW I've worked as a manager for the Student Technology Loan Program, a Cataloguing Intern for a PNW artist, and as an undergraduate tutor.
I have also been a part of Alpha Phi sorority, where I've held several leadership positions to help further improve sisterhood and philanthropic influence. I was also a part of History Honors Society as the Treasurer and general member.
In my free time, I love exploring beautiful Seattle and taking occasional trips outside of the U.S. Most of my free time is committed to visit various art museums, eating my way through any city, running, and doing everything with of my friends!!
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Hailee Christine Herbst
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Hailee Christine Herbst
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Comparative Religion
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Completing a 10 day backpacking trip in the Olympic National Park
My WebsiteLover of rock climbing, hiking, being outdoors, and all the floofy dogs. Baker of granola, gardener of vegetables, and consumer of coffee. Student of biology, religion, interdisciplinary honors, and all the spaces in between.
Interdisciplinary HonorsTags:
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Ge Shang
Psychology
Ge Shang
Psychology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Received Psychology Departmental Research Award, and Mary Gates Research Scholarship
Thesis: Person-specific Links between Sleep Disturbance, Sleep Hygiene Practice, and Depression Symptoms
bettyshang1998@gmail.comI'm an international student from China. I started my journey at UW - Seattle as an undergrad 4 years ago and before long, I fell in love with the city. At UW, I've been able to widely explore my academic interests. For many years, I've been fascinated by the human mind and drawn to topics around psychopathology. Therefore, after taking courses in psychology and some other fields, I became clearer about my true passion and decided to major in psychology.
In my junior year, I joined our departmental honors program and there, I got to dive into my interest topic in psychology and hone my research skills. I've felt very lucky to work in Dr. Katherine Foster's PEARL lab, where I've learned so much, and received tremendous help, support and inspiration, and collaborated with extremely talented people and researchers in this field.
During my time at UW, I've met life-changing people, taken mind-blowing, enlightening, and challenging courses in various fields. I'm grateful for all my experiences and the amazing people I met in the past 4 years for they've shaped me into a better person, and provided me with valuable perspectives. I've learned a lot from every experience I had, and I've become braver to take on challenges and pursue my goals in the future.
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Korok Sarkar
Microbiology
Korok Sarkar
Microbiology
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Undergraduate Research Symposium Presentation
Thesis: CoViD-19: A Probable Transition to Endemicity
There is little enough to say about me. I am a student at the University of Washington, working on a degree in Microbiology. I am a student in the Honors program, trying to broaden my horizons and open my mind to new possibilities. I am fascinated by zoonotic pathogens, and find them a truly delightful topic. I dislike pictures or photography, particularly of myself, but immensely enjoy the written word. I read voraciously, and write with enthusiasm, on the rare opportunities when I have the time. I am a musician of some little skill, particularly on the piano. I have enjoyed my time at UW, and look forward to whatever might come next.
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Haley Margaret Staudmyer
Atmospheric Sciences
Haley Margaret Staudmyer LinkedIn
Atmospheric Sciences
Applied Mathematics
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Finishing my summer internship with the Cooperative Institute for Climate, Ocean, and Ecosystem Studies!
My WebsiteHello! My name is Haley Staudmyer. I'm a climate scientist. I moved 2,000 miles away from everyone and everything I'd ever known in Ohio to receive an education at one of the best atmospheric sciences departments in the nation here at the UW. During my time here, I have officiated two clubs (the UW Chapter of the American Meteorological Society and Husky Gaming Nation), completed two different undergraduate research projects, and all the while maintained an impressive 3.8 GPA. My immediate post-graduation plan is to take a gap year in Seattle, during which I will work for the Cooperative Institute for Climate, Ocean, and Ecosystem Studies. Afterwards, I plan on moving who-knows-where to complete a PhD in atmospheric sciences. One day, I hope to author reports for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and facilitate important conversations about climate change among the media, the public, the government, and the academy. When I'm not thinking about one of humanity's greatest challenges, I enjoy board games, all things Nintendo, long walks, cooking, baking, playing the saxophone, and petting dogs.
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Kara Haney
International Studies
Kara Haney LinkedIn
International Studies
Japanese
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Becoming a peer educator for Honors 100. Also, finishing college at all.
kara.haney36@gmail.comThe past three years were nothing like I expected. Of course I couldn't have foreseen half of what 2020 brought, but I also didn't expect the kind of person I would grow into and what my ultimate takeaways would be from university. Through my time here I've discovered a love of teaching, a renewed passion for writing music, a confidence and self-assurance I'd never known before, and a comfort with the unknown. I have less of an idea of what I want from my career and my life than when I came here, but I'm more okay with that now than I ever was before.
For now, should the circumstances allow, I'll be taking my degree with me overseas to continue developing my language skills and building work experience. After that, we'll see what happens.Interdisciplinary HonorsTags:
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Ingrid Pelletier
Architectural Design
Ingrid Pelletier LinkedIn
Architectural Design
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: The best moment was getting into my major, the Architecture school became a second home!
Thesis: Soak in the Rain: Designing for Our Climate by Engaging the Senses
Four years seemed to go by in four seconds. Over the past several years I have enjoyed staying involved at UW. I started my freshman and sophomore year in leadership for HFS, participating in Hall Council and eventually the Residential Programming Board. After getting into my major I participated in the student led groups, AIAS, The CBE Student Council, Happy Hour Committee, and ASUW Achitectural Commission Board. I met life long friends in my architecture studios and learned a lot within my design classes. In 2019 I was able to be apart of the Furniture Design studio and entered my finished piece in the Interior Designers of Idaho Chair Affair (a furniture competition for students and professionals in Boise) and won Best Functional Design. I also was able to do independent research throughout 2019 and presented at the Undergraduate Research Symposium. To finish off my time at UW I was recently awarded along with another classmate the "Faculty Award for Scholarship and Leadership". It was a long journey but I couldn't have done it without the support of friends, my professors and advisors, family, and coffee.
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Laura Anne Mackenzie Bowlin
Psychology
Laura Anne Mackenzie Bowlin
Psychology
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Three years investing in the community of the Honors Program as a Peer Educator
I am excited to be graduating from the University of Washington Honors Program with a degree in Psychology!
Some of my highlights from my four years at UW include two years working as a research assistant for a TA's dissertation, "Project ARISE," and three years leading the Honors Community as a Peer Educator. I am thrilled to be continuing my education next fall at Seattle Pacific University, where I will be pursuing a Master's Degree in Family and Marriage Therapy.
I am so thankful for my time as a Husky. Go Dawgs!
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Liz Chao
Accounting and Information Systems
Liz Chao
Accounting and Information Systems
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Learning to balance life and work during the busiest quarters and getting the most out of every experience
Thesis: Learning to balance life and work during the busiest quarters and getting the most out of every experience.
At Foster, I majored in Accounting, IS, and CISB. I am interested in business and different cultures. At UW I got to meet many different people and got to study abroad in Japan. My experiences taught me to challenge myself, be open to differences, and allowed me to have an expansive worldview. Therefore, I thrive on living in varying cultural and educational communities and find being part of vastly different areas of the world exciting. Outside of school, during my free time, I also just enjoy hanging out with friends, singing, and dancing.
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Garrett Andrew Esko
Philosophy
Garrett Andrew Esko LinkedIn
Philosophy
Law, Societies, and Justice
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Making the Dean's List over half of my quarters here.
Despite the struggles I've faced, the UW has been a wonderful place for me to learn and increase in intelligence, wisdom, and faith. The decision to change majors rather than schools, although a hard choice to make, was definitely the right one for me, as staying here allowed me to continue on the path I had already set out for myself and grow as a person, not only as a student. Although I am not sure what lies ahead, I know that what lies behind has prepared me for it, and now I only have to follow God's guidance.
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Claire Kinney Gallaudet
Communication
Claire Kinney Gallaudet
Communication
Law Societies and Justice
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Getting chosen for departmental honors
Thesis: Speaking to Children: The Relationship between Adults’ Talk and Children’s Gender Identity
I am Seattle born and raised, and part of an amazing family of 6 people. I love to ski, do yoga, hike and read. I am interested in pursuing a career in psychology post grad.
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Tamar Noa Leveson
English Literature
Tamar Noa Leveson LinkedIn
English Literature
Music
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Strangely enough, getting a 4.0 in a computer science class that I took to fill a general education requirement only because absolutely no other STEM classes worked with my schedule. I was terrified the entire quarter because it's so completely out of my comfort zone, but it all worked out!
Thesis: READING PREGNANCY AS LIMINALITY IN MODERNIST BRITISH FICTION
My Website tamarleveson@gmail.comI was born and raised in Silicon Valley, and while the four years I've spent at UW have been a bit rainy, I wouldn't change it for anything. In addition to my studies, I have served for three years as a committee leader for UW Hillel, hosted a weekly radio show on Rainy Dawg with my friend Mary every week since winter quarter of freshman year, and interned at a local design magazine called GRAY. I hope to continue my studies in English literature in a master's program in the UK in the near future.
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Regan Gong
Psychology and International Studies: Comparative Religion
Regan Gong
Psychology and International Studies: Comparative Religion
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Creating an event celebrating interfaith dialogue thanks to the Husky Seed Fund
My WebsiteI have had an amazing four years as a Husky! My freshman year I became a campus tour guide and have been able to share my love for my school to prospective students. I studied abroad with the Honors Program in Rome, Italy and learned about arts and cultural norms while making lifelong friends. Academically, I participated in the two psychology research labs. My favorite was studying diversity efforts of companies in my Social Policy and Identity Research Lab in the Evans School of Public Policy. Last summer, I intern abroad with the U.S. Department of State at the Embassy in Kathmandu, Nepal. I learned so much over these experiences and plan on pursuing a master's degree to prepare myself for a career in the Foreign Service.
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Sheila Panyam
Philosophy
Sheila Panyam LinkedIn
Philosophy
Classical studies
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments was taking a graduate-level philosophy class and emerging from it having had a meaningful and successful experience. Not only did I get to learn about climate change and ethics, but I also got to do so with people actually researching the topic professionally.
My WebsiteI am a student from Portland, Oregon who loves to spend her free time reading, writing, and teaching. I competed on the UW's mock trial team for all three years of undergrad, where I had the wonderful opportunity to travel to cities all over the country (including visiting NYC for the first time!). Over the second and third summers of my undergrad, I did policy research at Portland City Hall, where I had the eye-opening experience of being on the other side of public protests. For the last two years, I've also worked at the Odegaard Writing and Research Center, where I've had the pleasure of helping others with developing written work. One of my biggest academic passions is examining women in antiquity who've been consistently overwritten or caricatured in the modern-day in order to clear their names. In fact, clearing names and spreading awareness has become an interest of mine in creative writing. I am working on two novels now, one about identity in Ancient Rome and the other, a retelling of a Hindu myth. I will be attending law school in 2021. I am grateful to the communities that have supported me at the UW, and all the friends, peers, and professors who have made my experience so fulfilling.
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Jack R Simison
Business Administration (Finance)
Jack R Simison LinkedIn
Business Administration (Finance)
Real Estate
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Getting into Foster and Climbing Mount Rainier
simisonjack@gmail.comI am passionate about technology and business. My favorite technologies include AI (self-driving, data, and more), VR, Blockchain, cars, and computer hardware. My love for business started through my love for technology at a young age. I am motivated to learn all things tech and how to capitalize on it. The technological frontier is always moving forward and it is as exciting as ever.
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Danny Paul Streichert Roberts
Aeronautics & Astronautics Engineering
Danny Paul Streichert Roberts LinkedIn
Aeronautics & Astronautics Engineering
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments was when my photography was put on display in the Allen Library as part of the Portraits for Change exhibit. The photo project compared images of poverty in Seattle from throughout past decades to contemporary photos that I took myself.
My Website dpsroberts@gmail.comI'm an aspiring aerospace engineer that's passionate about advancing spacefaring technology. I want to develop next generation space propulsion systems that can enable humanity to navigate and explore the cosmos more effectively. Nothing amazes me more than the marvels of our physical world and the perplexing nature of our planet and place in the universe. I hope to pursue a graduate degree in space engineering and conduct research that pushes technological boundaries. I'd love to one day be strapped to a rocket headed into orbit to do research.
My favorite pasttimes are mountaineering and cycling, but I really enjoy all things adventurous and physically demanding. I am preparing for a ~1600 mile thru-hike of a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail spanning from NorCal to Canada that will be my most intense adventure to date! I also play the drums and some guitar and love speaking Spanish whenever I get the chance.
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Boya Ouyang
English (Creative Writing), Mathematics (Philosophy), Philosophy
Boya Ouyang LinkedIn
English (Creative Writing), Mathematics (Philosophy), Philosophy
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: The moment I finally turned in my English thesis!
Thesis: Imaginary Equality, Romance, and Sex: Teenage Girls and Boys’ Love Literature in China
shirley.b.ouyang@gmail.comI am an international student from Changsha, China. I triple majored in English, Math, and Philosophy. UW not only offers a great environment for learning and research but also many many many other opportunities. I love to see the world and understand the world from different perspectives, so I am very grateful for the wonderful study abroad opportunities at UW, allowing me to study abroad four times--to England, Italy, Spain, and Ecuador. In the future, I will continue to get to know and to embrace the diversities and differences that make our world complex and colorful.
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Isaac Burton Love
Computer Engineering and Mathematics
Isaac Burton Love
Computer Engineering and Mathematics
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Watching the results of the senior capstone robot, RoboAngelo, autonomously draw on a whiteboard.
Thesis: Using a Non-Iterative Inverse Kinematic Method to Imitate a Human Arm with a PR2 Robot; Levenberg-Marquardt Algorithm in Robotic Controls
I enjoy robotics, rockets, Dungeons & Dragons, and Magic: the Gathering.
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Dax Tate
History
Dax Tate LinkedIn
History
Political Science
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Winning the Outstanding Graduating Senior in History. Not only was it an honor to be recognized for this award, but it was also very heartening to hear that my professors recognized how much I appreciated their contributions to the courses I took, and felt the gratitude they deserved for teaching such fascinating and important courses.
Thesis: Collaboration Horizontale and the Agency of Women in Nazi-Occupied France
daxtate@comcast.netHi! My name is Dax, I'm graduating from UW with a degree in history. As I look back on my time here, I feel very fortunate to have found the experiences and opportunities that I have had at UW. Thanks to Husky Running Club, I was able to explore Seattle and meet many of my closest friends, and I hope I have given back to the club as the Vice President last year and as the President this year. I also had the unique opportunity to help (re)establish the Waterski Team here, and to participate on the ultimate frisbee team. All of these have been important escapes for me whenever school became too stressful, and the friends I have met here will stay with me long after I have left UW.
I academics, I am proud of my achievements in the classroom, and thankful that the history department and the honors program have allowed me to learn such a diverse array of materials. In the honors program alone, I have studied everything from Japanese-American literature and film to climate science to the history of the philosophy of science. The wide range of topics I have studied here have made me a more balanced student and, I hope, a more well-rounded individual and citizen. Next year, I will be putting these perspectives to use as I apply to graduate school in history, with the eventual hope of becoming a history professor.
Ultimately, I am happy with the balance I have struck the last four years, be it between an academic and social life or between history and poli sci. This balance has helped me to keep my sanity despite the stresses of college life, and will help me as an individual going forward. Thank you to UW and to the Interdisciplinary Honors Program for helping to make this such a positive experience!
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Niki Seligman
Psychology and International Studies
Niki Seligman
Psychology and International Studies
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: I am proud of the people I have gotten to know here, who are kind, silly, grounded, creative, and intentional. I am proud to surround myself with good friends.
I am a graduating senior interested in writing, social work, equity and inclusion, and environmental justice. In my time at the university, I have learned so much in the classroom, through both the Jackson School of International Studies and the Psychology department.
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Emma Jewell Scher
Sociology with Honors, and Journalism and Public Interest Communication (JPIC)
Emma Jewell Scher LinkedIn
Sociology with Honors, and Journalism and Public Interest Communication (JPIC)
English and Political Science
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Establishing residency in Washington
emmajewellscher@gmail.comI am from San Diego, California, and am lucky that during my time at UW I've had the opportunity to passionately pursue multiple areas of interest. As a journalist my work has been featured in over 20 different publications ranging from the hyperlocal to international levels. My junior year, I was able to work full time in Olympia, Washington covering the state legislature, and in Freetown, Sierra Leone as a columnist. In between these jobs I was lucky to spend a spring in Rome, Italy studying religious institutions as part of a study abroad program. I've also had the opportunity to work on multiple sociological research projects, including as an employee for UW's Center for Evaluation and Research for STEM Equity (CERSE), as an intern for a study on substance use in military veterans, and on a study of my own which addresses structural inequality and power dynamics within the Greek Community. I've served as president of the Society of Professional Journalists, UW Chapter, worked on staff at The Daily UW for four years, and am a member of Gamma Phi Beta. In my free time I like to read, write, and spend time with my friends and my dog, Pigeon. After graduation I am working at a trade publication for veterinarians called VIN News, and afterward am applying to law school. I'm so grateful for the time I've spent at UW, and can't wait to see what the future holds!
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Marielle v Trumbauer
International Studies: Foreign Policy
Marielle v Trumbauer LinkedIn
International Studies: Foreign Policy
Political Science
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was when I submitted my thesis after a year and a half of research and writing in both the Dominican Republic and New York.
Thesis: Motivations Driving the Differentiated Electoral Behavior of the Dominican Diaspora in New York during the 2012 and 2016 Dominican Presidential Elections
marielletrumbauer@gmail.comMy college career has defined and sparked in my a passion for activism. I spent my freshman year in Ireland at Trinity College Dublin before transferring to UW. During my time at UW, I worked on a Presidential campaign in Florida, a Senatorial campaign in Louisiana, and a Congressional campaign in Georgia. I also interned with the State Department in the Dominican Republic and the House of Representatives.
I began my college career as a business major, but later found my passion for politics and international relations. Applying to the Jackson School of International Studies was one of the best decisions that I made during my time at UW. I was able to serve as the President of the Jackson School Student Association (JSSA) and partake in the Departmental Honors Program. I joined my fellow honors classmate in her research in rural India, conducted research in the Dominican Republic, and did interviews all throughout New York City to compile an 84-page thesis that proved factors of corruption as motivators behind differentiated voting patterns in the diaspora.
My experience during the past three years at UW has inspired me to work in politics and stand up for marginalized populations. I plan to attend law school in the next three years and move to Washington D.C. with the goal of working for a Congressional Office.
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Satchel Smidt
Operations & Supply Chain Management, Information Systems
Satchel Smidt
Operations & Supply Chain Management, Information Systems
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: When I received a 4.0 in an extremely mathematically challenging course on financial derivatives, even with my strong aversion to math.
I am passionate about cooking, reading, fitness, and music (both playing and listening to). I also love watching movies and am a total film snob.
Some things I've accomplished are: Attaining the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts, going on a month long solo backpacking trip to Mexico, and graduating (hopefully) from the UW with a business degree.
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Brendon E Davis
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (B.S.); Mathematics (B.A.)
Brendon E Davis LinkedIn
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (B.S.); Mathematics (B.A.)
English: Writing
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Receiving the Mary Gates Research Scholarship. This represented the culmination of my undergraduate research.
My Website brendon.davis120@gmail.comI am a proud UW graduate with a strong interest in biomedical research. Working in the Kaeberlein Lab at UW for most of my college experience was a great way to build a basis of research knowledge. I am also involved in a number of hobbies, including verse writing, programming, and powerlifting. I was excited to graduate with both departmental honors in biology and interdisciplinary honors, many of the courses for which integrated my interests into other academic contexts.
I will be applying to graduate school to continue research and biomedical training.
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Elaine Katherine Currie
Psychology
Elaine Katherine Currie LinkedIn
Psychology
Education, Learning, & Society
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Being elected as Vice President of Member Development in my sorority.
Thesis: Just Close Your Eyes: What the Brain at Rest Reveals About Memory
Since transferring to the UW mid-sophomore year, Honors has helped me realize a passion for education and advising. I will continue to pursue this passion in the future, as I continue on to grad school for my M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration.
Over my two and a half years at the UW, I have had countless opportunities to enrich my college experience. I have worked on campus at the ArtsUW Ticket Office, held an executive position in my sorority, completed undergraduate research (and an accompanying thesis), and had the incredible opportunity to be an undergraduate TA within my major, and peer educator for the Honors program. Possibly my favorite experience was traveling abroad with Honors to the Netherlands; I made incredible friends and got the chance to explore topics completely unrelated to my major.
I made the best friends and best memories at the UW, and I can't thank my family enough for supporting me throughout it all. I wouldn't be where I am today without my mom, grandma, and grandpa, and I want to recognize their generosity and commitment to my education since the day I was born. I would also like to thank my cat, for sitting with me through every assignment throughout the final spring quarter. Although this is a strange time to graduate, I can't wait to see what the future holds!
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Kaley M Aldrich
Political Science & English
Kaley M Aldrich LinkedIn
Political Science & English
Human Rights
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Getting to share the email naming me a Rhodes Finalist with my Papa!
Thesis: We Have No Choice: Roe v. Wade, Black Women, & The Afterlife of Slavery (Political Science); Atwood’s Gilead: Exaggerating Patriarchal Governance in Speculative Fiction as a Form of Political Protest (English)
kkaldrich@nyu.eduHi, my name is Kaley Aldrich, or KK, as my nanny kids call me, and I am graduating with a BA in Political Science and English. My time at UW was well spent learning from brilliant instructors and peers, and caring for others. I have been spending the last four years dedicating my education to critically researching American institutions and their failure to promote reproductive justice. As a research fellow at the Center for American Politics and Public Policy, my work on how ratifying the Equal Rights Amendment impacts sexual subordination outcomes in the United States, introduces The Sexual Subordination Index (SSI). The SSI quantitatively measures women's sexual subordination by state. Applying my quantitative skillset from my fellowship, I've gone on to create The Abortion Access Index and The Reproductive Justice Index, measuring how access to reproductive healthcare differs on the basis of race, class, and geography. My fellowship also inspired me to take on departmental honors in both majors, where I focus on the concept of choice in Roe v. Wade, and Margaret Atwood's "The Handmaid's Tale" as an important piece of rhetoric for examining reproductive politics in the United States.
In my personal life, I am most proud of my dog Alta Ruth "Muffin," whom I adopted before the start of my Senior year. She is a Rottweiler/Shih Tzu mix, who absolutely loves her mama. After graduating Alta and I are moving to New York City, where I will attend New York University to begin my pre-doctoral Masters in Politics!
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Noah Emmett Leary Johnson
Mechanical Engineering
Noah Emmett Leary Johnson
Mechanical Engineering
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Making turbine parts that enabled new marine renewable energy research.
My WebsiteMy parents are wonderful and shaped me in all the best ways, helping me become a compassionate, patient, and thoughtful person. I majored in mechanical engineering at UW and participated in projects and work that are linked together with the common threads of renewable energy and water. I’m looking forward to traveling the world as a Bonderman Fellow, guided by thoughts about humanity’s varied relationship with water. Upon returning, I’d like to extend beyond my engineering background into spaces that holistically work on improving community identities, understandings of water, and design.
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Grace Novacek
Biology
Grace Novacek
Biology
Diversity
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: I'm most proud of the fulfilling and sustained relationships I've shared with my friends, professors, mentors, and advisors at UW.
My WebsiteI’m passionate about criminal justice, sustainability, visual art and creative writing, medicine and global health, and beauty and skincare. I'm currently searching for a way to synthesize all my interests. I'm hoping my time spent traveling this winter as a 2018 Bonderman Fellow will provide clarity in this realm.
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Parsa Alba Farhang
Neuroscience
Parsa Alba Farhang
Neuroscience
Applied Math
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Conducting a needs assessment for the Neurological Rehabilitation Department at Kathmandu University Hospital in Dhulikhel Nepal. I completed the project with UW students, UW BIOE faculty, and KU mechanical engineering students/faculty during a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary month of work.
Thesis: Developing Methods to Advance Our Understanding of Cav2.1/beta2-Laminin Binding and its Role in the Formation of Active Zones at the Neuromuscular Synapse (NMS)
pafarhang13@gmail.com***
My name is Parsa Farhang and I'm a second-generation Iranian-American born and raised in Beaverton Oregon. I'm graduating UW with a B.S. in Neuroscience, a minor in Applied Math, and College Honors. I plan on pursuing a gap year as a research technician before going to graduate school to work towards a Ph.D. in the biosciences!These past several years have uncovered so much about myself and how I want to live my life going forward. I've gained a wide array of soft and hard skills that will help me continue to grow in future endeavors as well as work in the interdisciplinary environments that I crave. I've gained a deeper sense of confidence in myself in not only my academics/work, but also beyond. Lastly, through UW I've gained a lifetime of friends and memories that I'll cherish for the rest of my life!
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David Hales
Chemistry (ACS cert.); Physics (Applied)
David Hales LinkedIn
Chemistry (ACS cert.); Physics (Applied)
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Learning enough German in 9 months to have meaningful conversations during my study abroad.
Thesis: Functionalizing Exfoliated Black Phosphorus with Rhenium Carbonyl Species
davidhales@berkeley.eduI came into UW undeclared and unsure about my academic interests. My freshman year I made some good friends in the honors general chemistry sequence and enjoyed the content so I applied to the chemistry major. I was lucky to find communities in STEM, music, and ultimate frisbee that helped me find a place in college. I'm super grateful for those communities and the all the awesome people I met through them. Spring and summer of my sophomore year I studied abroad in Heidelberg, Germany, and took classes in chemistry and German. As a lifelong introvert, my study abroad really helped to push me out of my comfort zone in a constructive way. Winter quarter of my junior year I started zooming through my double major in physics, which has been a uniquely challenging experience. At the same time, I also started research on black phosphorus chemistry as part of the Velian group. I'm thankful to Prof. Velian and all of the members of the Velian group for their patient mentorship and support as I learned what it means to be a scientist. I'm proud to graduate with departmental honors in both chemistry and physics. After graduation, I will pursue a PhD at UC Berkeley in synthetic inorganic chemistry.
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Sarah M Kneadler
ESRM
Sarah M Kneadler LinkedIn
ESRM
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Completing my individual capstone research project!
sarah.kneadler@gmail.comI will be graduating from UW spring of 2019 from the ESRM department with departmental honors. My interests include natural resource management, corporate social responsibility, sustainable business practices, and sales! I love everything the PNW has to offer, like gorgeous scenery and a yummy Top Pot donut from time to time.
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Ryan M Littrell
Physics
Ryan M Littrell
Physics
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Becoming trombone section leader of the Husky Marching Band
I have enjoyed being a part of the Husky Marching Band and the Hiking Club at UW. They have allowed me to get to know my fellow huskies at on-campus events, but also travel off campus with friends.
I want to thank my family for all of the support they have given me over the years, and all of my honors professors for the intellectual discussions and variety of content that we have covered in the courses.Interdisciplinary HonorsTags:
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Ashley Grace Hillis
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Ashley Grace Hillis
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: In ESRM 315, we took a field trip to Mount St. Helens and had a tour of a forest lead by Jerry Franklin. He is an inspiration in the forestry world, so getting to meet him was an amazing opportunity.
Thesis: The Effects of Stand Age, Species, and Geographic Location on Seed Counts Within Serotinous Cones
ashleyhillis2020@gmail.comHi! My name is Ashley Hillis and I am graduating with a degree in ESRM with a focus in forest management and with departmental honors. My time at UW has been filled with so many research opportunities that have provided invaluable experience. For instance, I worked with two different UW grad students in the Quantitative Ecology lab monitoring different types of animals. I also worked for the center in urban horticulture collecting data on the beautiful cherries trees at UW to help make a model to predict when they will bloom. I also took my research interest outside of UW and did a summer of fieldwork with Pacific Wildland Fire Science Lab. I spent the summer under the California sun measuring vegetation and tree DBH in high severity burned areas. When I came back to UW I spent my senior year continuing research in fire disturbances by studying serotinous cones and different variables that affect the seeds they contain. I did this work under the guidance of Michelle Agne a Ph.D. student in the Harvey Lab. Over the summer I will continue doing work with the Harvey lab doing fieldwork. In the future, I plan on continuing my passion for environmental science and attending graduate school.
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Aria Rose Tornabene
Neuroscience
Aria Rose Tornabene LinkedIn
Neuroscience
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was when I delivered a presentation on end-stage renal disease in a medical physiology class. I was able to overcome a fear of public speaking and more clearly see myself pursuing a career in healthcare!
ariatornabene@gmail.comI am proud to be graduating with a bachelor's degree in Neuroscience and Interdisciplinary Honors, and I am grateful for the support and opportunities that have made my time at UW unforgettable! I would not be here today without the unconditional encouragement and support from my family!
I am from Wenatchee, WA and love to hike, cook and read in my spare time. After graduation I will be working as a certified nursing assistant as I prepare to apply to physician assistant (PA) programs.
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Ryann Leigh Funk
B.A. in Communication and Photo/Media
Ryann Leigh Funk LinkedIn
B.A. in Communication and Photo/Media
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Getting the opportunity to exhibit my art work at the UW Tower, the Husky Union Building, and the UW Medical Center in Winter 2019
Thesis: Art Heaux - a one-off 20-page publication on character study, emotion, and underlying themes of past and present
My WebsiteI spent my 4 years at UW studying technology and global media in the Department of Communication as well as Photo/Media in the School of Art, where I was a part of the 2019-2020 Honors cohort. Off campus, I was a member of Chi Omega sorority, where I served as the Alumni Relations Coordinator for 2 years. When I wasn’t in the art building working on my next project, I was a volunteer with ASUW A+E for 2 years where I was a committee lead for Spring Show 2019, and I got the opportunity to be a Game Day Recruiting Intern for Husky Football during the 2018-2019 season. My passions currently lie in bringing ideas to life, creating memorable live experiences for audiences, and making safe and equal spaces for people in the various sectors of the entertainment industry, regardless of race or gender identity.
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Catherine Wilborn
Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
Catherine Wilborn LinkedIn
Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Being a leader in Cru for all 4 years, working to connect with students. I also was proud when I recieved the top grade on a research paper in an engineering graduate course!
Hi, my name is Catherine! I am an engineering student here at UW and have immensely enjoyed my time here! I have had a wonderful diversity of activities, from leading in clubs, running events, or building rockets! I also met my husband and my dearest friends. Next stop is Washington D.C. to begin my career!
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Ari N Geary-Teeter
Biology and Philosophy
Ari N Geary-Teeter LinkedIn
Biology and Philosophy
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: I studied abroad in Peru in Summer 2019 with a really great group of people. We worked hard on our research projects in the Amazon rainforest and had a lot of fun doing it. I'll never forget that experience and the community I got to be a part of.
I took a lot of interesting classes and did a lot of interesting research. I was involved in leadership, several RSOs, and I studied abroad. I'm particularly interested in ecology, ethics, and the intersection between them.
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Ricky Spaulding
English
Ricky Spaulding
English
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Finishing my thesis! I've grown so much as a writer in the past three years, so finishing a project on that scale was very gratifying.
Thesis: Really Really Real: Reality in Performance and the Hyperreal in the Plays of Annie Baker
In addition to the English department, I've been heavily involved with the School of Drama as well as the Department of Dance, taking many classes in those departments. I've also participated in eight productions (plays and musicals) during my time at UW, primarily as an actor but also as a director and crew member. This year in the English Honors sequence I've had the opportunity to focus on Drama and write a thesis about one of my favorite contemporary playwrights, Annie Baker. I've also had the opportunity to blend my interests in English and Drama by working as a Literary Intern at ACT Theatre.
This August I will be moving to New York City to attend a two-and-a-half year acting conservatory program at the Atlantic Acting School.
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Yikai Xu
Finance & Mathematics
Yikai Xu LinkedIn
Finance & Mathematics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: When I graduated with 2 degrees, and one of them is an honor degree.
I am so glad to graduate as honors. I am excited to connect with other honor alumini.
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Kaia Boonzaier
International Studies and Economics
Kaia Boonzaier LinkedIn
International Studies and Economics
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Getting on the plane to study abroad in the Indian Himalaya for 4 months
kaiab@uw.eduI am passionate about conservation, would love to stay in school forever, and thus intend to pursue a career in environmental law upon graduating. I am so grateful to everyone I have met during my time as a husky-- the relationships I've developed with friends, faculty, and family throughout my time at UW have truly defined my college experience.
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Claire "CG" Gupta
Law, Societies and Justice
Claire "CG" Gupta LinkedIn
Law, Societies and Justice
Entrepreneurship and Human Rights
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Catching a t-shirt at a Husky football game! Starting a kombucha energy drink business through the Creating a Company series at Foster was also a proud moment in my UW career.
Thesis: The United Nations Complaint Cases and the Global Expansion of LGBTIQ+ Rights
My Website clairehgupta@gmail.comI am an aspiring attorney interested in the ways that law, social justice, and entrepreneurship intersect. Passionate about increasing equity and access within the higher education system, I have been a student representative on both the Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity Vice President’s Student Advisory Board and the Provost’s Advisory Committee for Students during my time at UW. Being a part of the Lavin Entrepreneurship Program and a campus tour guide were also highlights of my college experience. After graduating with a B.A. in Law, Societies, and Justice with minors in Entrepreneurship and Human Rights, I will be pursuing my J.D. at UC Berkeley School of Law.
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Elizabeth H McKinnie
Computer Science; Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences (ACMS)
Elizabeth H McKinnie LinkedIn
Computer Science; Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences (ACMS)
Mathematics; Comparative History of Ideas (CHID)
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: After nearly failing Physics 121, learning to readjust my schedule and my priorities and proceeding to do much better (academically and mental health-wise) in Physics 122 and 123.
My Website elizabeth.mckinnie@outlook.comHi, I'm Elizabeth! I'm double majoring in Computer Science and ACMS (applied math). My focus is machine learning and ethics of technology. Although I'm a double STEM major, I love being a part of the Interdisciplinary Honors program. It was an Honors class (392, Science and Engineering for Social Justice) that sparked in me a desire to learn more about the ethics of technology and work towards creating fair and ethical algorithms. I was also a TA for CSE 142 for five quarters and was a lead TA working on student engagement for two quarters. I studied abroad in Prague during my third year with the CHID program which inspired me to minor in CHID. After I graduate I'll be working at Microsoft as a software engineer!
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We love Honors
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Kendrick Lu
International Studies
Kendrick Lu LinkedIn
International Studies
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Co-founding and running the UW chapter of the John Quincy Adams Society!
kendrickllu42@gmail.comMy name's Kendrick, and I'll be graduating with a B.A. in International Studies. My academic interests include restorative justice, applying a human rights lens to environmental protection, and corporate social responsibility.
These days, you can find me playing soccer in the Greater Seattle area, weightlifting in my garage, or coaching at the IMA. I'll be doing so until the fall; then, I'll be attending Columbia Law School in pursuit of a career in public interest law.
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Kevin Andrew Nguyen
Physiology
Kevin Andrew Nguyen LinkedIn
Physiology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: My best memories at UW come from spending time with outstanding, goofy, and vibrant individuals who not only motivated me to become better, but also to enjoy life once (or twice) in a while.
Thesis: Effect of SS-31 on the Sod1KO Model of Sarcopenia
My Website kevinanguyen2@gmail.comHello! I'm Kevin Nguyen. I'll be graduating with a degree in Physiology this year, and I enjoy drawing and painting in my free time.
It feels surreal to conclude my 4 years of undergrad at UW. I remember back to the beginning of high school when I first designated UW as my dream school like it was yesterday. So much has happened during my time here and I will carry the endless memories, relationships, and lessons with me as I continue along my own journey.
Some highlights from my undergraduate career include: working on an extensive research project in the Marcinek lab for almost 3 years; learning from and assisting patients in clinical settings every summer; and collaborating with rad individuals on the Neurobiology Club officer board. And while STEM classes were something else, I'll give some credit to the endless and toiling hours of study for allowing me to indulge in the arts of learning and physiology.
Most importantly, my undergrad experiences have given me a greater perspective on life. There are many many things in this world that need to be improved upon. Personally, I will pursue medicine to not only to heal others but also to fight and rectify the disparities and conflicts that obscure the field from its full potential. My past interactions with other bright individuals along my journey have ensured me that they will do great things and change their respective fields for the better as well.
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Shannon Gu
Biology: Physiology
Shannon Gu
Biology: Physiology
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Planning the Chinese Student Association's 52nd Annual Lunar New Year Gala during my senior year.
I came to UW with the mindset that college was a blank slate; being in a place where no one knew me was liberating, for it allowed me to freely pursue my interests and passions without being restrained by other people's expectations. What I didn't expect were the opportunities that came my way and how much I would learn and grow from each of those opportunities. Many of my classes, both in my major and in the Honors Program, encouraged independent study and allowed me to integrate my personal experiences into the content I was learning. Outside of the classroom, I built my leadership experience from scratch, helped found a travel magazine with a group of friends freshman year (it's still going strong!), became involved in mental health advocacy, and found a community (and second family) in the Chinese Student Association. I used to be overly focused on racking up achievements that would look impressive on resumes or applications, but quickly realized that such a mindset was extremely draining and made it much harder for me to articulate the meaning I gained from each experience. Letting go of the need for prestige or recognition and pursuing opportunities simply because they interested me made me much happier, and it actually propelled me to better success. Now, at the end of college, I am a more confident, engaged, and mindful person, and I’m truly grateful for all of the opportunities I've had.
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Aria R Tornabene
Neuroscience
Aria R Tornabene
Neuroscience
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was when I delivered a presentation on end-stage renal disease in a medical physiology class. I was able to overcome a fear of public speaking and more clearly see myself pursuing a career in healthcare!
My WebsiteI am proud to be graduating with a bachelor's degree in Neuroscience and Interdisciplinary Honors, and I am grateful for the support and opportunities that have made my time at UW unforgettable. I would not be here today without the unconditional encouragement and support from my family!
I am from Wenatchee, WA and love to hike, cook and read in my spare time. After graduation I will be working as a certified nursing assistant as I prepare to apply to physician assistant (PA) programs.
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Cedrik Riley Pearson
Geography/GIS
Cedrik Riley Pearson
Geography/GIS
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Making the Dean's List for nearly 4 years straight
I am a transfer student that has had nothing but a good experience at UW. Over my three year here, I have been blessed to have made many educational and personal relationships that I will cherish forever. Getting to watch the Dawgs play a Rose Bowl in Pasadena is something I will never forget. GO DAWGS
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Nicola Kalderash
Informatics; International Studies
Nicola Kalderash LinkedIn
Informatics; International Studies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My Capstone in both degree programs! Creating ElectionGuard and writing our report for Bruce McConnell
My Website kderash0@uw.eduI love having been able to serve my campus and help out the clubs I was a part of. I sought to gain knowledge to prepare for the growing challenge of technology and security in government and I'd like to say I succeeded!
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Masaki Rhodes
Biochemistry and Economics
Masaki Rhodes
Biochemistry and Economics
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Finding and joining a research lab.
Hello! My name is Masaki and I am graduating with degrees in biochemistry and economics. I am passionate about using data to model and understand biological and social problems, a fantastic combination of these two disciplines, and have spent over a year working with the Wang Lab for Bioinformatics studying the progression of metastasis. Understanding complex real world situations involves actively engaging with the communities affected, and I have spent time working with the People's Harm Reduction Alliance, Unified Sports, and scribing for doctors specializing in treating the rural communities near my hometown. Outside of learning I love playing/watching soccer with my friends, as well a exploring the beautiful outdoor views found in the Pacific Northwest. After graduating I am planning on applying to medical school, and am excited for the next steps in my education.
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Severiano Sandomirsky
Aeronautics and Astronautics
Severiano Sandomirsky LinkedIn
Aeronautics and Astronautics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Being a member of the Washington Hyperloop team
sev.sando@gmail.comWhen I moved to Seattle from Canada in my senior year of high school, I didn't know what an SAT was, I didn't know which universities were good, and I was desperate to develop a new social group and learn how to navigate this new country of mine. All I did know was that I wanted to learn about airplanes.
I'll be honest, after four years of engineering school I am STILL blown away by airplanes. HOW DO THESE THINGS EVEN FLY?! I joined this department to uncover the mystery of flight and I am coming out even more intrigued, and even more enthused. I have worked in the Quantitative Flow Visualization lab for two years, run wind tunnel tests, built a rocket for the Hyperloop team, and studied aviation in France one summer. I think I like planes more than the average bear...
Technical stuff aside, one of the things I have enjoyed most about my time at UW has been sharing my experiences with younger students. I have been a College of Engineering Peer Mentor, and I have organized and participated in countless elementary school science fairs as the Outreach Coordinator for UW's chapter of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics. This major and this department are rooted in passion, and I found profound satisfaction in sharing that passion with the next generation of engineers.
While I have experienced some incredible things in my four years here, the most valuable things I gained were the outstanding friends I met. I learned a deep appreciation for putting myself in a positive and supportive environment, and these lifelong friends I met who create that for me are worth more than any degree.
I grew and learned immeasurably at UW, and I am incredibly appreciative for my time here. It has prepared me for an exciting future and I can't wait for what is to come.
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Pubo Huang
Mathematics
Pubo Huang
Mathematics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: When I solved a math problem at the dorm/ won the Hub Pool Tournament!
Thesis: The fundamental group and its applications
huangpubo@qq.comI'm Pubo, a fourth-year math major. I like playing pool, hiking, and snowboarding! I'm sad that I can't snowboard in the near future because I'm not in Washington right now, what a Shame!
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Kate Verity Luken Raz
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Kate Verity Luken Raz
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Gender, Women, and Sexuality Studies
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments is presenting my research for the first time at the Undergraduate Research Synposium with hundreds of other students! Or performing a David Bowie parody song at the Undergraduate Theater Society’s open mic night in a bright blue jump suit.
Thesis: Implicit Measure of Male = Leader Stereotype in Children
dramaqueen.kvlr@gmail.comGreetings, stranger reading my profile! My name is Kate Luken Raz, and I am a graduating with college honors, a B.S. in Psychology, and a minor in Gender, Women and Sexuality Studies. When not doing academics, I enjoy slam poetry, doing shows with UW’s Undergraduate Theater Society, teaching children to swim, and listening to horror/sci-fi/ political podcasts. I am planning on gaining more experience in research, before applying to Social and Developmental Psychology graduate programs this fall! Many thanks to Harris, Mom, Dad, and my stinker of little sister, Mary!
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Josh Maxwell Pollock
Computer Science
Josh Maxwell Pollock LinkedIn
Computer Science
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest memories is completing my close reading essay for the Honors class, Seattle: Reading and Writing the City. My practice with research papers and teaching finally gave me the confidence and skill set to overcome my fear of writing.
Thesis: Sidewinder: Designing Correct Program State Visualizations
My Website jopo@mit.eduI believe in the power of computers to augment the way we think, learn, and solve problems. I combine ideas from programming languages and math with techniques from human-centered design to build transformative tools for thought. I'm currently developing tools that help people learn how to program, debug their code, and explain it to others.
Through research and the Honors program I explored different ways people think to challenge my own understanding and broaden my view of the world.
This fall I will be continuing my research as a PhD student in MIT CSAIL's Software Design Group.
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Jiafei Li
Psychology
Jiafei Li
Psychology
Informatics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: graduation
Thesis: Relating Individual Differences in Culturally Unfamiliar Music Comprehension to Neurocognitive Aspects of Second Language Aptitude
My name is Jiafei Li. I majored in Psychology and minored in Informatics. I love music and literature, and have always been interested in their impact on us human. Therefore, under the mentorship of Dr. Prat, I conducted the research of music comprehension, as well as its relation to language learning. I hope to continue to "be boundless", to keep exploring various fields of knowledge and extending my limit.
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We love Honors
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Ruxandra Maria Ionescu
Art History
Ruxandra Maria Ionescu
Art History
Chemistry
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Receiving the Parnassus Graduating with Excellence Award from the Art History Department.
Thesis: "The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp" and "Bernini's Vision of Constantine in the Scala Regia"
I'm happy that I was able to be part of the Interdisciplinary Honors community at UW while being afforded the flexibility to pursue both of my passions: Art History and pre-medicine. I have been taught by great professors in both areas who helped me to discover art from 17,000 years ago to today, to look from the tiniest parts of human biology and chemistry to our bodies and societies as a whole.
I'm also happy to say that I will be continuing my education at UW School of Medicine entering Fall 2018.
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Rayne Tineal Anderson
Materials Science and Engineering
Rayne Tineal Anderson
Materials Science and Engineering
Chemistry
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Seizing the opportunity to work in a laboratory setting for all 12 quarters I attended the University of Washington.
Thank you mom I love you! My success wouldn't be possible without your unconditional love and support.
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Aria Elaine Garrett
Biochemistry
Aria Elaine Garrett LinkedIn
Biochemistry
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Spending my summer taking an intensive Arabic course
Thesis: Reducing Amyloid-Beta Aggregation in Caenorhabditis elegans: A role for Retrograde Response Signaling and bZIP transcription Factors
I grew up on Vashon Island, WA, which sits in the Puget Sound. While at UW, I was able to spend three years conducting undergraduate research on mitochondrial retrograde signaling and Alzheimer's disease. I also had the opportunity to learn a lot about toxicology & public heath while working as an assistant for the Institute for Risk Analysis and Risk Communication, and come across new biological methods as an research intern at DotQuant. I've enjoyed getting my degree in biochemistry because it has allowed me to interact with many interesting sub-fields of biology -- from protein design to drug metabolism! I'm excited to spend my summer continuing my internship before (hopefully) exploring abroad and applying to graduate programs.
Outside of class, I love to spend time with family and friends, tend to my plants, go birding, and try new desserts on the Ave!
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Kyla Renee Bivens
Aquatic & Fishery Sciences
Kyla Renee Bivens
Aquatic & Fishery Sciences
Marine Biology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments was when I was awarded the SAFS Faculty Merit Award
Thesis: Zebrafish embryo screening to evaluate the effective removal of toxics from urban stormwater runoff using novel bioretention methods
I grew up with my two brothers and little sister in the small city of Herriman, UT where I spent my time swimming, hiking, playing soccer, riding horses, and playing the saxophone. Since I was a little girl I knew I wanted to move away to the ocean. At first, I thought that meant going to college in California but life brought me to the University of Washington, and I am so glad it did. I have loved my time at the UW. I have experienced some truly exceptional opportunities including a summer in Alaska studying salmon and a quarter at Friday Harbor collecting data from research boats and studying skates. Attending a school with 47,000+ students can be difficult but I was lucky to find community within the College of the Environment where I represented as a student ambassador for a couple of years. I am excited to jump into the next stage of my life where I hope to apply my degree in a career oriented toward environmental education and outreach to work for a sustainable future for all.
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Amelia Marie Barr
Mechanical Engineering
Amelia Marie Barr
Mechanical Engineering
Chemistry
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Just yesterday we gave our final senior design thesis presentation!
Thesis: Design of a Lab-Scale Oscillating Surge Wave Energy Converter
My Website amelia.marie98@gmail.comI am an energetic and curious individual who is passionate about nature, conservation, technology, and mangoes. For the past 3 years I have been a researcher at the UW Applied Physics Lab working on marine sensor equipment. In the near future, I aim to bring my marine engineering knowledge to the renewable energy sector. I am interested in opportunities to apply my skills to projects involving renewable energy, conservation, or sustainable technologies.
Off-campus, I am often traveling internationally or outside climbing, skiing, hiking, backpacking, biking, and learning partner acrobatics. I feel especially fortunate to have had the opportunity to venture to Peru on the Honors Andes to Amazon study abroad program with Dr. Ursula Valdez--a mind expanding opportunity outside my major that I would never have had through the Mechanical Engineering department.
Please reach out to me using my email or website. I love building connections!
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Fa'aumu Kaimana
Anthropology: Medical Anthropology & Global Health, Sociology
Fa'aumu Kaimana LinkedIn
Anthropology: Medical Anthropology & Global Health, Sociology
Oceania and Pacific Islander Studies, Diversity
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: I am proud of finishing my Honors thesis, and of the relationships and opportunities I created during my time at UW!
Thesis: “Family is Everything”: Importance of Embracing Family for Indigenous College Students’ Educational Success and Leadership Development
faaumukaimana@gmail.comI am Fa'aumu Kaimana, and I am graduating from the UW with majors in Medical Anthropology & Global Health, and Sociology. I explored the concept of family in my honors thesis, which investigates the role of family in Indigenous students’ educational success at the University of Washington. In a year's time, I hope to pursue a doctorate program in Indigenous Studies or a related field, and research the relationship between language and resilience among Seattle area Indigenous communities.
2020 President's Medalist (Four-Year Award), awarded by President Cauce at graduation
2020 Husky 100 Award Recipient, awarded for an exemplary Husky Experience inside the classroom, in communities, and beyond
2020 Curtis Wienker Award for Best Honors Thesis in Anthropology
2020 Albert W. Black Undergraduate Community Service AwardDepartmental HonorsTags:
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Taylor V. Halverson
Communication & Scandinavian Studies
Taylor V. Halverson LinkedIn
Communication & Scandinavian Studies
Norwegian
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Writing an hour-long play about how much I love the library, both as an invaluable public institution and a home to shenanigans, and having it performed for 3 sold out audiences.
Thesis: Happy Endings for Whom? A Narrative Analysis of Bisexual Erasure in Lesbian Romantic Comedies
My Website taylorvhalverson@gmail.comTaylor is a reformed STEM major who never imagined she would be graduating with a degree in Communication and Scandinavian Studies. If she could only keep one lesson from her college experience, it would be that you can never know how things will shake out, but if you listen to your gut you’ll be (better than) okay. While at UW she’s had the opportunity to perform an original monologue, put together a symposium on the intersections of religious identity and student life, write satire news, a short film, and even an entire play, learn (a lot of) a language, travel abroad, and spend three very formative years working the circulation desk at the Gallagher Law Library.
While she’s not sure what comes next, (she’s still trying to figure out how to balance comedy writing with a career in civil service) she’s become comfortable with not knowing. Taylor is leaving UW feeling prepared for the unpredictability of life and grateful that these four years have taught her how to trust herself.
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Lukas RYE Metzner
Neuroscience
Lukas RYE Metzner
Neuroscience
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Before my senior year, during the pandemic, I started an RSO called Students for Sensible Drug Policy, which advocates for more compassionate drug policy not based around criminal punishment, and fact-based peer education about drugs and drug safety. It was a challenge because of the lack of physical community, but I was able to find a group of like-minded people with diverse academic and personal backgrounds to run the club with. I think that "leadership" is seriously overemphasized in American education, but this certainly was a crash course in those skills. Not everything we tried to do was successful, but we were able to get involved in the political process and the campus activism community. Most importantly, the club will continue to operate next year. I'm really proud to have left something at UW and I have great hopes for the organization and its members for the future!
Thesis: Effects of Inhibition of P2Y12 Receptor during Opiate Withdrawal on Microglia Activation and Behavior
lukasmetzner10@yahoo.comHi! My name is Lukas, and I'm from Beijing. In my time at UW I've explored subjects ranging from anthropology to environmental science to neuroscience, which I ended up majoring in. Outside of classes, I've had so many incredible opportunities at this school, like working as a writing tutor at Odegaard, and going on an honors study abroad program in Costa Rica. I've also been involved in lab research on the molecular and behavioral neuroscience of addiction, and gotten involved in activism around drug policy, criminal justice, and racial and economic injustices perpetrated against communities through the war on drugs. In each of these, I've had the good fortune of meeting wonderful peers, allies, and mentors. Outside of school, I enjoy playing and watching basketball, cooking, and reading. I'm planning to embark on a career in neuroscience research, and starting next year I'll be working as a technical associate at the Feng lab at MIT researching the genetics and molecular neuroscience of neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Caylyn Rich
International Studies
Caylyn Rich
International Studies
REECAS (Russian, East European, Central Asian Studies)
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Interestingly, this final quarter has been simultaneously the easiest and toughest journey throughout my UW experience. It's been my lightest credit load and I finally had the chance to take a dance class. I participated in a poetry seminar and exercised my creative writing side which challenged me to interact with some of the not so wonderful moments in my life through a cathartic process of expression. I am proud to graduate, no doubt about it, but I am more proud to have finally realized that I have the strength and resilience to endure hardship and obstacles and learn and heal from those experiences in my time, whatever that may be. Sometimes mundane, sometimes wild, I want to thank those who contribute to my endeavors and who inspire me to believe in the beauty of humanity.
Languages were my first love and ended up leading me to study abroad- twice! I studied abroad through the Jackson School in Greece, conducting research through interviews which culminated in a mediation dialogue between marginalized communities and professionals. Then I headed up to Denmark (after my first solo travel through the Balkans!) to begin my direct exchange at the University of Copenhagen. I was supported by the Scan|Design fellowship and spent the entire year learning Danish, riding a bike, and adjusting to Scandinavian weather. I started working for the study abroad office after returning to UW and kept my fascination with the rest of the world alive by wrapping up a degree in International Studies (after surviving my Task Force report, of course). UW, and this corner of the globe more generally speaking, is quite marvelous, but I am thrilled for the next adventure, and language. I intend to spend most of my life discovering all the new and different ways we can communicate and I hope to inspire others along the way to be more understanding and engaged with the awesomeness of linguistic diversity.
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Katherine Scannell-Daniel
History and Political Science
Katherine Scannell-Daniel
History and Political Science
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments at UW was getting into honors, and fulfilling one of my most important longterm academic goals. Getting to interact with and learn from my History Honors cohort was one of the most exciting experiences of my college career, and I am extremely grateful for every minute of it.
Thesis: Wives, Daughters, and Rebels: Women’s Interactions With the Law and Society During the Triumviral Proscriptions
Over the course of my time at UW, I have been able to expand my horizons and be a part of so many wonderful organizations. This has all set me on the path to becoming a teacher, and I am excited to be starting my masters in teaching next year!
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Katie Gibian
Environmental Science - Wildlife Conservation
Katie Gibian LinkedIn
Environmental Science - Wildlife Conservation
Quantitative Science
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Implementing a composting program in the Alpha chapter of Chi Omega!
kgibian@uw.eduI will be graduating from UW this spring through the School of Environmental and Forest Sciences with honors in wildlife conservation. I am passionate about predator-prey ecology and conservation education with the goal to enter the wildlife field as a wildlife technician. My interests include large carnivores, travel, and superheroes!
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Abigail Marie Taylor
Journalism
Abigail Marie Taylor LinkedIn
Journalism
Philosophy
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Abigail's proudest memories at UW were traveling to Spain to conduct research and turning in her 53 page thesis in preparation for graduation.
Thesis: The Social Perception of Value: STEM vs. Social Science and Humanities, an Ethnography of Communication
My WebsiteAbigail is a journalist with a passion for learning about other cultures. On her study abroad trip to Spain, she fell in love with the people, languages, architecture, and history of a culture different from her own. While there, she conducted her first ethnography. Upon her return to the U.S., she decided to continue to learn about cultures through this research process.
At the same time, she used her curiosity to fuel her work in journalism, writing about social issues like homelessness, access, and diversity. This earned her the Pioneer Award for Excellence in Journalism. In addition, she has been a Dean's List student for her entire UW career which earned her an award for High Scholarship.
Following graduation Abigail will be looking for a position where she can use her writing, photo, and video storytelling skills to create truthful and informative journalism, PR, or content creation.Departmental HonorsTags:
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We love Honors
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Kerrie Lynn Agosta
Anthropology
Kerrie Lynn Agosta
Anthropology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: I believe it will be the moment of hold in my hands the declaration of my completion of achieving my bachelor's degree !
Thesis: Bursting the Bubble: Transforming White Identities
My WebsiteI returned to college after a 31 year hiatus of raising a family four in 2013. I was at point in my life where I wanted to grow in ways that would challenge me in every sense of my being. It has been an incredible learning experience and I have been enriched in the academic soil of coursework that has literally transformed my life. Having the opportunity to experience Dr. Rachel Chapman's Alter/Native Anthropology course ushered in a profound intersection in my life where the exposure of my own "White Fragility" (DiAngelo, 56). in response to uncomfortable conversations around racial topics and privilege plowed into my identity as a white woman. It was the beginning of a deeper education of my ignorance and a revelation of the isolated reality my Whiteness had afforded me. My conscientious determination to push past fear and move deeper into vulnerable relationships with students of color allowed me to stay connected and do the work that was necessary to create new forms of engagement. The willingness on the part of people of color in my life at the time to move in relationship with me through the difficulty of sharing their stories allowed me to see outside of my own experiences and gain a new kind of knowing. What emerged relationally was profound; students worked through their own positionality within identified constructs of people groups and where together we examined intersections of power and oppression in our own lives through a lens of indigenous scholarship within the discipline of anthropology.
I wanted to understand how whiteness was affecting communities of color in my predominately white community of Bainbridge Island. This led me to purse the opportunity to apply to the departmental honors program in which I was able to continue to pursue an auto-ethnographic collaborative research project in my community in which I ask the questions “Can, and if so, where, when and how are white identities transformed from positions of White Fragility and White Supremacy into identities and relationships with People of Color of solidarity, allyship, accompliceship and race-traitorship in denouncing white privilege in order to create a culture that is equitable and inclusive for all people? ” My research has allowed me to examine how radical social justice education and cross-racial relationship building impacts individual and community identity transformation in respect to racial equity. I am committed to following this work in my community and am inspired by the faith that I see in other community members who are dedicated to the heartwork that is necessary to forge a culture that is more loving and just for all.Robin Di Angelo, “White Fragility” International Journal of Critical Pedagogy, vol. 3. no. 3. 2011, catalyst.uw.edu/workspace/file/download/7efed96ce7ca56e0747e7fffd69e8465f6d5a5451eb4b0ff3be81dabe33f1a34?inline=. (Accessed Nov. 14, 2017) 56.
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Terezia Maria Redfern
Spanish Language and Literature
Terezia Maria Redfern LinkedIn
Spanish Language and Literature
Comparative Literature
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: I am proudest of my honors thesis because it was challenging. It required intense focus, adaptability, and persistence.
Thesis: Las semillas de la sombra (Shadow's Seeds)
Hi, I’m Terezia. I have nurtured the dream of earning a B.A. for a long time. I have always loved the Spanish language and was fascinated by its musicality and potential to express emotion. However, it was through the study of literature written in this language that I realized how deeply Spanish resonated within me.
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Kurt A Delegard
Comprehensive Physics
Kurt A Delegard LinkedIn
Comprehensive Physics
Mathematics and Asian Languages & Cultures
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Making lifelong friends, and making lifelong memories with them.
My Website kurt3903@gmail.comI came to UW in 2016 with the intent to become a nuclear physicist. It was a big change for me, not only transitioning from high school, but also to live in the city and take care of myself independently. I made many new friends and had the best roommates I could have hoped for here at UW! I also had a great part-time job working at Bay Laurel Catering, which was a very unique and rewarding experience. I got to participate in undergraduate research in the UW Quantum Ion Computing Group, working alongside a fun and talented group to put my physics skills to work.
The Physics Departmental Honors program showed me several new and exciting research applications in modern physics. I got to study several experiments in great detail, which not only improved my understanding of the physics involved in these studies, but gave me a greater appreciation for the applications of physics and the knowledge I was gaining.
Life at UW has certainly opened up my eyes to trying out new experiences and opportunities - I now see the wide variety of possible careers and higher education that await me as a physics graduate. While I am considering graduate school in my future, I want to get a job where I can apply my physics knowledge and see what fields I want to pursue in detail. I can't wait to see what the future holds for me and my fellow graduates!Departmental HonorsTags:
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Brandon Edwards
Linguistics, Psychology
Brandon Edwards LinkedIn
Linguistics, Psychology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I was proud when I submitted my final draft of my undergraduate thesis.
Thesis: On the Methods of Old Chinese Reconstruction
I am a linguistics nerd with a background in theoretical linguistics, historical linguistics and language change, and cognitive psychology. I currently work as a machine learning data linguist.
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Annapurni Sriram
Bioengineering
Annapurni Sriram LinkedIn
Bioengineering
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Speaking to underclassmen about mental health and wellness - success goes beyond numbers!
The University of Washington has offered me incredible academic experiences, facilitated my growth as a leader, and has introduced me to lifelong friends. I am grateful for my undergraduate experience and sense of community here at the UW.
I have explored my passion for biotechnology and global health through my research in the Lutz lab, involvement with Bioengineers without Borders, and in Bioengineering coursework. Challenging Interdisciplinary honors classes and study abroad trips to Italy and the UK have imbibed in me the importance of an inclusive academic perspective. All the while, I have cultivated meaning relationships with peers, faculty, and community members at the UW.
During the last four years, I have found happiness in the pursuit of knowledge and I am so excited and humbled by the possibilities that lie ahead. Cheers to the best friends and family a girl could ask for!
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Jocelyn Ines Beausire
Music (Voice Performance), Architecture Studies
Jocelyn Ines Beausire LinkedIn
Music (Voice Performance), Architecture Studies
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Being able to write my thesis as the culmination of my multi-disciplinary studies, and discussing my findings with people from many disciplines, made me proud and motivated me to continue on the path I forged for myself.
Thesis: The Emancipation of Urban Noise: John Cage's Music as Acoustic Ecology
My Website joss.beausire@gmail.comMy time at the University of Washington was not a straight path, but instead an exercise in individual exploration. I pursued two majors -- Music and Architecture -- and have used my time at UW to more deeply explore their intersections with each other and with environmental science, geography, visual art, gender studies, and urban theory. These years also afforded me the opportunities to study abroad in Italy and Japan, perform operas on the Meany mainstage, and engage in the literary and visual art communities as Managing Editor of Bricolage. In exploring these different facets, and applying creativity to my research, I carved a space for myself within the larger institution. In doing so, I also was not defined by my major, but instead used them as a vehicle for my exploration. In the next year, I am hoping to take part in an art or research residency program, and also am preparing to attend graduate school in a program related to urbanism and spatial performance design.
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Juliet Romano-Olsen
International Studies
Juliet Romano-Olsen
International Studies
French, European Studies
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I am really proud to have made the Dean's List consistently throughout my time at UW.
I am filled with gratitude, pride, and relief to be graduating from the UW with interdisciplinary honors, a degree in International Studies, and minors in French and European Studies. I have cherished my time at the UW: all that I’ve learned, the friends I’ve made, and the wonderful and varied experiences I’ve had. In addition to my major and minors, I was able to explore interesting honors courses and find creative outlets through dance and theater. I’ve been fortunate to work at UW, first at Meany Center during my sophomore year and currently as a member of a research team through Global Research Group. Many of my most memorable experiences of the past four years have been spending time with good friends, traveling with my family, and studying abroad at Sciences Po in Paris. Even though the past year has been unusual, I feel prepared for the “real world” and look forward to the challenges and adventures that the future holds for me.
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Ian Gwin
Linguistics, Scandinavian Area Studies
Ian Gwin
Linguistics, Scandinavian Area Studies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments at the UW was receiving the Foreign Language Area Studies (FLAS) Fellowship through the Ellison Center for Russian and Eastern European Studies in 2018.
Thesis: "The Development of Question Particles in Estonian Polar Questions," "Far From Silent: The Emergence of Tintinabulli in the Film Music of Arvo Pärt"
Aside from my parents of course, I am most thankful to my many mentors and peers at the University of Washington, for asking me the right questions and giving me a model for how to live a good life.
"The student must remain true to himself. At the end of the day, everybody has to rescue himself by whatever means he can." - Arvo PärtDepartmental HonorsTags:
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Lisa Rei Courtney
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Lisa Rei Courtney
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Getting through CHEM 142 (despite the awful midterm grade) and the reassurance that yes, I can succeed in engineering prerequisite courses, despite women being underrepresented in the engineering field, and I am capable of graduating with an engineering degree.
I am graduating in Civil and Environmental Engineering with a focus in Water Resources. I pursued an engineering degree (despite having no family members in STEM) because I wanted hands-on skills to help better the world. I studied abroad in Peru after my Freshman year, and while working with a local informal urban community, my eyes were opened to how lucky we are here in Seattle to have clean running water. In addition to my interest in water resources, I really want to promote sustainability, as well as encourage women in STEM. Through my activities in the Civil Engineering RSO, Concrete Canoe, I worked to design one of the most environmentally friendly concrete mixes in recent years at UW Concrete Canoe, as well as continue working on setting up the Rainwater Recycling system for the Construction Materials laboratory in More Hall. Another activity I have been so grateful to be a part of, is Phi Sigma Rho Engineering Sorority (Phi Rho). I have received so much support from my sisters in Phi Rho, and I held multiple leadership positions throughout my four years in Phi Rho, in order to give back and continue to grow this amazing community of women pursuing STEM.
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Victoria Grace Joy Fox
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Victoria Grace Joy Fox
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Environmental Studies
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Taking my first step into the dance class. In the moment, I had no idea how meaningful that day would become. But now, I see that it changed everything.
My WebsiteAs I try to talk about my UW experience to others, to tell them the lessons I have learned and to explain to them what these four years have meant to me, I find that my UW story is simply indescribable. Attending university has broken every expectation I had upon enrollment, and I have learned to enjoy the absolute wonder that is the path of a university student. I have learned lessons that move beyond the classroom, engaged in activities I had never thought I would be brave enough to try, and created bonds with friends and faculty that feel as if they will last lifetimes.
My UW story is not defined by my achievements, my academics, or future career opportunities that await me. My UW story is not defined by my social status, my youth, my skills or even my degree. My UW story is not defined by my successes, my individuality, my leadership positions, or my GPA.
My UW story is defined not by any individual experience, but by all of those experiences above and so many more I could not possibly name. These experiences made me into more I could have ever dreamed. I was lifted up, broken down, and rebuilt again. I was pushed and pulled in many directions, lost and found more times than I can count, and put under such intense pressure that I was practically spitting gems at the end. I would almost say I am surprised I made it through to today, my last few weeks as an undergraduate, but by now I have learned that the UW will never cease to surprise me.
Looking back at the path I have walked these past four years, I am incredibly proud and honored to say that my UW experience was simply... indescribable.
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Michaela Leung
Earth and Space Sciences
Michaela Leung
Earth and Space Sciences
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: In my senior year, I published a first author paper in culmination of research throughout my time in undergrad.
My WebsiteI came to UW at 15 through the Robinson Center's UW Academy for Young Scholars. In my sophomore year, I was able to explore beyond my major including doing a study abroad in Italy. I have been involved in research for much of my time at college as well as working at the Odegaard Writing and Research Center as both a tutor and peer leader. This year, I was honored to be selected as part of the 2020 Husky 100 and to be able to share my passions for science, education, and equity. In the fall, I will be starting a PhD in Earth and Planetary Sciences at the University of California, Riverside where I am excited to continue my academic and personal journeys of discovery and growth that have begun here at UW.
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Natalie Upton
Psychology B.S.
Natalie Upton
Psychology B.S.
Spanish
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Receiving the Mary Gates Research Scholarship.
After transferring from UCLA in my freshman year, I have never once regretted my choice to return to my hometown and to UW. I have been very fortunate to have been afforded a number of monumental opportunities during my time as a student; I became a Mary Gates scholar in spring 2017, I studied abroad in San Sebastián, Spain in summer 2017 to complete my Spanish minor, and I have worked for two years at the Kevin King Lab in the UW Psychology Department. Through this lab, I developed and completed my departmental honors project, entitled “Impulsive Behavior as a Strategic Coping Response to Stress and Negative Mood”. These accomplishments did not come without sacrifice; I worked three jobs to support myself through my classwork and my various interests. These collective experiences motivated me to finish classes two quarters ahead of my planned graduation and move on to work full time at Northwest Neuropsychology Learning and Behavior Services, where I hold the title of Psychometrist and Behavioral/Educational Consultant. This fall, I look forward to continuing with this clinical position as well as beginning coursework for my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Seattle University. I would like to extend my deep gratitude to my mentors, including Dr. Kevin King and Madison Feil, as well as to my friends and family for supporting me throughout my undergraduate career.
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Anika K Padwekar
Computer Science
Anika K Padwekar LinkedIn
Computer Science
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments was creating a music video of our competition set with my a cappella group Furmata. I never imagined that I would be involved in a musical project of this caliber as an undergrad.
I am excited to be graduating from UW with Interdisciplinary Honors and a degree in Computer Science. These past four years I have gotten to explore my biggest passions: music and technology. I have been deeply involved in my a cappella group Furmata. I have sung at various events in Seattle including weddings, fundraisers, UW alum events, and national competitions. As President of Furmata, I have overseen and organized competitions, gigs, music videos, and albums. I have also enjoyed deepening my knowledge of computer science outside of the classroom. My experience as a TA for the CSE14x series along with my internships at Automation Anywhere and Amazon have prepared me for my full-time role at Microsoft. I feel so lucky to have found incredible friends at UW, and I can't wait to grow with them.
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Jenna Truong
Environmental Studies
Jenna Truong LinkedIn
Environmental Studies
Environmental Health
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment was presenting the feature session at the Washington Oregon Higher Education Sustainability Conference with experts in climate change and mental health.
Thesis: Inside EPA: Getting to Effective Science Communication from the Inside Out
My WebsiteHi I'm Jenna, and I am from Spokane Valley, WA. I am passionate about the intersections of health, environment, and justice. I believe there is great power in framing environmental issues through a health lens as Rachel Carson and Devra Davis did in their writing, and looking at the disparities in those impacts.
During my time at UW I focused a lot of my energy on leadership, including but not limited to Honors Community Ambassadors, Student Advisory Council to the Dean, College of the Environment Student Ambassadors, Students Expressing Environmental Dedication, and the Campus Sustainability Fund. I've been very fortunate to be able to participate in two Honors study abroad trips and a Partners in the Park trip with our Honors advisers. I was also able to intern with US EPA Region 10 Children's Health and Pesticides teams for my senior capstone.
Looking forward, I'll be getting my MPH in Environmental Health Sciences from Yale University after working on COVID-19 Recovery in King County. I'm very excited to get out and start making a difference in my community.
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Grace Stephenson
International Studies
Grace Stephenson LinkedIn
International Studies
Global Health
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: The feeling of relief & happiness from publishing two research reports within the span of three months!
Thesis: Victimization in Post-Conflict Recovery: The Effects of International Language, Media, and Social Identity on Persons with Disabilities in Sierra Leone
grace.stephenson@yahoo.comThese past four years have shaped both my personal and career goals - I have grown immensely and been able to explore and refine my interests in social justice, health, and human rights!
My passion for public health and justice strives from my belief that everyone deserves access to services and health. Yet so many people are systematically denied this right, particularly marginalized communities. I really hope that I can do my small part to push for equity in the US and abroad throughout my life.
Senior year, I was able to do research in two fields. Through the JSIS Honors program, I worked closely with professors and local organizations on research related to persons with disabilities in post-conflict recovery. Through Task Force, I was able to be a part of a lovely team that researched human rights abuses & ICE Air Operations in King County.
When I went to India for three months and worked at a few nonprofits my sophomore year, I knew that if I wanted to be useful I needed to learn Hindi. So I have been taking Hindi at the UW for the past two years. It's been really, really hard but rewarding! I hope to work on issues surrounding human rights in India one day, particularly around sexual and gender based violence.
Working with Its On Us, the campaign to stop sexual assault on college campuses, both nationally and at UW, I have been able to advocate for those affected and provide resources on campus. This continued as I did research on trauma-focused care on campuses with the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Center! I have loved dedicating my time to something so important.
There are so many causes I want to work on - but when I'm not working I love to paint, travel, spend time outdoors, watch hysterically bad movies, and eat (a lot).
I am excited to start working in the field & hopefully traveling before grad school in a few years!
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Sarah Cooper
Neuroscience
Sarah Cooper
Neuroscience
Comparative History of Ideas
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Getting the opportunity to present a poster at the Society for Neuroscience Annual Conference this past Fall in Chicago.
Thesis: Stimulation Rebound in Deep Brain Stimulation for Essential Tremor
Hi, my name is Sarah and I am a graduate of the UW Honors Program! While at the University of Washington, I got involved in research through the BioRobotics Lab, and throughout my time here I explored and expanded my interest in the many facets of neuroscience through a combination of research and my major classes. I will be attending Vanderbilt University in the Fall to pursue a PhD through their Neuroscience graduate program. I am grateful for the many experiences that made my time at UW so special, from studying abroad in Italy the summer going into my Junior year, to being a member of UW Chorale for all four years here as I found a meaningful sense of community and a way to keep music in my life during my college years. I will never stop being grateful for all the incredible people who have touched my life here and made UW a place that will always hold a special place in my heart!
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Riley K Brown
Finance and Marketing
Riley K Brown
Finance and Marketing
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment is leading our football team out of the tunnel for my senior Apple Cup games with our mascot Dubs! Being one of his handlers has been by far the coolest thing I’ve done in college!
Hi all! I’m Riley and graduating from the Foster School of Business this Spring. Throughout my time at UW I have enjoyed building community through getting involved with things like Honors Peer Educator program, ASUW, Panhellenic Executive Council, Montlake Consulting Group and more. I have made so many wonderful friends and had so many incredible experiences that have shaped who I have become. Despite this year not ending the way I would wanted, I would never trade my time at UW for anything!
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Leah Osnis
Biochemistry
Leah Osnis
Biochemistry
Chemistry and English
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: A good amount of my proudest moments involved lab. When I first started research, I struggled picking things up. Thus when things started going well, I always felt an immense sense of pride such as when someone first started asking me for advice, or when I presented my work, or when I was published on a paper.
I have been a Seattle local since 2007 and came to UW not entirely set on what I wanted to do but the natural sciences have always interested me. I ended up pursuing a pre-medical track and at my time at UW I have tutored, participated in research, and volunteered. In my spare time I love playing with my two dogs, drinking coffee and reading - something I hope to catch up on after graduation.
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Intisar MKheseer
Neurobiology and Biochemistry
Intisar MKheseer
Neurobiology and Biochemistry
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: when my department annonced my name as a honor student
i1980198@uw.eduI am UW student in Seattle campus, and I studied double major. I am immigrant from Iraq, I came in June 2012. I am mother for three kids. I lived hard life with more war, stresses, and lots of responsibilities, but all of that give me motivation to continue seeking better life and achieving my goals. I started to study at as soon as I came to the US. I am working in integrative brain research at Seattle Children Hospital Research institute to find a cure for diseases that associated with the motion deficit. This is just part of my journey, my goal is to study medical school and be a neurosurgeon and researcher at the same time to involve in treatment of untreated diseases, such as Parkinson's diseases and multiple sclerosis. Even though, I had hard life and lots of responsibilities, I still go forward to achieve my goals and serve the community, to prove to people who surrounded me that being mother is not a barrier to achieve your dream and living hard life should not stress you but it can be good motivation to push you forward and be what you like to be.
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Irene Kuo
Accounting, Information Systems
Irene Kuo
Accounting, Information Systems
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Becoming a FIG Leader
My interests fall into two main categories, sports and the arts. I love basketball, volleyball, and swimming. Basketball is my favourite though. I used to spend 8 hours a week playing, until I got injured. I'm working my way back to 100%! In the meantime, I'm watching lots of NBA and playing fantasy basketball. Regarding creative arts, I spent a huge chunk of my time doing music (piano, guitar, ukulele, singing, producing), film (travel film, vlogs, shorts), or just enjoying arts that other people created MOVIESSS AND NETFLIX!
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Stacie Tao
Social Welfare (BSW) and Early Childhood & Family Studies
Stacie Tao LinkedIn
Social Welfare (BSW) and Early Childhood & Family Studies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Interning in Washington D.C. with the support of the Jackson Munro Public Service Fellowship!
Thesis: Effectiveness of Critical Ongoing Resource family Education (CORE-Teen): Support for Resource Parents of American Indian Teens
tao.stacie@columbia.eduIn my four, short years at the University of Washington, my interest in working with young children has grown into a life-long dedication for dismantling intergenerational & systemic inequity and racial disproportionality in the child welfare system. Numerous non-profit organizations and early intervention/learning centers have guided me towards a path of advocating for trauma and culturally informed social policy. As I pursue this work, I aim to create lasting social change through a transformative justice lens and uphold intentional practices to dismantle traditional power dynamics that have led to deep system inequity. Outside the classroom, I spent my spare time involved with research, public service, study abroad, and playing my trumpet with the Husky Marching Band & UW Symphony.
I am immensely grateful for the opportunities and support I received through the University of Washington; the womxn of color faculty and mentors that encouraged me to dream bigger; and my social work cohort for being role models of social change, accountability and grace.
I am eager to embark on my next journey of pursuing a Master’s of Science in Social Work at Columbia University, where I will be working with The Center on Poverty and Social Policy.
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Saralyn Hormachuelos Santos
Informatics: Human-Computer Interaction
Saralyn Hormachuelos Santos LinkedIn
Informatics: Human-Computer Interaction
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Performing with Sayaw and FASA sa UW at the Centennial Gala, celebrating 100 years of Filipino and Filipino American organizations at the University of Washington.
saralynsantos@gmail.com“Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan.” Throughout my college career, I've quoted this saying by Jose Rizal so many times I've lost count. Literally, it translates to "One who does not know how to look back at where they came from will never reach their destination." But the simpler translation I prefer to use is "No history, no self; know history, know self."
Going into college, I had a tenuous connection to my own Filipino history and culture. When I was a freshman, though, I was lured into a Filipino American Student Association meeting with the promise of free mango ice cream. From there, I grew significantly. I learned my history: about the circumstances that brought my family to the United States and the people who fought for the rights and privileges I have today. I learned about myself: about my likes, dislikes, my leadership style, and what I wanted to do with my life. I spent three years as a FASA officer, serving as historian, secretary, and Sayaw coordinator. I got into the Informatics program, and used the history I had learned to inform the projects I undertook.
As I conclude my time at the University of Washington, I can proudly say that I know my history, and I know myself. I know how to look back at where I came from, and I am grateful for all the love and support that helped me to get where I am today. And although my destination is unclear at the moment, I have no doubt that I am equipped with the tools I need to reach it.
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Bochen Steve Ma
Computer Science
Bochen Steve Ma LinkedIn
Computer Science
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Presenting at ISGSB 2020.
Thesis: Testing Dynamical Systems: An Application To Systems Biology
My Website bochenma@cs.washington.eduHi! My name is Steve, and I am a 4th year BS/MS student in the Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering at the University of Washington, Seattle. I am very fortunate to be advised by Dr. Joseph Hellerstein.
I believe that Computer Science can have a broader impact than engineering and software. My research focuses on building infrastructures that support in silico experiments for studying the system-level dynamics of complex, nonlinear biological networks.
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James Thomas Parks
Business Administration - Accounting
James Thomas Parks LinkedIn
Business Administration - Accounting
Law, Societies, and Justice
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Hosting an charity event with my club (Beta Alpha Psi) that raised over 15,000 for Seattle Children's Hospital and brought the Seattle business community together for a great cause.
jtp.1122@gmail.comI just graduated from the Foster School of Business in Accounting and am returning next year to complete a Masters of Science in Taxation. I am interning in tax services at PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) this summer in Seattle and am looking forward to progressing in a tax career.
My interests include:
1. Fitness: Weight-Lifting, Running, and Playing Basketball.
2. Watching Basketball, Football, and Baseball. 3.
Playing Fantasy Sports.
4. TV shows: Game of Thrones, Breaking Bad, and Billions are among my all-time favorites.Departmental HonorsTags:
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Melissa Birchfield
Computer Science
Melissa Birchfield LinkedIn
Computer Science
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Publishing my first book in 2019: "Data for Dignity: Leveraging Technology in the Fight Against Human Trafficking"
Thesis: Understanding the Role of Data in Cross-Sector Collaboration to Combat Human Trafficking
My Website mybirchfield@gmail.comI'm an educator, researcher, author, adventurer, and anti-trafficking advocate who thrives at the intersection of disciplines. I'm grateful for the space to explore culture, language, and literature through Interdisciplinary Honors, where I've played with poetry to ponder life's deep questions and immersed myself in history during a study abroad in Rome. These experiences gave me new angles for viewing the world, allowing me to recognize the resilience of the human spirit and appreciate the unexpected joys in life.
At the same time, honors courses opened my eyes to the horrific realities of human trafficking today. Since then, I've intertwined my heart for teaching, technology, and anti-trafficking work through research and outreach. From podcasts and TEDx talks to social media campaigns and on-campus events, I seek creative ways to use my voice as an advocate. As I build connections with policymakers, direct service providers, and other stakeholders, I focus on opportunities for technology to come alongside these efforts. I plan to continue pursuing the tech-against-trafficking space during my next chapter: completing my Master's in Computer Science at UW.
In the meantime, you can find me hiking, swimming, making banana nut butter smoothies, or deep in conversation over coffee. My anti-trafficking work has taught me not to take freedom for granted, so I'm motivated to make the most of every moment!
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Brian Chan
Communication
Brian Chan LinkedIn
Communication
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Graduating with departmental honors
Thesis: The Power of Microcelebrities: Difference in Perceived Credibility Between Male and Female Microcelebrities and Traditional Celebrities
brianchan28ph@gmail.comIf someone were to ask me in 2016 where I would be in 2018, the answer would probably be an underwhelming “school I guess”.
Fast forward two years, and I’m delighted to say I'm graduating from one of the best public universities in the nation with honors one year ahead of schedule, headed to graduate school for a master's degree in communication.
An immigrant from Hong Kong, I moved to Washington state at age 15. My broken English back then meant I could barely speak for myself, and with a transferred GPA of 1.4, my grades did not speak highly of me either. After a few years of adapting to a vastly different culture and environment, I was miraculously admitted to the University of Washington.
Regardless of how reassuring the admission sounded, hurdles were still present as I fought through dyslexia. Through my endeavor to excel in school, help from a number of marvelous professors, and an urge to do research, I was introduced to the Department of Communication's honors program. For the first time, I acquired a multitude of research methods, and was exposed to literature of various disciplines and the depth and breadth of knowledge research brings to the world.
Unlike most other jobs, doing research means every bit of your time committed is a learning opportunity. Whether it be reviewing literature or analyzing data, there is is something valuable in every step of the way, and by becoming a researcher anyone can discover or reveal a piece of knowledge no one has ever figured out before.
Being in the Department of Communication’s honors program is one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life thus far, hence I encourage everyone to join one at the University of Washington if possible. It has changed my life forever and I regret nothing. The future is brighter than ever because of research.Departmental HonorsTags:
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Amy Xu
Computer Science, Histoy
Amy Xu LinkedIn
Computer Science, Histoy
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Completing the honors calc series!
amyxu@cs.washington.eduAcademically, I'm interested in World War II history, computer systems, and accessibility. Outside of school, I enjoy baking, playing video games, and spending time in the great outdoors!
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Emily Margaret Thomas
Chemical Engineering
Emily Margaret Thomas LinkedIn
Chemical Engineering
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: I was very proud to see my group's capstone project come together
My WebsiteHi! I'm Emily Thomas! I'm excited to be studying chemical engineering at the university of Washington, and I love doing art and reading in my spare time.
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Daniel C Brock
Biochemistry, Biology (Molecular, Cellular, & Developmental)
Daniel C Brock LinkedIn
Biochemistry, Biology (Molecular, Cellular, & Developmental)
Chemistry
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment was when I got to present my research at an international conference in Vancouver! Later that year, I also got to publish my research in an academic peer-reviewed journal, which was very rewarding.
Thesis: Mitochondrial Biogenesis in Zebrafish Cone Photoreceptors
Daniel Brock is a graduating senior majoring in biochemistry and molecular biology. Daniel works in the Brockerhoff lab studying circadian rhythm and stress responses in the mitochondria of cone cells in the zebrafish retina. After graduation, Daniel is going to spend 2 years at the NIH in the lab of Dr. Rosandra Kaplan, researching genetically engineered myeloid cells to make the immune system better at fighting metastatic cancer. Eventually, Daniel plans on becoming a physician scientist. In his spare time, Daniel enjoys photography, video games, and watching movies.
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Audrey Immel
Public Health-Global Health
Audrey Immel
Public Health-Global Health
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Improving my Spanish while living in Quito!
I'm proud to graduate in a time when public health is more critical than ever. More than anything, my major has taught me the importance of investing in and working with communities before health crises occur. There is a lot to be sad about in the public health world but I feel hopeful when looking at my classmates who will eventually be running the show. One day, I hope to continue my public health education with a Masters of Epidemiology.
While working towards my public health degree, I was able to take time to explore my other interests. I took classes in literature, creative writing, and am now even enrolled in an online music production class! I studied in Mexico and Ecuador, showing me that language learning is one of the best ways to make connections. I have pushed myself out of my comfort zone with backpacking, climbing and skiing for the first time. But all of these explorations were anchored by a wonderful group of friends, many of which I met in the Honors Program!
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Ben LaRoche
BS Mechanical Engineering
Ben LaRoche LinkedIn
BS Mechanical Engineering
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Becoming an Engineering Peer Educator. Leading group discussions and helping freshman navigate the first year experience.
My Website benlaroche96@gmail.comI'm an engineer, bike enthusiast, and lacrosse player seeking out experiences that will develop me as more a well rounded human.
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Olivia Danielle Perrone
English
Olivia Danielle Perrone LinkedIn
English
Professional Sales Program Certificate
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was seeing my hard work in applying for internships pay off. Junior fall quarter I worked with my mentors and advisors to edit my resume and learn how to best pitch myself and my background to companies. I ended up interning at AWS which resulted in a full-time offer come this September. I am very grateful for all the people who have cheered me on along the way!
Thesis: The Dawn of Disaster : Political Critiques in The Word for World is Forest by Ursula Le Guin and Dawn by Octavia E. Butler
perroneoli@gmail.comThe past four years at UW have been more than I could have ever asked for! While at UW I have been a member of Delta Gamma, a two-time study abroad student, a FIG leader, a member of the Honors Program, a student in the Professional Sales Program, and an avid hiker, skier, and Seattle explorer. I am endlessly grateful for the friends I have made and for the communities that have fostered my growth. After graduation I will be working for Amazon Web Services (AWS) as an Associate Account Executive right here in Seattle. I look forward to continuing to call this place home. Go Dawgs!
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Zhouyihan Li
biochemistry
Zhouyihan Li
biochemistry
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Receive the Mary Gates Research Scholarship
I am from China. I like dancing, reading and yoga. My career direction is biomedical science, so I also did some research at several labs at UW.
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Sharron V Orr
Dance
Sharron V Orr
Dance
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Performing in the Faculty Dance Concert in the Fall and the MFA Dance Concert in the Spring
Thesis: Two Left Feet Studios - A Dance Fitness Studio, all ages, all abilities and all styles welcome!
I took a winding path to get to where I am. I have been dancing my whole life and experienced some major set backs. I over came all of that and realized my dream. I wanted to teach. I knocked on doors until someone gave me a chance to teach. That led to more opportunities and more love for my art. It was after a few years I realized I wanted to combine my natural Business abilities with my love to teach. I wanted to open my own studio. I went back to school as a non-traditional student at my local community college. While working up to six jobs while going to school, I finished with my Business Administration degree and a Small Business Management Certificate. I then transferred to the UW to get my BA in Dance. While here I moved into a place and left my husband, son and dogs back in Vancouver, WA. I went to school, worked two jobs and tried to immerse myself in as many opportunities as I could. I started teaching Dance classes at the IMA on campus and made some wonderful friends. I also received a scholarship from the dance department to attend the Rhythm World 28 Dance Intensive in Chicago to receive a teaching certification in Tap Dancing. The program was taught by world renown tappers and it was a wonderful class of teachers. I got the honor of being in a dance piece for Kawasaki Guest Artist Etienne Cakpo in the Faculty Dance Concert as well as a dancer in MFA Brian Evan's piece for the MFA Dance Concert. I joined the National Society of Leadership and Success and am a proud graduate of the Dance program with honors. I will go back home to Vancouver, to reunite with family and begin the process to open up Two Left Feet Studios. I am so proud of my accomplishments and the road I have taken. It may be different, but it has been rich and full of life.
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Alisa Das
Business Administration (Information Systems and Operations Management/Supply Chain)
Alisa Das
Business Administration (Information Systems and Operations Management/Supply Chain)
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Earning a Foster and Honors scholarship in the same week!
My Website adas1999ad@gmail.comHi! My name is Alisa Das and I am graduating with a B A in Business Administration in the concentrations of Information Systems and Operations Management/Supply Chain. Coming to UW, I had a goal of wanting to be a voice of representation and use my skills and education to better society, my community in some way. During my time here, I discovered a newfound interest in business and believe it would be a good pairing with my future goals. I am grateful to have found community in Foster and the Honors department where I have learned from and amongst so many inspirational, encouraging, and amazing people. Another integral part of my college journey was my own cultural growth. It's a priority in my life to learn more about my South Asian heritage and stay connected. I have been able to engage with the South Asian community here at UW by being on the South Asian Student Association board and have had some of my best times.
To my college journey, thank you so much for all the lessons, experiences and memories. I look forward to collecting all these tokens onto the next chapter where I plan on earning a JD/MBA dual degree!
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Lauryn Kay Stafford
Public Health-Global Health & Economics
Lauryn Kay Stafford
Public Health-Global Health & Economics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments at UW was receiving an offer to be a Post-Bachelor Fellow at the UW Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME). This program will enable me in the next few years to continue my work in global health research and pursue a fully-funded MPH at UW.
During my time at UW, I was able to pursue a double degree in Public Health-Global Health and Economics. By being able to take courses in both these majors, I was able to explore my interests in global health economics and the crucial intersection between financial stability and health. As an undergraduate, I was able to participate in a study abroad program through the School for International Training (SIT) in India focusing on public health, gender equality, and community-based initiatives. For the past year, I was an Undergraduate Research Assistant on the Cost Effectiveness team at the UW Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), where I have also accepted a Post-Bachelor Fellowship.
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We love Honors
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Mac Murray
English - Creative Writing
Mac Murray LinkedIn
English - Creative Writing
Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Earning the Van Buren award for two short stories!
Thesis: Gender in Play on the Shakespearean Stage
My Website murraymacr@gmail.comI am concluding my year as the Editor-in-Chief of The Daily, and excited to continue my work in creative writing in the post-grad world!
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Kate Pierce
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Kate Pierce
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: N/A
Thank you Honors Program for allowing me to get an interdisciplinary education and making a big school feel small. Thank you to all of my teachers and mentors for instilling a passion for learning in me. Thank you to my great friends for keeping me laughing. Thank you to my sister for keeping me strong and grounded. And lastly, thank you to my parents for their unwavering love and support in all that I choose to pursue.
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Claire Fahlman
Law, Societies & Justice
Claire Fahlman
Law, Societies & Justice
Spanish
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: I took MGMT 200 (a very difficult business prerequisite known for wrecking GPAs) to prove to my brother that it wasn’t that difficult and got a 4.0, perfectly proving my point
My love of stories led to my love of reading, and my love of reading led to my love of law. After college I will stay in Seattle and study for the LSAT, then apply to schools in the fall. When I’m not doing homework I like to run, home, have picnics in Magnuson park and visit the south Puget Sound. Oh, and I’m a cat person.
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Audi L Brown
Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies
Audi L Brown LinkedIn
Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW is being named the recipient of the 2021 Herring Phelps Award for Scholarly Activism for Department of Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies University of Washington, Seattle. Being accepted into the GWSS Honors Program and achieving my goal of Summa Cum Laude. Also, having the courage at the age of 50 to complete my undergraduate degree at the University of Washington.
My Website audilbrown@outlook.comI am a visionary committed to the elevation of Black culture. My work uses vulnerability as a site and methodology to study my African ancestor’s ancient healing techniques to cultivate a path to generational healing of the trauma inflicted on African and Black people. At the age of 50, I accepted the challenge from my family to finish my college education. It was essential to create a path of Black excellence for myself, my family and to inspire others who look like me to complete their education. I accomplished all of the goals for myself (Summa Cum Laude, Dean’s List & Honor Student). I plan to continue my education and pursue my graduate and doctorate degrees.
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Brian Kang
Economics & ACMS (ME)
Brian Kang LinkedIn
Economics & ACMS (ME)
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Building complicated ML models (after days of debugging) that benefit and potentially save human health
Thesis: A Take on Generalized Spatial Mismatch Hypothesis: Effects of Residency Away From Work on Income Inequality
kangb6187@gmail.comUW wasn't the highest ranking school I was admitted to. Some told me that I was making a huge mistake and I will come to regret it someday, but something that I can't really express pushed me to come to UW. Now that I'm done, I can tell what that "something" was: Cooking, friends, all-nighters, research, mentorships, bowling, hiking, internships, coffee chats, cold emails, stressing, drinking, binge-watch, TA-ing, free food, clubs, machine learning, and much much more.
I don't regret a single bit coming to UW. I'm finishing strong and all the experiences stay with me forever.
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Christopher Erwin Hogan
Drama Performance
Christopher Erwin Hogan LinkedIn
Drama Performance
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Performing for elderly and disabled people at several care centers in the Seattle area with the Acting with Kindness student organization has been tremendously rewarding. I'll never forget seeing someone's eyes light up when she heard us perform a song from her favorite television show The Love Boat. I think it rekindled very fond memories for her and several of the other residents.
Thesis: Virtually There
chrishogan1000@gmail.comMusic and acting have been my passion for many years. My brother Matthew and I started playing dramatic improvisational games when we were very young, and I picked up the Trombone in high school. At UW, I had the privilege of appearing in the two short films Pseudonym and Good Boy with the LUX Film Production Club, a play about driving social and environmental progress called Something About Hope, and a voice-over narrative describing actual students' struggles with mental health. I designed sound for the 2019 UW School of Drama mainstage production of Body Awareness and performed popular-themed music in the Acting with Kindness student organization at over a half a dozen care centers in the Seattle area. More recently, I am directing an original play performed entirely in virtual reality that combines music, custom-built CGI scenery and motion capture technology.
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Angie Lai
Environmental Studies
Angie Lai LinkedIn
Environmental Studies
Law, Societies, and Justice
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment was probably getting into the Husky 100. Actually, the nomination meant more to me than the selection because it felt really rewarding to be recognized by a professor I looked up to!
angie.l.lai@outlook.comHi! I'm Angie and I consider myself to be a generalist with a passion for environmental and climate justice. My Capstone Research Project looks at promising practices for the federal government in prioritizing sovereignty for federally recognized Tribes, Nations, and Confederacies in climate adaptation.
In my time at UW, I've met a lot of amazing people and have had some incredible experiences. I've been a Campus Sustainability Fund Outreach Ambassador, College of the Environment Student Ambassador, Teaching Assistant, and intern with the US EPA Region 10. I was also in the pre-law fraternity Phi Alpha Delta, which helped me decide that I wanted to pursue a JD to practice environmental law and/or policy. I want to help us move toward a better future by making the big changes we desperately need. Outside of academics, I have a wide taste in movies, shows, music, food, and art!
After graduation, I'll be doing a year of service with AmeriCorps as a College Coach in Philly. After that, law school (hopefully)!
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Jion Yi
International Studies, Informatics
Jion Yi LinkedIn
International Studies, Informatics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Joining the Newbook Digital Texts Project and realizing my passion in research with Dr. Walter Andrews as my mentor
Thesis: Bitnation: Reimagination of the State-Citizen Relationship and Technological Optimism
My Website jiony4321@gmail.comI was 13 when I left my hometown in South Korea and immigrated to the US. Understanding very little English and speaking even less, I could not imagine how achieved and proud I would feel after five years at University of Washington. Pursuing double degrees was no easy decision, but I was able to thrive thanks to the faculty and staff members at University of Washington who encouraged me to continue interdisciplinary learning and research.
Thanks to Dr. Walter Andrews, whom I met as an undergraduate researcher at UW, I stepped into the interdisciplinary path where I was able to combine my interests in international human rights and technologies. After graduation, I will be starting my first job as a Security Analyst in Chicago. After building more skills and experiences in the private sector, I hope to come back to the academia as a researcher in usable security and privacy tools and continue Dr. Andrews' legacy in interdisciplinary research.
As I move forward to the new city and the new chapter of my life, I will remember the excitement, fear, and courage I felt as a 13-year-old whose life started anew. I would like to thank my parents who made my education possible, all my friends who supported me through thick and thin, and UW faculty and staff members gave me countless valuable lessons.
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Leah Cantor
English and Public Health
Leah Cantor LinkedIn
English and Public Health
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Turning in my thesis and graduating cum laude!
Thesis: Stolen Autonomy and Futile Rebellion: Deriving Power from the Oppression of Women Under the Declining British Empire
cantor.leah4@gmail.comI am so grateful for the experiences I have had as a student at UW. I got to spend two quarters in London and Rome studying abroad, and hope to continue traveling after I graduate. Next year, I will be working at a health technology startup in Seattle, and am looking forward to applying my degrees in a professional environment!
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Karinne Elise Sandstrom
Business Administration, Information Systems and Marketing
Karinne Elise Sandstrom LinkedIn
Business Administration, Information Systems and Marketing
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
My WebsiteOriginally from San Diego, CA, I moved up to Seattle four years ago to attend the University to pursue a business degree with Interdisciplinary. These past four years I've loved exploring my new home--whether that be at a local coffee shop or traversing the concrete jungle that is Downtown Seattle. My sophomore year, I left the comforts of my new home and studied abroad in Berlin, Germany. There, I learned about identity through the lens of a refugee, as well as conducted my own research about the identity of an American through a foreign lens. The travel bug has yet to cease, as I will be returning to Europe for three weeks this summer with my friend Shelby.
Throughout my college career I have been lucky to work with various communities in the Greater Seattle area. Following my dad's diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in 2015, I became connected the local chapter of the National MS Society. I spent 8 months as an intern for the Walk MS campaign and organized the Bellingham walk from start to finish. One of my proudest moments of college was watching the last participant cross the finish line, knowing we had raised 50,000 more dollars for MS research and support programs. Personally, my dad's Walk MS team has raised $15,000 in the past 3 years.
My sorority, Alpha Chi Omega has taught me the value of connection and what it means to be a part of an organization that is much larger than the individual. I served as the Vice President of Chapter Relations and Standards my sophomore year and have been on the Chapter Relations and Standards board the other three years. It means a lot to me that, even as a senior, I can give back to an organization that has given me some of my closest friends.
The summer following my third year, I interned for EY as a consulting intern. It was quite intimidating to work in a large corporate setting, but the scariest things reap the greatest benefits. I helped to develop a training program for 400+ staff following a new SAP system implementation. I was able to present my work to a managing partner on the project. Last August, I received a full-time offer with EY for after I graduate.
Of course, not all moments were glorious. But my support network of friends and family were integral during those times. I am forever indebted to my amazing parents who did not hesitate to book me a flight back home when I needed some sun and cuddles with my pup, Cooper. I attribute so much of my success to their unfailing love. My siblings, Kassi, Katie and Nick are also three people that I cannot imagine life without. They are my role models and the best ones out there. My friends and boyfriend are what give me energy to tackle any test or take on any interview. They are my sources of laughter, fun, and hugs on days that words just don't suffice. I am truly blessed.
As I look ahead, both excited and nervous, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity the UW allowed me. I am so much more confident and strong than when I first moved here. My eyes have been opened to so many ideas and lives. What brought me here was a mixture of my own determination and the privilege given to me from others. This privilege is something I hope to be able to pass on, so that one day, when someone writes their graduation bio, they beam with pride like I do.
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Kiana Alexis Rahni
Economics & Political Science
Kiana Alexis Rahni LinkedIn
Economics & Political Science
Global Health
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Finishing my thesis felt like a major accomplishment, one that truly captured my wide range of academic interests!
Thesis: Autocratic Transitions & Health System Performance: Regime Type as a Social Determinant of Health
I came to UW determined to go to law school and run for office. Over the past four years, UW and the Honors Program gave me the opportunity to explore a much broader range of interests. I've since taken a deep dive into the field of global health, learned to code, studied abroad in Uganda, completed internships and research at King County Public Health and UW Medicine, and found my first full-time job as a consultant. I've pursued my passion for philanthropy and educational opportunity and feel so grateful and proud to have spent the last four years making the most of the communities, classes, and opportunities that UW has provided me.
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Ethan F Knight
Neuroscience (B.S.), Public Health-Global Health (B.S.)
Ethan F Knight LinkedIn
Neuroscience (B.S.), Public Health-Global Health (B.S.)
Chemistry
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Finally being able to travel and study abroad to Costa Rica! It was an amazing country (with such good coffee) and I made many new friends along the way.
My Website knigheth000@gmail.comHi, my name is Ethan Knight! I graduating with a B.S. in Neuroscience and Public Health-Global Health, with College Honors in the latter. Throughout my time at UW, I have been blessed with the different friends, mentors, coworkers, and peers that I have met!
While I first arrived at UW a tad bit apprehensive and introverted, it was the small communities that I was able to find that brought me out of my shell. These communities - honors chemistry and Neuroscience - allowed me to grow and learn, both as a student and as a person, and I would not be who I am today without them. Also, my opportunity to study abroad in Costa Rica allowed me to study something outside of my major, as well as make some new friends and mentors!
In addition, UW has also given me the opportunity to participate as a student researcher in the Dichek Lab. My time in the Dichek Lab has been incredibly formative and has solidified my desire to continue to engage in clinically important research. Combined with the lessons of my Public Health-Global Health major, I have gotten an expansive overview of medicine and health, from a single gene to communities-at-large.
I would like to thank all of my friends, family, and mentors for my UW experience (shout out to the Neuroganglia and Harvard House). Without you all, my experience would have been indescribably lacking!
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Julia R Bauman
Neurobiology
Julia R Bauman LinkedIn
Neurobiology
Philosophy
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Being selected as a finalist for the Marshall Scholarship.
Thesis: Associations between depression, traumatic brain injury, and cognitively-defined late-onset Alzheimer clinical syndrome subgroups
I intend to pursue a career in research and medicine. Following graduation, I am moving to Boston to work as a research associate at the Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, where I will study functional cancer genomics.
Outside of school/work, my favorite hobbies are running, reading, and playing the piano.Departmental HonorsTags:
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Ian S Platou
Italian Studies
Ian S Platou
Italian Studies
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Working alongside high school students as a High School Lead for the University of Washington Dream Project
Growing up in the Seattle area I always thought of UW as being practically in my backyard, so it took me a while to realize the vast amount of opportunities I had in front of me. But with the help of the Interdisciplinary Honors Program and their amazing study abroad experiences I discovered a passion for Italian culture and language, which became my major. After graduation I am moving to Rome as I will be the student intern at the UW Rome Center for one year and plan on attending law school afterwards. I am an avid soccer fan with a passion for Seattle Sounders FC and love fitness and long distance running. Go dawgs!
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Olivia G. Kotha
Asian Studies
Olivia G. Kotha
Asian Studies
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Realizing that after a year in Japan I could finally hold a conversation in only Japanese.
oliviakotha@gmail.comI love learning languages and have studied Thai, Cambodia and Japanese at UW, which culminated with my year abroad in Japan. I love to read and write and to dance it out with my friends. I also have a newly minted interest in film therory.
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Kieran Lewis
Biochemistry
Kieran Lewis
Biochemistry
Chemistry
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment would be presenting my research at the undergraduate research symposium. It was great to see all my work come together like that.
Thesis: Engineering DNA loops using a protein switch DNA sensor
kieral@uw.eduI am most interested in molecular biology, particularly in relation to human health. Outside of academics, I enjoy playing basketball, hiking, and music.
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Zachary Costa
Business Administration, Accounting and Finance
Zachary Costa LinkedIn
Business Administration, Accounting and Finance
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My favorite moments at UW were during my time as a TA for Accounting 215. This position gave me the opportunity to not only impact student's classroom performance, but also their overall experience at UW, and for that I'm forever grateful for this position!
Hi! My name is Zac Costa, and I'm about to graduate with a B.A. in Business Administration, concentrating in Accounting and Finance. Most of my time at UW has been spent helping students with academics, such as through tutoring at Foster Instructional Tutoring (FIT). I also have worked as a Teacher's Assistant for ACCTG 215, UW's intro accounting course, where I led quiz sections, held office hours, and helped prepare/grade exams. During my time with honors, I wrote papers on Nintendo's strategic positioning, and how images can impact financial disclosures. Overall, I've had a blast at UW, and am excited to continue learning as I move into full-time work with EY's assurance department this Fall.
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Emma Josephine Spickard
Public Health (BS)
Emma Josephine Spickard LinkedIn
Public Health (BS)
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Being named a President's 2019 Medalist was a huge honor. A close second was conquering my claustrophobia to go caving in Budapest during Study Abroad.
My Website emjspickard@gmail.comUW has been a place of phenomenal growth for me. As a Public Health major, I have been grateful to find myself passionate about the intersection of policy, politics and public health, thanks to the experiences I have had. Highlights include working with organizations like Real Change, the Homelessness Empowerment Project, and participating in Global Health Case Competitions with the Foster School of Business.
UW has also provided me with amazing communities. I have found mentors and friends through my work as a Tour Guide, Orientation Leader, Honors Peer Educator, Student Coordinator of Orientations, and as a performer with The Collective, UW's Improv Troupe.
It is with gratitude and excitement that I will be traveling on the Bonderman Fellowship July 2019-April 2020 to South America and Southeast Asia. Upon my return, I look forward to pursuing a career creating meaningful health and economic policy.
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Haleh Mawson
Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology
Haleh Mawson
Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology
Arctic Studies
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Tie between not getting stuck in hip-deep mud on a Willapa tideflat and managing to crawl to firmer ground, and that time I started running in Costa Rica right before the local biologist purposefully disturbed a wasp nest. (I can recognize a mean prank when I see one.)
I'm a runner, backpacker, ecologist, and statistics fiend who spent the four years of my college career getting closer and closer to working in the ocean full-time. Plants are my main passion. I started out with terrestrial stuff my first few years, working in the UW Herbarium in Hitchcock's basement, but got into algae and marine angiosperms after spending a quarter at Friday Harbor Laboratory in the San Juan Islands. I took a break over that summer to study abroad in Costa Rica with Drs. Moon Draper and Jon Herron, and then returned to Seattle to work as an undergraduate researcher in the Hille Ris Lambers Lab, using herbarium specimens of lupines to compare insectivory rates from the 1890s to the present. Dr. Jennifer Ruesink snatched me up after that, and from spring 2020 to late summer 2021 I've worked for her lab, looking at eelgrass and burrowing shrimp interactions on oyster farms in Willapa Bay, WA. My most recent accomplishment as of writing this (spring 2021) was getting into a full-funded M.Sc aquaculture program based in Oban, Scotland, with time spent in Heraklion, Greece, and Nantes, France. It turns out people will pay you to mess around with marine organisms and travel - who knew?
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Briana E Lee
Biochemistry and Neurobiology
Briana E Lee
Biochemistry and Neurobiology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Completing a research project and writing it up into a scientific paper!
Thesis: Differential Longitudinal Posterior Cingulate Cortex Connectivity Trajectories in Normal Aging, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Alzheimer's disease
s-brlee@comcast.netApart from research, I enjoy long distance running and writing.
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Jalene A Weatherholt
Environmental Science Resource Management
Jalene A Weatherholt
Environmental Science Resource Management
Marine Biology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW would probably be getting the position on my first field crew. There was so much to learn and such a huge adventure ahead of me; all of my hard work had paid off.
Thesis: Impacts of Burn Severity on Soil Hydrophobicity in the Pacific Northwest
My WebsiteThroughout my time at UW I have had the opportunity to work two post-wildfire field seasons throughout Washington, Montana, and Oregon. My passion for field work, environmental science, and soil ecology has now led me to continue at UW for my masters of science focused on post-wildfire soil ecology.
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Bishir Darra
Materials Science & Engineering
Bishir Darra LinkedIn
Materials Science & Engineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Getting into my engineering major, and managing to keep my GPA high enough for Honors.
I'm an MSE graduate who has a lot of love for semiconductors and quantum materials.
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Karen Liu
Environmental Science and Terrestrial Resource Management
Karen Liu
Environmental Science and Terrestrial Resource Management
French
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Finding my passion in social sciences and pursuing it through independent study
Thesis: The Meanings of Sustainability: Associations with Pro-Environmental Behaviors
Environmental science student interested in the human dimension of the environment. Pursuing a master’s degree in global environmental change and policy in London. Hope to enact positive change!
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Emma S Schnee
International Studies
Emma S Schnee LinkedIn
International Studies
Entrepreneurship
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Really taking advantage of the opportunities in Seattle and the surrounding outdoors!
emma.schnee1@gmail.comI am so thankful for the last four years at UW and the amazing education that I received. Here are a few highlights:
- The Jackson School's task force program where my team created policy recommendations for the Syrian Refugee Crisis and presented to Michael Ratney, a senior US Foreign Service Officer and former US Special Envoy for Syria.
- Creating Altru, a sustainable snack marketing business, as part of the "create a company" Entrepreneurship Capstone.
- UW Club Soccer, Skiing, Hiking, Climbing
- Favorite PNW outdoor adventure: Through Hiking the Enchantments
- Unofficial Minor in Travel: China, Nepal, Thailand, Vietnam, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Argentina
- Honors Fun fact: I met most of my best friends at honors orientation!Interdisciplinary HonorsTags:
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Kathleen Marie Meredith
English, Communication
Kathleen Marie Meredith LinkedIn
English, Communication
Dance
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments at UW will be coming up soon, when I submit my full-length thesis for the English Honors program!
My WebsiteAfter starting at UW as an intended biology major, my plan was to become a physical therapist for dancers. By my junior year, I discovered that while I found my science courses to be fascinating, my true passions were in the disciplines of English, communication and dance. Working closely with outstanding faculty in the English Honors program this year has been an incredible experience for me. I have grown immensely as both a reader and a writer as a result of this program. In the future, I hope to continue developing my strengths as a reader, writer and storyteller, in the hope of sharing those passions with others.
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Madison Rose Bristol
Dance, Environmental Science & Terrestrial Resource Management
Madison Rose Bristol LinkedIn
Dance, Environmental Science & Terrestrial Resource Management
Marine Biology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Presenting my thesis to both a performing arts audience and an education/ecology audience at the Mary Gates Research Symposium. Because of the interdisciplinary nature of this work, I witnessed how people on both sides were able to see their disciplines in a new light--and envision the potential for this type of work to really make an impact through application to an array of disciplines.
Thesis: Environmental Dance: Unearthing How Dance Can Advance the Environmental Movement
madison.r.bristol@gmail.comMadison Rose Bristol is graduating this summer with degrees in Environmental Science and Terrestrial Resource Management (BS, Honors), Dance (BA, Honors), and Marine Biology (minor). In retrospect, these past four years have been her joy because she has been able to pursue her passion for environmental justice in tandem with being actively involved in the UW and Seattle dance communities. Madison has performed in 17 UW associated shows, has choreographed 8 pieces within the UW Dance Department and for the Seattle International Dance Festival, and has taught at local dance studios. On the environmental science side, Madison has explored a wide range of social and biophysical sciences during her undergraduate experience. For one summer, during a class on marine birds and mammals at Friday Harbor Labs, she conducted field research on the distribution and behavior of shorebirds at Argyle Lagoon, San Juan Island. This class reaffirmed her love for coastal organisms and environments, but also helped guide her in the direction of more anthropocentric work. She proceeded to teach and then become a site lead for the Pipeline Project's Environmental Alternative Spring Break Program, where she traveled to Oroville in Eastern Washington for two years in a row. Teaching environmental science to these middle schoolers made her want to incorporate community-based work into her professional career. This in some ways became a reality for her when she became an Oregon Sea Grant Summer Scholar in June 2018. She was placed with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's Marine Reserves Program. Madison spent the summer assessing the socioeconomic impacts of marine reserves implementation through direct, one-on-one conversations with commercial and charter fishermen. This experience set her up with the skills to pursue further human dimensions research, and to envision herself as someone who could bridge understanding between communities in the future in the pursuance of environmental action.
During her senior thesis, Madison was driven by her curiosity about what could happen when her two passions collided. At first, she used choreography as her outlet, creating works implicitly and explicitly about the human response to environmental degradation. However, she also wanted to connect with and learn from a small community of emerging movement artists in Seattle who were using dance as a means to connect people emotionally to environmental issues. As a result, she conducted interdepartmental research on the multiplicity of ways in which dance can contribute to the environmental movement. Now at the end of her capstone experience, it has been entirely fulfilling for her to see how members of the Seattle dance community have been employing dance--a practice embedded in community, empathy, social connection, and alternate modes of communication--to compel environmental action. Be that through movement healing sessions to transform eco-anxiety into action steps, movement fundraisers, visceral dance performances, or sustainability through the arts, these people are entrepreneuring novel ways of evoking emotion to invoke action.
On the near horizon, Madison will be traveling to Taiwan to study environmental and social resilience, and after her travels she hopes to engage in political activism, dance projects that are environmentally and socially relevant, and work for environmental groups. She will be returning to school in the next year or so--perhaps in pursuance of a dual Master's through the Evans School of Public Policy and the School of Marine and Environmental Affairs-- to study environmental policy. With this professional education, she hopes to achieve her goal of leading societal change through creative and innovative management approaches and community-based engagement.
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Annalena Rose Peterson
Business Administration: Finance
Annalena Rose Peterson LinkedIn
Business Administration: Finance
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments at UW was receiving my summer internship offer at The Intel Corporation and presenting my recommendations at the end of the 12-week internship.
My Website annalenarose22@gmail.comMy name is Lena and I am a senior graduating from the Foster School of Business with a focus in Finance. I am passionate about leadership, art and travel. After graduation I will be moving to Portland, Oregon to begin my career as a financial analyst at The Intel Corporation.
During my time at UW I had the opportunity to study abroad in both Rome, Italy and Buenos Aires, Argentina. Both of these experiences yielded a decisive shift in my priorities, relationships, and what I imagined for my future. The journal I kept in Rome served as an outlet to process my experiences, but it also turned out to spark a passion for writing. During my senior year, Buenos Aires reignited my interests in art and travel. I had more time to create, and no shortage of inspiration. I loved visiting new museums, learning the history of the murals decorating the streets, and simply appreciating the idiosyncrasies of a new city.
Spending my final quarter of college quarantined in my apartment, has given me the opportunity to celebrate this last chapter of college with my best friends, and also ample time to reflect on the last four years. College is a primary time in life meant for learning. It just so happens that as much of my education came from outside the classroom, as from inside. And I’ve learned just as much about myself, as I have about the subjects covered in my classes.
I encourage you to take a look at my portfolio if you have a chance, because I’ve added a bunch of art and photos to give viewer a better idea of what’s important to me. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to develop my honors portfolio in punctuation of my senior year, and confident that it is an accurate and continuously evolving illustration of the last four years.
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Joshua Shin
Computer Science
Joshua Shin LinkedIn
Computer Science
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Being a TA for CSE 311!
I am excited to be graduating with a degree in computer science and will be working as a software engineer in the fall. When I first arrived at UW, I was completely directionless. Being in the Honors program, I was able to pursue an interdisciplinary curriculum, but behind that veneer, I had no idea what I was doing or what I even wanted to do. Over the last four years, with the help of many friends and faculty, that wayward freshman has turned into someone with an actual plan and direction for the future.
I have also picked up so many invaluable experiences along the way, from TA’ing a computer science class, to studying abroad in Japan, to doing an internship, to taking a bunch of weird yet interesting Honors classes. In the time I have before entering the real world, I hope to travel, watch at least thirty movies, read one book, and do some yoga.
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Elyse Janzen
Psychology
Elyse Janzen
Psychology
Statistics
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: In my position as a Resident Advisor, being told that I made my residents year
Thesis: Development of Perineuronal Nets in the Auditory Centers of Eptesicus fuscus, the Big Brown Bat
My WebsiteElyse is a Mary Gates and Hagenstein Research Scholar who is greatly looking forward to pursuing her graduate education in Neurobehavioral Psychology. She will be taking the next year off to save up money for grad school and hopes to continue her research focus in neurodegenerative disorders, specifically Alzheimer's Disease.
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Matthew Lucas Ostrom
Industrial Engineering
Matthew Lucas Ostrom LinkedIn
Industrial Engineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Securing a 6-month supply chain internship with Unilever thanks to my class and research experiences.
I came to UW from the Sacramento, CA area and I am graduating with a degree in Industrial Engineering. I have had the opportunity to learn from some great professors, perform research, and work for several companies. Since my sophomore year, I have been working on a team in the ISE department doing research for the U.S. Navy. Through this research, we have built a statistical tool that predicts part obsolescence for parts in naval ship, airplane, and other systems. I am proud knowing that the research we performed will be used on a daily basis by the Navy. Beginning last summer and continuing through the Fall 2019 quarter, I completed a 6-month supply chain co-op for Unilever at its Lipton tea factory in Suffolk, VA. I worked on many interesting projects and learned a lot through this experience.
Being an out-of-state student, I will miss all of the amazing friends I met throughout my time at UW. One of my favorite UW memories was watching the Dawgs play in the Rose Bowl. In the fall, I will be pursuing my Master's degree in Supply Chain Engineering at Georgia Tech.
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Madeline G Clarke
Informatics
Madeline G Clarke LinkedIn
Informatics
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: I enjoyed presenting my capstone with my wonderful team at the 2017 Undergraduate Research Symposium.
Thesis: Analyzing the Potential Effects of Online Tutoring on Accessibility in the Context of College Writing Centers
My WebsiteI graduated from UW with a B.S. in Informatics with Interdisciplinary Honors. In my time at UW, I played sax in the Husky Marching Band, performed with the UW Dance Department, and worked as a writing tutor at the Odegaard Writing and Research Center. I was also involved as a leader and mentor at the Center and focused on accessibility to tutoring services in my Informatics capstone. In addition to my passions for communication and technology, I love art. After college, I hope to hone my electronic music production skills and explore new genres of dance. Professionally, I am interested in continuing my work in high tech and am seeking a position where I can work with people to solve difficult problems with creative solutions. My goal is that both my tech and music work will bring people joy and make life easier.
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Sofia Cababa Wood
Visual Communication Design (VCD)
Sofia Cababa Wood LinkedIn
Visual Communication Design (VCD)
Art History
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Making it through nine finals weeks in the design program
My WebsiteHi, I’m Sofia. I started my undergrad at UW in a new continent, knowing no one. All I knew was that I wanted to see myself somewhere else. And that I wanted to become a designer. Five years later, I can say I’ve pretty much done that. In part, I spent this time working on an undergraduate degree at UW in Visual Communication Design and working as a designer. It is with a lot of work and privilege that I was able to achieve what I have, and I’m proud and thankful.
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Maxwell J Kahn
Geography - Geographic Information Systems
Maxwell J Kahn
Geography - Geographic Information Systems
Informatics
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Earning a Mary Gates Scholarship for my research!
Thesis: A New Metric for Evaluating Pro Sports Expansion Franchises
maxkahn@comcast.netI moved out of the Chicagoland area to come to Seattle without a specific study area in mind. I dabbled in computer science, business, and philosophy at UW before deciding on Geography! I'm very thankful that the Geography Department was able to support my interest in sports and pursue sports research, culminating in a year-long thesis project studying the themes of relocation and expansion in professional sports. I like to think that my earlier classes in computer science and business helped provide a basis for my research project that wouldn't have been possible otherwise, so in a sense, I'm grateful that I came to UW as an undecided student and wouldn't have wanted it any other way.
Seattle, thanks for being the best home I could have asked for over the last four years, and GO DAWGS!
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Irika Sinha
Biochemistry; Biology (Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental)
Irika Sinha LinkedIn
Biochemistry; Biology (Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental)
Chemistry
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Being named a Husky 100 Scholar
Thesis: A-Site Cation Diffusion in Halide Perovskites
My Website sinhairika@gmail.comI graduated in March 2021 from the UW and will be attending the Neuroscience PhD program at Johns Hopkins University starting Fall 2021. I was involved in research throughout undergrad and explored a variety of fields (pathology, chemistry, immunology, and computational biology/bioinformatics) to find a good fit for my interests. Beyond research, I also worked in the Suzzallo and Allen Libraries (info desk), as a TA in the chemistry department, and with the Center for Learning and Undergraduate Enrichment (chemistry tutor). I enjoy participating in bouldering and Taekwondo and also spend time illustrating (for the UW Daily and for fun), birdwatching, and messing around in Lightroom.
I presented my research at the 2019 and 2021 Mary Gates Undergraduate Research Symposiums and at the 2020 Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Students. I was a Husky 100 Scholar and received the Goldwater Scholarship in 2019, Washington Research Foundation Fellowship in 2019, Mary Gates Endowed Research Scholarship in 2018, and NSF GRFP honorable mention in 2021.
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Audrey Marie Conrad
International Studies (General); Political Science
Audrey Marie Conrad LinkedIn
International Studies (General); Political Science
Human Rights
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: I was the Editor of my JSIS Task Force. It was a lot of work but it was a great opportunity to learn more about editing and organizing a policy report!
Throughout my time at the University of Washington I have focused on studying human rights and immigration through my majors. My research and background is predominantly based on the protection and promotion of human rights both domestically as well as internationally. I also focused on legal and immigration studies and on issues where these concentrations intersect with human rights concerns. During my time at UW, I worked part time in the field of immigration law. I studied the Spanish language abroad in Spain for three months and consider myself proficient in Spanish. After graduating from UW, I plan on ultimately going to law school.
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Henry Zenkichi Fulghum
Earth and Space Sciences
Henry Zenkichi Fulghum
Earth and Space Sciences
Paleobiology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: As a sophomore, I worked as a member of the field crew that recovered the Tufts-Love Tyrannosaurus rex for the Burke Museum.
Thesis: Comparative osteohistology of extant small-bodied mammals with implications for understanding the growth dynamics of Mesozoic mammals
I came to UW as a transfer from Seattle Central Community College. Since becoming a Husky, I've co-authored three papers, mentored dozens of students, and made life-long friendships. While pursuing my degree, I worked as the lab manager for Dr. Gregory Wilson and studied the evolutionary dynamics of mammals across the Cretaceous-Paleogene mass extinction boundary. As a member of the Wilson lab, I spent the last three summers in Montana collecting fossils for the Hell Creek Project and volunteering with the DIG Field School to give K-12 teachers hands-on experiences in geoscience. In the fall, I will continue as manager of the Wilson lab while pursuing a graduate position in paleobiological studies.
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Taylor Bastian
Biology
Taylor Bastian LinkedIn
Biology
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: One of my proudest moments is when I presented my honors portfolio. I was surrounded by peers, friends, and family, and I was able to look back on all the challenges and successes I've had over the years!
My WebsiteTaylor studied Biology with Interdisciplinary Honors, and will be graduating Cum Laude. She sang with the University Chorale during her time at UW and with the University of Washington Chamber singers during her senior year; Taylor also spent much of her time interacting with students in the Honors program as a resident advisor and ARD in the LLC. She loves baking, being outdoors, and her many houseplants. Taylor is excited to work in ecological research next year and pursue a PhD the following year. She hopes to someday be a professor so that she can continue her love of learning and science while helping future students to succeed!
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Aarti D Bodas
Psychology
Aarti D Bodas LinkedIn
Psychology
Global Health
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Receiving the email announcing that I'd been granted the Mary Gates Research Scholarship!
Thesis: 'Can I Count on You?' Infants' Expectations of Prosocial Behavior Across Contexts
My Website aarti.bodas@gmail.comFour years ago as a freshman, I could have never imagined how fulfilling my experience at the UW would be. I never would have guessed that I'd get to do Developmental Psychology research involving infants, that I'd win a research scholarship or that I'd end up getting a full ride to grad school! And above all else, I never imagined having as strong of a support network as I do, because of which I was able to accomplish so many things. The most important lesson that I learned during my time at the UW was to make the most of every experience, and in doing so to be persistent and ambitious, and that is what I carry with me moving forward.
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Maekara Serena Keopanapay
Political Science
Maekara Serena Keopanapay LinkedIn
Political Science
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Finding out I got the Washington State Senate internship and the State Department internship in South Africa!
maekarakeopanapay@gmail.comMy time at the UW fostered my academic, personal, and professional growth while helping me discover my connection to the world around me. I have been part of numerous communities both on and off campus, surrounded by the most hardworking and passionate people. They motivate me to consciously continue and improve upon making spaces inclusive for those who have been historically excluded in politics, international affairs, security, and beyond.
Now, I'm excited to pursue my MA in Security Studies at Georgetown, working toward a career that delves into political violence while prioritizing human security as a method to prevent and alleviate conflict. I am so proud to be a Husky and cheer on the Dawgs from this moment forward!
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Dana Korssjoen
Mathematics
Dana Korssjoen LinkedIn
Mathematics
International Studies
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment at UW was making the switch from majoring in International Studies to Mathematics. It was a massive transition, made especially intimidating because I was already entering my junior year at UW. I was very unsure if I was doing the right thing, and there were few people who could advise me, because few people understood both paths I was considering. Even certain math department staff told me it was too late to make the transition, and that I should give up. But, I trusted my gut. I couldn't be happier with how it all ended up, nor prouder of myself for having had the courage to make such a bold change.
d.korssjoen@outlook.comHi! I'm Dana. I'm graduating with a degree in Mathematics and a minor in International Studies (by the way, I also earned a minor in Applied Mathematics, but I didn't make that one official because it felt a little redundant). My unusual combination of disciplines comes from a deep love of learning and curiosity about the world. I entered UW as an International Studies major, but later fell in love with the creativity and beauty that coexists with the rigor and structure of mathematics.
While at UW, I did research in community involvement in USAID initiatives, natural language processing, and novel applications of graph theory for understanding real number sequences. I was (briefly) in a sorority -- Chi Omega. As a lead writing tutor in the Odegaard Writing & Research Center, I met students from across disciplines and programs at UW, and got to chat with them about reading and writing, which are two of my favorite things. Some of my fondest college memories come from Dean LaRue's International Negotiation Simulation class, where I represented Poland in our model EU sessions all quarter. I even competed in the Global Health Business Case Competition in the Foster School of Business, which was basically a 48-hour intensive course on how to put together a business plan for me (though we won second place!).
Throughout it all, I count myself lucky to have been part of the Honors community. The students and staff of this program are all lit from within by their passion, creativity, and devotion to understanding and improving the world. The most interesting conversations of my life have largely taken place within Honors classes (or have at least been sparked by the curriculum therein).
Since graduating, I've started work as a data scientist at Facebook. I'm looking forward to what else the future brings, and excited to keep connecting with my Honors peers.
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Bailey Taylor Bailey Taylor
Interdisciplinary Visual Art
Bailey Taylor Bailey Taylor
Interdisciplinary Visual Art
Education, Learning, and Society
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: My proudest moment is organizing an online event that raised $10,000 to be distributed between emerging artists and POC owned organizations during the Covid19 crisis.
bentayuw@gmail.com(They/Them)
I am an artist, educator, and organizer that mobilizes art as a tool for social justice. I am a proud GSBA scholar, lifelong activist, and dedicated Seattle community member.Departmental HonorsTags:
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Sydney Dahiyat
Public Health-Global Health
Sydney Dahiyat LinkedIn
Public Health-Global Health
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Getting into the Public Health major on my preferred track!
I'm a Public Health-Global Health Major interested in Global Health and Climate Policy. At the UW, I began as an environmental science major, but quickly realized that I wanted to learn about the intersection of human health and the environment. After interning with an environmental advocacy group one Summer, I noticed the power of policy to inform and improve public health. Since then, I've been dedicated to understanding and researching public health policy topics. I hope to begin working in global health policy in D.C. post-grad.
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Kyle James Curtis
Chemistry (ACS), Biochemistry
Kyle James Curtis LinkedIn
Chemistry (ACS), Biochemistry
Mathematics, Physics
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Having the opportunity to represent the University of Washington on Wheel of Fortune as a College Week champion
kylejamescurtis@gmail.comWith a proud University of Washington alumna for a mom and an ardent Husky football fan for a dad, it was safe to say that I was brainwashed into being a Husky since the day I was born. Growing up, I attended football games with my parents and dreamt of the possibility of attending the University of Washington as a student.
In my time at the UW, I have had the opportunity to pursue my passion in science through my research in the Mack Lab. I have made countless memories and lifelong friendships due to my involvement in the Phi Kappa Sigma Fraternity. I have had the privilege to represent the University of Washington as a College Week champion on Wheel of Fortune. Finally, I have been inspired by the optimism and compassion of the children that I have met through my volunteer work at Seattle Children’s Hospital, which only affirms my desire to one day return to Seattle Children’s Hospital as a physician. I will be attending the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University after graduation.College HonorsTags:
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Diane Shi Wang
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Diane Shi Wang LinkedIn
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: After 7 long years at the UW I have so many cherished memories but one of my favorite moments is when I, along with my peers in an honors class about critical community organizing were able to put on a BIPOC focused talent showcase for the community.
Thesis: Effects of climate change on hemlock woolly adelgid range
dianew1811@gmail.comI am an environmentalist, a poet, home cook, and all around big chiller.
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Thomas A Zadrozny
International Studies and History
Thomas A Zadrozny
International Studies and History
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Performing with Ludovic Morlot and the Seattle Symphony at Benaroya Hall
Thesis: Luxurious Insulae: Medianum Apartments and the Middle Class of Ostia
thomaszad@gmail.comI came to University if Washington from New York, and Seattle has become a second home. To cap my undergraduate education, I interned at U.S. Embassy Dakar, which (hopefully) foreshadows my future career with the Department of State. I played cello in the UW Symphony, ran the Jackson School Journal, camped on the Olympic Peninsula, and studied the ancients in Rome. Honors has brought me wonderful professors, supportive advisors and lifelong friends; it has been an indispensable part of the last five years for me.
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Vy K Pham-Nguyen
Microbiology and Biology
Vy K Pham-Nguyen LinkedIn
Microbiology and Biology
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: I have been able to meet many amazing people, especially through OMAD, that inspired me.
Thesis: Analysis of B cell gene expression during HSV-2 reactivation
During my years at UW, I have opportunities to be a part of many different associations, such as OMAD, TriO McNair, Research Labs... Through there I have learned to become a better version of myself. I am proud to have met all of the amazing people that I met. They were the source of inspiration, and also the reason how I found my passion. I would love to continue pursuing my passion in immunology in the future. In my free time, I love listening to music, eating food and watching cute videos.
Departmental HonorsTags:
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Riley Grace Borden
English literature
Riley Grace Borden LinkedIn
English literature
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: My second-to-last quarter here at UW, I wrote a paper in Jeffery Knight's honors seminar about Shakespeare's so-called "horse sonnets." I have always struggled with research papers, and I never felt like I could read or understand Shakespeare. This turned into the first research paper I felt came fully, loudly, and entirely from own voice, and it was also the first time I realized, after a quarter of careful study, I could read Shakespeare. I have never felt such pride over a research paper before, and since writing it, I have felt like an entire realm of writing has opened up to me.
Thesis: Plathology: Plath, a Piece in the Puzzle of American Women’s Poetry Tradition
rileygraceborden@aol.comHello all! My name is Riley Grace, and after graduating with my two year degree at Skagit Valley Community College, I have been at the UW now for two wonderful, challenging, jam-packed years. Where do I begin to describe this journey? I think I must have told 50 people during my first few weeks at UW how ridiculously joyful I felt every morning to wake up as a student at this university. I had spent months prior researching clubs and groups at UW and planning how I would use every second of my two years. The opportunities at UW ended up being as endless and wide as I hoped and planned for. Now, multiple clubs tried and joined, new people met and befriended, final papers and exams completed later, I feel just as fortunate and thankful. From the professors who dedicated hours to the development of my writing and voice, to engaging classes, to a consciously diverse curriculum, I have most positively been shaped by my experiences as an English major, and I extend my thanks to every individual in the department and across the humanities who made my experience possible. Post graduation, I am looking forward to spending my next three years at UW's law school!
Departmental HonorsTags:
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Bing Yu Lee
Earth & Space Science: Geology, Oceanography
Bing Yu Lee LinkedIn
Earth & Space Science: Geology, Oceanography
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Making my parents proud has always been one of my life goals. And I am glad that I made it today!
Thesis: Understanding the Long-term Tidal Modulation on Methane Bubble Emission at Southern Hydrate Ridge using Acoustics
As a first-generation Malaysian student, I consider myself a privileged one to be given the opportunity to come this far to pursue my bachelor's degree. My UW experience was an adventure, from performing on stage as an actor and dancer, to co-leading FIUTS CulturalFest, the largest cultural event on campus, to field experiences in the mountains and the ocean, and finally indulging in mentoring and doing research. These community building, leadership, field and research experiences have made me who I am today. I have forged so many international friendships and learned so much from stories coming from different parts of the world. Looking forward, I will further pursue my passion for marine geology, specifically in the energy field. I will also continue to challenge myself with new perspectives and keep growing with the hope to contribute to the world one day.
Departmental HonorsTags:
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We love Honors
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Parker Ruth
Computer Engineering and Bioengineering
Parker Ruth LinkedIn
Computer Engineering and Bioengineering
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I'm very honored to have mentored undergraduate and high school students through my research lab and campus organizations. I am tremendously proud of my mentees — it has been thrilling to witness their growth and accomplishments!
Thesis: Design Principles for Mobile and Wearable Health Technologies
My Website psr23@uw.eduI grew up in Bellevue Washington. I chose to attend UW for its outstanding research opportunities in computing and engineering. One of my favorite aspects of my education at UW has been participating in undergraduate research. My research focuses on expanding access to healthcare with mobile applications, wearables, and rapid diagnostic tests. Outside of my research, I enjoy supporting other undergraduates' research experiences as a mentor, and through campus student organizations.
I'm very honored to be recognized with a College of Engineering Dean's Medal. For my undergraduate research, I was awarded a Goldwater Scholarship, Washington Research Foundation Fellowship, Levinson Emerging Scholars Award, and Mary Gates Research Scholarship.
After graduation, I look forward to starting my PhD in computer science at Stanford University with support from a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship.
Thanks to my many amazing mentors for their inspiration and support. Most of all, thanks to my family, especially my mom, for keeping me grounded and making me smile.
College HonorsTags:
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Yana Georgiana Chakalo
Sociology
Yana Georgiana Chakalo
Sociology
Law, Societies, and Justice
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2017/2018
Proudest Moment: Graduating and earning my Baccalaureate degree from the University of Washington with Departmental Honors has been my proudest moment here. It demonstrates my discipline into being a critical thinker and continuously learning. It is more than just a piece of paper earned, it is a journey in which I committed my blood, sweat, and tears to.
Thesis: “Maybe I Shouldn’t Buy a Coffee so I can Pay Off my Student Loans”: Racial Differences in the Moralization of Student Debt
yanac@uw.eduThis is me. A self portrait drawn in graphite. This portrait captures much more of who I am than a photo ever will because I created this representational image of myself, who I am, and what I see. I love drawing, painting, and sketching but I also am a child and first time University graduate of immigrant parents. I have seen and experienced many cultures and ways of life and gone through life's journey leading me here to the University of Washington. During my time here I have gained experience and educated myself in as many disciplines as possible such as art, technology, computer programming, and Sociology. All of these may seem unrelated on the surface but really they all have a connection in the way we learn as people, how we as a society and culture interact with each other, and how we as people develop our identity and sense of self. For four years at the University of Washington I explored the nuances of life, learned about various disciplines in many different fields of knowledge, which all gave greater meaning to my life and my journey for the future. Especially, as an Honors Sociology student and researcher I delved into the studies of society, culture, and people and why we create the lives that we do. Getting down and dirty into the field of social science research taught me a lot about the tendencies of society and the conceptualizations of morality. However, as I learned about other people I also learned about myself which is the greatest gift that this educational journey has given me.
Looking back on my past four years here at the University of Washington and my life I have also taken part in so many amazing positions and opportunities from working with Senator Maria Cantwell to the Seattle City Prosecutors office in the Criminal division to computer software and programming to the Honors Sociology program during my last year here. I am grateful for every single one of these experiences as they have taught me about myself and what my true passions are in life. No matter what I choose to do with my future each opportunity taught me valuable knowledge and skills that are irreplaceable.
For my future I want to incorporate all of my passions and all of these experiences together because no career, job, or area of life is isolated. Science and technology require art just like art requires ideas of science, technology, and innovation. I am excited for what is to come and everything that I will succeed in.Departmental HonorsTags:
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Aashik Raman
Bioengineering
Aashik Raman LinkedIn
Bioengineering
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: Jumping into Drumheller Fountain after finishing my last final of my undergraduate career.
Thesis: Development of a Cuboidal Cancer Tissue Model for Intravenous Flow and Drug Delivery
aashik_raman@yahoo.comI have always been fascinated with the way we can combine technology and technology to help improve the lives of those around us. For this reason I chose to major in Bioengineering and I could not be more happy with my choice. The things that I have learned from UW have set me up to become the best possible version of myself. In my free time you can find me at the climbing gym or outdoors with friends exploring all the nature that Washington has to offer.
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Ritika Jain
Bioengineering
Ritika Jain LinkedIn
Bioengineering
Applied Mathematics, Chemistry
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Finishing the reorganization of the ASUW Board of Directors' responsibilities to promote cohesion in roles
Thesis: CXCR4 Overexpression for Increased Renal Progenitor Cell Homing in Response to Kidney Damage
ritjain314@gmail.comI've been working in Dr. Suzie Pun's lab as an undergraduate research assistant for about three and a half years now. In this role, I've worked mainly on projects related to improving therapies for chronic kidney disease through targeted drug delivery as well as regenerative medicine approaches. This fall, I'm planning on starting my first year as a doctoral student in biomedical engineering at Georgia Tech and Emory.
In addition to my academic work and research, I've also been involved in leadership around campus mainly through the Office of Minority Affairs & Diversity and the Associated Students of the University of Washington.
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MaKenzie Paige Fockler
Civil Engineering
MaKenzie Paige Fockler
Civil Engineering
Designation: College Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: A toss up between becoming a Bonderman fellow and successfully getting water to 9 homes in rural Nicaragua.
Thesis: An Analysis and Application of Hofstede's Cultural Dimensions in Seattle
My Website makenzie.fockler@gmail.comMy time at UW helped me continue to cultivate a passion for international development work and find ways to use my engineering degree to positively impact others. As a freshman, I joined Engineers without Borders and joined the executive committee. By the end of my freshman year, I started our new international program in Tortuga, Nicaragua, where I got to lead three trips down to the community to work on water and sanitation projects before the political chaos broke out in April 2018. This organization played a huge role in my time at UW and I served as President during my senior year. I also volunteered by teaching an English class to immigrants, refugees, and visiting scholars for over a year at an institution near campus. I spent a few summers serving as a camp counselor at Dunes Bible Camp in Ocean Park, WA and interned at RH2 Engineering as part of their water and sanitation group.
During Winter quarter of my senior year, I studied abroad in Bangalore, India as part of the Grand Challenges Impact Lab. For the first 3 weeks, I learned about different humanitarian problems facing both India and the world as a whole, such as water scarcity, adequate sanitation, waste management, education, and sustainable building materials. Then, the other 7 weeks, I interned at APSA, an education-focused NGO based in Bangalore. I helped with career counseling and analyzing an educational computer program at a school for girls who were rescued from sex trafficking, abuse, and other tough backgrounds. For my capstone, I worked in a team to develop the plans for a start-up called the Mobile Learning Center, which combined hands-on learning and career counseling at underprivileged schools through Bangalore.
Overall, I have gotten a lot out of my time at UW and am grateful for all the experiences I have had the last four years. My next great adventure is the Bonderman Travel Fellowship, which is 8 months of solo travel that I am leaving for at the end of June. I am very honored to have been selected for this fellowship and cannot wait to leave! My potential future plans involve becoming a WASH volunteer in Peace Corps, working at a consulting engineering firm focused on water and sanitation, continuing to be involved in community-driven development projects, and maybe going to grad school to study low resource engineering.College HonorsTags:
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Mitchell Otis Estberg
B.S. in Computer Science & B.A. in Japanese
Mitchell Otis Estberg LinkedIn
B.S. in Computer Science & B.A. in Japanese
Mathematics Minor
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: At the end of my fourth quarter TAing, the students in my section all gave me perfect ratings. There's always room to improve, but it felt great to know my efforts were appreciated.
My Website estberg.mo@gmail.comI grew up in Evanston, Illinois and spent the last four years studying at UW and Waseda. I spent most my time on learning CS, Japanese, and Math and helping teach intro CS. I also tried volunteering, playing bass, and exploring Seattle and Tokyo on bike. If there's every anything I can help you out with, definitely reach out. Looking forward to learning and teaching for the years to come!
Interdisciplinary HonorsTags:
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Robert Thadeus Sternberg
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Robert Thadeus Sternberg
Environmental Science and Resource Management
Quantitative Science
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2018/2019
Proudest Moment: Becoming a Bonderman Fellow
Thesis: Diet Composition of Carnivores in the Western United States Over the Last Century
thadeus@uw.eduFrom a very young age, I have had a love for the outdoors and studying animals. Both of my parents have jobs in the environmental field, leading me to aspire to be like them when I came of age. They have been my biggest supporters and I cannot thank them enough for encouraging me while I pursue my dreams. I am currently an undergraduate student in my last year at the University of Washington. I am obtaining a B.S. in Environmental Science and Resource Management with a focus in Wildlife Conservation. I am also minoring in Quantitative Science. Before attending the UW, I transferred universities twice while balancing financial hardships with my scholarly career. I am extremely proud to be graduating alongside my peers, having finished my bachelor's in only four years. My time here at the University of Washington has provided me with many resources and truly set me up for the future. While at the UW, I have worked in both the Predator Ecology lab and the Disturbance Ecology lab in the School of Environmental and Forest Sciences. Both experiences have prepared me for a career in the realm of ecology and inspired me to continue my education in a graduate program. Before starting graduate school, I have accepted a wildlife technician position with the University of Illinois - Springfield where I will be reintroducing and monitoring state endangered Osprey. Following this summer, I have the privilege of travelling the world as part of the Bonderman Travel Fellowship. My long-term career aspirations are to work for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife or United States Fish and Wildlife Service managing wildlife populations, specifically focusing on predators.
Departmental HonorsTags:
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Daniel K Rui
Mathematics and CS
Daniel K Rui
Mathematics and CS
Designation: Departmental Honors
Honors Grads 2020/2021
Proudest Moment: I'm proud of all the world I've done (UW certainly put me through a lot!), and capping it all off with my thesis (a year of work!) is quite satisfying indeed.
Thesis: Manifolds, Motivated
My WebsiteInterested in pure math (from "classical" subjects like algebra/analysis/topology to "modern" ones like theoretical CS/algos) and maybe some programming; I also enjoy music (particularly classical, as I am a pianist) and hiking/just vibing outdoors (perhaps due to having been raised in Boulder, CO), and of course the standard fare like movies, reading, thinking about art/humanity/the universe, etcetera.
Departmental HonorsTags:
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Ariela Maya Shortt Sanchez
Biology
Ariela Maya Shortt Sanchez
Biology
Dance
Designation: Interdisciplinary Honors
Honors Grads 2019/2020
Proudest Moment: Receiving the 2018 Homecoming Royalty Award
ariela.sanchez@gamil.comI am a passionate and curious individual who has developed a love for science through understanding the human body. My curiosity has led me to explore biology at the ecological, evolutionary, physiological and molecular levels but as a woman in STEM the most important skill is applying that knowledge in ways that dismantle systems of oppression and uplift communities and voices. I have spent my time at UW understanding my own identity but also the stories and complex identities of my peers. Becoming educated is one of the most special gifts in life and I could do so while also creating a community of amazing, bright, kind-hearted activists, artists, scientist, philanthropists and storytellers. I would not be graduating today if it weren't for staff and faculty who created safe spaces for curiosity and self-discovery. I could name a million folks working in UW Honors, ECC, EOP, OMAD, IC, La Raza, PISC, UW Arts Diversity Council, UW Biology, Burke Museum and Anthropology department. Just amazing people who really invest and be
Honors Grad Profiles
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Amanda Elaine Chalfant
Computer Science
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Jeffrey Adair Taylor-Kantz
Public Health - Global Health
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Bridger Machus
Natural and Environmental Resource Management
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Makayla Akuyah Ndamele
Public Health-Global Health
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Evan Edmund Cunningham Epstein
Chemical Engineering
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Stephanie Taylor Wong
Human Centered Design & Engineering
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Carolyn Brager
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
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Diego Molina Ochoa
Biology(Physiology)
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We love Honors
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Vivian Phan Jones
Chemical Engineering
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Grace Shannon Woodard
Psychology
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Em Chapple
BS Psychology
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Anders B Peterson
English
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Sophie I Muro
Anthropology
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Georgia Coleman
Environmental Science and Resource Management
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Jake T Woods
Communication
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Aarthi Ganapathi
Business Administration - Operations and Supply Chain Management & Information Systems
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Chiara Rose DeSantis
Public Health - Global Health and Spanish
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Marium Raza
Biochemistry & CHID
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Chang (Kelly) Lu
Accounting
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Oakley Reid
Microbiology
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We love Honors
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Nicholas Philip Radulovich
Physiology (B.S), French Honors (B.A)
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Conor Miles
Psychology, BS
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Teshan Laucirica
Anthropology of Globalization
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Shoaib Nahas
Business Administration (Marketing & Information Systems)
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Katie Champoux
Neurobiology and Psychology
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Jesse Du
History and Human Centered Design & Engineering
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Ethan Spencer
Microbiology
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Sabrina Suen
Political Science, Political Economy
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Christine Dien
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
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Thu Thu May Oo
Medical Anthropology and Global Health
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Elise Victoria Aydelott
Psychology
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Rae Wang
Finance, Marketing
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Kelly Crebs
Biology
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Gina Pak
Environmental Studies
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Aradia Elenor Webb
English, Language and Literature
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Rohnin W. Randles
Political Science
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Chengjun Zhang
Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences, Economics
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Zoë Love Mertz
English / Creative Writing
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Gabrielle Anjelica Gersten
Public Health--Global Health
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Neta Simon
Microbiology
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Shana Reka Edouard
Earth and Space Sciences
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Melissa Valasky
Biology
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Wylie Fu-Xing Kau
Chemical Engineering
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Madisen Mead
Accounting, Finance (Business Administration)
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Sophie Ye
Business Administration: Finance; Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences: Quantitative Finance and Mathematical Economics
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Tanmay Sapre
Bioengineering
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Maria Dyann Osborne
English, Mathematics
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Iman Mustafa
Law, Societies and Justice
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Cen Wei
English and Economics
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Chi T Truong
Biochemistry
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Jakar Delacruz
Public Health - Global Health
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Sofia Dolce
Industrial and Systems Engineering
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Lais Lastre Conceicao
Neuroscience, Biochemistry
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Anastasia Evgenievna Voronina
Business Administration - Entrepreneurship
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Christine Lew
Disability Studies, Psychology
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Kylie H Sahota
Aquatic and Fishery Sciences
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Samantha N Fredman
Law, Societies, and Justice
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Dani A Benedict
Social Welfare
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William Karl Selboe Ojemann
Bioengineering
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Ann Nguyen
Nursing, Public Health
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Aleenah H Ansari
Human Centered Design & Engineering; Comparative History of Ideas
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Megan Renee Sellman
Dance; Education, Community & Organizations
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Arwa Mokdad
International Studies
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Zeyu Ye
Comprehensive Physics, Electrical Engineering
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Sydney C Bowker
Biochemistry
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Anya Zhen Watson
English and Philosophy
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Cameron Alexis Wood
Human Centered Design & Engineering
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Samara Danielle Kleinfinger
Environmental Studies
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Aniruddh Saxena
Bioengineering
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Hannah Farrell
Law, Societies, and Justice
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Taylor Blau
Computer Science
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Annie Marie Lewis
English and History
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Karen Zhang
Biochemistry, Microbiology
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Katie Rainsberger
Human Evolutionary Biology; Medical Anthropology & Global Health
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Mackenzie Shen
BA in Accounting, BA in Economics
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Kelsey B Kinoshita
Philosophy (Honors) and Law, Societies, and Justice
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Jennifer Song
Physiology
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Kate Turk
Biology (Physiology)
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Elizabeth Mayer
International Studies; Russian Language, Literature, & Culture
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Annelise Colburn
Psychology and Scandinavian Area Studies
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Komal Susheela Ghirnikar
Sociology and Communication
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Annie Mae Barker
English Language and Literature
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Brian Dang
Drama and English Literature and Language
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Adrienne Elise Hubbard
Geography
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Caleb Ellington
Computer Science, Bioengineering
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Elena Orlando
Law, Societies & Justice
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Anand S Sekar
Computer Engineering
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Megan Christina Robillard
Public Health-Global Health
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James Julian Means
English
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Meghan E Frisch
B.A. Public Health - Global Health
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Mengfei (Anna) Liu
Psychology
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Diego Andreas M. Lingad
International Studies (Development)
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We love Honors
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Katie Chua
Business Administration (Marketing Concentration) & English: Language and Literature
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Camila Palacio
Electrical Engineer
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Ken Aragon
Computer Science
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Jesse Du
History (B.A.), Human Centered Design & Engineering (B.S.)
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Maya Kay Norton
Comparative History of Ideas
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Priyanka Taneja
Physiology
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Katherine Germond Biely
Political Science
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Gabrielle Elizabeth Endicott
Biology (MCD) and Philosophy
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Tian (Sky) Qiu
Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences - Data Science and Statistics
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Nitya Sampath
Linguistics
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Praphanit Doowa
Communication: Journalism
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Alexander David Peterson
Economics
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We love Honors
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Sam Wooley
English
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Brian Lusby
Biochemistry
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Piper S Cramer
Bioengineering
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Ruby Virginia Rawlinson
Law, Societies & Justice
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Jingshu (Cynthia) Jiang
Finance
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Max Bryla
Economics
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Cristian Josue Rivera Nales
B.S. in Psychology
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Hanna K Puetz
B.A. in Business Administration, Marketing & The Professional Sales Certificate
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Hope J Dorris
Law, Societies, & Justice and Political Science
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Madeline Elizabeth Ile
Music (Voice), Communication
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Emily Rose Flanagan
Statistics, Mathematics
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Autumn Capper
Biology (Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental)
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Lena H Nguyen
Social Welfare
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Lorraine Alexa Abagatnan
Classics
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Alex Ianchenko
Architectural Design
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Anna Dong
Neuroscience; Biochemistry
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Max Florian Steiner
Chemical Engineering
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Harrison Sarsito
Chemical Engineering
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Caitlin E McIlwain
Economics
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Drake Anthony Russell
B.S. Biochemistry, B.A. Medical Anthropology
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Alice Ranjan
Microbiology & Molecular/Cellular/Developmental Biology
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Carra N Bowes
Philosophy
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Meena Sethuraman
Neurobiology
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Griffin R Dugan
Psychology (B.S.), Communication (B.A.)
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Levi J. Sy
B.S. in Biochemistry & B.A. in Russian Language, Literature, & Culture
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Riti Biswas
Bioengineering
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Alexander Le
Electrical Engineering, Geography
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Patricia Popp
Computer Science
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Marissa Lorberau
English
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Ashley Tang
International Studies
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Katrina Salazar Punzalan
American Ethnic Studies and Law, Societies, and Justice
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Alishia E Orloff
Environmental Science and Resource Management
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Ariana Winkler
Environmental Science & Resource Management and Environmental Studies
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Thelonious Goerz
Sociology
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David Alejandro Alvarez
Communication
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Kari Hope Bergstedt
Human Centered Design & Engineering
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We love Honors
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Sophia Bidinger
Materials science & engineering
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Nikou Lei
Physics (B.S.), Mathematics (B.A.)
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Jaclyn Shallat
Microbiology
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Ganesh Shrestha
Architectural Design
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Eleanor Mount
Political Science and Law, Societies and Justice
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Tessa Katherine Kolstad
Biology, Nursing
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Alexis Malia Marcelino Calma
Art History & English Language and Literature
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Kristina V Randrup
Environmental Science and Resource Management: Wildlife Conservation
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Courtney Claire Renaud
English
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Maia Mae Cunningham
Medical Anthropology & Global Health
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Becky Darrow
Bioengineering
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Lingke Zhong
Biochemistry
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Stephanie Douglas
Bachelors of Arts in Business Administration
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Alissa M Jean-Baptiste
Art - Concentration in Painting and Drawing
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Kendall Horan
English (Creative Writing)
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Shih-Hsuan Hsu
Economics and Computer Science
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Jacque Li
Computer Science
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Rachel Kisela
Sociology
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Kera Smith Zegar
Environmental Studies
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Evyn Grace Kuske
English & Education, Communities, and Organizations
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Chelsea Shu
Biochemistry
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Kisho M Fukuoka
Neuroscience
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Fredrik Mansfield
Comparative History of Ideas
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Sanne Casello
Neuroscience
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We love Honors
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Gurdeep Gill
Philosopyhy
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Siobhan Mary Wells
Political Science: International Security
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Zuoying Gloria Liu
Economics
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Claire Prianka Kasinadhuni
Environmental Studies
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Joanne Chen
Finance and Marketing
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Maria Isabel Zamora
Interdisciplinary Visual Arts
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Nikki Kurtz
Law, Societies and Justice
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James Oliver Randall
Social Welfare
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Yinan Xu
Psychology
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Rhyannon Elizabeth Hayes
History, Political Science (International Security)
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Bryce Martz
Computer Science
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Hyae Won Hannah Redden
Bioengineering, Biochemistry
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We love Honors
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Sean Milad Toulouie
Bioengineering
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Mimi Reed
Environmental Science and Resource Management
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Kiran Singh
Political Science: International Security
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Elizabeth Rylance
Neuroscience
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Nathan Mock
Environmental Studies
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Katherine Gwyn
Political Science & Communication
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Kyla E Wright
Neuroscience
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Emily Paige Menz
B.S. Economics, B.A. Environmental Studies
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Indigo A Doll
Environmental Science and Resource Management
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Sierra Bonilla
Bioengineering
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Stephen Anthony Chmelewski
Political Science, Spanish
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Lyddie Jo Austin
Environmental Engineering
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We love Honors
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Nona Lynn Hunter
Nursing
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Mengwei (Crystal) Chen
Marketing & English
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Elise Lynn Jacobsen
Law, Societies, and Justice
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Madeline O'Dwyer
Environmental Science and Resource Management
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Tina Chen
Computer Science
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Zoe Moser
Psycholgy
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Savanna Yee
Computer Science + Informatics (Human-Computer Interaction)
-
Vanessa Hannah Lim
Psychology
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Maya Green
International Studies & Art History
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Maia Luz Sinteral-Scott
English
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Tayler Hoftell
Materials Science & Engineering
-
Randall Rodriguez
Philosophy
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We love Honors
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Justen Thomas Hardaway
Biology Physiology
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Linda R Zhang
History; International Studies (Asia)
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Krithi Basu
Bioengineering
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Jacquelyn E Mixon
Art History and Honors Painting and Drawing
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Sylvia Jurgens
Art
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Adree Songco-Aguas
Neurobiology
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Chyenne N. Andrews
Art History & History
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Hailee Christine Herbst
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
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Ge Shang
Psychology
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Korok Sarkar
Microbiology
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Haley Margaret Staudmyer
Atmospheric Sciences
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Kara Haney
International Studies
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We love Honors
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Ingrid Pelletier
Architectural Design
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Laura Anne Mackenzie Bowlin
Psychology
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Liz Chao
Accounting and Information Systems
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Garrett Andrew Esko
Philosophy
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Claire Kinney Gallaudet
Communication
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Tamar Noa Leveson
English Literature
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Regan Gong
Psychology and International Studies: Comparative Religion
-
Sheila Panyam
Philosophy
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Jack R Simison
Business Administration (Finance)
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Danny Paul Streichert Roberts
Aeronautics & Astronautics Engineering
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Boya Ouyang
English (Creative Writing), Mathematics (Philosophy), Philosophy
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Isaac Burton Love
Computer Engineering and Mathematics
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We love Honors
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Dax Tate
History
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Niki Seligman
Psychology and International Studies
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Emma Jewell Scher
Sociology with Honors, and Journalism and Public Interest Communication (JPIC)
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Marielle v Trumbauer
International Studies: Foreign Policy
-
Satchel Smidt
Operations & Supply Chain Management, Information Systems
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Brendon E Davis
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology (B.S.); Mathematics (B.A.)
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Elaine Katherine Currie
Psychology
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Kaley M Aldrich
Political Science & English
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Noah Emmett Leary Johnson
Mechanical Engineering
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Grace Novacek
Biology
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Parsa Alba Farhang
Neuroscience
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David Hales
Chemistry (ACS cert.); Physics (Applied)
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We love Honors
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Sarah M Kneadler
ESRM
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Ryan M Littrell
Physics
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Ashley Grace Hillis
Environmental Science and Resource Management
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Aria Rose Tornabene
Neuroscience
-
Ryann Leigh Funk
B.A. in Communication and Photo/Media
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Catherine Wilborn
Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering
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Ari N Geary-Teeter
Biology and Philosophy
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Ricky Spaulding
English
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Yikai Xu
Finance & Mathematics
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Kaia Boonzaier
International Studies and Economics
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Claire "CG" Gupta
Law, Societies and Justice
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Elizabeth H McKinnie
Computer Science; Applied and Computational Mathematical Sciences (ACMS)
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We love Honors
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Kendrick Lu
International Studies
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Kevin Andrew Nguyen
Physiology
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Shannon Gu
Biology: Physiology
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Aria R Tornabene
Neuroscience
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Cedrik Riley Pearson
Geography/GIS
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Nicola Kalderash
Informatics; International Studies
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Masaki Rhodes
Biochemistry and Economics
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Severiano Sandomirsky
Aeronautics and Astronautics
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Pubo Huang
Mathematics
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Kate Verity Luken Raz
Bachelor of Science in Psychology
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Josh Maxwell Pollock
Computer Science
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Jiafei Li
Psychology
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We love Honors
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Ruxandra Maria Ionescu
Art History
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Rayne Tineal Anderson
Materials Science and Engineering
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Aria Elaine Garrett
Biochemistry
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Kyla Renee Bivens
Aquatic & Fishery Sciences
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Amelia Marie Barr
Mechanical Engineering
-
Fa'aumu Kaimana
Anthropology: Medical Anthropology & Global Health, Sociology
-
Taylor V. Halverson
Communication & Scandinavian Studies
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Lukas RYE Metzner
Neuroscience
-
Caylyn Rich
International Studies
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Katherine Scannell-Daniel
History and Political Science
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Katie Gibian
Environmental Science - Wildlife Conservation
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Abigail Marie Taylor
Journalism
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We love Honors
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Kerrie Lynn Agosta
Anthropology
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Terezia Maria Redfern
Spanish Language and Literature
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Kurt A Delegard
Comprehensive Physics
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Brandon Edwards
Linguistics, Psychology
-
Annapurni Sriram
Bioengineering
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Jocelyn Ines Beausire
Music (Voice Performance), Architecture Studies
-
Juliet Romano-Olsen
International Studies
-
Ian Gwin
Linguistics, Scandinavian Area Studies
-
Lisa Rei Courtney
Civil and Environmental Engineering
-
Victoria Grace Joy Fox
Environmental Science and Resource Management
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Michaela Leung
Earth and Space Sciences
-
Natalie Upton
Psychology B.S.
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We love Honors
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Anika K Padwekar
Computer Science
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Jenna Truong
Environmental Studies
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Grace Stephenson
International Studies
-
Sarah Cooper
Neuroscience
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Riley K Brown
Finance and Marketing
-
Leah Osnis
Biochemistry
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Intisar MKheseer
Neurobiology and Biochemistry
-
Irene Kuo
Accounting, Information Systems
-
Stacie Tao
Social Welfare (BSW) and Early Childhood & Family Studies
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Saralyn Hormachuelos Santos
Informatics: Human-Computer Interaction
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Bochen Steve Ma
Computer Science
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James Thomas Parks
Business Administration - Accounting
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We love Honors
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Melissa Birchfield
Computer Science
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Brian Chan
Communication
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Amy Xu
Computer Science, Histoy
-
Emily Margaret Thomas
Chemical Engineering
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Daniel C Brock
Biochemistry, Biology (Molecular, Cellular, & Developmental)
-
Audrey Immel
Public Health-Global Health
-
Ben LaRoche
BS Mechanical Engineering
-
Olivia Danielle Perrone
English
-
Zhouyihan Li
biochemistry
-
Sharron V Orr
Dance
-
Alisa Das
Business Administration (Information Systems and Operations Management/Supply Chain)
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Lauryn Kay Stafford
Public Health-Global Health & Economics
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We love Honors
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Mac Murray
English - Creative Writing
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Kate Pierce
Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
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Claire Fahlman
Law, Societies & Justice
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Audi L Brown
Gender, Women & Sexuality Studies
-
Brian Kang
Economics & ACMS (ME)
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Christopher Erwin Hogan
Drama Performance
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Angie Lai
Environmental Studies
-
Jion Yi
International Studies, Informatics
-
Leah Cantor
English and Public Health
-
Karinne Elise Sandstrom
Business Administration, Information Systems and Marketing
-
Kiana Alexis Rahni
Economics & Political Science
-
Ethan F Knight
Neuroscience (B.S.), Public Health-Global Health (B.S.)
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We love Honors
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Julia R Bauman
Neurobiology
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Ian S Platou
Italian Studies
-
Olivia G. Kotha
Asian Studies
-
Kieran Lewis
Biochemistry
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Zachary Costa
Business Administration, Accounting and Finance
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Emma Josephine Spickard
Public Health (BS)
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Haleh Mawson
Ecology, Evolution & Conservation Biology
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Briana E Lee
Biochemistry and Neurobiology
-
Jalene A Weatherholt
Environmental Science Resource Management
-
Bishir Darra
Materials Science & Engineering
-
Karen Liu
Environmental Science and Terrestrial Resource Management
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Emma S Schnee
International Studies
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We love Honors
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Kathleen Marie Meredith
English, Communication
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Madison Rose Bristol
Dance, Environmental Science & Terrestrial Resource Management
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Annalena Rose Peterson
Business Administration: Finance
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Joshua Shin
Computer Science
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Elyse Janzen
Psychology
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Matthew Lucas Ostrom
Industrial Engineering
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Madeline G Clarke
Informatics
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Sofia Cababa Wood
Visual Communication Design (VCD)
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Maxwell J Kahn
Geography - Geographic Information Systems
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Irika Sinha
Biochemistry; Biology (Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental)
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Audrey Marie Conrad
International Studies (General); Political Science
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Henry Zenkichi Fulghum
Earth and Space Sciences
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We love Honors
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Taylor Bastian
Biology
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Aarti D Bodas
Psychology
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Maekara Serena Keopanapay
Political Science
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Dana Korssjoen
Mathematics
-
Bailey Taylor Bailey Taylor
Interdisciplinary Visual Art
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Sydney Dahiyat
Public Health-Global Health
-
Kyle James Curtis
Chemistry (ACS), Biochemistry
-
Diane Shi Wang
Environmental Science and Resource Management
-
Thomas A Zadrozny
International Studies and History
-
Vy K Pham-Nguyen
Microbiology and Biology
-
Riley Grace Borden
English literature
-
Bing Yu Lee
Earth & Space Science: Geology, Oceanography
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We love Honors
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Parker Ruth
Computer Engineering and Bioengineering
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Yana Georgiana Chakalo
Sociology
-
Aashik Raman
Bioengineering
-
Ritika Jain
Bioengineering
-
MaKenzie Paige Fockler
Civil Engineering
-
Mitchell Otis Estberg
B.S. in Computer Science & B.A. in Japanese
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Robert Thadeus Sternberg
Environmental Science and Resource Management
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Daniel K Rui
Mathematics and CS
-
Ariela Maya Shortt Sanchez
Biology