Undergraduate Research Opportunities Center
N e w s l e t t e r | D e c e m b e r 2 0 2 0
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As we reach the end of 2020, we asked several UROC students to say goodbye to one of the most challenging years of our lifetime. Here's what they had to say: |
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"You can bind up my leg, but not even Zeus has the power to break my freedom of choice." - Epictetus.
For as long as we allow ourselves to stagnate, we prevent growth from rejuvenating our minds and spirits.
Angel Diaz
UROC McNair Scholar
Psychology
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Goodbye 2020, you really tested me. I was not sure how I was going to do it. But after, two community colleges, health complications, raising my son as a single parent, and a global pandemic, here we are, 2020 Graduates. I love you son, we did it!
Arlene Diazleal
Koret Scholar
Psychology
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The year 2020 has not been the easiest, but when life gives you lemons, make lemonade!
I am grateful for the lessons I have learned through the challenges, and I will continue to grow as we transition into 2021!
Devynn Gately
UROC Researcher
Marine Science
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I couldn’t be happier 2020 is over, and I hope by this time next year I can say with confidence that my struggles made me stronger.
Jasmin Johnson
UROC Scholar
Marine Science
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In 2020, I became my worst enemy yet my best friend throughout this chaos. Thank you for preparing me mentally, emotionally, and physically for the future.
Kevin Pilotzi
UROC Researcher
Kinesiology
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The year 2020 has been an incredibly tough year full of ups and downs, but we’ve finally made it through. I am looking forward to what 2021 will bring for all of us!
Ashley Caraway
UROC Student Assistant
Biology
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Let's put 2020 behind us for a better vision.
Armando Flores
UROC McNair Scholar
Environmental Science, Technology, & Policy
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Goodbye, 2020. Please keep in mind our sorrows and our challenges. Hello, 2021! Please be good... I am finally 21.
Sylvia Vasquez
UROC McNair Scholar
Biology
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Here's how I'd like to say goodbye to 2020: Bye, 2020! You will not be missed.
Courtney Crouse
Koret Scholar
Psychology
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But we're also looking forward to 2021... |
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In 2021, I look forward to opportunities that push me towards making a choice of who I want to be and where I want to go. I look forward to many more opportunities to love, give, and serve others. I hope the new year is full of healing on an individual, societal, and global level.
Cameron Battersby
UROC Scholar
Psychology
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In 2021, I am planning on reaching my Goodreads book goal. Also, I recently joined Citizens' Climate Lobby, and I'm excited to join the fight for climate justice. Finally, I'm looking forward to walking my dog around the neighborhood, because I enjoy our walks and I love how my dog wags her little tail and excitedly spins around in circles when I tell her we're going for a walk.
Annabelle McCarthy
LSAMP Rising Researcher
Biology
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As our worlds are thrown in and out of chaos, remember that unprecedented times uncover unprecedented
resilience. Find power in yourself and ignite kindness and compassion in others-- then we can begin to craft a kinder and more stable world.
Jada Carter
UROC McNair Scholar
Molecular Biology
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What I am looking forward to most in 2021 is entering my final year as an undergraduate. I am excited to graduate and see what exciting opportunity I will find next!
Laney Klunis
UROC Scholar
Marine Science
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I look forward to all the new things I'm going to learn! Constantly learning is something that is reliable no matter what the future may hold!
Keyoni McNair
UROC Researcher
Computer Science
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What I look forward to most in 2021 are the summer REU's. The ability to gain even more research experience. Possibly in a new location. I also am excited about the possibility of doing a semester abroad.
Leta Dawn
LSAMP Rising Researcher
Marine Science
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In 2021, I look forward to new beginnings and new opportunities, to use what I have learned in the pandemic. I also look forward to moving back on campus to collaborate with students on coursework and research.
Chase Paparotti
UROC Scholar
Cinematic Arts & Technology
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What I look forward to most about 2021 is being able to go to concerts again. I miss seeing live events so much. But, I also look forward to doing my own research using machine learning, now that I have the basic knowledge of data science.
Derek Lilienthal
UROC Researcher
Computer Science
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In 2021, I'm looking forward to making sure this next online semester is better than the last, and making sure this year is too. I can't wait to learn more and, hopefully, see everyone soon!
Matthew Dunham
UROC Scholar
Statistics
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UROC celebrates the life of friend and supporter, Roderick Leroy Dewar. Rod and his late wife, Suzanne Mack Dewar have been strong supporters of CSUMB and of UROC for a decade.
The Suzanne Dewar Memorial Undergraduate Research Scholarship awards funding to support UROC scholars conducting research in the arts, humanities and social sciences.
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When asked about his gift to CSUMB, Rod, a Monterey attorney and Carmel native, noted that UROC can be a life-changing event for students. “It’s practical study versus classroom activity; working with experts in the student’s chosen field at off-campus locations,” he said. “UROC exposes students to incredible opportunities not usually afforded to undergraduates – a concentrated activity leading to a contribution to knowledge rather than just absorbing it.”
UROC is grateful to Rod and Suzanne Dewar for their many years of support and the legacy they have created at UROC to support arts, humanities and social science undergraduate research. To learn more about Rod, check out his 2018 interview with the Harrison Memorial Library.
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Calling All Summer Researchers... |
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Many Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REUs) across the country were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite mass cancellations though, CSUMB UROC mentors were able to pivot quickly to provide meaningful research and scholarship opportunities during summer 2020. Now that we are nearly a year into the pandemic, many REU programs around the country are hopeful that an authentic, in-person research experience will be viable in the near future.
Why apply and participate in these programs? REUs are excellent opportunities to expand research interests, further expertise, broaden professional networks, and become more competitive for graduate level programs. Most REUs are also fully funded. Below are a few of the many programs offered across the country, including our campus and region:
Applications are now open and deadlines vary!
Applicants: be sure to contact potential letter writers early and use the resources to strengthen your application. Utilize the Student Opportunity Center (SOC) to search for programs across the country and in your backyard.
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Remember to stay safe and healthy during the winter break. We look forward to seeing you in the New Year! |
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Chat with us!
Want to get involved in research but don't know where to start? Set up a virtual consultation on the UROC website!
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