The University of New Mexico’s Undergraduate Research, Arts & Design Network (URAD) has selected four student ambassadors for the 2025-26 academic year. These ambassadors are experienced undergraduate researchers who aim to encourage and support their peers in engaging with research opportunities across various disciplines.
The URAD student ambassadors provide peer advising sessions to students from all majors and backgrounds. During these sessions, they answer questions about research involvement, assist with writing professional emails to faculty, and help students prepare strong applications for research programs. Students interested in meeting with an ambassador can request an advising session.
Beyond advising, the ambassadors contribute to URAD’s outreach by creating content for its Instagram account, visiting classes to promote services, and participating in campus events.
Freshness Uzo-Hez is a psychology major whose research examines the impact of socioeconomic status on the relationship between apathy and executive functioning among individuals with mild traumatic brain injury. “My research investigates how socioeconomic status (SES) may shape the relationship between apathy and executive functioning in individuals with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). By exploring SES as a possible moderator or mediator, this study aims to better understand how social and cognitive factors interact in brain injury recovery. This work is driven by a commitment to improving clinical approaches for underserved populations and advancing more equitable neuropsychological care,” she said. Uzo-Hez became involved in research after attending a URAD workshop as a junior at UNM. She advises fellow students: “Often, getting involved just starts with asking. Use the resources available to you and don’t be afraid to reach out to faculty or researchers whose work interests you – even if you think you’re not ‘qualified’ yet. Curiosity and initiative go a long way.”
Diego Ruiz studies population health and researches barriers and motivating factors for healthcare careers at Hispanic-serving institutions. His project seeks to identify structural challenges faced by students from marginalized communities who pursue healthcare professions. Ruiz explained his entry into research: “I first heard about research when I entered college as something that could strengthen my resume, but I didn’t really understand what it involved or why it mattered… My curiosity led me to attend a URAD workshop during my first semester…” He encourages others: “Titles and departments aren’t everything! What matters most is finding mentors who genuinely care about you and your growth…”
Serena Helewicz majors in biochemistry and psychology while researching cadmium’s role in breast cancer metastasis, particularly its effects on bone marrow adipogenesis. “My research explores how the heavy metal cadmium contributes to the progression and metastasis of breast cancer, with a particular focus on its role in promoting metastasis to the bone… The findings have the potential to inform future toxicological guidelines…” Her interest grew from personal experience with cancer; she now plans a career bridging laboratory discovery with patient care through translational oncology research. Her advice: “Get involved in research early and with a good mentor!… Sometimes all you have to do is ask if your faculty mentor has any funding…”
Melyssa Zurasky is focused on psychology-based substance use treatment mechanisms through mindfulness-based relapse prevention programs. She describes her journey: “I had limited knowledge of research when I began exploring my options for graduate school… To make an informed decision, I talked with my professors about their experiences…” Zurasky suggests: “My biggest piece of advice is to ask and look for opportunities continually… Actively seek them and be willing to get out of your comfort zone.”
URAD’s peer advising program continues this academic year as part of broader efforts at UNM to connect undergraduates—regardless of background—with hands-on learning experiences that foster academic growth.
