Student Vignettes

Yanori Ferguson

INSTITUTION, MAJOR, AND HOBBIES

Occidental College - Major: Biochemistry, Minor: Math - Rollerblading, Painting, Singing

CAREER INTERESTS

My main career goal is to take part in enacting global health justice. Using my experience in research and science communication, I strive to help implement solutions to health issues among marginalized communities. Whether it is through writing or learning languages, my passion lies in bridging disparate worldviews and amplifying voices of change.

WHY I CHOSE TO ATTEND THE USF MAKING WAVES

I am beyond lucky to partake in such an interdisciplinary and mission-oriented program as USF Making Waves. In Dr. Larry Dishaw’s lab I will be working at the intersection of public health, ecotoxicology and phylogenetics to explore immune responses in the gut microbiome. Beyond honing my skills to explore health frontiers in the lab, I am excited for the opportunity to rigorously expand my ability to communicate science at USF. This program will help verse me in podcast design and community intervention for matters ranging from severe weather risk perception to water toxicity. I intend to take this training in conducting measurable goals and collaborating with professional researchers to graduate school.