Honors Student Showcase

The showcase highlights the impressive work and achievements of honors students across a variety of academic and experiential opportunities. Featured students include those who have written honors theses, presented their scholarship at academic conferences, and participated in the Oxford Study Abroad Program or other study abroad experiences around the world. The event also recognizes the recipient of the Timothy M. Smith Inspiration Through Exploration Award, which celebrates a student who embodies curiosity, intellectual engagement, and a commitment to learning beyond the classroom. Together, these accomplishments reflect the dedication, initiative, and global perspective that define the Honors Program community. Swipe through the photos to take a look at the amazing students featured and their work!

Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists (ABRCMS)- Danni Rogers

In November 2025, I had the privilege of attending the Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minoritized Scientists (ABRCMS) in San Antonio, Texas. This trip was made possible by Honors Program funding. I presented a poster titled “Identifying and Quantifying Luteolin within the Turkish Variety of Ficus carica L. by RP-HPLC-DAD and ESI-MS.” This research began in fall 2024 under the guidance of Dr. Kanu. I am studying two varieties of figs: Yellow Lob and Aydian Black. My goal is to identify and quantify luteolin in each variety. Luteolin is a natural compound known for its anti-inflammatory and medicinal properties. Presenting my work before judges and professionals was invaluable, as their feedback gave me new ideas for my current and future research. 

The conference lasted four days. Each day featured different posters and talks across fields like chemistry, microbiology, and oncology. I got a firsthand look at innovative research happening across many disciplines. I also attended sessions on confidence, goal-setting in medicine, and future career pathways. These sessions gave me practical tools and a clearer sense of direction. Outside the conference, I explored San Antonio through local restaurants, shopping areas, and even a karaoke night! I am deeply grateful to the Honors Program. Without its funding and support, I would not have been able to attend my first national conference or experience such a meaningful trip.- Danni Rogers

Oxford Abroad: Joshua Donophan

This term in Oxford has felt both surreal and grounding all at once. Between one-on-one history tutorials dissecting the history of Black music, as well as my music composition sessions refining my compositional techniques, I’ve been pushed academically in ways I’ll carry with me long after I leave. The tutorial system has sharpened my writing, challenged my assumptions, and deepened my understanding of how scholarship and creativity can coexist.

Outside the Bodleian’s shadow, I’ve traced other histories across the UK—standing beneath the Radcliffe Camera at golden hour, visiting Birmingham (including the legendary Black Sabbath Bridge), exploring Manchester’s music scene, and walking through Stratford-upon-Avon where Shakespeare’s legacy still feels alive. From Westminster and Big Ben to quiet footbridges and cathedral stained glass, each city has added its own special place to this journey.

With my tutorials concluding in about a week, a new chapter begins: independent travel. I’m planning visits to Copenhagen, Paris, Dublin, Amsterdam, and beyond—eager to keep learning not just from books and scores, but from streets, museums, people, conversations, and soundscapes across Europe.

I’m incredibly grateful to the Honors Program for making this experience possible. This opportunity has expanded my academic focus, deepened my artistic ambitions, and reminded me why I study history and music in the first place: to understand the world more fully—and to contribute something meaningful back to it.- Joshua Donophan