Raymond Ugaz-Carhuavilca
Pronouns: He/Him/His
UROP Fellowship: DCERP
Research Mentor(s): Megan Gilson, Interim Program & Education Director
Research Mentor Institution/Department: 826michigan
Presentation Date: Thursday, July 29th
Session: 5:30 – 7:00pm
Breakout Room: DCERP Showcase
Abstract
Hello, my name is Ray Ugaz (pronouns he/him). I’m a rising sophomore majoring in Biology on a pre med track.
I worked with 826michigan, which inspires school-aged students from ages 6 and up to write with skill and confidence in collaboration with adult volunteers in their communities.
My project was to provide ongoing writing feedback to students, help create writing kits that challenge students and make writing fun, and obtain feedback from families to see if the writing kits inspire the students to write more.
When we did our first session, one of the students who was around 10-14 years old, asked me for feedback on their story. I read through it and loved the many details and the well-formulated narrative. I said that their story sounded great and to make sure to get every single idea that was in their mind even if it didn’t make sense at the moment. It makes me so happy to see how we, as the volunteers, bring these students joy and help them to improve their writing. It is such a great feeling. knowing that I’m helping to make an impact in their future, by boosting their confidence and making sure they’re not afraid of their own ideas.
When I’m a physician, I think this experience will help me develop rapport with younger people such as when I need to explain to them about health or calm them about things that might be painful or scary, and to help them see the positive.
Although DCERP was all virtual, it was great to be able to interact with all the fellows and new friendships were most definitely made! I loved how friendly and supportive everyone was around me.
Thank you.
