2021-2022 Student Cohort

Hi, my name is Sam Abrashoff and I'm a senior at CU Boulder Majoring in Economics while pursuing minor certificates in Business and CTD. A couple reasons why I am interested in studio include I want to gain research experience and learn more about how the world works. By joining studio I hope to accomplish this and broaden my political science knowledge. Favorite Quote: "You don't have to be great...

Ph.D. candidate in linguistics Norielle Adricula is researching the Tagalog language with students Tvishi Yendamuri and Juanita Hurtado.

I hope to pursue a career in research and Studio Lab provides an amazing opportunity to gain exposure to fascinating work and learn more about areas I might want to explore in my future life/work. I'm excited to have the opportunity to work on some incredibly interesting research this year and develop myself as a researcher. It IS rocket science—and you can do it. (teacher)

I applied to be part of Studio because I believe that it is a great opportunity to enhance my research skills. I am excited to work with my research mentor Dr. Komal Kaur regarding how candidates from women and minority groups are evaluated differently in comparison to majority groups. Favorite quote: "Take the risk or lose the chance" -Sylvester Stallone

I am a sophomore majoring in political science, and I’m interested in STUDIO because it allows me to work with professionals, get research experience, and see how political science can translate into a career.

Dr. Antman is working on a research project with students Esteban Urbino and Fiona Nugent.

Dr. Arehart is working with student Paige Clippert to research the use of soundscapes during the pandemic.

I was transferred from UREDI and I'm still very excited to continue working with IBS! Favorite quote: "Don't let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game." - Babe Ruth

I'm a first generation student who is majoring in political science with a certificate in LGBTQ studies here at CU. During my time at Studio I hope to contribute to work that helps us better understand global interconnectedness and the consequences of systemic violence. Favorite Quote: "You never completely have your rights, one person, until you all have your rights." - Marsha P. Johnson

I'm a senior working on a double major in Geography and Ecology with a Space minor. I'm thinking about graduate school in the MENV program. STUDIO will help me strengthen professional research and communication abilities. Favorite Quote: "Let food be thy medicine" - Unknown

I am excited to be able to conduct research and work closely with a mentor, as well as be a part of this learning community. I look forward to learning new things and techniques that can assist in this research process! "If life were predictable it would cease to be life, and be without flavor." -Eleanor Roosevelt

I wanted to get real experience in the research field of environmental policy. I am excited to connect with a professor and other students that I might otherwise not meet. This will be a great experience and may show me what I would like to do after I graduate. "Oh god, my mind is going a mile an hour." -Michael Scott

As an International Affairs and Linguistics double major, I am eager for the opportunity to assist with research projects related to my interests and build strong connections with CU faculty. Studio Lab prioritizes recruiting a diverse group of students, and I am excited for the opportunity to collaborate with mentors and fellow students from unique backgrounds. “On the mountains of truth you can never climb in vain: either you will...

Dr. Brennan is working with student Lena Frank to research trans masculine singing voices.

My excitement is threefold. Firstly, I am passionate about politics and its impact on society, and STUDIO will allow me to delve deeper into the field that fascinates me. Secondly, as a research assistant, I will have the opportunity to work closely with experienced researchers and contribute to meaningful projects, which will enhance my knowledge and skills in political science research. Lastly, STUDIO offers a valuable chance to apply theoretical...

I applied to STUDIO for personal mentoring by CU faculty, and the unique opportunity. What I'm most excited about is the hands on learning and experience possible with the STUDIO program. Favorite quote: "He will win who knows when to fight and when not to fight" - Sun Tau

I'm excited to participate in Studio Lab to diversify my learning beyond what can be taught in a classroom setting. Furthermore, the research experience will be helpful in my chosen field of quantum engineering. “My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.” — Maya Angelou

Dr. Buckley is reseraching gang recidivism alongside Dr. Pyrooz and student Elizabeth Iverson.

I recently discovered that I have a passion for research, something that I did not know was a career path that I could pursue. I have a passion for learning and for bettering the world through knowledge gained.

I applied to Studio Lab to get research experience and the chance to learn from faculty and professors. I look forward to the skills and information that I will learn as well as being a part of the Studio Lab community.

I applied to be part of STUDIO because it presents a great opportunity to gain valuable research experience. I also want to help better understand the world around us through research. Favorite quote: “The unexamined life is not worth living” - Socrates

I am a senior majoring in sociology and minoring in women and gender studies. I am most interested in studying media, democracy, and the social determinants of health. I joined STUDIO to get hands on experience researching in a social science field while getting to work with other students and professionals at CU.

I applied to Studio to develop research skills outside of the classroom. I am excited to be a part of Studio to learn more about the research process in a hands on environment!

I applied to Studio to broaden my experience at Boulder and to find more things to be passionate about. I want to know more about the world, and working with professors will allow me to do that. Favoriet quote: I choose to be happy.

I applied to be part of Studio because I want experience in the research field. I am excited to be part of a team that is interested in solving an answer. Favorite quote: Psalm 37: 4 Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Hi, my name is Serena and I'm a senior from Arvada, Colorado. I'm currently majoring in political science and minoring in French. I'm hoping to use my political science degree to become an immigration lawyer or to work in humanitarian aid abroad. "I go to seek a great perhaps"-Francois Rabelais

Studio was brought to my attention by one of my favorite professors. I have been very interested in the research process and eager to learn from other people in regards to their research process and their worldview. I value building relationships and learning about other people's experience with diversity and inclusion. I’m so excited for STUDIO because it will foster an environment that includes both the research and relational sides...

As an undergrad, I am constantly looking for opportunities to expand capacity to help those who help others. I am most interested in the impact of single-parenthood because those who raise children on their own are those who need the most recognition and consideration. I joined STUDIO to dive deeper into the work of research surrounding policies, institutions, and norms that are having an impact on Single-parents. Favorite Quote: "The...

Dr. Combs is working with student Lore Stacey to research IBS prevention.

Project: Respectability Politics and the Effects on Asian Americans

I applied for STUDIO because I would like to work in political science research in the future. This is an exciting opportunity to explore the field further and gain hands-on learning experience.

I applied to Studio because I wanted to work with a goal-oriented community that strives to be intellectually engaged. Being a Studio student would mean being challenged but most of all empowered to learn more about my community and how the research I conduct has the ability to affect us all. I'm not sure I have a favorite quote that I follow or look up to other than believing everything...

Dr. Derderyan is working with student Haylie Schramm to research regional lending organizations.

Dr. Dupris is researching language loss around the world with student Luke Stumpfl.

Project: Consent is Key: The role of international influences in securing and maintaining civil war state consent to peacekeeping operations

I am excited to be a part of Studio mainly because of the many doors this will open for me. I hope to go into investigation after school, and this way I can learn my way inside a lab or how investigation projects work. Favorite quote: "Don't worry, white," the slave told her. "You can forbid me whatever you want, and I'll comply." And she concluded: "The bad thing is...

I am very passionate about research and would like to expand my knowledge and gain as much experience as I can. STUDIO provides me with the opportunity to do this while being surrounded by diverse students who are like-minded and can continue enhance my learning environment.

I applied to be a part of Studio because I’m interested in attending grad school. Since grad school requires doing a lot of research, and I’m not familiar with research, I wanted to be in a program where I could get experience and be supported with it as well. I’m excited to be a part of this amazing program to conduct research in fields I’m interested in and to be...

Hi! I'm from Aurora, Colorado and I'm a first-year at CU studying Political Science and International Affairs. In the future, I aspire to work in a mindful field coordinated with international relations and possibly law. A fun fact about myself is that I love to travel. I'm really excited to work with STUDIO in order to develop a more enhanced understanding of political science and international affairs trends through research...

I applied to be apart of Studio because it was an awesome learning opportunity! It is an amazing learning opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and research about topics I'm deeply passionate about :)! Favorite quote: " I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the thing I cannot accept."- Angela Y. Davis

Hi I'm Jessica and I'm really passionate about research ad how the world works. My interests include anything from why do countries go to war, to how do we make society a better place to live, and really anything in between. Favorite Quote: "Don't get lost in the trees trying to see the forest."

I applied because I have been wanting a research assistant opportunity with research that aligns with my passions. I also have so many different interests it was helpful that STUDIO would pair me with a mentor that was the best fit for me. I am excited for hands on experience to learn more about the field. Favorite quote: "Where ignorance is our master, there is no possibility of real peace."...

I applied to Studio because I wanted to gain experience in research and be able to gain more knowledge in a more immersive setting. I am excited to be a part of Studio because I know I will gain super useful tools and skills through this program and I am super interested in my paired research assignment.

I can't wait to be a part of studio to keep enhancing my knowledge and skills in research. I'm excited to have an experienced mentor to help me along the way, in my academic journey. Favorite quote: Tennis showed me the world—and it showed me what I was made of. It’s how I tested myself and how I measured my growth. And so in whatever I might choose for my...

I applied to Studio because it seemed like a great opportunity and a way to expand my knowledge of what you can do with linguistics. I'm excited to be working directly with a professor on their own research, helping them in any way I can, and making long lasting connections.

I applied to be a part of STUDIO Lab in order to advance my general interest in politics using the fundamentals of research methods. Learning to apply analytical skills to my existing understanding of different political phenomena will not only help develop my skills, but give me a better and more well-rounded worldview. It is also exciting to be a part of interesting projects that the faculty at the Political...

I applied because I thought it was a great opportunity to gain research experience. I am excited to be a part of STUDIO Lab because I am able to research things I am genuinely interested, while also being in good company of other passionate academics. Favorite quote: “It's the intellectual who transforms the concept of the world into the problem of meaning.” – Max Weber

Dr. Goldfarb is working with student Emily Reynolds on researching the knowing of air quality experiences through Marshall fire oral histories.

Dr. Goodrum is researching local frameworks to prevent violence and terrorism with student Rylee Steen.

Project: CIRI Human Rights Project - International and Domestic Trends in Women’s Political/Economic Rights

Dr. Hall is working with student Robert Brown to research accents in autism and work on a Hindu poetry project.

Dr. Haynie is researching indigenous languages of North America with students August Pomrenke and Carley Gaddis.

I applied to be a part of Studio to see what was out there. I know there is so much that I don’t know and that I have so much to learn. I’m excited to have this opportunity to grow and learn at Studio Lab. Favorite quote: “Be curious. Not judgmental.” - Ted Lasso

I am a first generation student, as well as a Colorado Native that loves to ski, hike, camp and do anything outdoors. Research surrounding minority populations has always been incredibly interesting to me, especially cooperative politics. I joined STUDIO to try and have voices that are usually not heard be heard.

I applied to Studio Lab because I wanted to challenge myself and expand my knowledge and skillset through the applied method of research. I am also incredibly excited to work alongside faculty and contribute to meaningful research! As a Political Science student, I know what I learn in this experience will aid and inform me in the rest of my years as an undergraduate and beyond. "Inspiration, move me brightly."...

Dr. Hill is working with students Jamesie Spencer, Jackson Kessel, and Na'Kia Napue on various projects in prevention sciences.

Because research is one of the skills you’ll be using throughout all of your life no matter what career or field we decide to pursue, it is the opportunity to give answers and shape to the questions we have. It is a way to understand the world better and find solutions to its issues. Favorite quote: “When we were children, we used to think that when we grew up we...

I applied to be a part of Studio because I am interested in becoming involved in research and conducting my own research for an Honors thesis and I believe Studio is a great stepping stone for these goals. I am excited to be a part of Studio because I believe it will be a great opportunity to connect with faculty and find other like-minded students to work with. Favorite quote:...

I am a 4th year student studying International Affairs, Political Science, and Communication. I am interested in STUDIO as it gives on-site research experience which is not a viable option for many during undergrad. Favorite Quote: "Be the change you want to see in this world"

Dr. Jupille is researching EU legislation with students Indi Wachtler, Cassie Parrisher, and Regan Mobley.

Hello! I'm Anushka, a fourth year dual majoring in Economics and Computer Science. My interest in STUDIO stems from my interest in research more generally: its open-endedness fulfills my desire to learn and to create while allowing me to contribute, even if in a small way, to my communities and issue areas that I care about. Favorite Quote: "All the same, when you see the misery it brings, you'd need...

Ph.D. candidate in political science Komal Kaur is working with students Nadin Almilaify and Elizabeth Cupp to research gender & caste based representation in India.

I applied to the Studio program in order to gain firsthand insight concerning the professional application of various research methods. It is my dream to study religion, nationality, and culture in graduate school and I believe that this program will help me achieve this goal. Favorite quote: “The mind accustomed to political kings can easily be reconciled to social kings—capitalist kings of the workshop, the mill, the railway, the ships,...

I applied to be apart of Studio because I wanted to get involved with research at CU and was interested in the variety of options and projects that I could be paired with through Studio. I am most excited to work with Dr. Hill and get involved in the implementation of meaningful research within the prevention science field.

My name is Yucong Li. I am a senior majoring in mathematics and economics, and I also joined the Actuarial Program. I am an international student from China. It's my great honor to participate in Studio Lab for the second year. As a member of the Research Assistant, I assisted Professor Brown and Professor Philips in the Research of Statistical Software into Undergraduate Methods Courses. I think the Studio Lab...

The research aspects of Political Science have always been the most interesting to me and the STUDIO program allows me to gain more experience in this field. This program will also be a community of people that value the research they are doing as much as I do and I look forward to learning from them all.

Project: CIRI Human Rights Project - International and Domestic Trends in Women’s Political/Economic Rights

I am a first year student studying International Affairs and I am passionate about deepening my understanding of my field in order to catalyze meaningful change in foreign relations. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to dive deeper into interesting topics through STUDIO and develop my research skills while working alongside incredible faculty. Favorite Quote: "The free, exploring mind of the individual is the most valuable thing in the...

I applied to be part of Studio as an avenue to get involved with CU Boulder as well as take advantage of the ability to work with a mentor. I have not worked with research, but find it very interesting and would like to develop those skills in a project. Favorite quote: “What’s the point of having a voice if you’re going to be silent when its needed the most”...

After attending a presentation at IBS during a summer bridge program, I applied to Studio and knew it would be someplace I would love to work. I am excited about the community around Studio and knowing that what I'm doing is making a difference. Favorite quote: "If You're Happy Doing What You Love, Nobody Can Tell You You're Not Successful" - Harry Styles

Dr. Montoya is researching Latina political leadership in Colorado with students Giselle DeHaro and Ethan Shea.

I applied through UREDI but still very excited that I am now a part of STUDIO, seems like a very great and organized program. Favorite quote: "And the boy loved the tree...very much. And the tree was happy" (Shel Silverstein).

I look forward to being a part of a team pursuing research I'm passionate in. Favorite quote: "Do the thing and you shall have the power" -Anon

I applied to the Studio program to have the opportunity to do real research and to work closely with faculty and other researchers. I am excited to be able to apply the data analysis and critical thinking skills I’ve gained in the courses I’ve taken.

Project: Evaluating undergraduate research method courses across America

My name is Ornella Musinguzi, and I am currently a Sophomore studying Political Science with a minor in Multicultural leadership studies. I joined STUDIO because it gives me the pathway to direct research resources and the opportunity to learn about the internal works that go into conducting research.

I applied to be part of Studio because a chance to work with a graduate student was too big of an opportunity to overlook. I am excited to learn and have a front row seat in seeing how a research is conducted especially on the level that's definitely beyond undergrad. I sincerely believe that I will experience a lot of growth, especially academically from this opportunity. Favorite quote: The only...

I applied to be a part of Studio because I haven't had much experience in the field of research, and I wanted to explore that aspect of Studio. I also wanted to be a part of a team that dedicates time and resources to preventative sciences. Favorite quote: "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that." - Dr...

Dr. Narasimhan is working with student Conner Moses to ressearch psycholinguistics, working memory, and word choice.

I am a 3rd year student studying Computer Science, Chinese, and International Affairs. My interests lie in cybersecurity and Chinese-US relations. I am excited to gain hands-on research experience through STUDIO. Favorite Quote: "The true delight is in the finding out rather than in the knowing." -Isaac Asimov

I applied to the Studio Lab to be involved in quality social science research that has a positive, real world impact. I am eager to further my interests in partisanship, power structures, and environmental policy through research. Favorite quote: "Life shrinks and expands in proportion to one's courage." - Anaïs Nin

I applied to work for STUDIO because I did not want to miss this opportunity to experience the world of academic research in the social sciences. Such research provides fascinating insights into our societies, and it is very possible that I might choose to pursue a career in academic research in economics or political science. I’m very excited for the year ahead with STUDIO because I can already tell how...

Currently a Sophomore, Rhys is pursuing a double major in Economics and Political Science. His curiosity in the data driven side of political science research is what first got him interested in STUDIO. Also, the ability to assist in ongoing political science research interested him in STUDIO. After his undergrad, he hopes to pursue an higher level degree, whether that be a PhD or a JD.

Dr. Palmer is researching social and political identity, tweets, and the far right with students Jax Helmick and Victoria Efigenio-Ulloa.

Dr. Park is working with students Maelynn Terr, Anushka Kathait, and Arjun Novotny Shandas to research politics of climate change.

My name is Cassie and I am a sophomore studying political science at CU Boulder. I love the outdoors, camping, music, climbing, concerts, hiking, etc., but I also love reading, writing, and studying politics. I joined STUDIO because it is an amazing way to make great connections, while getting to practice my research skills for the future. Favorite Quote: "Wherever you go, there you are."

Dr. Peek is researching earthquake warnings in schools with students Daniella Fairley and Dhruv Seth.

I applied to be a part of Studio because of the opportunity to conduct immensely important research among some of the best researchers in the world. I am elated to have the privilege to work on a project with the potential of impacting how we conceive societal and political constructs throughout history and the present. Favorite quote: "The meaning of the river flowing is not that all things are changing...

Dr. Pyrooz is working with students Katherina Mook, Remi Trauernicht, and Sibonelly (Sibo) Espitia Sanchez to research gangs and crime.

Dr. Raymond is researching the corpus of language discrimination in action with students Boniface Mwinyi and Blanca Cerda.

Dr. Reid is working with students Sebatian Cedeno Gonzalez, Laycea Atao, and Lucia Montoya Cardenas to research wlidfire smoke and schools. In addition, Dr. Reid is working with student Amanda Ruybal on a literature review regarding use of structural equation modeling in environmental exposure and health research; they are using an SEM to evaluate how perceptions and objective exposure to green space influence mental health.

I applied to be part of Studio because I LOVE doing research in the social sciences and learning more about Anthropology and Linguistics! I'll be working with one of my favorite professors on a project that will have a huge positive impact on the community, which is my ideal research environment. I'm also very excited to get to know other student researchers; I've been involved in research at CU for...

Project: Oil Prices and Migration Policy Openness in Kuwait and Qatar

I applied to be a part of STUDIO because I love social sciences and the questions that go along with it. I am excited because I find research to be incredibly fulfilling and I think STUDIO will be one of my first steps onto bigger things. I want to go to grad school and continue research on things I am passionate about.

I am a first year student who is double majoring in political science and psychology. I have a background in mostly STEM research through high school, but I am looking to enter the research field for my career. Favorite Quote: "An unexamined life is not worth living" -Socrates

Hi, I'm Haylie and I am a second year student majoring in both Politcal Science and Psychology. I have loved research throughout my academic career not only because it gives me hands-on experience in my field, but I am also able to make sense of complex issues that may not be highly developed. I am very excited to be part of STUDIO this year as I will have an opportunity...

I applied to Studio because I believe working alongside CU faculty in a research project will help provide the foundation I need in developing necessary research and job skills for my undergraduate career. I am excited to be in Studio and to hopefully help with research that will educate people on relevant, underrepresented social issues. Favorite quote: "Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on...

I applied to be a part of Studio because I am passionate about understanding political data. I applied because I hope to conduct my own research in the future. I applied because I want to grow. I am thrilled to be a part of Studio because I hope to facilitate real change, whether it be at a local, state, or national level. I hope the opportunities that Studio provides will...

Project: CIRI Human Rights Project - International and Domestic Trends in Women’s Political/Economic Rights

Project: Oil Prices and Migration Policy Openness in Kuwait and Qatar

Dr. Soares is researching Latinx DJs with students Stacey Bui, Fabiola Flores, and Emily Miller.

Ph.D. candidate in political science Hyodong Sohn is working with student Alina Lopo to research energy transition.

Dr. Sokhey is researching Christian nationalism in the US with students Nikhita Garaga and Sky Kelsey.

Hello! I'm Jamesie, a rising third-year first-generation student studying psychology, sociology, and public health. I applied to be a part of Studio lab to gain experience in psychological research and build networks to support my future endeavors in academia. I am willingly open and eager to learn from and grow alongside my mentor throughout our research project in the Prevention Science Program. Favorite quote: "Whether you think you can or...

I have been working with the LST program at IBS for a summer internship and have been benefiting greatly from the experience and mentorship. Favorite quote: "When I dare to be powerful – to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid." - Audre Lorde

I applied to be apart of Studio because I am extremely interested in developing myself as a research student and there is no better way to do that than by getting the opportunity to work under experienced professors. I am so excited to be apart of Studio because, as a psychology major, studying people is captivating to me and this program allows me to do that while making a hugely...

I wish to follow my deep curiosity toward patterns in the universe in a way that pushes me to be a catalyst of compassion in the world. Doing research with STUDIO will help me to work at realizing this wish by learning how to do good academic research, meet other curious people, and spread love through my daily efforts. Favorite quote: "We are the universe experiencing itself" - Carl Sagan...

I am really excited to be part of Studio again this year! I am looking forward to learning more ways to apply data science skills to analyze Political Science topics. I applied to Studio as a way to find what parts of research I really enjoy and want to focus on in the future. This research has excited me about studying Data Science and Economics for my undergrad, because so...

Dr. Thomas is researching control theories of crime with students Jay Garnas and Natalie Castro.

Project: Syrian Migration Policy Shocks

I applied to be a part of Studio to acquire experience, build connections with professors, and most importantly, gain knowledge in regards to the world of research. I am enthusiastic about diving into my research project and getting to know my professor. I look forward to feeding my ever-growing hunger for learning! Favorite quote: It is good to be loved, but profound to be understood.

I wanted to become part of STUDIO Lab because I wanted to be part of a motivated community interested in solving the problems we face today. I'm excited to work with professors and mentors with years of experience in the fields of economics and Latin American affairs. Favorite quote: "Rules of happiness: something to do, something to love, and something to hope for" - Immanuel Kant

Ph.D. candidate in sociology Melissa Villarreal is researching post disaster recovery of Mexican immigrant women following Hurricane Harvey (2017) in Houston, TX with student Amanda Ruybal.

I applied to be a part of Studio because I wanted to integrate what I was learning in school with the research my professors were conducting. I'm excited to learn more about EU laws and develop research and analytical skills. Favorite quote: "I think it pisses god off if you walk by the color purple in a field somewhere and don’t notice it." - The Color Purple, Alice Walker

Jody Witt is working alongside Franziska Zenhaeusern and student Lucy Friedman to research violence prevention in schools.

STUDIO is a great gateway to further developing necessary skills in research such as intellectual vitality and communication, while also doing research that has a positive world impact. I also believe STUDIO is a great way to be more involved in Boulder and be able to further develop awareness about the world. I love the interdisciplinary nature of health care, and I want to further explore topics that deal with...

Franziska Zenhaeusern is working alongside Jody Witt and student Lucy Friedman to research violence prevention in schools.