HDFS Honors Alumni | Human Development and Family Sciences

“What I liked about the honors program is the opportunities that came with pursuing research in your field and finding what you enjoy through enriching coursework. In addition, the supportive network of professors and mentors in the program is what stood out to me. That was something I was looking for during my freshman year. This motivated me to apply for my following year in the honors program, and it was the best decision I made. The honors program has given me a community on campus. Through volunteering as a group, to holding leadership roles as a mentor, I feel that I was able to give back what honors gave to me to first-year students. The opportunities I had in honors have set me up for success and built my confidence in my contributions I have as a future teacher. I'm grateful for everything the program has provided.” Keely Rodriguez

“I decided to do the HDFS Honors Program to have the opportunity to deeply explore a topic of my interest under the guidance of a research expert. I knew the honors program would offer me the space and flexibility to explore the world of research, beyond what research method classes could.” Kita Karna
“If there is a topic that interests you, that you want to learn more about, but classes are not hitting it enough, the honors program is the perfect way to pursue it.” Kita Karna
“The honors program was definitely how I connected to UConn the most. I created amazing bonds with my mentors, met great graduate students who were more than willing to help me through any difficulties and met other HDFS honors students with the same curiosities as I.” Kita Karna

“If students plan to apply to graduate school or would like to get to know professors in the HDFS department, then they should consider joining the Honors program. Students will have the opportunity to work closely with the Honors Director and their Research Advisor…The Honors seminar classes are also a good opportunity to get to know other HDFS undergraduate students. Students are able to share ideas with others in a supportive and collaborative environment.” Julie Brisson
“The Honors Director and my Thesis Advisor were always supportive of my research endeavors, encouraged me to go out of my comfort zone by presenting at the Society for Research in Child Development, and welcomed all my questions and curiosities. Students are able to share ideas with others in a supportive and collaborative environment.” Julie Brisson

“I pursued the HDFS Honors Program due to the edge I believed it would give me in applying to graduate school and jobs in the future.” Stephanie Laprise
“I walked away from the program feeling grateful for the opportunity to not only conduct research on a topic I am passionate about, but also do so in collaboration with an organization I have a personal connection to. The data collected provided insight on the experiences of a population I ultimately wanted to work with in my career.” Stephanie Lapris
“If you are hoping to challenge yourself; build a deeper relationships with staff and your peers; and conduct your own research on a topic of interest, go for it! You will be provided with everything you need to succeed, but you have to remain dedicated.” Stephanie Laprise

Human Development and Family Sciences