Bella Cipolloni

Kinesiology major | Psychology, health and wellness, and dance minors

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:
Inspiring. Visionary. Foundational.

Why Bella chose UD:

The Department of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology is top-notch, and I was looking for a place where I could expand upon my interests and passions — not only in my major but also in each of my minors — while continuing my education as a dancer. 

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

The campus felt like home from the moment I visited.

Why did you choose your major?:

I chose kinesiology as my major because I had my heart set on a career in physical therapy since high school, and my experiences throughout undergrad solidified this passion. I gained valuable exposure across a variety of environments, including the UD Physical Therapy Clinic, Novacare Rehabilitation, and Main Line Health Paoli Hospital.

Post-graduation plans:

I am excited to attend Alvernia University this July to earn my doctor of physical therapy degree. I am looking to further explore specialties and research in sport/orthopedics, health and wellness/health behavior, acute care, and dance medicine PT.

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

The coursework exposed me to challenging material. UD also allowed me to build connections with faculty and students in the department and to apply my knowledge in real-world scenarios while volunteering in PT environments, which have been incredibly memorable and foundational to my career path.

Favorite research experience:

My interdisciplinary capstone project, which combines my kinesiology major with all three of my minors, psychology, health and wellness, and dance, is based on my interests in the mind-body connection. I am studying how somatic practice, cognitive reframing prompts and self-efficacy can influence movement confidence and self-perception in dancers and performing artists. 

My mentors: 

I have had many faculty mentors, including Denise Murphy, assistant professor of theatre and dance; Kimberly Schroeder, interim chair and associate professor of theatre and dance; and Monica Frichtel, assistant professor of theatre and dance, who have been valuable guides in my development as a health sciences student and as a dancer. 

College of Health Sciences professors such as Jennifer Semrau, associate professor of kinesiology and applied physiology (KAAP); Brittany Overstreet, associate professor of KAAP; and Melissa Witman, associate professor of KAAP, have also advised me. 

Favorite clinical experience: 

Volunteering and working with the PT Department at Main Line Health Paoli Hospital in inpatient and acute care physical therapy was an extremely memorable experience. I was able to see how PTs work with a variety of healthcare professionals (such as OTs, cardiologists, MDs, dietitians, social workers, nurses, etc.) to develop each patient’s recovery plan during their hospital stay.

Favorite non-academic experience:

Leading Destination Dance, a dance-focused registered student organization that I created in the Fall of 2023. With 85 members, Destination Dance prioritizes inclusion of all performance backgrounds and serves as a safe space for everyone to bring their passion for dance. This has been an unforgettable experience, and I could not be more grateful for the opportunity to create a program that has become so meaningful for dancers. I feel that I have laid the foundation for a successful future for this team and left my mark on UD in the most profound way.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means the world to me because it is something I will be proud of for the rest of my life. Being a part of the UD community has been a one-of-a-kind experience that has left me with not only academic growth but also personal and professional opportunities that have shaped the person I am today. The people I have met here are nothing short of extraordinary, and the relationships will last a lifetime. I am so grateful for the values I have gained here as a student and athlete, and for the coursework and extracurriculars that have fueled my passions and paved the way for my future. Blue Hens are truly the next generation of leaders.

Hannah Heredia

Kinesiology major

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Memorable. Fulfilling. Inspiring.

Why Hannah chose UD:

I chose UD because I loved the beautiful campus and the many opportunities to get involved in clubs and service. I wanted a place where I could grow academically while also being part of a supportive community. 

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

The first time I set foot on campus, I felt a mix of nervousness and excitement. It was a new chapter of my life, and while the unknown felt a little intimidating, I was excited for the opportunities to grow, learn and build new friendships.

Why did you choose your major?:

As an athlete, sports have always played a major role in my life. This inspired me to pursue a career in physical therapy, where I can help athletes recover from injuries and get back to doing what they love.

Post-graduation plans:

During my gap year, I am looking to earn my personal trainer certification so I can work in a gym and, hopefully, pursue a career in sports performance or attend graduate school for physical therapy.

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD helped prepare me for this next step by giving me the academic foundation and experiences that deepened my interest in helping others improve performance and recover from injuries.

Favorite academic experience:

Participating in the Exercise Physiology lab portion of KAAP430. I had the opportunity to take part in performance tests, such as the Wingate test, and observe others, such as the VO₂ max test, in action. Getting to experience these assessments firsthand made the science behind human performance feel real and was both exciting and incredibly memorable.

My mentors:

Academic advisors Julie Carney-Jones and Christine Taggart were incredibly supportive and helpful throughout my time at UD. They assisted me with finding tutors, building my class schedule, and helping me adjust to college life. Their guidance and encouragement made a significant impact on my academic experience and helped me stay on track toward my goals.

Favorite clinical rotation or internship:

I interned at ATI Physical Therapy, which allowed me to see firsthand how to assess patients and develop rehabilitation programs to help them recover more effectively. 

Favorite non-academic experience:

Being a Guiding Eyes for the Blind puppy raiser was, by far, a unique and special experience. I often brought my puppy Jackson to my classes, which gave me opportunities to reinforce his training in busy, social environments while also keeping up with my academics. Being a puppy raiser allowed me to make lasting friendships and to be part of changing someone else's life for the better by raising a future guide dog.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

To me, being a Blue Hen means being part of a community that pushes you to grow, work hard and make a meaningful impact, whether in the classroom, raising a Guiding Eyes for the Blind puppy, or making a difference in your community. It means carrying the spirit of growth, service, and resilience, along with the lessons and experiences I’ve gained, to create a positive impact wherever life leads me.

Ryan Hoefer

Honors human physiology major | Medical humanities minor

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:
Transformative. Collaborative. Rewarding.

Why Ryan chose UD:

UD had the perfect college-town energy I was looking for. The College of Health Sciences had so many great resources and experiences I wanted to be part of, including research and anatomy courses on STAR Campus.

Also, the mentorship and opportunities the Honors College provided were the main reasons I attended UD. 

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

The campus was so warm and welcoming; everyone wanted to answer all of my questions and was so helpful in alleviating all of my worries about the transition to college.

Why did you choose your major?:

Human physiology was such an ideal major to prepare me for any graduate degree in the health field I was considering. The lab classes also excited me. I had the opportunity to visit the Human Anatomy Lab and Exercise Physiology Lab, and I was excited to participate.

Post-graduation plans:

I will be attending medical school at the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD helped me make connections and find mentors who prepared me for the challenges of applying to medical school. I felt supported by everyone around me as I studied for the MCAT, found clinical and volunteer opportunities and prepared my applications.

Favorite academic experience:

Spending time in the Human Anatomy Lab. During every class, I learned so much about the human body through this unique experience. The lab and case studies we complete in class are helping me feel prepared for medical school.

Favorite clinical rotation or internship:

Volunteering with the UD Emergency Care Unit (UDECU) was a transformative experience that confirmed my desire to attend medical school. Starting the spring semester of my first year, I responded to emergency medical calls on the UD campus and in the surrounding Newark area as a fully integrated unit within New Castle County EMS. The UDECU left me with the clinical skills, leadership experience, and friendships that I will continuously carry with me after my time at UD.

Favorite research experience: 

I participated in research in the Cardiovascular Physiology Lab and the Neurovascular Aging Lab on STAR Campus and with the American Heart Association through the Delaware INBRE Summer Scholars program. 

In the Neurovascular Aging Lab, I assisted with participant visits as they completed cardiac and vascular assessments and MRI scans. I learned a lot about the scientific process and presented posters at CHS Research and Innovation Day, the Delaware INBRE Summer Research Day, and the American Physiology Summit in Minneapolis.

My mentors: 

Jacqueline Fajardo, assistant professor of chemistry and biochemistry, and Alenka Hlousek-Radojcic, associate professor of biological sciences, were both paramount to my UD experience. I met both of them during my freshman fall semester through the Honors Integrated Biology and Chemistry (HiBC) program and had them for two semesters. They helped prepare me for the rigorous workload of college, got me to think critically about scientific concepts, and strengthened my ability to connect concepts across disciplines. 

Favorite non-academic experience:

Playing intramural sports at the Little Bob helped me stay active and continuously push myself to learn new skills. Organizing teams and recruiting friends to play intramural sports ranging from basketball to softball to broomball gave me a place to build friendships and enjoy myself. The memories of playing intramurals and going out to eat on Main Street after the games will stay with me long after my time at UD. Intramural sports helped me stay grounded and remain balanced throughout college.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means engaging with and immersing myself fully in the amazing community at UD and around Delaware. It means showing up for those around me so everyone can be the best they can be academically, as leaders, and as people. It means knowing how to work hard, have fun, and share memories with my fellow Blue Hens that I will hold onto forever. Being a Blue Hen has shaped the person I am today.

Grant Maxa

Human physiology major | 

Business administration minor

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Impactful. Lively. Innovative

Why Grant chose UD:
Growing up, my family and I would often visit campus and grab dinner on Main Street, so I’ve always felt a natural connection to UD. As I got older, I realized I wanted to pursue a path in healthcare, and UD offered the exact opportunities I was looking for. With the beautiful campus and its proximity to home, it felt like the right fit.

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

I felt very comfortable on campus and could genuinely see myself succeeding here, both academically and personally, while taking advantage of everything UD has to offer.

Why did you choose your major?:

I chose the human physiology major because I wanted a strong, comprehensive understanding of human anatomy and physiology as I pursue a career in healthcare. What ultimately solidified my decision was the "Functional Human Anatomy" course, where we learn through hands-on work with cadavers. Having access to that kind of experience as an undergraduate is rare, and I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up.

Post-graduation plans:

I plan to accumulate more patient contact hours over the next year before applying to physician assistant school. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD prepared me for this next step by giving me both hands-on clinical experience and a strong academic foundation. Through working in Dr. Witman's research lab, I gained direct exposure to patient interaction and developed skills that will be essential for working with patients in the future. Additionally, the Human Anatomy Lab gave me a deeper, hands-on understanding of human anatomy that few undergraduates receive. Together, these experiences have been crucial in preparing me for PA school.

Favorite academic experience:

My favorite academic experience was my time in the Human Anatomy Lab. We spent a lot of time together in class, in lab, and studying, which created a strong sense of connection and teamwork. Working alongside my peers in such a hands-on and meaningful environment made the experience even more impactful. It not only deepened my understanding of human anatomy but also confirmed my passion for pursuing a career in healthcare.

Research experience:

I was actively involved in research through the Vascular Function in Chronic Disease Research Lab, where I gained hands-on experience working closely with patients and contributed to ongoing studies. This experience helped me develop skills directly applicable to patient care while strengthening my ability to think critically in a clinical setting. I also had the opportunity to present my research at local, regional and national conferences, which further built my confidence and communication skills.

My mentor: 

My faculty mentor is Melissa Witman, associate professor of kinesiology and applied physiology, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity to be part of her research lab. She has consistently encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, whether that meant presenting at conferences or learning new techniques. Because of her support, I’ve grown from presenting at local conferences to now sharing my work at a national level.

Favorite clinical experience: 

I volunteered at Nemours Children’s Hospital Rehabilitation Center, and it has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Working with this community is an honor. Everyone is so positive and supportive, and I’m grateful to have played a role in helping young patients through their rehabilitation. It’s an experience I would strongly encourage others to pursue.

Favorite non-academic experience:

Seeing my friends and fraternity brothers around campus. Whether it’s walking to class on the Green, grabbing food on Main Street, or even just driving through campus, seeing familiar faces always brought a sense of comfort and made campus feel like home. Those everyday interactions created a strong sense of community and belonging for me.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means being part of a community that pushes you to grow while supporting you along the way. It represents hard work, resilience, and showing up for others—whether that’s in the classroom, on campus, or through service. For me, it’s about the relationships I’ve built, the experiences that shaped me, and taking pride in being part of something bigger than myself.

Leonard Rein

Human physiology major

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Formative. Memorable. Exciting.

Why Leonard chose UD:

I was extremely interested in the human physiology major and loved STAR campus.

Also, Kinesiology and Applied Physiology Professor John Jeka's talk at Accepted Students Day was very informative, and ultimately, is what made me decide to come to UD.

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

It felt right the moment I stepped on UD's campus. I loved the Green and the STAR Tower. 

Why did you choose your major?:

I felt the human physiology major would be the best to prepare me for graduate school. I am also extremely interested in the human body and how it works.

Post-graduation plans:

I will be attending Stony Brook School of Dental Medicine and pursuing a career in dentistry

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD, and specifically the human physiology major, prepared me very well for dental school, as I completed all prerequisite classes and all courses focused on the Dental Admission Test, which made studying much easier.

Favorite academic experience:

My favorite experience has been in the Human Anatomy Lab. My time in the lab has given me more hands-on experience than any of my previous classes, and has opened my eyes to how the human body actually works and how the structures work together to create movement.

Favorite research experience: 

I spent more than a year in Assistant Professor of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology Ibra Fancher's Vascular Ion Channel Laboratory, mainly working as an aide to the Ph.D. candidates. I was extremely grateful for this role, as it allowed me to gain experience with a wide variety of laboratory techniques and procedures and to develop my manual dexterity, which is essential for a successful career in dentistry.

Favorite non-academic experience:

Volunteering with Lori's Hands -- getting to work with my client Joyce for over a year now has been extremely rewarding and has become one of my favorite parts of every week.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Being a Blue Hen means being part of a community that values hard work and collaboration. During my time at UD, I felt very supported by both faculty and peers, and have constantly been pushed to become a better version of myself. Being a Blue Hen gives me a sense of pride and accomplishment, and I wouldn't trade my time here for anything.

Emma Rudolph

Human physiology major | Forensics minor

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:
Adventureful. Enjoyable. Unique.

Why Emma chose UD:

We drove through campus, and I absolutely fell in love with it.

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

Like I was in the exact place I wanted to be.

Why did you choose your major?:

I always knew I wanted to follow a medical path. When I learned about the human physiology major in the College of Health Sciences, I knew it was the right path for me, and I loved how hands-on the classes are.

Post-graduation plans:

I am planning to attend the University of Maryland School of Medicine's Pathologists' Assistant Program. 

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

Through my communication with professors and staff, I identified that I wanted to pursue a career as a pathologists' assistant.

Favorite academic experience:

The Functional Human Anatomy course, where we spent time in the Human Anatomy Lab with Associate Professor of Kinesiology and Applied Physiology, Saskia Richter, and Assistant Professor of KAAP, Nikki Yates.

Favorite clinical experience:

I had an internship at the Coroner's Office in Allentown, PA. This experience allowed me to see behind the scenes of everything that goes into a death investigation and all aspects of the field. 

Favorite non-academic experience:

Serving as president of the Club Softball team.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

To me, being a Blue Hen means being the best you can be, giving back to the community, being involved on campus, and, overall, striving to be the best I can be.

Kyle Tubian

Kinesiology major | Strength and conditioning minor | First-generation college student

Three words to describe the UD CHS experience:

Unique. Unforgettable. Transformative.

Why Kyle chose UD:

The beautiful campus, the STEM opportunities related to my major, the vast amount of study abroad opportunities, and the location wasn't too far from home, but just far enough to grant me independence

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

It felt unreal that college was happening, but walking across the Green and seeing all of the students being out and active around campus really felt like I was supposed to be here. 

Why did you choose your major?:

I've always had an interest in the body, exercise, and how our bodies adapt over time. During my senior year of high school, I decided I wanted to pursue medicine, and I saw kinesiology as a way for me to understand and examine the body from a different lens that will prepare me for medical school.

Post-graduation plans:

I plan to apply to medical school over the summer.

How did UD prepare you for your future career?:

UD had a lot to offer, starting with research opportunities. There are so many interesting labs, and it really enables students to grow, acquire new interests and take on more responsibility in different areas of study. Additionally, having registered student organizations dedicated to pre-health majors, UD's Emergency Care Unit and other clinical opportunities all over campus and other professional organizations such as HPEC that help prepare students for their future.

Favorite academic experience:

Studying abroad and learning about healthcare in other countries.

My mentor:

Virginia Hughes, professor of medical and molecular sciences, led my study abroad trip. Unfortunately, during the trip, I sprained my ankle early on, but Dr. Hughes was there for me the entire time. She made sure to check in with me daily, ask if I was following the doctor's instructions, and, most importantly, if I was having fun. 

Favorite research experience: 

I worked with Sheau Ching Chai, associate professor of health behavior and nutrition sciences, in the Chai Nutrition and Health Research Laboratory since my freshman year.  I've since become a lead blood processor and also screen participants for research studies. I am also working on a publication with the lab about our recent study on wild blueberries and their effects on the cardiovascular and cognitive health of older individuals. 

Favorite non-academic experience:

Competing in airband with my fraternity. As a kid, I always had a fear of performing on a stage in front of others, but being on this stage with a bunch of guys I can call my brothers, showing off what we've worked so hard on, and hearing the crowd go crazy has really been a highlight of my college experience.

What does being a Blue Hen mean to you?:

Finding who you are and seizing that potential to be the best version of yourself and helping others do the same along the way!