High Impact Practices Student Showcase Fall 2025

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  From Classroom to Career: Fostering Student Success through Service

  Brianna Guinigundo

  Serving as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant for UCF’s Career Readiness 1 course allowed me to make a direct impact on students’ professional growth and reflective learning. By providing individualized, thoughtful feedback on assignments and résumés, I helped students connect course concepts to their personal goals and build stronger confidence in their career readiness. My guidance encouraged deeper self-reflection, improved writing and professionalism, and increased engagement among students who initially struggled to see the course’s value.

  This experience also shaped my own development as an ethical and reflective educator. I learned to recognize and reduce potential grading biases, communicate with empathy, and foster an inclusive learning environment. Supporting over thirty students strengthened my teaching, leadership, and feedback skills—key foundations for my goal of becoming a psychology professor who empowers future learners to grow both academically and personally.

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  Interconception Care and Helping Mothers Prepare for Delivery

  Miranda Hatchko and Marina Habashy

  Healthy Start Coalition of Osceola County's primary objective is to reduce infant mortality and to promote the well-being of families. One of the proposed ways to reduce infant deaths is to provide education and guidance to mothers in their third trimester through interconception education and counseling (ICC) calls. We were tasked with calling these mothers and providing information to them regarding medical resources, contraception information, a brief overviews of SIDS and shaken baby syndrome, baby spacing, and advising them of various programs available to them to aid them as they prepare to raise a child. Through this experience, we were able to learn how to communicate with members of the community and properly convey information in an easily digestible manner.

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  Love Serving Autism

  Karina P. Hinojosa, Raphael M. Rahman, Gabriel Rogelio B. Sumalbag, Patrick R. Elwell, and Ethan T. Wood

  The organization we chose for our project is Love Serving Autism, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities through the sport of tennis. This program helps participants grow both physically and mentally while fostering social interaction and inclusion. Many of these children may not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in sports or engage in consistent physical activity.

  Through Love Serving Autism, they can play tennis and connect with volunteers in a supportive, welcoming environment each week with no charge of cost.

  Our team worked with about twenty kids weekly, and the experience was truly eye-opening— reminding us how powerful sports can be in creating equal opportunities and bringing people together.

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  Evaluating the Effectiveness of Fish Oil Supplements at Reducing the Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation

  Timothy J. Horanic

  The purpose of my project, Evaluating the Effectiveness of Fish Oil Supplements at Reducing the Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation, was to analyze whether omega-3 fatty acids could lower the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence compared to a placebo. AF is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm that can lead to serious complications such as stroke or heart failure. Through review and analysis of clinical trial data, patients who took fish oil experienced a lower recurrence rate of AF (46.8%) compared to the placebo group (73.4%), though the difference was not statistically significant. I also examined two supplemental studies that supported the safety and potential benefits of omega-3 fatty acids in postoperative patients. Key takeaways from this project include understanding how nutritional supplements can influence cardiovascular outcomes and the importance of proper study design, dosage variation, and statistical reporting in clinical research.

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  HOPE Helps Orlando: Hunger and Homelessness

  Lucas A. Jaramillo

  My service learning project was focused primarily on the issues of hunger and homelessness, which is a prevalent issue due to rising housing costs and economic instability from any number of situations in a variety of populations. Homelessness can affect anyone, and HOPE knows that. This is why they work tirelessly to ensure that people suffering from homelessness are able to have the support they need through their various programs. This poster highlight's HOPE's ability to fight homelessness in the long term and the short term. HOPE has very specific methods and strategies that it uses to combat each of its specified issues, and it fights them effectively. Additionally, HOPE is able to bring the community together through volunteer work, its various locations, creating lifelong relationships, and its various events that involve local people.

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  Smile, It Makes A Difference

  Evan Jarosiewicz

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  The National Issues Forums Institute: Lessons From Writing

  Eric Kallas, Madeline Smith, Julissa Medina, Robert Spina, Brianna Thomas, Javier Rodriguez, and Lily Carter

  The goal of our project was to create an issue guide for the intended use that schools would use this guide to teach students about civil discourse. In this guide we laid out a specific issue, in the case of this guide it is the lack of funding for Title I schools. The reader is then presented with possible solutions as well as the positives and negatives of implementing that solution. The goal of this issue guide is to teach Americans, and help promote the idea that dialogue is an important step in progress. Without the ability to listen to your peers without judging, and to be heard without being judged, is what allows us to move forward and create policies that make sure no one is left out.

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  Leading with Cup-Passion

  Mackenzie Kelly

  7 Cups is a free online mental health service where anonymous users can receive the support they need at any time. Through conducted training, listeners are able to assist the anonymous users with day-to-day challenges or long term struggles. Listeners are there to provide these individuals with a listening hear and a way to be understood. If it is felt needed, listeners refer the individuals to a more qualified form of therapy, which is also offered within 7 Cups! Through volunteering, we have learned how to identify when someone is struggling and how to treat each situation differently to fit the needs of that individual.

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  Preventive Neglect: How Healthcare's Approach to Mild Cholesterol Elevation Fails Patients

  Sofia Lahsaini

  The majority of high cholesterol patients do not exhibit symptoms until they have a heart attack or stroke. It can lead to lifelong cardiac health issues. However, rather than being treated with early prevention, including lifestyle changes and dietary restrictions, mild cholesterol levels are often disregarded. In order to prevent long-term cardiovascular disease, this project emphasizes the importance of early nutritional counseling, patient education, and routine lab testing. It encourages a change from reactive treatment to proactive treatment. We can help patients identify high-risk health conditions earlier to lessen the overall effects of heart disease by increasing awareness.

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  Funding Issues In Title-1 Schools

  Reese J. Laushot, Arlin Naiju, Wayne L. Brady, William Pfeiffer, Logan D. Tooley, Thiago T. Airoldi, Daniel Viveros, and Quinn B. Fitzgibbons

  This project examined how funding is distributed and managed within Title I schools. The goal was to identify methods to make the system more equitable and effective. Three approaches were analyzed in detail. The first focused on increasing federal support. The second addressed the reallocation of existing funds. The third evaluated which level of government should hold responsibility for managing school funding. Each approach presented distinct advantages and challenges. The analysis revealed that no single solution can meet the needs of all schools. The project emphasized the complexity of educational funding systems and the importance of evidence-based evaluation. Through structured research and discussion, the study highlighted the value of collaboration and diverse perspectives in developing informed solutions to public education issues.

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  The Psychological Impact of the Cold War

  Chloe M. Leek

  The purpose of my project, The Psychological Impact of the Cold War, was to explore how the events of the Cold War psychologically affected nations, leaders, and civilians. The key activities that I pursued entailed gathering research from several primary and secondary sources, taking extensive notes, assembling a storyboard for my presentation, composing a script, rearranging the timeline of my information, adjusting the timeline to fit the required elapsed time, and creating a digital poster along with supplemental materials. Throughout my studies, it was reflected in my discoveries that a good portion of Western culture today has been influenced by the consequences of the Cold War, in turn, psychologically manipulating us. Eastern and Western Germany are a good example of this phenomenon, as divided as they were, their division eventually led to the creation of warped identities that excluded Easterners from Westerners after the fall of the Berlin Wall. Additionally, this can be attributed to the drastic lifestyle differences between Germans under Communist rule and Germans protected by NATO. Additionally, it is worth mentioning how impactful the devastation of war is within small countries such as Vietnam—countries that must rely on support from wealthier Western nations due to military violence and fallout that has ruined the environment and any chances of recovery. Overall, this experience has taught me a new form of ambition and organization.

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  Health-Link Society

  Reagan M. Lenihan

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  My Service-Learning Experience as a Learning Assistant for Organic Chemistry I

  Skyler Link

  The purpose of my project as an Undergraduate Learning Assistant (ULA) was to strengthen student understanding in Organic Chemistry I while developing my own skills in teaching, leadership, and instructional support. Throughout the semester, I facilitated in-class problem-solving, guided students through challenging mechanisms and concepts, and created supportive learning environments that encouraged questions and collaboration. I also worked closely with the professor and the ULA team to align teaching strategies, provide feedback, and help students build confidence in a subject many find intimidating.

  A key takeaway from this experience was learning how differently students think and approach problems. I gained a deeper appreciation for adapting explanations, using multiple teaching methods, and meeting students where they are. I also learned how impactful encouragement and patience can be in helping students overcome academic anxiety. This project not only strengthened my communication and leadership skills but also deepened my passion for mentoring others in STEM.

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  Divng Deep: Inspiring Young Scientists Through Ocean Exploration

  Chloe Lowman and Mia Sims

  What started as a simple lesson plan grew into an unforgettable journey of inspiring young minds to explore the mysteries of the deep sea. The goal of our service-learning project was to spark curiosity and make a meaningful impact on our community by inspiring the next generation of young scientists. We designed and taught an interactive marine science lesson for fourth graders at Rainbow Elementary School, diving deep into the fascinating world of the ocean’s darkest zones. Through hands-on games, creative crafts, and lively discussions, students explored how extraordinary adaptations help deep-sea creatures survive where sunlight never reaches. We wanted to make science come alive and show that learning can be exciting, personal, and full of wonder. To measure growth, we conducted pre- and post-quizzes, revealing a 20% increase in understanding. Beyond the numbers, our project highlighted the true power of service through education, showing how sharing knowledge connects generations, builds confidence, and inspires curiosity. Teaching the lesson gave us a chance to step into the role of mentors, strengthening our communication and teamwork skills while experiencing the joy of giving back. This project reminded us that even small acts of learning and teaching can ripple outward, creating a lasting impact in our community.

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  ADAM: Revolutionizing Beverage Service Through AI Robotics

  Mary A. Mann Cortes

  ADAM: Revolutionizing Beverage Service through AI Robotics showcases how artificial intelligence and robotics are reshaping the guest experience in hospitality. Developed by Richtech Robotics, ADAM is an AI-powered bartender and barista deployed at venues such as NVIDIA HQ, Google Cloud Next, and Globe Life Field. Through the Smart Travel and Tourism course, this project explores how automation enhances consistency, sustainability, and profitability while transforming service innovation. The research demonstrates that AI in hospitality is not a replacement for human connection, but a collaborative tool that elevates service efficiency and guest satisfaction in the digital era.

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  From Student to Mentor: Building Confidence and Curiosity in Chemistry

  Dhaniela M. Marrero

  This project took place in the Instuctrional Experineces in Undergraduate Chemistry course at UCF, where I served as an Undergraduate Learning Assistant (ULA) for an Introductory Chemistry class. The purpose of the project was to support students' learning, encourage curiosity, and foster confidence in understanding chemistry concepts. My role included assiting students during lecture, collaborating with the instructor to develop in-class questions, and facilitating peer discussions to promote engagement.

  The experience had a meaningful impact on both the students and myself. Students demonstrated increased participation, improved problem solving skills, and greater confidence in their abilities. For me, the role strengthened my communication, leadership, and mentoring skills, while reinforcing my own understanding of chemistry concepts.

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  Amy Zeh High-Impact: Hope Helps

  Yvon Mbenza, Anant Ajvalia, Armando Ramirez, and Alan Claiman

  The purpose of our project was to volunteer with HOPE Helps, a nonprofit organization that provides community support through its thrift store, food pantry, and outreach events. Our group, Project Pegasus, worked onsite to help sort donations, organize items, and assist in the operation of the thrift store. We coordinated efforts with the volunteer manager and staff, who guided us and made sure we understood expectations and procedures. One of the most meaningful activities involved working alongside staff and other volunteers as coworkers to see how teamwork and common purpose create effective service. A key thing we learned was about the idea of servant leadership-what it looks like in action: staff were patient, attentive, and respectful in their communication by listening to us, guiding us, and valuing volunteers as contributors. We also learned about clear communication and defined roles to enhance teamwork since there were moments when tasks could have been better clarified. Overall, the experience taught us the importance of compassion, humility, and community-building in service work.

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  The Complete Picture: Bird Behavior on Fragmented vs. Intact Oyster Reefs

  Sophia L. McGarrity, Natalia Knapp-Seale, Gwyn Kirby, Enno Turner, and Laura Ramsey

  The presence and health of Florida’s coastal birds rely heavily on the integrity of oyster reefs, which house their crawling and swimming prey items. During this project, we observed bird behaviors across oyster reefs in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL) via camera trap footage. The IRL is an important coastal ecosystem that preserves numerous bird species. A previous study in the IRL suggested that live oyster reefs have birds exhibiting more foraging behaviors than on dead reefs, suggesting a need to maintain connected reefs. Our work supports the research of Ph.D. candidate Tara Blanchard, whose work will inform decision-making for future oyster reef restoration projects.

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  Lagoon Lessons: Where Science Meets Service Learning

  Cori McWilliams and Christopher Poulios

  When we were kids, we were always told to leave someplace better than you found it - maybe it was your room, campsite, or local park. Now, we have taken this lesson as a call to action to restore the Indian River Lagoon. Over the semester, we created and hosted an Oyster City Safari program for elementary schoolers as a part of UCF’s STEM Day, educating 50 students about oyster reefs and their importance for conservation. We also supported faculty and graduate students in their active research projects, and worked hands-on with local restoration leaders in their ongoing conservation work. Our endeavors in education, conservation, and research disciplines developed our skills as future restoration leaders and taught us a lesson: even simple efforts could leave the Indian River Lagoon ecosystem better for future generations.

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  Generations United: Empowering Seniors Through Service

  Joseph C. Neddo, Samantha A. Renda, Eli J. Richard, Adam M. Lease, Athan L. Huskey, and Connor J. Buttitta

  As part of my service-learning experience, I partnered with Legacy Pointe at UCF, a senior living community dedicated to lifelong enrichment. Alongside my team, I helped design and implement resident-centered programs that focused on healthcare transitions, wellness, and emotional support. We hosted Healthcare Talks to educate residents on moving between independent living, assisted living, memory support, and skilled nursing. We also organized Flu Shot Clinics in collaboration with CFP Comprehensive Primary Care to promote preventative care, and facilitated mental wellness activities like memory games and a resident-led outdoor golf tournament.

  Working with Legacy Pointe staff, Dr. Burrows’ practice, and faculty from UCF’s College of Nursing and College of Medicine, I saw firsthand the power of interdisciplinary collaboration. These efforts reflected Legacy Pointe’s core values, Hospitality, Service, and Accountability, and emphasized resident autonomy and proactive care planning.

  One of the most valuable lessons I learned was how to create programs that empower older adults while respecting their independence. I also gained insight into how meaningful partnerships between students and healthcare professionals can positively impact community health and engagement.

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  Beyond the Leash: Strengthening Advocacy, Education and Awareness through STEP @ UCF

  Morgan Nickerson, Jacob Lombardo, Nicole Acosta, Karl Johnson, Amy Jones, and Matthew Siverio

  Our project partnered with STEP at UCF, the Service Dog Training and Education Program, to address widespread misconceptions surrounding service dogs and promote accurate awareness on campus. Misunderstandings about service dog laws and etiquette can create mistrust and make public access more difficult for legitimate handlers, which directly conflicts with STEP’s mission of education and inclusion. To help address this issue, our team created a two-part educational presentation series in collaboration with STEP. The first focused on common myths and facts about service dogs, including legal questions, vest requirements, and breed assumptions. The second clarified the differences between service dogs and emotional support animals in terms of training, function, and legislation.

  We engaged students through discussion and an interactive Kahoot to measure what they learned. Many participants demonstrated a strong understanding, and several expressed interest in joining or supporting STEP. Our work was guided by the Social Change Model, especially the values of collaboration, consciousness of self, and citizenship, which shaped how we planned and delivered our outreach.

  Overall, this project strengthened campus knowledge of service dog etiquette while supporting STEP’s ongoing commitment to creating a more informed and accessible community.

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  Enhancing Ulcerative Colitis Care: Combining a Fasting Mimicking Diet with Induction Therapy

  Umed Norkulov, Arianna Rivera, and Fawaz Qazi

  This project analyzed a clinical trial investigating the effectiveness of adding a Fasting-Mimicking Diet (FMD) to advanced induction therapy for patients with Ulcerative Colitis (UC) The study (NCT0405410) was a Phase 3, randomized controlled trial involving 32 active participants. The intervention group (n=14) received advanced therapy plus the FMD, while the control group (n=18) received therapy alone. The primary objective was to determine if the FMD could improve remission rates and biomarkers. The trial found a statistically significant (P=0.05) benefit for the combined treatment group. The intervention group achieved a 57% clinical response rate compared to 38% in the control group. These results suggest that an FMD isa promising and safe adjunctive (supportive) therapy for managing UC.

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  ForgetYouNot: A student-led non-profit for dementia and Alzheimer's Awareness

  Amanda M. Nunez-Ferreira

  ForgetYouNot is a student-led community non-profit organization focused on promoting awareness for neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Created in 2023, ForgetYouNot has been able to impact the local communities of Pembroke Pines, Orlando, and Gainesville, and plans to continue to impact additional communities by expanding to additional university campuses. We work to promote awareness and education on memory loss diseases, and create a community around conversation, where people have a safe space to share if they have been affected by neurodegenerative diseases within their family. ForgetYouNot has now expanded to a virtual high school research program, as well as created the foundations for a weekly art therapy program in collaboration with a local memory care facility in Orlando.

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  The Secret World of Elementary Schools

  Aneillio J. Orosco

  My project revolves around working in the Library at Ventura elementary. I worked with library books, new and old textbooks, and special projects for students at the school. I learned that a small action can make a big difference. I also learned that impacts can be big or small from your community engagement.

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  The Power of Public Speaking

  Clara Pachnik