Connect with Us on ZeeMee

Program: Doctor of Physical Therapy (D.P.T.)

Hometown: South Burlington, Vermont

When I’m not in class, you can usually find me at the Patrick Gym—working, studying, staying active, catching up with friends, or sometimes doing all of the above at once! I love people-watching around campus and soaking in the Vermont weather. 

I am part of the Campus Rec staff and a program coordinator for our Walk with Ease program. I've also participated in intramural sports and am currently in my first clinical rotation at Dorset Physio in Dorset, Vermont.

Program: Plant and Soil Science Ph.D.

Hometown: Western New York

My research explores how invasive earthworms influence soil invertebrate communities, plant–pollinator–pest interactions, and soil nutrient loss, with links to green stormwater infrastructure. I enjoy sharing my passion for insects, and my favorite study spot on campus is the Aiken Center Solarium, where the natural light and greenery make it the perfect indoor nature retreat.

I play intramural sports throughout the year (such as volleyball and broomball). I love to find places to ice skate in the winter. I’m in the Graduate Teaching Program, I’m a member of my department’s seminar and culture committee, and I love to hike, kayak, and garden!

Program: Mechanical Engineering Ph.D.

Home Country: Iran

I specialize in computational fluid dynamics and particulate flows. I earned my master's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Tehran before coming to UVM. 

On campus, I enjoy collaborating on research projects, which has helped me connect with peers and shape my UVM experience. I am a member of the Futsal Club, which is a fun way to stay active and connect with the community. One of my favorite spots on campus is the Green, especially in the fall when the colors are amazing—it’s the perfect place to brainstorm ideas or take a study break!

Program: Higher Education and Student Affairs M.Ed.

Hometown: San Diego, California

I am a second-year HESA student and serve as the Graduate Assistant for Student Engagement and Belonging in the College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences. I'm also managing director of The Vermont Connection, a HESA initiative that supports community building and professional development opportunities for our current cohorts. 

As a first-gen college student, my work is shaped by empowering students to capitalize on and authentically experience education in efforts to decolonize the higher education system. In my off-time, I enjoy trying different creemee stands, experiencing all four seasons in VT (safe to say this Californian is impressed), and going on Costco runs with friends! 

Program: Biology

Hometown: Brooklyn, New York

Hi everyone! I’m a second-year student in the Accelerated Master’s Pathway at UVM. I work in the M. Stanley Lab, where I study the developmental implications of early-life nutrition in Drosophila. Although I’m pursuing a graduate degree in Biology, my undergraduate background is in both Biology and History, so I’m happy to offer perspectives and support that extend beyond STEM!

Outside of academics, I play rugby, enjoy spending time outdoors, and work as a medical assistant with the Community Health Centers. Having started my graduate studies while still an undergraduate, I can offer a unique perspective on navigating the transition to graduate school while balancing other interests and exploring career paths beyond academic research.

As a graduate student advisor, I’m here to help answer questions and offer guidance about life both inside and outside of a graduate program. I also hope to learn from everyone’s experiences and perspectives along the way! My goal is to help foster a welcoming, supportive, and safe space where curiosity, education, and exploration are encouraged, and everyone feels comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, and finding their own path.

Program: Leadership for Sustainability M.P.S.

Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

With roots in Chicago — the land that shaped her resilient spirit and creative drive — Melanie Conway is an educator, coach, and nonprofit professional dedicated to transformative, community-centered leadership. She is currently pursuing a Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) in Leadership for Sustainability through the Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, where her practice-based work draws inspiration from nature to transform structural systems in service of collective liberation. Outside of her graduate studies, Melanie is a credentialed yogi, ceramic artist, lyric soprano, aspiring naturalist, dog mom and fiercely loving friend.