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Hi Everyone! My name is Kiara O’Neal, but you can call me Kiki, and I am a Junior Computer Science major. During my freshman year, I had the privilege of participating in the First Year Scholars Program, collaborating with Dr. Da Hu on “Enhancing Bridge Inspections Using Drone Technology and Computer Vision,” a project that I was able to present at the 2024 Symposium and NCUR 2024. In my sophomore year, I continued my project as a Sophomore Scholar, presenting my research at the IEEE SoutheastCon 2025 conference, as well as the Spring Symposium 2025 and NCUR 2025. I also work as a student assistant for the Office of Undergraduate Research, conducting research on Course-Based Undergraduate Research Experiences at KSU under the guidance of Dr. Buddie.

This year, I am thrilled to serve as the President of the Undergraduate Research Club. In this role, I am committed to supporting and promoting research initiatives across disciplines. Outside of research, you can find me indulging in my love for reading and representing the club gymnastics team at KSU.

If you have any questions about the club or are curious about research in general, please don't hesitate to reach out. I am always eager to engage in meaningful conversations and collaborate on exciting projects!

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Hi everyone! My name is Southern Mullen, and I’m a senior pursuing a B.S. in Interactive Design at Kennesaw State University. I’m passionate about the intersection of technology, design, and public health, and I aim to create digital systems that improve accessibility, safety, and community well-being.

Beyond the classroom, I’m currently conducting faculty website research with Dr. Buddie and volunteering as a UX Researcher for the KSU Game Studio, where I focus on creating intuitive, engaging user experiences. I also recently participated in a hackathon with CSGirlies, which allowed me to collaborate with other women in tech and explore innovative problem-solving through design and coding.

In my free time, I love designing, practicing Pilates, and reading. I’m so thrilled to serve as one of your Marketing Officers for the Undergraduate Research Club and to help highlight the amazing work our members are doing across disciplines! 

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Hi everyone, my name is Riley Womack, and I am a freshman at Kennesaw State University, majoring in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering.

I am currently engaged in several exciting research projects across campus. In the Aero Lab, led by Dr. Adeel Khalid, I am investigating innovative methods for developing and applying checklists for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) to enhance their real-world effectiveness and safety. Additionally, I am collaborating with a South Korean government-funded company, AMTEC, alongside a group of students. Our current focus is assisting AMTEC in introducing a new mechanical skin milling process to major aerospace companies throughout the United States.

In the Viscous Dampers Lab, under the guidance of Dr. Nasseri and Dr. Jonaidi, my peers and I are conducting experiments on various building structures to analyze how viscous dampers influence vibration control and stability in different structures.

Beyond my research involvement, I proudly serve as the Secretary of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) and the Apprentice Treasurer of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME).

This year, I am also honored to serve as the Secretary of the Undergraduate Research Club (URC). In this role, I am dedicated to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, supporting student researchers, and promoting opportunities for academic and professional growth. I am truly excited to work alongside Dr. Buddie and all the outstanding officers who share a passion for advancing undergraduate research.

If you have any questions about the club or are interested in learning more about research opportunities, please don’t hesitate to reach out!

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Hello, I’m a sophomore majoring in Biochemistry. I previously worked with fellow First-Year Scholar students under the mentorship of Dr. Nwozichi on our research project titled "Using a Structural Equation Model to Predict Colorectal Cancer Screening Behaviors Among African Immigrants in the United States." We had the opportunity to present our work at the Spring Symposium 2025. In my spare time, I enjoy caring for my succulents.

I’m deeply passionate about research and am enthusiastic to take on new opportunities. As treasurer, I hope to support the club by ensuring that funding and resources are allocated efficiently, so that all students have the opportunity to pursue research.