My name is Madison Almarez, and I am graduating with a degree in Biology. I am currently in the early stages of my capstone, which focuses on mechanisms of endocrine therapy resistance in estrogen receptor–positive, HER2-negative breast cancer, specifically how ESR1 mutations contribute to loss of estrogen dependence. Although I am just beginning the capstone process, the experience has already been both rewarding and exciting, especially as I refine my research focus and engage more deeply with primary literature. I’m happy to talk about developing my topic and navigating the early stages of my capstone work.

My name is Cassidie Gomez, and I am graduating this May with degrees in International Studies and Business. I completed my Business capstone on the growth of the non-alcoholic beverage industry, analyzing its expansion and key market trends. I am currently finishing my International Studies capstone on sacred culture in Spain, focusing on regional traditions and how they shape local identity. I would be more than happy to discuss my experience working on both projects and share more about my research process.

Hello, my name is Elizabeth Krajca and I will be graduating in May with a BS in Kinesiology and a minor in Health studies. I completed my capstone last semester where I performed research on a new method to induce muscle cramps in a lab. I just completed my last season as a swimmer with Southwestern, so I am familiar with the difficulty of balancing school and extracurricular activities. I would love to talk about my experience in capstone and share any advice or answer any questions regarding the capstone process!

My name is Julia Marshall and I am in the class of ’27 majoring in Psychology and International Studies with a minor in Chinese! I am currently in the second half of my year-long capstone in Applied Psychology with Dr. Crockett and in the International Studies capstone with Dr. Byrnes. Since we are still currently recruiting for my Psychology capstone, I can’t give too many details, but we are interested in examining roommate relationships and sources of stress or tension. I am also writing my International Studies capstone on the historical and religious influences of the Japanese Shinto festivals (matsuri) and associated Kagura dance of the gods.

My name is Davin Ratliff and I am graduating this May with degrees in Biology and a minor in Business. I have completed my capstone un Biology focusing on the effects of anesthesia and genetic polymorphisms. I am currently finishing up my last spring semester. I would love to discuss my experience in my capstone and how I completed it.