about. | My Site

RESILIENT

COMPASSIONATE

ADAPTIVE

Hi, I am Melinda and I love everything about the mind. From studying neuroscience in the classroom and laboratory, to teaching yoga and mindfulness, I am committed to studying the brain in pursuit of creating a happier and healthier society. I am from Glen Rock, NJ and when coming to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill my goal was to gain valuable experiences at a leading research institution and to work with teams of motivated individuals to uncover the secrets of the human brain.

So far, I have met that goal through my work as...

a research assistant at the BRAIN Initative Viral Vector Core

a research assistant in the Social Neuroscience and Health Lab

a yoga instructor at UNC Campus Recreation

I look forward to continuing my development as a young neuroscientist and pursuing further opportunities.

my origin story.

My Origin Story

More About Me

Click the links to the left to hear my story.

Where I come from.

What I care about.

Where I want to go.

audio origin story

00:00 / 05:48

origin

audio

education.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

BS Neuroscience, Entrepreneurship Minor in the Shuford Program for Entrepreneurship
GPA: 3.98

Psychology and Neuroscience

I have taken a variety of psychology and neuroscience courses at UNC. These include Statistical Principles of Psychological Research, Introduction to Neuroscience, Research Methods in Psychology, Sensation and Perception, and Neuroscience Career Development and Networking. I also serve as an undergraduate learning assistant (ULA) for the Introduction to Neuroscience Course.

Chemistry

I have a strong background in chemistry topics from General Chemistry I and II, Modern Analytical Methods for Separation and Characterization, a Laboratory in Separations and Analytical Characterization of Organic and Biological Compounds, and Organic Chemistry.

Computer Science

While taking COMP 116, Introduction to Scientific Programming, I developed proficiency using Python programming language.

Biology

My course background in biology topics includes Principles of Biology and Molecular Biology and Genetics. I also use biological techniques such as protein gel electrophoresis and human cell line maintenance in my research assistantships.

work experience.

Undergraduate Research Assistant, BRAIN Initiative Viral Vector Core

In this research assistantship at a core lab of the UNC Neuroscience Center, I am responsible for assisting with the production of efficient viral vectors to optimize neuroscience research. I also complete administrative tasks such as virus and DNA inventory, sample shipments, and client communication via our website.

Yoga Instructor, UNC Campus Recreation

As a 200-hour course-certified yoga instructor, I sequence, practice, and teach 60 minute vinyasa style classes to groups of 20-25 people at least twice a week. I effectively curate themes to create a relaxing and inclusive environment as well as answer any questions I am approached with by my students. As a part of the UNC FitWell Team of group fitness instructors, I participate in quarterly in-service meetings and provide feedback to fellow instructors.

Community Volunteer, Club Nova

Club Nova is a local nonprofit organization that provides a strong community to individuals with severe mental illness. As a volunteer, I assist with providing individualized support to members through socialization, recreational activities, and educational sessions. Additionally, I provide the organization assistance with fundraising and social media campaigns.

Server, Raymond's Restaurant

As a full-time server at Raymond's Restaurant in the summer of 2021, I served up to eight tables at a time during peak rush hours. I learned service-industry business models and developed my customer service skills. After one month of employment, I was put in charge of training new employees.

Shift Lead, Wild & Hearty

As shift leader at this health food and smoothie store, I was in charge of directing daily opening or closing procedures. I oversaw my fellow employees, logged inventory, took orders, and prepared food. I developed strong customer service capabilities to promote customer loyalty.

education

gallery.