Majors: Chemistry and Forensic Chemistry
Minors: Leadership Studies and Mathematics
Hometown: Guilford, CT

Note: Read about Mike’s A&S Fellowship work here.

What makes the College of Arts and Sciences at URI unique?
The most unique part of the College of Arts and Sciences is the wide array of majors it offers, from Film to Chemistry. It has outstanding professors, internship resources, double major and minor options, and international exposure. 

What accomplishments and/or activities are you most proud of doing while at URI?
I’m most proud of how involved I was on campus despite a rigorous academic schedule. I served on the Executive Board for my fraternity for 2 years, participated in the Smile program to develop an environmental lesson plan to mentor 5th graders at a weekend event at URI’s W. Alton Jones campus, served on the URI 101 Mentor Team to recruit URI 101 mentors, and facilitated retreats for organizations both on and off campus with the North Woods Challenge Course.

What research projects, internships, and/or study abroad programs did you participate in at URI? How did they enhance your education?
While at URI, I was an undergraduate research assistant at the Center of Excellence for Explosives Detection, Mitigation, and Response for 2 ½ years. I studied abroad for 3 J-terms, going to Italy, Germany, and Hawaii. I also interned for the Rhode Island Fire Marshal’s office and for Pfizer in Groton, CT. Each and every one of these opportunities helped me grow in one way or another. The lab skills I learned working with explosives are invaluable for future success as a chemist. The J-terms helped me broaden my horizons for what other parts of the world are like, and how different the culture can be from New England. The internships provided me with real world experience by working alongside professionals in my field of interest as well as networking opportunities.