Overview

 

After starting my research journey independently, in my sophomore year, I was finally able to work with experienced mentors at Arizona State University.

 

I was finally able to seek guidance from ASU research mentor Mr. Floris Wardennar at the Athleat Field Lab, College of Health Solutions. My project focused on performance nutrition—specifically, whether firefighters can accurately gauge their hydration levels during duty and how practical self-assessment is,  in their high-stress environments.

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Working with ASU principal investigator Dr. Aliria Rascon at the ASU Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation, I explored how social factors like food insecurity, transportation, and cultural barriers affect enrollment and ultimately retention in family-based diabetes prevention programs in Latino communities. We worked on creating more equitable, culturally responsive strategies to improve participation and retention.

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Currently, I am developing culturally responsive “One Health” training for community health workers (CHWs) and analyzing social barriers to diabetes prevention in underserved communities.This work reinforced my passion for addressing both medical and social factors in healthcare.

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Personal importance of this work

These projects showed me how science can directly improve people’s lives, whether by helping firefighters stay ready for duty or creating health programs that meet cultural and community needs. I learned how to work within structured research teams, adapt methods to real-world settings, and balance scientific accuracy with practical application. I gained skills in data analysis, community engagement, and explaining findings in a way that makes sense to both experts and the public. Most importantly, I saw that impactful health solutions require both evidence and empathy.​