Freshman Research Initiative (FRI)

Program Description

The Freshman Research Initiative (FRI) is a 6-week research or creative experience working with a Kean faculty mentor. Participation in the FRI provides first-year students access to both faculty mentors and experienced student mentors and starts them on a pathway to future research opportunities. Students do not need prior research experience to enter the program.

The goal of FRI is to engage first-year students in a faculty-mentored project designed to introduce them to skills and techniques they will need to conduct independent research or creative work. Although these projects are introductory and limited in scope, they must include some essential features of effective undergraduate research such as reading the literature, encouraging student design of an aspect of the project, and presenting results. Students do not need prior research experience to enter this program.

Eligibility

• A first-year freshman (completed less than 30 credits)
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Able to spend 2-4 hours per week on the project committed to participate in the program for 6 weeks (Spring and Summer)
• All majors are welcome

Application Links

FRI Student Research - General Option

FRI Student Research - STEM Option

FRI Faculty Research Mentor Application 

Students Projects 

Asia Vasileva 

Project Title: “Antitumor and Antioxidant Effects of Cannabimimetics from Echinacea purpurea: A Systematic Review of the Literature” 

I am Asia Vasileva, a student in the 5-year BS/MS Biotechnology – Molecular Biology program. I am passionate about biology and interested in how natural compounds affect cellular processes. My long-term goal is to become a neurosurgeon so that I can better understand and improve the brain—the organ that makes us human.

Ayanna R.  Davis

Project Title: “Deep Learning for Data Interpretation"

I am Ayanna R. Davis, a freshman at Kean University majoring in Biology with a concentration in Cellular and Molecular Studies. I am passionate about the intersection of molecular biology, and wildlife conservation. I aspire to become a wildlife veterinarian and contribute to research that bridges molecular science with animal health. Beyond my scientific pursuits, I am dedicated to inspiring other young minorities from underprivileged communities to pursue their ambitions in science and technology. As a proud mixed Afro-Latina from Paterson, New Jersey, I hope to also serve as an example that perseverance, education, and passion can create new opportunities and empower the next generation of innovators' backgrounds to chase their dreams in STEM

Emily Collado

Project Title: “ Echinacea purpurea cannabimimetic effects on the immune system of calves, broiler chickens, and hybrid snakehead fish: A systematic Review"

Eva Falcon

Project Title: “The Pharmacological Properties of the E. purpurea extract"

Hi! My name is Eva Falcon, and I am a freshman at Kean University studying Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. I have always been curious about how things functioned on the molecular level and have dreamed about one day becoming a researcher and discovering new things about this fascinating, extraordinary tiny world that makes up everything that we know. At Kean University, I am given this amazing opportunity to be a part of the Freshman Research Initiative (FRI) program and gain the necessary skills and knowledge about the research world that will help me achieve my future goals and expectations.