Founded a 501(c)(3) nonprofit providing STEM outreach and mentorship initiatives for refugee and international students in the Greater Cleveland area. Organized 15+ bilingual workshops for over 200 (K-12) students, raised $3K in funding, and partnered with 5 local nonprofits and schools including, Global Cleveland, Natividad Pagan International Newcomers Academy, and Esperanza Inc. Through monthly hands-on workshops and a targeted research program, we aim to bridge educational gaps, foster community integration, and spark a passion for STEM.In my role, I shape these initiatives by developing tailored workshops, managing partnerships, and driving fundraising efforts to expand our impact and create an inclusive environment where these students can thrive academically and socially.

Leading a systematic review on the impact of insurance prior-authorization requirements on cancer care delivery under Dr. Hamlet Gasoyan at the Center for Value-Based Care Research. Participated in Cleveland Clinic’s Student Pathways Program, gaining exposure to 10+ clinical and non-clinical healthcare careers through seminars and workshops, while developing skills in resume writing, interviewing, and personal branding.

Selected as 1 of 17 to serve on Congresswoman Shontel Brown’s OH-11 Youth Advisory Council, representing high school students in government and community discussions. Engaged in real-world projects targeting local issues, collaborated with community leaders, and developed skills in public speaking, problem-solving, and teamwork through policy research and mock debates.Led a youth mental health policy capstone and presented the project to over 50 including policymakers and community leaders to advocate for improved resources in the district.

Mentors: Dr. Adrian Gomez-Nguyen MD, PhD & Dr. Paola Menghini PhD, PI: Dr. Fabio Cominello MD, PhD.Summer 2024: Researched the Impact of Depression on the Microbiome and Inflammation in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Winnie Mice.Summer 2023: Worked on a project concerning the role of IL-34 on the pathogenesis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in mice models. At the end of the program, I formally presented my research and future directions to an audience of peers, faculty, laboratory personnel, and family.

2023-2024 Community-Based Project: Investigated Access to Breast Cancer Prevention and Detection Amongst Racial Minorities in Cuyahoga County, focusing on disparities in healthcare access and community outreach. Engaged in a comprehensive, community-engaged science program (5 hours weekly) focusing on cancer prevention and control, ethical research practices, and quantitative and qualitative research methods.

Summer 2024: Acute-Care Comfort Cart Volunteer Engaged with 15+ patients per shift, providing comfort items and emotional support to enhance patient and family experiences. Coordinated with nursing staff for patient referrals and managed the comfort cart.Summer 2023: Seidman Cancer Center Outpatient Clinic Volunteer Assisted patients and families by navigating hospital services and appointments. Improved department efficiency through wayfinding and patient transport.

Mentor: Dr. Suzzane Tomchuck PhD, PI: Dr. Alex Huang MD, PhD.Summer 2022: Research focused on using combined therapy to enhance the effectiveness of cryoablation in pediatric sarcomas. At the end of the program, I formally presented my research and future directions to an audience of peers, faculty, laboratory personnel, and family.