I chose my path of MD/PhD because it’s where curiosity met compassion. Growing up homeschooled in central Florida, my education was shaped by the world around me, swamps, tide pools, and the creatures that lived in them. I was constantly asking why, pulling apart the pieces of life, from dissecting squids to studying mangrove ecosystems. But it wasn’t until a physician explained the connection between a squid’s blue blood and cancer research that I realized the biological world could inform human health in profound ways. What began as a love for understanding natural systems evolved into a commitment to patient-centered science. My winding journey, from acting in Shakespeare plays, working hospice shifts, spending late hours in the chemistry research building, volunteering for local EMS, and coding research on mindfulness, has taught me that real impact lies where research and empathy meet. Becoming a physician-scientist allows me to not only explore the complexities of life at the molecular level but also translate those discoveries into serving others. One piece of advice I would give to someone who wants to get involved in the Honors Program is don’t be afraid to write your own script. There’s no such thing as a "normal" path, and some of the most powerful growth happens in the unexpected pauses or pivots. Whether you’re in a class not related to your major or have an obstacle that you didn’t expect, it’s all part of the bigger picture of who you’re becoming. Take the time to explore your curiosity. Let it guide you, even if it leads somewhere totally new. #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

I have always wanted to be a change agent in the world, leaving an impact on the lives of others, especially in medicine. During my first and second year of the pandemic, I was part of the Public Health House Learning Community. Being a part of this community stimulated my interest in urban community health, advocating for others while also focusing on mentorship from UConn. This new family encouraged me to further my intellectual curiosity and innate desire to team with others. I wanted to take things from a micro view and apply it to a macro, more global view. The pandemic had transformed and encouraged me to be my best self in becoming an EMT, knowing that my path was destined towards medicine. Throughout my time in the Honors & Rowe Scholars Program, I have sought endless opportunities to enrich my experiences as a student, but also as a future healthcare provider/leader. Within Honors, I have received, and then provided, successful mentoring, interdisciplinary courses, educational enrichment, community service, and professional development. However, I have also been able to share what I have learned as an Undergraduate TA, RA, and peer leader. I have been able to work clinically as an Emergency Department Technician at Yale-New Haven Hospital, and participate in KDSAP which focuses on kidney/nephrology screening for healthcare access to disadvantaged communities. Based on these 4 years while at UConn, I was able to craft my own Honors Thesis. In partnering with another medical institution, I integrated my unique medical academic pursuits (cellular & molecular /neuroscience) with my UHL Leadership Project in shedding light on urban community health, social determinants of health, and vulnerable populations. Honors provides resources for everyone to grow and discover themselves. My experience and advice to future Honors students would be: Ask questions continuously, Dare to do the Impossible, and continue to reach for the stars. Not only have I, and continue to, met amazing people in Honors, but have embarked on a supportive, academically rigorous, life plan while cherishing this lifelong network of scholars and forever friends. #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

I love to see how interconnected we all are within the Honors community! I often run into other Honors students in multiple organizations and classes. The Honors community is incredibly active within UConn, meaning that I am always bound to find someone from Honors wherever I go. I have gotten some of my biggest opportunities at UConn from the Honors Program. The Honors organizations and awards available have allowed me to connect with faculty and Honors staff on campus in a more nuanced way, leading to many other doors opened within UConn and my professional endeavors. #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

One thing I find interesting about my Honors courses are the smaller class sizes. This makes it easier to ask any questions to the professor and it makes it easier to collaborate with my peers. I like learning through interactive means and the Honors classes allow for that in comparison to the normal lectures with many people. One piece of advice I would give someone joining the Honors Program is to be aware of the events and projects around you. There are so many opportunities to get involved and many resources are available. I believe it is important to be aware of the opportunities that could help you have a better experience at UConn, especially in the Honors Program. #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

I find that the community and support I feel as a member of the Honors community makes me feel right at home at UConn. I love being around people who have a drive to always learn more while also understanding the importance of a school/life balance. Being able to have a support system around you with people who encourage you to be the best version of yourself academically, socially, and physically, has been super encouraging especially during my first year here at UConn! The most exciting thing I find about UConn is the endless opportunity to try/do something new. I love having the ability to explore areas within and outside of my major especially when it comes to getting involved in various clubs and activities. In addition, there is always something going on, on campus such as SUBOG events, athletic games, and much more! #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

I`m studying Film/Video Production within Digital Media and Design because film is such an accessible medium. I`ve always been a storyteller, and the idea of bringing to life intricate visual worlds like those of the movies I loved growing up is so exciting. There is so much room for creativity and detail in film that you can do pretty much anything with it!

What makes me happy about being a member of the Honors community is that there is such a great group of people here. Everyone is so kind and welcoming! Working on the Honors GPS team, I am part of a unit of wonderful people who are dedicated to helping others and creating a positive environment here. There is always positive energy in the office and something exciting going on around campus, and that really helps bring this community together. #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

I am a Junior majoring in Computer Science at UConn Stamford. Although I love learning about technology, I was worried that I would be giving up the chance to learn about other topics I enjoy such as psychology or business. Getting involved on campus gave me a chance to be more well-rounded in terms of career knowledge. Also, having a computer science background has helped me grasp technological platforms and resources more quickly, which was particularly helpful when I became the UConn Stamford Intramural Sports Manager and needed to handle team registration and communication. My jobs and involvement have drastically impacted my well-being and sense of belonging as a student as I cherish the connections I have made with faculty, staff, and peers. If you are considering joining the Honors Program, then you should join the Honors Program. Chances are there is something in the Honors Program that has interested you enough to do some research on it, and for that reason, I think you should grab the opportunity. Honors is a bit of work, but nothing you cannot handle! It is a great deal because you get more out of it than what you put in. My favorite part of being in Honors is getting the chance to have in-depth and passionate conversations with my professors. I enjoy learning about their experiences in the field and value the information they give me. Also, you can wear two medals at graduation! It`s a win-win. #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

What I find most exciting about UConn is the amount of opportunities there are! Coming from a small hometown, I`m constantly amazed at the gigantic amount of professional, academic, and extracurricular opportunities that UConn offers! From research grants to sports clubs and career fairs, there are so many events and organizations out there that cater to interests you didn`t even know you had! It`s a big enough school that there will be something there for everyone! For me, finding opportunities to conduct and present historical research is something that I wouldn`t have imagined coming from high school, and I`m truly grateful that UConn offers as many resources as it does. For someone who wants to get involved in the Honors Program, I would advise them to find your limit! Many Honors students are supremely motivated and want to be involved in everything under the sun. While it`s great to explore what UConn has to offer, especially as a first-year student, don`t feel pressured to join every club or be a part of every event! Take some time to relax and keep track of your mental health! I promise you that you`ll feel much more energized and less stressed in the long term, even if you feel like you`re missing out on opportunities in the short term. #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

One piece of advice that I would give to someone who wants to get involved in the Honors Program is to be prepared to be challenged. The Honors Program is all about doing and learning more than the bare minimum. The additional assignments and tasks will help you learn more not only about a topic or class but also so many soft and hard skills in the process. Even though I am a member of the Honors community on a regional campus, and I didn`t have a typical experience, what makes me happy is that my voice is heard and that the community is growing and evolving. Being a part of the Honors community, I learned so much more that has truly added value to my professional life. #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

When learning of my acceptance to the UConn Honors Program, I immediately knew that UConn would be my home for the next four years. The Honors Program is something that is very special to me and has made my experience as a student truly excellent. Being a member of the Honors Program has provided me a caring and connected community between all of the Honors staff and peers. From my time in my Honors first-year dormitory, Shippee, I have made friendships with many fantastic people that are honest, dependable, and hardworking. We continuously push one another to be the best people and students possible. Further, the Honors community has provided countless opportunities that I otherwise would not have expected. For instance, the Honors Program allowed for my involvement in the Special Program in Law, provided the research opportunity of the Bennett Honors Research Assistance Program, and encouraged my position as a Facilitator`s Assistant in a Honors Course. Most importantly, I now have the opportunity to continue my Honors education abroad as I am studying at the University of Granada in the Spring of 2024. The Honors Program has granted me so many possibilities and created so many remarkable relationships. I am forever grateful for my time as a Honors student and as a Husky. #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

If you know me, you know how indecisive I can be. I need at least a three-day notice before making important decisions, including what to order at an ice cream shop. So, when I had to decide where I wanted to go to college, you can imagine how stressful that decision was for me. So, I flipped a coin and committed to UConn. Since then, I seriously think coins are magical. As a UConn Honors student, I`ve had the opportunity to try new things that I never thought I would, including participating in Honors events like hack-a-thons (my team won as the youngest, all-female team!), facilitating a UNIV 1784 course, and making so many intelligent, hard-working, and genuine friends. I even joined a dance team, Husky Bhangra, even though I never tried the dance style before auditioning! UConn Honors challenges me to be a thoughtful and responsible leader, global citizen, and student. I can`t wait to see what my next two-and-a-half years at UConn bring me, and I`ll forever be grateful for that coin toss. #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

What I enjoy about the Honors program is the opportunity to interact with peers of various different educational goals but sharing the commonality of being in Honors. The Honors program connects me with students on the forefront of innovation and it’s enjoyable to just listen to the work they’re doing. I really think this program gives you the opportunity to learn anything at a deeper level, whether that be with Honors classes or Honors events. If you’re intellectually curious, and care deeply about your academics, then UConn Honors is for you! #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

Coming into my freshman year of college, I was so overwhelmed. It was my first time living independently from my parents and I came in knowing five people who attended my high school. I can confidently say that being in the Honors Program has not only given me a supportive community of friends, but also motivation when it comes to my academics. The Honors Program might sound intimidating at first, however, with the support system that I was able to receive from my teachers, peers, and RA, being given the ability to be a part of the Honors Program has been an absolute blessing. Whether you are considering applying for the Honors Program or accepting the offer to be in the Honors Program, it is an opportunity that you will be able to carry with you throughout your years at UConn and even after you graduate. The thing that I find the most exciting about UConn is how many people there are here. With an enrollment size of almost 20,000 students, you will be meeting new people every single day. I like to consider myself an outgoing person and being able to see new faces everyday is something that I genuinely always look forward to. You may not click with the first group of people you become friends with, but there are so many other people who are worth meeting and being friends with. People you may pass by as you first walk on campus can end up becoming your best friends a couple months down the line, and for me, that is the most exciting thing about UConn. - Claire Kim, Biological Sciences, 2026 #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

I am a Maker Specialist and Co-Student Manger at the UConn Innovation Zone. The Innovation Zone is a maker space on campus open to all UConn faculty, students, and staff. We have a lot of incredible machines, such as the Laser Cutter [and] 3D Printers...We also offer various Skillshares run by Maker Specialists…[and] various events. My favorite event is the Women in Making Forum [on 3/25/23, which]...seeks to highlight and celebrate how women find success within the maker movement. We will celebrate success stories and discuss best practices to navigate obstacles through interactive discussion and empowering skill-building workshops. The conference is free to attend.

Since I was in Kindergarten, I knew I wanted to work with animals; my mom has an “All About Me” poster to prove it...As I got older, I held onto that dream seeking out any opportunity that got me hands-on with animals. Initially, I wanted to become a veterinarian, but in my junior year of college, I switched my career focus toward animal-assisted therapy. I recently completed an IDEA Grant project, receiving $5,000 of research funding from [UConn] to develop my project...[as a program promoting] positive mental health and self-care among adolescent girls of color using an animal care framework. This program sought to combat the stigma against mental health in communities of color by working with youth. Students in this program will engage in conversations about mental health, self-care, and primary animal care training...[Participants]...learned about primary animal care and training practices, gained hands-on experience working with animals, gained a deeper understanding of how to care for their social and physiological well-being, learned about various animal careers, and met individuals working in those fields, received and were taught how to use a self-care kit tailored to their age group. I am writing my Honors Thesis about the role Animal-Assisted therapy can play in an educational setting. I recently got into both the University of Denver and [UConn’s] Masters of Social Work programs. - Jasmine Morris, Animal Science & Applied and Resource Economics, 2023 #humansofhonors #uconnhonors ...

"My curiosity about the interplay between the human mind and social justice has motivated me to pursue a dual degree in physiology and neurobiology, as well as human rights. Through insightful Honors classes in both fields, I have developed strong analytical skills and a deep understanding of the complex relationship between biology and society. In particular, my research in behavioral neuroscience has focused on addiction and the ways in which neuroscience can be leveraged to create positive change in society. This work has reinforced my belief in the potential of science and technology to drive meaningful progress, improve lives, and promote human rights. UConn offers a wealth of resources and opportunities, from academic programs to clubs and organizations, that allow for endless exploration and pursuit of interests. Through an Honors course, I discovered my passion for human rights, despite being a physiology and neurobiology major. Adding a human rights major to my plan of study was a highlight of my academic journey, and I am grateful to the advisors and Honors community for their unwavering support and encouragement." - Aish Benzy, Physiology & Neurobiology & Human Rights, 2025 #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

Hello UConn Honors Community! My name is Danielle, and I am a senior Marketing student. Being invited to join this program was something I never expected when I applied to UConn. Initially, I was unsure if I wanted to accept the opportunity. However, after speaking with an Honors student at the 2019 Honors Reception, my mind was made up. It was extremely encouraging to speak with someone who looked like me and gave me the assurance that I would be supported in this program. Looking back, I am still glad I accepted the opportunity. It has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of my field and create projects that I wouldn`t have otherwise. If you are interested in becoming more involved in the Honors Program, I highly recommend speaking with our staff. (Yes, I do work in the Honors Office in Rowe, but I promise this is unbiased!) There are SO many resources and opportunities available, which our staff can walk you through. I wish I recognized this sooner in my time at UConn. If you still have time, I encourage you to take full advantage of the benefits at your disposal. Don`t hesitate to pay us a visit in Rowe or Buckley to learn more! - Danielle Livingston, Marketing, 2023 #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

"Being a member of the Honors community at UConn has been an amazing opportunity because it has pushed me to make the most out of my college experience. Taking Honors courses has challenged me academically, living in the Honors learning community is how I met many of my best friends, and attending honors events has introduced me to a variety of opportunities for personal and academic growth. I`m happy to be a member of the Honors community because it has truly enhanced my time here at UConn. In my first semester at UConn, I joined Phi Sigma Rho, which is a social sorority for women in STEM majors. I was excited to join an organization full of women with similar studies to my own, and over a year later I`m very glad I did. I`m involved in Phi Sigma Rho because I feel strongly about our values and I believe in empowering other women. I`ve built lasting friendships with many of the sisters, had the opportunity to give back via service and philanthropy events, and gained a confidence I didn`t have before thanks to the support of Phi Rho and its members." - Lucy Temple, Environmental Engineering, 2025 #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...

"The main reason I decided to attend UConn was, quite honestly, the Honors program! I had heard great things about the program in the past, and I knew it would offer me an opportunity to challenge myself academically, and encourage me to make the most of my college experience. UConn also has so many unique extracurriculars and academic programs, so I knew I would be able to explore a variety of disciplines, and find a niche that I fit into nicely as well. Being a member of the Honors Community has brought me a lot of cool opportunities that I wouldn`t otherwise have had. Because I was an Honors student, I was able to acquire a position in a research lab on campus, as well as my current job as an Honors GPS! In general, the Honors staff and community at large has been very welcoming and encouraging, and it has made completing my Honors requirements a lot more manageable." - Caroline Lynch, Psychological Sciences & Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, 2024 #uconnhonors #humansofhonors ...