Maya J.

About Maya J.

I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, where healthcare is ranked among the top in the Nation. I want to be a part of the medical field to maintain the high standard of care I grew up with. My experience as both a Hawaii Pacific Health Intern for Clinical Operations at Straub Hospital and a Summer Student Research Scholar have given me valuable insight into the many jobs healthcare has to offer. Using my knowledge of physiology, I am able to learn from the many healthcare professionals about how to care for patients.

Experience

1. Research Assistant

   Boston University Sargent College

   Sep 2023 — Present · Boston, MA, US

   I am currently assisting the Zikopoulos Lab in research investigating the neuroanatomical underpinnings of Autism and Schizophrenia, using advanced microscopy and imaging techniques to study human brain tissue.In 2024, I was awarded a Boston University Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) grant to pursue my independent project on “Changes in Thalamocortical Pathways in Autism.” This experience has allowed me to develop skills in neuroscience research design, histological analysis, and data interpretation, while deepening my understanding of the neural circuits underlying cognitive and sensory processing differences.I had the honor of presenting my research at the 2024 BU UROP Symposium, where I shared my findings with the broader neuroscience community. I’m excited to continue learning and contributing as I expand my knowledge in human physiology and neuroscience.

Education

• Iolani School

  High School Diploma

• Boston University

  Human Physiology, Physiology, General