Trojan Undergrads Forge Futures, Spark Discoveries in Transformative Summer Research

While many envision summer as a time for relaxation, a cohort of ambitious Trojan undergraduates at the University of Southern California is trading leisure for laboratories, libraries, and intense fieldwork. These dedicated students are deeply immersed in transformative research projects, turning theoretical knowledge into tangible discoveries and paving the way for future innovations.

At the heart of these pivotal experiences are prestigious programs such as the Provost’s Undergraduate Research Fellowship and the Rose Hills Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships. These highly competitive initiatives empower students to engage in high-level research under the direct guidance of world-renowned USC faculty, offering unparalleled opportunities to contribute meaningfully to their chosen fields.

Take, for instance, Katherine Li, a senior majoring in biomedical engineering. Under the mentorship of Professor Megan McCain at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering, Li is delving into the complexities of human heart tissue, aiming to better understand and treat heart disease. "It's incredible to apply what I've learned in classes directly to real-world problems," Li shares. "This hands-on work has solidified my passion for biomedical research and clarified my path toward graduate studies."

Another shining example is Chloe Choe, a junior studying computational neuroscience. Working with Professor Assaf Harel-Shalev, Choe is exploring how the brain processes multisensory information, a project with significant implications for understanding conditions like autism. Her experience highlights the interdisciplinary nature of modern research, blending computer science with biological inquiry.

Grace Chen, a senior double-majoring in art history and chemical engineering, embodies the spirit of interdisciplinary exploration. Her research on preserving cultural heritage through innovative materials science demonstrates how scientific principles can safeguard artistic legacies. "Being able to merge my two passions into one project has been incredibly fulfilling," Chen explains, emphasizing the unique opportunities USC provides for diverse academic pursuits.

The impact extends beyond the lab. Nicole Chan, a public health major, is examining health disparities in urban communities. Her work, supervised by Professor John Wilson, involves analyzing intricate data sets to identify patterns and propose evidence-based interventions. "This research has opened my eyes to the profound social determinants of health," Chan notes, expressing a newfound commitment to public health advocacy.

And then there's Ashley La, a junior in computer science, who is developing AI models to predict environmental changes. Guided by Professor Alice Parker, La’s project aims to create tools that can inform sustainable practices and policy. "It's exhilarating to see how my coding skills can contribute to solving urgent global challenges," La states, reflecting on the profound impact of her work.

These summer fellowships are more than just research opportunities; they are incubators for future leaders and innovators. Students not only refine their technical skills and critical thinking but also develop invaluable professional networks. The close collaboration with faculty mentors provides personalized guidance, helping students navigate complex research questions and cultivate an independent research mindset.

The exposure to cutting-edge methodologies and the chance to contribute to ongoing scientific discourse prove invaluable. Many students present their findings at national conferences or publish in peer-reviewed journals, gaining recognition and furthering their academic careers. The rigorous yet rewarding nature of these programs prepares them for successful graduate studies, medical school, or immediate entry into high-impact careers.

Ultimately, these summer research experiences are transformative. They empower USC undergraduates to apply their classroom knowledge, push the boundaries of discovery, and gain a profound understanding of how their work can contribute to a better world. As they head back to classes, these Trojans carry with them not just data and results, but a deepened sense of purpose and the invaluable experience of contributing to the forefront of human knowledge.