Meet Michela Brown ’25, an OUR Peer Research Ambassador majoring in Biological Sciences and minoring in Animal Science and Molecular & Cell Biology.

What is the focus of your research?

I am conducting research in animal science in Dr. Kristen E. Govoni lab, where we are studying how a mother’s diet affects the growth and development of her offspring, specifically in sheep. Our goal is to identify differences that could enhance livestock health and production. My project specifically examines changes in the liver of the offspring related to their mother’s diet. I have recently been gaining new experience in Dr. Rachel O’Neill’s lab to learn new techniques.

Why did you get involved in research?

I first got involved in research because I am part of the honors program and thought it was a requirement to get involved. I didn’t get into research until my sophomore year, which helped me realize that research was something I truly wanted to pursue, not just a program requirement. My perspective shifted when I had the opportunity to shadow a graduate student in a lab I was interested in. That experience made me genuinely excited about the possibilities for my own research.

What advice would you give to aspiring student researchers?

When you first get into research, whether by looking things up or working with a professor, it can be overwhelming and seem like too much to handle. However, it’s important to take a step back and take your time, because you are not only a researcher but a student too. No one expects you to know everything right away or have all of the answers, so it’s okay not to know or to ask questions you might feel are “stupid”. The professors and graduate students are there to guide and advise you throughout your experience, so lean on them when you need to.

Describe the impact your research experience has had on you.

Beginning research helped me to come out of my shell and feeling as though I’m able to stand up and ask questions that I used to be too scared to ask before. I’ve become more comfortable raising my hand in lectures and during my lab meetings to ask different questions. When joining a research lab when you’re unfamiliar with the work and practices they do, you are put into situations where it is best for you to speak up and ask how to do certain things, and this has moved into my personal life where I am now a lot more confident and open when I need to share my opinion or point of view with others.

What is your greatest accomplishment so far?

My greatest accomplishment so far is becoming a MARC (Maximizing Access to Research Careers) Scholar and a McNair scholar. These are two nationally known research programs for undergraduate students that provide support and guidance as they go through the world of research, to prepare them for graduate school.

What are your plans after graduation? How has involvement in research influenced your plans and prepared you for the future?

Since I am a senior this year, I will apply for PhD programs in the Fall semester. I came to UConn wanting to attend veterinary school, but I loved the endless amounts of information and different things I could learn through research. I found a way where I can still work with animals, but in a different and more broad way. I will be applying for PhD programs instead of Masters, which I am grateful to have learned it was possible to do that. I received guidance from my research mentors these past two years in ways that prepared me to feel ready for a PhD program. I’m excited to see where I will go and experience after graduating.

Click here for more information on Michela and other OUR Peer Research Ambassadors.

Meet Naomi Benningfield ’25, an OUR Peer Research Ambassador majoring in Molecular & Cell Biology.

What is the focus of your research?

Within my molecular archaeology lab with Dr. Hartman, we focus on creating a comprehensive understanding of the past through a range of studies. The Nesher Ramla project that I participate in analyzes enamel samples from herbivore teeth through isotope ratio mass spectrometry. In doing so, we hope to reconstruct the paleoclimate of the site. Currently, I am working towards assessing the eco-physiological response of equids to the last glacial climate change. During my time at Hartford Hospital, we focused on a range of prospective and retrospective clinical studies within anesthesia. My main focus was on opioid reduction and pain management.

Why did you get involved in research?

Being open to opportunities was especially vital as a transfer student looking to become further involved on campus. Luckily, I’ve always had what my friends call a “yes-bone” and readily accepted experiences around me. With my studies in Molecular Cell Biology, I never thought of joining a research lab outside of my major. Each day, after my archaeology class, I would stick around to discuss the topics presented and had a genuine interest in the course. Before the end of the semester, my professor asked me if I would be willing to join his research team. I became passionate about engaging in research and the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in my areas of interest. The summer before my junior year, I became involved in the Integrated Anesthesia Association. This internship uncovered new career opportunities for me as the first in my family to consider joining the medical field. It was at this point in which I declared myself as a pre-medical student.

What advice would you give to aspiring student researchers?

After declaring pre-med, I felt as though I was lagging behind my peers who seemed to be geared towards the path they set as freshmen. I felt overwhelmed and disappointed thinking that I would need to leave my current team and find a research lab that fell perfectly within my cookie-cutter idea of what was required for medical school. I then came to realize that I was already in the right place. The foundations of research, despite the lab or topic that you are involved in, are the same. If you are passionate about a subject outside of your major then keep at it! If you need help along the way, there are always resources for you. Be sure to network and speak to your Teacher Assistants (TAs), your Residential Assistants (RAs), your First Year Mentors (FYE), the many supportive centers on campus, your professors, and peers! The vital connections and advice from those around you who may know of or be involved in their own research will be a great support and guide for you.

What do you enjoy the most about participating in research?

Our lab director, Dr. Hartman is very supportive and encouraging to his student researchers. He is passionate about what he teaches and it reflects in both his team and his work. I believe a student should feel inspired by what they are involved in and find their time spent to be rewarding. Being the first to arrive and the last to leave, made me realize that I loved what I was learning. You gain a deeper understanding of your interests and it allows you to fill in the pieces to a larger puzzle. Being involved in research also gives you a sense of autonomy to explore what you are most passionate about.

Describe the impact your research experience has had on you.

After getting my foot in the door, I came to realize that research is an opportunity that is readily available for everyone. It is not a source limited to honors students, upperclassmen, or graduate students. If you’re passionate about a topic and have a sense of curiosity then you are set to go. As someone involved in research, you become persistent and learn from both your setbacks and successes. The soft skills that you are able to build off from working in a research team and pursuing a goal are highly valued and can be applied throughout your career.

What is your greatest accomplishment so far?

My greatest accomplishment comes from the way that I began to approach the challenges that I faced. One of my biggest struggles comes from a sense of imposter syndrome. I initially didn’t realize that this burden was weighing down on my shoulders, but the first step to every issue is awareness. I felt insecure about my experiences and the pace at which I was preparing for medical school. Since I declared my pre-medical path during my junior year, I felt as though I came into the field far behind my peers. Everyone around me seemed to be well-versed in what they planned to do. Once I came to recognize that I was undermining my achievements and abilities, I worked towards changing my mindset. Through my research internship at Hartford Hospital, I met a physician who had served 20 years in the Air Force as an airplane mechanic. In his 50s, he went to medical school and became an anesthesiologist. He truly inspired me with a brush of optimism and helped me realize that everyone is at their own pace. Each opportunity that you are exposed to in life is a chance to learn and will further shape you into who you are.

What are your plans after graduation? How has involvement in research influenced your plans and prepared you for the future?

My involvement in research has allowed me to confidently discern my passion for the medical field. Being the first in my family to consider this pathway and being involved in research feels intimidating but looking back on how far I have continued to push myself gives me a great sense of pride and joy. I am extremely thankful for all of the staff and individuals who have supported me along the way. After I walk across the stage, I plan to continue my research over the summer as I study for the MCAT, work as an EMT, and continue volunteering in hospice care.

Click here for more information on Naomi and other OUR Peer Research Ambassadors.