Breanna Bonner

Area of Study: Human Rights/Political Science
Hometown: Kansas City, MO
Faculty/Staff Mentor:
Alumni Mentor: TBD

Breanna is currently studying Human Rights and Political Science. She serves as an Undergraduate Research Fellow for the Humanities Institute. Breanna also serves as a mentor for the Human Rights and Actions Learning Community and is an Inaugural Undergraduate Mentor for Human Rights Close to Home. She serves as the Community Coordinator for UConn NAACP, director of the United Nations Human Rights Council for UConn Model UN, and is an active member of the Black Queer Students Association. Breanna aspires to become a Human Rights Lawyer.

Ishla Gandi

Area of Study: Physiology and Neurobiology
Hometown: Glastonbury, CT 
Faculty/Staff Mentor:  
Alumni Mentor: TBD

Isha studies physiology and neurobiology. She is actively involved in campus life and healthcare research. On campus, Isha has served as a mentor in the First Year Experience (FYE) program, contributes to the Probationary Review Committee, and participates in initiatives addressing food insecurity. As a research volunteer at Hartford Hospital's Ayer Neuroscience Institute, Isha collaborates with medical professionals on clinical projects aimed at improving patient care. With a passion for making a difference, Isha aspires to attend medical school and become an emergency room physician, combining their academic achievements and commitment to service to positively impact healthcare.

Justin Guinta

Area of Study: Psychological Sciences (BS) & Individualized: Criminal Behavior (BA)
Hometown: Monroe, CT 
Faculty/Staff Mentor:  
Alumni Mentor: TBD

Justin is pursuing a degree in Psychological Sciences with a specialization in Criminal Behavior. He actively contributes to their university's social media presence as a Social Media Intern, managing platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Additionally, Justin plays key roles in Undergraduate Admissions, where he guides tours and spearheads recruitment efforts. As a Resident Assistant, he fosters a supportive community environment on South Campus. Justin's leadership extends to his involvement in the UConn Men's Volleyball team and the UConn Portuguese Student Association. With a keen interest in Federal Law Enforcement, Justin aims to leverage his analytical skills and passion for people to pursue roles in agencies like the CIA or FBI, while also aspiring to coach high school volleyball to give back to his community

Krista Beltran Lemus

Area of Study: Psychology and Human Development and Family Studies
Hometown: Greenwich, CT 
Faculty/Staff Mentor:  
Alumni Mentor: TBD

Krista is currently studying pyschology and human development and family studies. She completed a study abroad experience in Costa Rica during the winter of 2023. Krista is a member of several organizations on campus, including the Center for Access and Postsecondary Success. She also serves on the Student Advisory Board, where she contributes to empowering students to create solutions for developing a culture of wellness on campus. Additionally, Krista serves on the Central American Student Association e-board, mentors in both the First Year Experience and the Mentoring, Educating, and Transforming to Achieve Success programs. With a passion for social justice, Krista aspires to attend law school, focusing on either children or family law to make a meaningful impact in these areas.

Lisbeth Lucas-Morgan 

Area of Study: Allied Health Sciences
Hometown: Charlotte, NC 
Faculty/Staff Mentor:  
Alumni Mentor: TBD

Lisbeth is currently pursuing a major in Allied Health Sciences. In the summer of 2023, she participated in the CAPS/SSS program at Charles University in Prague, where she studied urban semiotics. Upon returning to campus, Lisbeth shared her experiences at the CAPS/SSS Study Abroad Symposium. She is actively involved in UConn's MANAS club. Lisbeth has a passion for community health and nutrition. During the fall semester of 2023, she dedicated her time to volunteering at grocery stores and libraries, engaging families in discussions about healthy eating habits. Lisbeth aspires to become a community health educator, aiming to further her knowledge by pursuing a Master's in Public Health, with a focus on addressing health disparities, particularly in low-income communities. Her overarching goal is to develop impactful health programs that enhance families' nutrition literacy, with a specific emphasis on serving underserved populations.

Brianna Mccalla

Area of Study: Individualized: Epidemiological Focus in Occurrence of Disease, Determinants, Application
Hometown: Exton, Pennsylvania
Faculty/Staff Mentor:  
Alumni Mentor: TBD

Brianna is completing an Individualized Studies on Epidemiological Focus in Occurrence of Disease, Determinants, Application. Her career pursuits have led her to be involved in the Healthcare Exploration Program at Delaware County Community College and the Health Career Summer Academy at West Chester University. She has completed a shadowing opportunity with a Surgical Supply Chair Analyst in Southwest Florida. At UConn, Brianna is an active member of various organizations, including HuskyTHON. She's also taken leadership roles in TedXUConn and the Student Union Board of Governors. Outside of college, Brianna remains active in initiatives like the Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania and the Congress of Future Medical Leaders, demonstrating her commitment to health advocacy and equity. Brianna aspires to pursue a career as a physician with a dual MD-PhD or MD-MPH degree.

Lydia Nyarko 

Area of Study: Global Health Studies
Hometown: Bloomfield, CT 
Faculty/Staff Mentor: 
Alumni Mentor: TBD

Lydia is majoring in Global Health Studies. She has participated in the Summer 2023 Keith Sherin Global Study abroad program as well as the Bold Women's Scholarship. On campus, Lydia has been actively involved in various clubs, including the Residence Hall Association-Werth Council, LSAMP, African Student Association, MAPS, and Diversity in Healthcare, showcasing her commitment to community engagement and diversity. Through volunteering experiences with Floor mentoring in the BSOUL Learning community, UConn Child Lab-Jumpstart, and Connecticut's Children Medical Center, Lydia has demonstrated her dedication to serving others. Lydia aims to pursue a career in public health that includes obtaining an MPH to address child health disparities and promote health equity. Following this, she envisions herself pursuing a PhD and establishing an NGO in Ghana. She seeks to provide support and resources to families with children on the autism spectrum in rural communities.

Krithika Santhanam 

Area of Study: Molecular and Cell Biology and Individualized: Health Policy and Racial Disparities
Hometown: Farmington, CT 
Faculty/Staff Mentor:  
Alumni Mentor: TBD

Krithika is majoring in both Molecular and Cell Biology and an Individualized Studies focused on Health Policy and Racial Disparities. She served as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in Dr. Caroline Dealy's Lab at UConn Health. She has also pursued a SURF grant. On campus, she is deeply involved in various organizations, including the UConn Pre-Medical Society, UConn Honors Program, UConn Learning Community Council, UConn Learning Community Executive Council, UConn Peer Research Ambassador (OUR), UConn Visitors Information Program (Tour Guide), and UConn BOLD Women's Leadership Network. Krithika aspires to attend medical school and would like to serve historically excluded and underrepresented populations.

Alexandria Silva 

Area of Study: Communications 
Hometown: Danbury, CT 
Faculty/Staff Mentor: 
Alumni Mentor: TBD

Alexandria studies communications. She has served as the Communications Chair on the Learning Community Executive Council and is involved in the UConn My First Year Story Podcast club, where she holds the role of Secretary. Previously, she dedicated six years to the Youth Volunteer Corporation in her hometown, participating in a range of projects aimed at supporting her community. At UConn, she continued her endeavors by volunteering with the EcoHouse Learning Community, contributing to initiatives such as Spring Valley Farm. She serves as a UConn Connects Mentor intern where she help students achieve academic success. Alexandria's ultimate goal is to leverage her passion for working with people in the Human Resources field, fostering positive relationships within companies and supporting both clients and employees. She also intends to pursue a Master's in Counseling.

Matthew Syrotiak

Area of Study: Animal Science 
Hometown: Bethlehem, CT 
Faculty/Staff Mentor: 
Alumni Mentor: TBD

Matthew is pursuing a major in Animal Science Throughout his academic journey, he has gained valuable hands-on experience through internships, including the UConn Extension 4-H Internships and the UConn Extension Communication Internship. He is an active member of various organizations such as the Connecticut FFA Association, UConn Dairy Club, UConn Block and Bridle Club, UConn 4-H, and National 4-H. Matthew's career goals include educating the next generation of leaders and enhance student experiences through workshops, hands-on learning, and creating impactful experiences. His dedication to agricultural education and commitment to empowering others exemplify his passion for making a difference in his field.

Mariam Vargas 

Area of Study: Political Science 
Hometown: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
Faculty/Staff Mentor: 
Alumni Mentor: TBD

Mariam is pursuing studies in Political Science and International Relations. She is actively involved in the following campus and community organizations : Dominican Student Association, Windham Heights Afterschool Program, and Undergraduate Student Government. Mariam's dedication to service extends beyond campus, where she has volunteered with organizations such as Interact Santo Domingo Mirador, Un Techo por mi país, and Best Buddies Dominican Republic. Mariam aspires to work for the US Department of State as a diplomat and political officer.

Arsalan Zaki 

Area of Study: Physiology and Neurobiology 
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois 
Faculty/Staff Mentor:  
Alumni Mentor: TBD

Arsalan is majoring in Physiology and Neurobiology and is deeply interested in healthcare and social justice. His academic journey has been enriched by diverse experiences, including participation in the Neuroscience in Salamanca Study Abroad Program and his involvement with Agrivolution, a hydroponic startup company where he completed his high school capstone and interned for four years. Arsalan has volunteered with various organizations such as Bridge to Guanin, First Year Programs, Huskies for Refugees, University of Connecticut Health Leaders, Brain Disease Advocates, and Honors Across State Borders. Through Bridge to Guanin, he served as a medical volunteer in the Dominican Republic. Arsalan's aspires to attend medical school and become a specialized surgeon. Beyond his career aspirations, however, he would like to establish a mobile healthcare clinic that provides care to disadvantaged populations in various cities.