Research earns six students Undergraduate Research Scholarships

Six undergraduates at The University of New Mexico have been chosen to receive the Undergraduate Research Scholarship for Fall 2024. The scholarship, presented by the Undergraduate Research, Arts and Design Network (URAD) is intended to support students who have no recourse to be paid to conduct research in their main area of interest.

The recipients are seniors Hailey Aragon, Megan Honnold, and Savannah Phelps, juniors Solomon Gbara and Dustin Roberdo, and sophomore Audrey Lee.

Hailey Aragon

Aragon is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Her research investigates the development and function of gamma delta (γδ) T cells in neonatal opossums (Monodelphis domestica). By examining the timing and role of these immune cells, she aims to uncover how early immunological defenses develop in marsupials, which may differ significantly from those in placental mammals. This study will enhance understanding of comparative immunology and evolutionary adaptations in immune defense mechanisms.

"Exploring the unique immune development in marsupials has been transformative to my education, offering new insights into comparative immunology and deepening my appreciation for the evolutionary adaptations that shape immune strategies," Aragon said.

Solomon Gbara

Gbara, who is working toward a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Anderson School of Management, is researching the concept of grit, defined as passion and perseverance towards long-term goals, and its impact on academic success among students at the University of New Mexico. He is continuing a study that began with collaborators at Eastern New Mexico University, investigating the correlation between grit and selection of major. HIs work explores how cultivating grit can contribute to higher academic achievement and resilience in the face of challenges.

"Researching grit has not only deepened my understanding of academic success but has also revealed the principles I carry that allow me to achieve the success I aim for in my own educational journey," Gbara said. "This experience has been both transformative and inspiring, motivating me to help my peers unlock their full potential through perseverance and dedication."

Meg Honnold

As a K-12 homeschool alumnus, Honnold studies homeschooling as it is experienced by students. Centering their lived experience and activism, this work examines their participation as members within homeschooling families across education, household environments, social movements, and identity formation.

Her current research involves a qualitative content analysis of alumni testimonials in the form of public blog and social media posts, analyzing student depictions of family/homeschooling in comparison with those of the broader U.S. homeschooling movement.

"Participation in undergraduate research has been the single most impactful aspect of my time at UNM. Aside from prompting key mentorships and opening pivotal doors within and beyond the university, it has empowered me to take ownership of my undergraduate career in ways I would not otherwise have known about or accessed. Most importantly, it has solidified my commitment to ongoing homeschool research as a form of child advocacy, preparing me through hands-on experience for the next step of graduate school.

Honnold is working toward a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in Sociology and American Studies.

Audrey Lee

Lee is a second-year student majoring in Chemical and Biological Engineering, as well as being an active Honors College student.

As a researcher within the Greenberg Research group at UNM, Lee has been deeply engaged in investigating avenues to enhance student success and retention broadly. Her proposed research project seeks to reimagine the teaching of organic chemistry labs by incorporating plants commonly found in New Mexico, thereby infusing cultural relevance into southwestern students' education. In Fall 2024, Lee aimed to develop a steam distillation protocol for Salsola tragus, best known as tumbleweeds, identify its organic compounds, and assess student interest in culturally sensitive teaching laboratories, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and engaging learning environment for all students.

"For me, research is the compass that guides the pursuit of knowledge, turning curiosity into innovation and dreams into discoveries. This research is not just about scientific discovery; it's about connecting students to their roots, igniting their curiosity, and empowering students to reach new heights," Lee said.

Savannah Phelps

Phelps is working toward a degree in BA in Art History, as well as pursuing Honors.

"In my research over the course of this school year, I will be investigating the connection between a changing religious worldview and developments in 16th and 17th century Spanish religious art," she said. Combining art historical analysis with a background in medieval and early modern religious studies, she hopes to demonstrate specific instances where visual and religious expressions are one and the same.

"This research will culminate in the writing of my senior honors thesis in Art History, and, in addition to marking the beginning of my individual work as a scholar, it is invaluable practical experience for my chosen career path in academia," Phelps observed.

Dustin Roberdo

Roberdo is pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Population Health from the UNM College of Population of Health.

His research examines how manufacturing and cultural appropriation influence public health in New Mexico and the Southwest, with a focus on the imitation and rebranding of cultural hallmarks, language, and art forms.

"My research studies the implications of cultural manufacturing on community health, historical accuracy, and identity in New Mexico and the Southwest," Roberdo said.

For more on the scholarships, see the URAD website.

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