Sophia Cicone

Nutrition and dietetics major

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Challenging. Supportive. Community.

Why Sophia chose UD:

I'm from Middletown, and in-state tuition was a factor. I couldn't be happier with my decision!

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

It felt like stepping into a new adult community full of opportunity for independence and growth

Why did you choose your major?:

I took an introductory nutrition course and absolutely fell in love with the fact that nutrition is the basis for preventing chronic diseases.

Post-graduation plans:

I will be pursuing a master's in human nutrition through UD's 4+1 program. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

The professors in the Department of Health Behavior and Nutrition Sciences walked us through every step of this program and supported me through the process.

Favorite academic experience:

Serving as a teaching assistant for the Nutrition Concepts course, which led me to fall in love with nutrition. It taught me leadership, time management and teamwork skills.

Favorite non-academic experience:

Having a picnic on the Green with my friends on warm spring evenings

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means working closely with peers to lift each other up and motivate each other to work through academically challenging moments.

Ellery Bergman 

Chudnow

Honors health behavior science major | Business administration and global health minors

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Transformative. Supportive. Empowering

Why Ellery chose UD:

As a Distinguished Scholar, I had the honor of meeting with faculty from the Department of Health Behavior and Nutrition Sciences before committing to UD. I was blown away not only by their work but also by their kindness and genuine willingness to connect me with opportunities.

Unlike any other school I had visited or considered, UD’s strong sense of community and support immediately stood out to me. I knew UD would be a place where I could truly thrive, and it has truly exceeded all of my expectations.

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

Stepping onto campus for the first time felt like all my hard work had paid off. I was excited about the future and eager to see what opportunities awaited me at UD.

Why did you choose your major?:

I chose my major because I am deeply interested in understanding how health behavior science can have a meaningful impact on people’s lives. What drew me in most was the combination of research, real-world application and the opportunity to address important challenges in the field. I was especially inspired by the faculty and the work they are doing, which made me confident that this program would provide both the mentorship and opportunities I need to succeed and grow.

Post-graduation plans:

I have accepted a position as an operations associate for Mount Sinai Solutions within the Mount Sinai Health System and will be moving back to New York City, where I'm from, to start my job in June. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

Through my academic coursework, internship and practicum, and hands-on experiences, I developed a strong foundation in critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. The support and mentorship I received from faculty not only challenged me intellectually but also encouraged me to pursue opportunities beyond the classroom.

UD’s strong alumni network also played an important role in my journey. I had the opportunity to intern at the United Nations thanks to the support of Distinguished Scholar and UD alumna Amanda Abrom.

Favorite academic experience:

In my Honors capstone, "Development Health Promotion Programs," I worked with a team to develop an intervention proposal from start to finish. It was extremely rewarding to work on this, and the result was something I am incredibly proud of.

My mentor:

Retired Professor Steve Goodwin has been an unwavering source of encouragement and guidance for me. I studied abroad in Australia and New Zealand with Dr. Goodwin through his International Community Health course, which was a truly transformative experience. The course itself was incredible, and it allowed me to learn from one of the world's best healthcare systems while gaining a global perspective on public health and community care.

I also served as Dr. Goodwin's writing fellow for an Honors colloquium course he adapted from "The Art of Happiness" course.  Through each of these experiences, he consistently challenged and supported me academically and personally.

Favorite non-academic experience:

I have had the privilege to study abroad not once but twice. The first time was a summer session in Australia and New Zealand, and the second was for a full semester in Rome at John Cabot University. Both of these experiences were transformational and have led me to become the person I am today.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen is about taking chances, growing as a person, and having people around who want you to succeed.

Carlie Chylack

Nutrition and dietetics major

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Engaging. Rewarding. Fun.

Why Carlie chose UD:

After taking an official University tour and later exploring campus with a first-year student from my hometown, I quickly realized that UD would be a great fit for me. I was especially impressed by the College of Health Sciences and the many clinics and research opportunities available on  STAR Campus. I was also excited by the wide variety of clubs and activities offered, since I have many different interests. Finally, I loved the campus, especially the South Green. Everyone I met was so kind and welcoming.

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

Stepping on campus for the first time as a first-year student was an exciting and nerve-racking experience. I was excited to move into my dorm, quickly met my best friends and adapted to the college lifestyle.

Why did you choose your major?:

From a young age, I've always had a love for food, healthy living and helping people. Through a high school biology class, I developed a love for science. I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare, and studying nutrition and dietetics to become a registered dietitian seemed like a perfect fit.

Post-graduation plans:

Next year, I will be completing my master's in human nutrition through UD's 4+1 program. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

The courses, hands-on experiences and support from faculty prepared me to take on graduate-level coursework during my junior year of undergraduate study. The courses have also set me up to successfully apply for dietetics internships, which will be my next step after earning my master's.

Favorite academic experience:

My favorite academic experience was taking the Nutrition Counseling course, where I had several opportunities to practice counseling in real-life scenarios. I enjoyed learning about the different skills involved in nutrition counseling and applying them through assignments and mock counseling sessions. I also valued the opportunity to observe dietitians using these same skills while volunteering at UD's Nutrition Clinic.

My mentor:

Maryann Eastep has been an important faculty mentor for me, as she was the first nutrition professor I had at UD. After taking several additional courses with her, she became a true mentor whom I could turn to with questions about the field. I also had the opportunity to serve as a peer mentor for one of her classes and am currently working as a teaching assistant for another. Through these experiences, I have learned a great deal about leadership and mentorship from Associate Instructor Eastep, which has helped me grow toward my goal of becoming a leader in the field, even as a student.

Favorite non-academic experience:

During our first year, my roommate and I would spend Friday afternoons lifting or taking a fun workout class at the Little Bob. Afterward, we would go to the Trabant Student Center, meet up with other friends and grab Chick-fil-A for dinner. We shared so many memories and laughs during these times.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Embracing opportunities, chasing curiosity and working with all kinds of different people. As a Blue Hen, I am a part of a University that creates a positive environment and supports students and faculty in both personal and academic growth.

Adriana Mazzella

Nutrition and medical sciences major |  Biological sciences and medical social services minors 

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Fun. Rewarding. Friends.

Why Adriana chose UD:

I liked the campus after touring it and was impressed by the options and opportunities available for me to explore, plus it would be easy to travel home when needed. 

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

A welcoming, fun environment, and I was excited to meet my roommates.

Why did you choose your major?:

The nutrition and medical sciences major enabled me to explore my interest in nutrition while still being on a pre-medical track, so it was the best of both worlds in my eyes.

My mentor:

Dr. Alisha Rovner -- I enjoyed all of the classes I had with her and learned a lot. She is always willing to have a conversation and provides genuine advice that has helped me gain confidence in my future.

Post-graduation plans:

Preparing to apply to medical school. Over the summer, I plan to shadow physicians and increase my patient care hours. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD helped prepare me through the courses I took for my major and minors. I learned a lot about healthcare, especially the importance of all the roles on a patient's interdisciplinary team and how they work together to provide the best care. 

Favorite academic experience:

My favorite academic experience was the "Works of J.R.R. Tolkien" course I took to fulfill a second writing requirement. In class, we read The Hobbit and the entire Lord of the Rings series and discussed our favorite and most important scenes from each chapter. It was a very fun experience that allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the books. The best part was writing a character study on Gandalf.

Favorite non-academic experience:

I have been part of the Women's Rowing team for four years, which taught me resilience and discipline and strengthened my mental toughness. While it was definitely challenging, many of my favorite memories come from the time I spent with my amazing teammates.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a part of a family and taking advantage of all of the opportunities given to you.

Samantha Papili

Health behavior science major | Medical social services minor

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Transformative. Rewarding. Challenging.

Why Samantha chose UD:

Family has always been one of my biggest values, so staying close to home was important to me, especially since both of my parents attended UD. 

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

It felt like stepping into a completely new world. At the same time, it was a bit daunting, especially because change didn’t come easily to me as a freshman. Choosing a random roommate turned out to be one of the best decisions I made, because UD introduced me to one of my closest friends.

Why did you choose your major?:

I’ve always been passionate about the multidimensional nature of health. I’ve seen firsthand how changes in one area can affect overall well-being. I was drawn to a program that views health holistically rather than focusing on just one dimension. It’s also helped me build transferable skills and become a more empathetic, compassionate, and well-rounded person.

Post-graduation plans:

I will be earning my master's in health promotion through UD's 4+1 program.

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD prepared me by integrating graduate-level coursework into my undergraduate experience over the past few semesters. This allowed me to gradually adjust to higher-level classes and build confidence in my abilities.

Favorite academic experience:

One of my favorite academic experiences was serving as a teaching assistant for the "Behavior Change Strategies and Tactics" course while taking a graduate-level health coaching course. Being in both roles gave me a unique perspective as I was learning advanced coaching techniques while also helping students apply those same skills. Grading case study videos strengthened my health coaching abilities by allowing me to learn from the students while also contributing to their growth. This experience reinforced my knowledge, built my confidence, and showed me the value of learning as both a student and a mentor.

My mentors:

Professor Elizabeth Orsega-Smith was especially influential throughout my time at UD. I took multiple classes with her and worked as a research assistant under her. Additionally, she connected me to a variety of opportunities that supported my academic growth and success.

Associate Instructor Tara Leonard also had a significant impact on my journey. I served as a teaching assistant for her HBNS430 course while taking her graduate-level health coaching class. She is incredibly supportive, understanding, and encouraging and helped build my confidence both academically and professionally.

Julie Carney-Jones, my undergraduate advisor, was another important mentor. We connected right away, and she provided valuable guidance as I explored future career paths. She continues to check in on me, which speaks to the genuine care and support I experienced at UD.

Favorite non-academic experience:

One of my most meaningful experiences was volunteering with Lori’s Hands. Through this organization, I built relationships with individuals managing chronic conditions and gained a deeper understanding of the challenges older adults face. I grew especially close to a few women, shared meaningful conversations, and they expressed how much they valued our time together. It was an experience that strengthened my interpersonal skills and left a lasting impact on me.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means taking pride in both my University and my roots as a Delawarean, especially staying close to home while still growing into my own person. With my family’s connection to UD, it represents both tradition and personal growth. It also reflects the person I’ve become during my time here: more confident, open-minded, and respectful of others and their diverse perspectives.

Arshia Singh

Honors Nutrition and medical sciences major | Global health minor | World Scholars student

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Eventful. Memorable. Transformative.

Why Arshia chose UD:

All of the opportunities I could be part of outside my major, especially the World Scholars and the Honors programs. 

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

It was a super rainy day, and I just remember hoping the campus would be much prettier on a sunny day. When I returned, I felt a sense of familiarity and comfort -- like I could see myself spending four years at her quite easily.

Why did you choose your major?:

My love for cooking inspired me to pursue the nutrition and medical sciences major.

Post-graduation plans:

I am pursuing graduate school at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine.

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD helped me thrive academically and form lasting friendships. Being part of registered student organizations for both academic and personal development taught me a lot about the importance of balance in life, and I hope to carry that lesson with me through dental school.

Favorite academic experience:

The Food and Nutrition Education Lab course was one of my favorite classes. I loved cooking every week and even returned as a teacher's assistant.

My mentors:

Dr. Sheau Ching Chai taught me a lot about the research process and how to communicate the knowledge I was gaining effectively to an audience. Dr. Alisha Rovner also comes to mind, especially in terms of my professional development; she was always so eager to talk about planning for dental school and connected me to alumni who were already in dental school to ask about their experiences, both at UD and at their respective dental schools.

Favorite research experience:

I've been part of Dr. Chai's lab since the end of my first year. Seeing a study from start to completion taught me about the research process and experience, and with Dr. Chai conducting studies on tart cherry, wild blueberries and resveratrol all at the same time, I learned about so many different topics.

Favorite non-academic experience:

Becoming a part of KoDAC, UD's K-pop dance club! It gave me so much fulfillment outside my classes, and it's where I met my best friends, who will still be part of my life after graduation.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means creating and contributing to a culture of support and resilience by being the best representation of myself at UD, but also doing my best to have a positive impact in the community.

Taylor Smeby

Health behavior science major | Medical social services minor

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Fulfilling. Exciting. Transformative.

Why Taylor chose UD:

It was close, but also far enough away from home. UD also offers Delaware residents many scholarship opportunities to help offset tuition costs. It was an opportunity I couldn't pass up.

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

It was a whole new place with all new people, but I got situated so quickly, and now I am so happy to call this place my home.

Why did you choose your major?:

I switched majors to health behavior science, and it's been an amazing opportunity to help me determine next steps in my career.  

Post-graduation plans:

I plan to obtain a master's of social work (MSW) at Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD sets you up for success. All of the professors want you to succeed. UD also hosts countless job fairs, speakers who share their experiences, and practicum and internship opportunities that I have participated in.

Favorite academic experience:

My psychiatric social work internship at Christiana Hospital has been my favorite. This is such an amazing experience and has given me firsthand insight into what it means to be a medical social worker. This has been so important for me because without this internship, I would not be as eager to pursue my master's of social work degree. This experience has solidified my decision to continue to further my education in this field.

My mentor:

I studied abroad with Deborah Bieler, professor of English. Dr. Bieler helped me solidify my desire to work with children and gave me great advice on my future. She encouraged me to apply to graduate school and to continue my education. I am so grateful for her class and everything she has done for me.

Favorite non-academic experience:

Joining the Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority, which has given me lifelong friendships. We do so much for the UD community, and Greek life is such an amazing way to connect with those who share your interests.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

It means everything. Being a Blue Hen has expanded my horizons. Everything I know is thanks to UD. My education at this school has been amazing, and it has brought me my favorite people, experiences and opportunities. I really do feel like my life had not actually begun until I became a Blue Hen.

Ava Trauger

Integrated health sciences with a pre-occupational therapy (OT) concentration | Disability studies minor

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Memorable. Challenging. Exciting

Why Ava chose UD:

I liked the campus, the opportunity to join various clubs and the 3+3 OT program.

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

I felt very nervous, but I was also very excited to begin a new chapter of my life.

Why did you choose your major?:

I chose Integrated Health Sciences because I love learning about the various fields of science, and the major encompasses many of them.

Post-graduation plans:

I will be heading to Thomas Jefferson University to earn my doctorate in occupational therapy. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD helped prepare me by allowing me to take a variety of science classes, work with individuals with disabilities in a student job, and provide the space to grow.

Favorite academic experience:

My favorite experience was the Nutrition Concepts class with Andrea Grim, clinical associate instructor in health behavior and nutrition sciences, where we experimented with dish detergent to show how bile works. 

Favorite non-academic experience:

Sitting on the green by the fountain, playing cards with my friend.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

It means that I have a community no matter where I am because I have built a network of friends and advisors who can always support me.

Alonzo Walker

Nutrition and dietetics major

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Eye-opening. Exciting. Impactful

Why Alonzo chose UD:

I chose UD because of its beautiful campus and its many great programs and opportunities. It is also close to where I attended high school. 

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

A little overwhelming, but the campus and its brick buildings were beautiful

Why did you choose your major?:

I am very passionate about health and wellness, and want to learn how to help patients with their nutrition in a hospital setting.

Post-graduation plans:

I will earn my master's in human nutrition through the 4+1 program. I also hope to volunteer in community nutrition or with clinical organizations. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

The courses exposed me to the world of dietetics, and I am confident that I will have all the tools necessary to be a successful nutrition professional.

Favorite academic experience:

My first nutrition course, "Nutrition Concepts," gave me a taste of what was to come and inspired me to switch my major from food science in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources to nutrition and dietetics in the College of Health Sciences.

Favorite non-academic experience:

Being part of the UD Club Cross Country/Track & Field Team and sharing my joy of running with others.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means dedication to the University and representing its programs well in my future opportunities.

Keuka Miranda

Wiltberger

Honors nutrition major | Spanish for healthcare minor | World Scholars student

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Memorable. Rewarding. Fulfilling.

Why Keuka chose UD:

The World Scholars Program really stood out to me. I've always loved traveling and knew I wanted to include studying abroad in my college experience, so this program felt like the perfect opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and explore something new. I was also drawn to UD because it offered everything I was looking for academically. 

How it felt to step foot on campus for the first time:

I felt a strong sense of excitement and belonging. The campus is absolutely beautiful, and I loved seeing students walking with friends or relaxing on the Green, and I realized  I was going to have a great time here.

Why did you choose your major?:

I chose to major in nutrition because I have always been passionate about healthy eating and overall well-being. The interconnectedness of nutrition, health and wellness has always fascinated me, and I was excited for the opportunity to explore these topics in greater depth. 

Post-graduation plans:

I plan to enroll in an accelerated nursing program next year. 

Favorite academic experience:

Taking cooking classes and experimenting with new recipes. I learned new skills that I applied to my cooking at home, and I enjoyed learning the science behind cooking techniques and the health implications of different cooking methods and ingredients.

My mentor:

Instructor Jennifer Thorpe -- I've enjoyed taking her classes and served as s a teaching assistant in the lab portion of the Food Concepts course. She has been a great influence on me during my time at UD. She is supportive and kind, and I can tell she genuinely cares about her students and wants them to succeed. 

Research experience: 

I was involved in Assistant Professor Jody Greaney's Cardiovascular Psychophysiology Laboratory during my first and second years. I assisted with data collection and organization and really appreciated the experience. 

Favorite non-academic experience:

I was involved with the service organization Lori's Hands for my first three years. My partner and I had an amazing client, with whom we developed a very close, tight-knit relationship. I always enjoyed making weekly visits to her house and helping her in any way we could. This client inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, and I hope I can make her proud in the future. 

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means being part of an amazing, supportive, and collaborative community. I really feel like I have found my home at UD, and I will never forget all of the memories.