Biodiversity at Risk: The Dynamics of Invasive Species
Instructor: Grace Harvey
Ecology, Biology

Did you know that invasive species are a major global crisis that can affect all of our futures? Invasive species pose a profound challenge to global biodiversity, impacting ecosystems and endangering native flora and fauna. In this course, you will learn about the mechanisms by which invasive species establish dominance in new environments and the resulting ecological consequences. Through analyzing case studies, participating in experiential learning activities, and engaging in problem-solving exercises, you will critically examine the complex interactions between invasive species and native ecosystems. We will especially focus on understanding the traits that enable invasive species to outcompete native organisms and assessing the strategies used to manage and mitigate their impact. At the end of the course, you will develop a comprehensive biodiversity management plan designed to safeguard a local ecosystem, applying theoretical and practical insights to foster conservation efforts.

Grace Harvey is a 2nd year Ph.D. student in the Department of Biological Sciences at Vanderbilt University. Her research interests include evolution, ecology, and optics. She is currently doing research on the evolution of color in frogs in the Taboada Lab. She graduated from Lafayette College with a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Biotechnology/Bioengineering. She enjoys mentoring and fostering a love and appreciation of science at all ages. Her hobbies include baking, working out, hiking, and playing board games!

Engineering the Human Body: From Health to Disease
Instructor: Hannah Waterman
Biology, Biomedical Engineering

Have you ever wondered how the human body works? Or how scientists use different models and technology to study it and the diseases that impact it? In this course, you will learn about the wonders of human biology and how scientists and engineers are trying to mimic the body in the lab to advance our knowledge in medicine. You will gain a better understanding of the human body, cell biology, and useful engineering skills including mathematics, device design, and device prototyping. You will also learn how to make practical tools and build simple machines modeling multiple organs in the body in order to answer fundamental scientific questions in the lab and your life.

Hannah Waterman is a 4th year Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. She earned her Honors B.S. from Linfield University in 2021, where she completed a double major in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Mathematics. While at Linfield, she performed independent research with Dr. Megan Bestwick, during which she spent 3 years characterizing the role of the human PPARγ gene in the mitochondria and analyzing the extent it is associated with the mitochondrial DNA transcription process. She began her Ph.D. at Vanderbilt later that same year, where she entered through the Quantitative and Chemical Biology Biomedical Research umbrella program. Hannah is mentored by Dr. Alan Cherrington, and her research focus is to determine the underlying physiologic and cellular mechanisms responsible for the second-meal phenomenon. For her Ph.D., she specializes in full-body large animal physiology, diabetes, and glucose metabolism, where she simulates meal consumption by performing a variety of complex glucose clamping experiments. Since her freshman year of college, Hannah has been involved in tutoring and TA’ing hundreds of students in math, biology, chemistry, and physics courses as well as laboratory environments for both K-12 and higher education. Additionally, she currently tutors advanced middle and high school students for Thrive Tutoring, local to the Nashville area. She has a passion for mentoring and teaching others. With her comprehensive teaching experience, unwavering reliability, and commitment to student success, she is well-qualified to assist with student development inside and outside of the classroom.

Finding “Faults” in Media: The Geology of Disaster Movies
Instructor: Naomi Rodgers, Ph.D.
Geology, Science Communication

Many aspects of the Earth System have been depicted in movies, and Hollywood doesn’t always get it right. Movies like Ice Age, Journey to the Center of the Earth, Twisters, and San Andreas are entertaining and enticing! But what do they get right and wrong? In this course, you will scientifically evaluate several examples of disaster movies and consider what they get right and what they get wrong. Through engaging cutting-edge research, we will consider alternative storylines and how accuracy impacts storytelling. We will also analyze what impact storytelling can have on public perception of science and natural disasters. You will leave this course with a deeper understanding of various aspects of Earth Science such as geology, meteorology, geologic time, seismology, and more!

Naomi (she/her) finished her PhD in Structural Geology at the University of Southern California in August, 2024. She is currently working as a Visiting Assistant Professor at Occidental College. She is passionate about opening the field of Geology to as many people as possible, and by reframing who we imagine as Earth Scientists. Not only those who like to hike and be outside can pursue Earth Science, but anyone with a curiosity for the natural system and spatiotemporal reasoning (time + space) can contribute to the field and push science forward. Naomi loves teaching and sharing knowledge and excitement for Geology and is excited for the opportunity to teach at PTY for the first time this summer! In her free time she enjoys reading, college football, pilates, walking, and watching reality television (we all need a brain break sometimes!).

Intro to Python Coding
Instructor: Ishita Dash, Ph.D.
Coding | *No previous coding experience required

Python is a popular language for general-purpose programming, data science, web programming, machine learning and more. In this course, you will delve into an in-depth exploration of Python’s core elements, including syntax, various data types, control structures, and functions. Through hands-on projects and practical exercises, you will apply your knowledge and reinforce your understanding of Python programming concepts. By the end of the course, you will have a robust foundation in Python, empowering you to confidently pursue more advanced programming concepts and explore real-world applications of the language. Python is named as a tribute to the British comedy group Monty Python, so you can also expect to have a lot of fun along the way!

Ishita Dash is a Research Assistant Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Vanderbilt University. Her expertise is in transportation safety, with a particular focus on pedestrian and bicycle safety. Dr. Dash employs advanced machine learning algorithms, computer vision techniques, and data analytics to analyze large datasets collected from various sensors, technologies, and cameras. By identifying unsafe travel behaviors and their underlying causes, she aims to develop innovative, efficient, sustainable, and safer transportation systems. Her research also explores the environmental impacts of traffic, the stress experienced by pedestrians and cyclists, heat-induced stress on construction workers, and the stress encountered by first responders. These studies seek to improve both performance and health outcomes. The implications of her work are significant for policymakers, urban planners, and transportation engineers. Dr. Dash holds a Ph.D. and an M.S. in Civil Engineering from Vanderbilt University, as well as an M.S. in Reliability, Availability, Maintainability, and Safety from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway. She earned her B.S. in Marine Engineering from the Birla Institute of Technology and Science in India. In addition to her research, Dr. Dash has extensive teaching experience. She has instructed courses in Energy Systems Engineering at Vanderbilt University, successfully developed and implemented a data analytics certification and minor program, and taught Business Statistics as an Adjunct Professor at Colorado Mountain College. Furthermore, she has taught Urban Transportation and Data Analytics at the PTY Summer 2024 (VSA and Career Connections) program. She has served as a guest lecturer and teaching assistant for several courses at Vanderbilt University and has worked as a mathematics tutor for the Accelerating Scholars Program at Metro Nashville Public Schools. With over a decade of experience as a Technical Safety Engineer in the Offshore and Shipping industry, Dr. Dash brings significant practical expertise to her academic and teaching endeavors.

Legal Studies: An Introduction to Torts and Civil Law
Instructor: Kimberly Goins, J.D.
Legal Studies

Have you ever seen or heard about a legal case and wondered why someone even bothered suing? Have you known someone who either had to sue someone or was sued by someone? In this course you will learn about the civil law process in The United States, specifically through the lens of torts. A tort is a civil wrong that causes harm or loss to a person for which there is civil recourse, i.e. money damages (compensatory or punitive). Through reading and analyzing groundbreaking cases such as Palsgraf v. Long Island and Summers v. Tice, we will build towards an introductory understanding of torts and how they function. With this theoretical foundation, you will practice civil law by taking part in a mock civil trial. Working in teams who take on various roles, we will draft pre-trial motions, draft a complaint, engage in discovery (for example, depositions), and draft motions. If you are interested in learning about what lawyers do, this is the course for you!

Kimberly Goins is an alumna of The University of Alabama, from where she received the degrees of juris doctor, a Master of Arts Degree in political science and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Spanish and political science. She is also an alumna of Vanderbilt University from where she obtained a Master of Theological Studies Degree. She is a licensed Attorney in good standing with the prestigious New York State Bar. She has over twelve years of legal experience in a variety of areas including civil and criminal law. She has clerked in a District Attorney’s Office, clerked for a Judge, served as an Appeals Litigation Specialist for the State of Tennessee and has practiced as an eDiscovery Attorney for over ten years in Nashville, TN and in New York City. She has worked in the nonprofit arena as an Academic Coordinator for Tennessee Higher Education in Prison Initiative. She has previously taught an Introduction to Law course for Summer Academy at Vanderbilt for the Young in 2017 (a course that focused on the civil law process), a Criminal Law course for Vanderbilt Summer Academy in 2017, mini law courses for Weekend at Vanderbilt University in 2016; and she has presented a teach in at the MLK Teach In at Vanderbilt University on the topic of “Stop and Frisk: Protect and Serve or License to Violate.” She is currently working full time as an eDiscovery Attorney and focusing primarily on civil law matters.

The Psychology of Emotions: Exploring How We Feel and Embody Emotions
Instructor: Julia Lebovitz
Clinical Psychology

Why do we feel the way we do? How do emotions like joy, anger, and sadness show up in our bodies and influence our actions? In this course, we will dive into the fascinating world of emotions through the lens of psychology and clinical science. Emotions are at the heart of the human experience, but their organization and function are still actively studied. Are emotions universal, or are they shaped by culture? How do they guide decision-making, relationships, and mental health? Through interactive activities, you will explore the science behind emotional experiences, including a computerized tool called emBODY, which allows you to map the physical sensations associated with different emotions. By examining your own emotional maps and comparing them with broader research findings, you will uncover how emotions are embodied and why this matters for everyday life. Along the way, we’ll explore the link between emotions and real-world applications in clinical psychology. By the end of the course, you will have a deeper understanding of how emotions shape who we are and how we engage with the world around us.

Julia Lebovitz is a second-year Psychology PhD in the Clinical Sciences program. She received her bachelor’s degree from Stanford University in 2021. Her area of expertise is on self-disorders, including schizophrenia and depersonalization-derealization disorder. Julia is currently leading a study focusing on emotional (dis)embodiment in self-disorders, and she utilizes different tools to study the complex emotional experience. Julia is excited to teach, mentor, and meet new students this summer! In her free time, Julia enjoys marathon running, hiking, and spending time with her dog.

The Secret Ingredients of Science
Instructor: Emma Webb
Chemistry

Have you ever wondered how throwing flour, sugar, and some eggs into a bowl can morph into a delicious, spongey cake with just some heat? In this course, you will dive into the fascinating intersection of chemistry and cooking! Through exploring scientific principles, from the Maillard reaction to emulsification, you will begin to form a working knowledge of the science behind cooking and baking. You will also learn about the chemical properties of ingredients and how they interact to create flavor, texture, and color in dishes. Through hands-on experiments and demonstrations, you will gain a deeper understanding of the science behind baking, braising, fermentation, and more. By the end of the course, you will not only have had the chance to try your hand at recipes, but more importantly, understand the science behind these basic life-skills.

Emma Webb is a graduate student at Vanderbilt University in the Department of Pharmacology. Emma is in her fourth year of graduate school, working in Dr. Heidi Hamm’s laboratory. Her research is centered around drug discovery and development. Emma received her B.S. in Chemistry from the College of New Jersey in 2020 and decided to continue her science career at Vanderbilt. Emma has held many tutoring and mentoring positions through her academic career, but this is the first year she will be teaching for VSA. In her free time, Emma enjoys whipping up new recipes, going on hikes, and spending time with friends and family.

Exploring the Human Mind: An Introduction to Psychological Research
Instructor: Abigail Blum
Psychology, Research

Embark on a captivating journey delving into the complexities of the human mind. In this immersive one-week course, you will step into the shoes of psychological science researchers to unravel the mysteries of human behavior, cognition, and emotions. Through engaging lectures, interactive discussions, and hands-on experiences, you will grasp the fundamental pillars of psychology and psychological research, spanning developmental, social, and cognitive domains. Not only will you acquire a robust foundation in scientific inquiry, but you’ll also have the opportunity to craft your own mini research proposal, formulating research questions, constructing hypotheses, and designing an innovative study that mirrors that of seasoned psychological researchers.

Abby Blum is an incoming 3rd year Ph.D. student in the Clinical Psychology Program at Vanderbilt University. Originally from Atlanta, Georgia, Abby attended Northwestern University, where she graduated with a degree in creative writing and psychology. Throughout her career, she has worked in multiple research labs, where she has had the opportunity to participate in studies ranging from the early caregiving environment to the development of leadership in adolescents. Her current research interests include caregiver–child attachment and infant mental health. Over the past few years, Abby has also served as a teaching assistant for various undergraduate courses, including Developmental Psychology, Abnormal Child Psychology, and Introduction to Clinical Psychology. She can’t wait to return as a VSA instructor this summer! In her spare time, Abby enjoys exploring new cities, hiking with her dogs, and spending time with her friends and family.

How to Become a Disease Detective: An Introduction to Epidemiology
Instructor: Allison Chan, Charlie Rhea
Public Health, Epidemiology

Have you ever wondered how disease patterns are determined or how an outbreak investigation works? Have you thought about the difference between an epidemic and a pandemic? In this exciting course, you will be introduced to the dynamic field of epidemiology through surveying noteworthy historical events, learning about quantitative analyses (i.e., odds ratio, risk ratio, prevalence, incidence), and engaging study bias assessment. You will have an opportunity to serve as the lead epidemiologist in a mock outbreak investigation which will include data collection, data visualization, and a final report. By the end of this course, you will understand key epidemiological terms, gain the knowledge to design data collection questionnaires, learn the basics of data management and analysis, and explore related career paths. If you are interested in healthcare-related fields, careers in public health or healthcare research, this course is for you!

Allison is a 3rd year PhD student in Vanderbilt’s Epidemiology program. Allison is a Michigan native who completed her Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences from Michigan State University and then a Master of Public Health from the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health with a concentration in Hospital & Molecular Epidemiology. Following completion of her master’s degree, Allison worked for six years as an epidemiologist at the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) in the Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance (HAI/AR) Program. During her time at TDH, she primarily focused on statewide surveillance of antibiotic-resistant organisms, outbreak response, and served as the program director for two years. Allison’s current research focuses on investigating the relationship between the upper respiratory tract microbiome and SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility and disease presentation.

Charlie is a 3rd year PhD student in in the Epidemiology Program at Vanderbilt University from Louisville, Kentucky. He completed his Bachelors of Science in Public Health from Western Kentucky University in 2015, before going on to complete his Masters of Public Health in Epidemiology from the University of Kentucky in 2018. He then went on to work as an Epidemiologist with the Tuberculosis (TB) Program at the Kentucky Department for Public Health where he oversaw routine surveillance, program evaluation efforts, and training of local health department TB programs. Here at Vanderbilt, Charlie works with the Vanderbilt TB Center and his research is focused on drug-resistant TB in South Africa.

How to Change the World: Social Movements through the Lens of Political Anthropology
Instructor: Kathryn Peters
Anthropology, Political Theory

How can individuals make a difference in addressing the problems that they view society as facing? This course delves into the intricate dynamics of social movements and collective action by employing the lens of political anthropology. It aims to unravel the mechanisms through which individuals affect change in addressing societal challenges. By drawing upon the rich toolkit of cultural anthropology, you will explore the contextual elements that either nurture or impede collective political action. Through an analysis of various forms of organization, tactics, and barriers encountered by social movements in recent history, and their resultant impacts on societal transformation, you will gain comprehensive insights into the mechanics of effecting change.

Kathryn E Peters is a Ph.D. candidate in cultural anthropology at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. Her research focuses on how small-scale farmers in rural communities in the eastern region of Paraguay defend and adapt their way of life in response to economic and political systems which often privilege the interests of transnational agribusiness corporations and narcotraffickers. She is a returned Peace Corps Volunteer and holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Oklahoma State University and a dual master’s degree in Latin American Studies and Community and Regional Planning from the University of New Mexico.

Introduction to Endothelial Biology
Instructor: David Alasnar
Biology

Endothelial cells line the interior surface of blood vessels and play critical roles in maintaining vascular health. In this course, you will explore the structure and function of endothelial cells, focusing on how they regulate blood flow, immune responses, and the exchange of nutrients and waste between the bloodstream and tissues. We will survey key topics including endothelial cell structure, vascular biology, angiogenesis, and the role of endothelial cells in diseases. Through interactive lessons and laboratory experiments, you will develop a thorough understanding of the vascular system and its relationship to overall health while also learning about potential health-related careers in Cardiology, Vascular Biology and Surgery, and Biomedical Research.

David Aslaner is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology at Vanderbilt University, currently in his 3rd year of doctoral studies. He received a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences with a minor in Philosophy from The Ohio State University. After graduating, David joined the research lab of Dr. Loren Wold at Ohio State as a Research Assistant where he studied environmental effects on cardiopulmonary health. David has first-author publications observing the negative cardiopulmonary effects of air pollution and electronic cigarettes. Here at Vanderbilt and under his advisor Dr. Julie Bastarache, David studies the lung microvascular environment during sepsis. When not in the lab, David enjoys traveling, watching college football, and cooking.

Intro to Songwriting and Creativity
Instructor: Deanna Walker
Songwriting

Learn the fundamentals of songwriting in the songwriting capital of the world! In this 5-day songwriting intensive, you will learn skills that will advance your writing by years. This is a “come as you are” course—you don’t have to know how to play an instrument and you don’t have to have written songs to be able to fully participate in the joy of songwriting. We welcome all genres and interests. You’ll experience lyric-writing exercises that can impact your writing for a lifetime and melody generating exercises that will change how you think about music. Did you ever wonder why song credits often have so many writers and producers listed these days? It’s because co-writing and collaboration are often part of the current industry standard. You’ll learn the principles of co-writing and apply them in collaborations with your classmates. You’ll see how professionals analyze and think about songs, you’ll get a taste of how the music business operates, and you’ll explore Music City, in all its glory!

Deanna Walker is a songwriter, producer, composer, and Adjunct Instructor of Songwriting at the Blair School of Music at Vanderbilt University. She’s co-written songs that have been streamed over 60 million times on Spotify alone. She’s had multiple publishing deals and works extensively with European artists and producers. She hosts the popular Blair Hit Songwriter Series class and podcast. Several of her Vanderbilt students have gone on to be massive hit writers, including Michael Pollack, Malibu Babie, Ben Berger, and Jon Nite (to name only a few)! Her music has been featured on American Idol, along with other major network television shows and commercials. Over the past 20 years, she’s interviewed some of the biggest names in songwriting, publishing, and production, including Michael Pollack, Randy Newman, Craig Wiseman, Swagg R’Celious, Natalie Hemby, June James, Ben Folds, Laura Veltz, Carla Wallace, along with hundreds of others, and shares that knowledge base with everyone in her classes. She holds a B.M. in Piano Performance and Pedagogy and an M.M. in Composition from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University. Her Composition Books for the Alfred Basic Piano Library have been sold around the world.

Medieval Europe: Transformation and Transition
Instructor: Jesse McCarthy, Ph.D.
Chemistry

The Black Death, the murder of Thomas Beckett, the flourishing of Arthurian Legend and Courtly Love, the ideal of the Chivalry and its knights in shining armor, the birth of polyphony, the grandeur of the Notre Dame – all of these were of the result of the explosion of European urban, intellectual, and economic life in the twilight of the Middle Ages. In this exciting course, we will explore the High Middle Ages (1000-1350)—a period of significant transformation that laid the foundation for modern Europe. You will engage in in-depth analysis of primary sources, hone your writing and editing skills, and embark on cultural investigations to develop a nuanced understanding of this pivotal era. From the economic boom in newly rising towns to the intellectual renaissance in universities, we will examine the multifaceted shifts that characterized the period. If you love history, this is the course for you!

Dr. Jesse McCarthy is an enthusiastic historian and educator who earned his PhD in History from Vanderbilt University in 2023. His tenure as a Lecturer in the Vanderbilt History department was marked by a passion for innovative pedagogy and interdisciplinary teaching. Currently, Dr. McCarthy is channeling his pedagogical expertise as a Postdoctoral Researcher role at the Aarts & Science College Core Curriculum, where he plays a pivotal part in designing and teaching Vanderbilt’s general education courses – including the new freshmen seminar sequence. His innovative approach to teaching is showcased in his new Exploratory Core course on Witchcraft, Magic, and the Supernatural, a popular class that delves into the mysterious and often misunderstood aspects of human culture across disciplinary lines.

Pharmacology Unveiled: How Medications Work & Why They Matter
Instructor: Montana Young
Pharmacology

Everyone knows you take medication to treat diseases, but do you wonder why they work? In this course we will cover the basics of pharmacology investigating pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and the way drug discovery scientists identify and target the underlying causes of disease. You will gain insight into why medications have side effects, the deadly outcomes of co-dosing pharmaceuticals, and why you can’t eat grapefruit with so many medications. We will also discuss career paths associated with drug discovery and development as this is a large quickly growing industry. By the end of this course, you will be able to apply your new understanding of pharmacology to identify a drug based on a given disease and therapeutic outcome.

Montana Young grew up in central Florida and frequently found himself exploring nature and looking for the various reptiles native (and invasive) to the state throughout his childhood. After graduation, he moved to Tampa and attended the University of South Florida where he received a B.S. in Biomedical Sciences and B.A. in History. Afterwards, he conducted research studying the role of antioxidants in UV induced melanoma at Moffitt Cancer Center. He is now pursuing a multi-faceted project in Heidi Hamm’s laboratory focusing on the exocytotic machinery found in neuronal terminals, specifically within the innervation of adipose tissue. He aspires to contribute to the ever-growing body of research surrounding type II diabetes during his time here at Vanderbilt – and of course enjoy exploring the vast natural preserves of Tennessee.

Physics of Motion: From Cellular Proteins to Massive Aircrafts
Instructor: Savanna Starko, Ph.D.
Physics

How does motion in our universe occur? How do interactions between objects and even charges govern the ways in which our universe operates? In this course, we will explore these thought-provoking questions and delve into the core principles that shape the universe around us. Through engaging topics such as mechanics, fluids, sound, thermal physics, statistical physics, electricity and magnetism, basic circuits, and optics, you will learn about key challenges and breakthroughs in understanding the physics of motion. By the end of this course, you will not only have a solid grasp of the core principles of physics but also an appreciation for the profound ways in which the universe operates—whether on the grand scale of galaxies or at the microscopic level of atoms and particles.

Dr. Savanna Rae Starko (she/her) is a full-time STEM instructor in the High School for Templeton Academy Nashville. Her undergraduate degree is from a small school in western Pennsylvania called Washington and Jefferson College. There, she got BAs in Mathematics and Physics. She then went on to Vanderbilt to earn her PhD in High Energy Physics in the Spring of 2020. Savanna was a Senior Lecturer at Vanderbilt in Physics from the Fall of 2020 through Spring 2024. Being a female-identifying physicist has been quite the ride! She focuses on helping herself and her students to take up the right amount of space that they deserve in STEM fields. In her classroom, she focuses on promoting a sense of belonging in a brave space such that all persons are seen, heard, and valued. In her spare time, she instructs yoga at Small World Yoga in Edgehill, runs, and enjoys a good book!

The Unseen War: Battling the Growing Crisis of Antimicrobial Resistance
Instructor: Hamilton Green, Ph.D.
Microbiology

Did you know that if we do not carefully monitor science and make additional advancements, even a small injury, like a paper cut, could become dangerous? For millions of years, tiny microbial organisms have shaped the Earth’s ecosystems, landscapes, and, most importantly, human health, agriculture, food, and medicine. These microorganisms are so small that we can’t see them without a microscope, yet they’ve been here long before humans. Our relationship with bacteria is like a dance—sometimes it’s harmonious, and sometimes it can lead to serious illness. Bacteria can cause infections, ranging from mild to life-threatening. To fight these infections, scientists developed antibiotics that can kill harmful bacteria. When antibiotics are misused or overused, however, bacteria can start to resist them, making it harder to treat infections. This is called antibiotic resistance, and it’s a growing problem that could set back medicine by decades. In this class, we’ll explore why antibiotic resistance is dangerous, how it happens, and its impact on health around the world. You will learn the basics of microbiology and study some of the most important bacteria that affect us. You may even be one of the future scientists who helps solve this problem!

Hamilton Green, Ph.D., was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. He earned his B.S. in Biology from Dillard University, where he was also a student-athlete in track and field. He later obtained his doctorate in Microbe-Host Interactions from Vanderbilt University, conducting research to characterize clinical Uropathogenic E. coli isolates—the primary cause of urinary tract infections. In his free time, Dr. Green enjoys playing video games, shopping, going to the movies, and jogging. 

Creative Writing: Free Verse Poetry
Instructor: Jan Harris, Ph.D.
Creative Writing, Poetry

Led by a published author, this course will help you find and express your poetic voice and gain confidence and expert feedback about your work. By studying different kinds of poetry through creative and engaging writing activities, group collaboration, analysis, and peer review, you will work toward building a comprehensive collection of your own original poems. You will pay particular attention to free verse and the frontier of poetry beyond meter with a focus on finding your own voice and platform. The writing skills you gain will not only help enhance your poems but will also allow you to engage in scholarly conversations with other classmates and express your ideas in unique ways while having a lot of fun along the way.

Dr. Jan Elaine Harris (she/her) is a Professor of Writing, and serves as the Faculty Fellow for Faculty Well-Being, at Lipscomb University. She holds a Masters and Doctorate in English from the University of Alabama. Her chapbook, Isolating One’s Priorities, was published by Finishing Line Press in 2021. Recent poems have appeared in the Solar Wind art exhibit, American Writers Review, The West Trade Review, Plants and Poets Anthology, HerWords, The Portland Review, etc. Jan completed a two-year training for Spiritual Directors in 2023, and she is also a trained Ignatian Guide. She serves as one of the Catalyst Mentor Coaches for Lipscomb’s Faculty and supports the College of Health Sciences as their Wellbeing Liaison. Jan received the Bledsoe Award for Excellence in the Humanities in April 2022 and was chosen as one of three Teachers of the Year in April 2024. She lives in East Nashville with her partner and two perfect GSPs, Malloy and Astrid-June.

Engineering the Human Body: From Health to Disease
Instructor: Hannah Waterman
Biology, Biomedical Engineering

Have you ever wondered how the human body works? Or how scientists use different models and technology to study it and the diseases that impact it? In this course, you will learn about the wonders of human biology and how scientists and engineers are trying to mimic the body in the lab to advance our knowledge in medicine. You will gain a better understanding of the human body, cell biology, and useful engineering skills including mathematics, device design, and device prototyping. You will also learn how to make practical tools and build simple machines modeling multiple organs in the body in order to answer fundamental scientific questions in the lab and your life.

Hannah Waterman is a 4th year Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. She earned her Honors B.S. from Linfield University in 2021, where she completed a double major in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and Mathematics. While at Linfield, she performed independent research with Dr. Megan Bestwick, during which she spent 3 years characterizing the role of the human PPARγ gene in the mitochondria and analyzing the extent it is associated with the mitochondrial DNA transcription process. She began her Ph.D. at Vanderbilt later that same year, where she entered through the Quantitative and Chemical Biology Biomedical Research umbrella program. Hannah is mentored by Dr. Alan Cherrington, and her research focus is to determine the underlying physiologic and cellular mechanisms responsible for the second-meal phenomenon. For her Ph.D., she specializes in full-body large animal physiology, diabetes, and glucose metabolism, where she simulates meal consumption by performing a variety of complex glucose clamping experiments. Since her freshman year of college, Hannah has been involved in tutoring and TA’ing hundreds of students in math, biology, chemistry, and physics courses as well as laboratory environments for both K-12 and higher education. Additionally, she currently tutors advanced middle and high school students for Thrive Tutoring, local to the Nashville area. She has a passion for mentoring and teaching others. With her comprehensive teaching experience, unwavering reliability, and commitment to student success, she is well-qualified to assist with student development inside and outside of the classroom.

Fundamentals of Brain Imaging
Instructor: Kimberly Bress
Brain Imaging

Modern imaging technology allows us to see the structure of the brain and learn about how it functions. But how do these technologies work? In this course, we will explore how scientists and physicians use advanced imaging techniques such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to look inside the human brain and generate insights about human health and behavior. You will learn about the fundamental physics principles which allow MRI to work and the basics of brain anatomy. In addition, you will have the opportunity to identify a research question and design a neuroimaging experiment to address it. By the end of this course, you will gain hands-on understanding of the uses and limitations of brain imaging technology, and learn what these methods can reveal about the wonders of the human brain.

Kimberly Bress is third-year MD/PhD candidate in the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, and is conducting her graduate research on the use of brain imaging to understand behavioral differences in autism. She received her B.A. in Neuroscience and Mental Health Studies from the University of Tennessee, after which she worked as a research assistant for the Queen Sofia Foundation of Spain and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.  

Nanoscience and Engineering
Instructor: Greg Walker, Ph.D. and VINSE Faculty
Nanoscience, Engineering

Get ready to don your protective coveralls and enter the exciting world of nanoengineering. In this course, you will get an introduction to key nanoparticles and their properties while stretching your creative problem-solving skills to their limits. You can expect advanced lectures, labs, and extensive study with faculty, grad students, and postdocs at the Vanderbilt Institute of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (VINSE). You will also spend significant time in one of Vanderbilt’s newest, biggest, and cleanest cleanrooms.* These experiences will challenge you to see the world the way a nanoscientist does, including how manipulating the smallest of particles might address some of the world’s biggest problems.

NOTE: Be advised that the special lighting, clothing, and atmosphere of the cleanroom may act as a “trigger” for students with anxiety disorders and tactile sensitivities. Please call our office if you’d like to discuss the specifics of the cleanroom further.

*Students must be at least 12 years old by July 1 to participate in this lab-based class.

**Tennessee students from backgrounds historically underrepresented in science may be eligible to apply for a competitive full tuition scholarship funded directly through Vanderbilt Institute of Nanoscale Science and Engineering (VINSE) for this course. Click here for more information and to apply. If you have any questions, please email the PTY office at pty.peabody@vanderbilt.edu.

Greg Walker is an associate professor of mechanical engineering, holding several appointments at Vanderbilt, including ones in the Interdisciplinary Materials Science Program, the Thermal Engineering Lab, the Advanced Computing Center for Research and Education, and the Vanderbilt Institute of Nanoscale Science and Engineering. His research interests include the modeling and simulation of nonequilibrium, coupled energy transport in electronics, and energy conversion materials.

Physics of Motion: From Cellular Proteins to Massive Aircrafts
Instructor: Savanna Starko, Ph.D.
Physics

How does motion in our universe occur? How do interactions between objects and even charges govern the ways in which our universe operates? In this course, we will explore these thought-provoking questions and delve into the core principles that shape the universe around us. Through engaging topics such as mechanics, fluids, sound, thermal physics, statistical physics, electricity and magnetism, basic circuits, and optics, you will learn about key challenges and breakthroughs in understanding the physics of motion. By the end of this course, you will not only have a solid grasp of the core principles of physics but also an appreciation for the profound ways in which the universe operates—whether on the grand scale of galaxies or at the microscopic level of atoms and particles.

Dr. Savanna Rae Starko (she/her) is a full-time STEM instructor in the High School for Templeton Academy Nashville. Her undergraduate degree is from a small school in western Pennsylvania called Washington and Jefferson College. There, she got BAs in Mathematics and Physics. She then went on to Vanderbilt to earn her PhD in High Energy Physics in the Spring of 2020. Savanna was a Senior Lecturer at Vanderbilt in Physics from the Fall of 2020 through Spring 2024. Being a female-identifying physicist has been quite the ride! She focuses on helping herself and her students to take up the right amount of space that they deserve in STEM fields. In her classroom, she focuses on promoting a sense of belonging in a brave space such that all persons are seen, heard, and valued. In her spare time, she instructs yoga at Small World Yoga in Edgehill, runs, and enjoys a good book!

The Psychology of Emotions: Exploring How we Feel and Embody Emotions
Instructor: Julia Lebovitz
Clinical Psychology

Why do we feel the way we do? How do emotions like joy, anger, and sadness show up in our bodies and influence our actions? In this course, we will dive into the fascinating world of emotions through the lens of psychology and clinical science. Emotions are at the heart of the human experience, but their organization and function are still actively studied. Are emotions universal, or are they shaped by culture? How do they guide decision-making, relationships, and mental health? Through interactive activities, you will explore the science behind emotional experiences, including a computerized tool called emBODY, which allows you to map the physical sensations associated with different emotions. By examining your own emotional maps and comparing them with broader research findings, you will uncover how emotions are embodied and why this matters for everyday life. Along the way, we’ll explore the link between emotions and real-world applications in clinical psychology. By the end of the course, you will have a deeper understanding of how emotions shape who we are and how we engage with the world around us.

Julia Lebovitz is a second-year Psychology PhD in the Clinical Sciences program. She received her bachelor’s degree from Stanford University in 2021. Her area of expertise is on self-disorders, including schizophrenia and depersonalization-derealization disorder. Julia is currently leading a study focusing on emotional (dis)embodiment in self-disorders, and she utilizes different tools to study the complex emotional experience. Julia is excited to teach, mentor, and meet new students this summer! In her free time, Julia enjoys marathon running, hiking, and spending time with her dog.

The Art of Trial Law: Foundations of Legal Practice
Instructor: Alyssa Baskam, J.D.
Legal Studies

Have you ever wondered how lawyers prepare for and present cases in court? What strategies do they use to persuade a judge or jury? How do they manage the complexities of presenting evidence and examining witnesses? In this course taught by a practicing trial lawyer, you will explore the fundamentals of trial law through a combination of theory and practical application. From opening statements to closing arguments, you’ll gain an understanding of the stages of a trial and the skills needed to effectively advocate for a client in the courtroom! We will cover topics such as pre-trial motions, opening statements, direct and cross-examination, the introduction of evidence, and closing arguments. We will also explore the rules of evidence, courtroom etiquette, and strategies for effective advocacy. Throughout the course, you will engage in practical exercises, including mock trials, to develop skills in legal reasoning, persuasive communication, and trial preparation. Whether you are interested in pursuing a legal career or simply want to understand the dynamics of a trial, this course will provide the tools and knowledge to engage with the judicial process confidently.

Alyssa Baskam is a partner in Beasley Allen’s Atlanta, Georgia office. She became a trial lawyer so she could help people through unimaginable hardship. She has won several multi-million dollar verdicts with her trial team. Alyssa attended the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies. She was a Public Service Scholar recipient, inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, and graduated in 2011 with honors. She earned her law degree from Emory Law School, where she graduated with honors in 2014. While at Emory, she was a member of the Emory Moot Court Society executive board and a national qualifier at the Saul Lefkowitz Moot Court Competition. Forbes has named Alyssa as one of the top ten personal injury attorneys in Atlanta for the last two years in a row. She has been featured by Best Lawyers in American and Best Lawyers Women in the Law. She is a member of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association (GTLA) where she serves as an Executive Committee and PAC board member. She is also on the Board of Governors for the American Association for Justice. In her spare time, Alyssa is a board member of Drawchange, an avid hiker, and enjoys painting and cooking.

Water Quality and Human Health: Field Research and Analysis
Instructor: Mahir Tajwar
Ecology, Research, Public Health

Water is critical for human life. You interact and ingest water every single day and don’t think twice. How do you know, however, that the water you are drinking is clean when pollution is leading to a variety of problems associated with global human health? Ensuring you and future generations have access to safe water is the job of environmental scientists working in the specialized field of water quality. In this course, you will have the opportunity to work as an environmental field scientist, analyzing the health of the water in Middle Tennessee! In your research, you will consider questions, such as ‘How do scientists measure/quantify the level of contamination in a water source?’ and ‘How do we treat contaminated water?’, as well as ‘What are the impacts on human health?’ You will collect data from field surveys and experiments, use descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze your results, and present your findings to your peers like a research scientist. In your final project, you will write and present to your class a mock white paper to the TN Department of Environment and Conservation detailing your research findings and offering recommendations for potential new laws and regulations. Expect to leave this course knowing how to describe and analyze data sets from the environmental sciences and leave with a newfound appreciation for the work of field research and for the processes that govern and shape the natural waters around us.

Mahir Tajwar is a second-year Ph.D. student in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at Vanderbilt University. He earned his master’s degree in Geoscience from Auburn University before moving to Nashville to pursue his Ph.D. in Environmental Science as a Vanderbilt College of Arts & Science Fellow. Mahir conducts research in the John C. Ayers Lab, focusing on water quality and stream metabolism, with a particular emphasis on water isotopes in Tennessee streams. His research interests span environmental pollution, geochemistry, hydrology, microplastic characterization, spatial analysis, and risk assessment. A recipient of the Geological Society of America’s Gould Research Grant and Auburn University’s Dean’s Research Award, Mahir has presented his work at international conferences and published studies on microplastic and groundwater contamination. During his time at Auburn University, he served as a teaching assistant for introductory undergraduate courses and currently works as a graduate teaching assistant for the course Oceanography Lab at Vanderbilt University. Furthermore, he has worked as a summer research assistant at the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs.

Audiology: Understanding the Journey of Sound Starting with Your Airpods
Instructor: Haiping Huang, Au.D.
Audiology, Hearing Science

Do Airpods hurt your ears? What exactly is the hearing loss that affected public figures such as Beethoven and Millie Bobbie Brown? How can technologies such as hearing aids and cochlear implants help patients hear? In this interdisciplinary class, we will dive into these questions and many others that relate to sound and hearing. Whether you have the mind of a scientist, healthcare provider, or engineer, this class is for you! We will explore the sounds we hear around the Vanderbilt campus, analyze sounds with our computers, tour research labs, and so much more! By the end of this class, you will understand 1) the basic mechanisms of sound and human hearing system, 2) hearing healthcare; 3) operations of assistive hearing technologies (e.g., hearing aid, cochlear implant) and 4) cultural differences in soundscapes.

Haiping Huang is a fourth-year Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Hearing and Speech Sciences at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He is also a licensed Audiologist. Originally from Shanghai, China, Haiping majored in economics during his undergraduate studies. A summer volunteering experience with hard-of-hearing children motivated him to pursue a career in hearing healthcare. After earning his clinical degree in Audiology, Haiping stayed in the Dan Maddox Hearing Aid Research Lab to pursue his Ph.D.. His current work involves hearing aids, listening effort, and emotional perception in adults. Haiping obtained the Certificate from Academy of College Teaching at Vanderbilt’s Peabody College in 2024 (note: current in class for this certificate) and has worked passionately as a co-lecturer and as teaching assistant in his department. Outside of school, Haiping enjoys traveling, exercising, and cooking.

Decoding the Human Genome
Instructor: Michael Betti
Biology, Genetics

Have you ever wondered what makes you you? Along with the environment we live in, each person on Earth has a unique genome that influences many of the traits that make us who we are, ranging from the way we look, how we behave, and our risk for certain diseases. In this immersive, one-week course, you will receive an introduction to the elegant organization and inner workings of the human genome. You will engage questions such as, “Even though every cell in your body contains the same genome sequence, why does a heart cell look and behave so differently from a brain cell?” Additionally, you will explore the fundamentals of genetic research and work with real genetic datasets to identify molecular drivers of disease. Finally, you will have the opportunity to examine and discuss some of the ethical questions that genetic researchers are sometimes faced with and what measures can be taken to ensure that the research will be beneficial to society while minimizing the potential for misuse.

Michael Betti is a fifth-year Ph.D. Candidate in Human Genetics at Vanderbilt University. His current research is broadly focused on developing novel machine learning-based methods that improve our ability to interpret how variations in the human genome affect disease risk at the population level. Michael is particularly interested in working toward increasing the diversity of genetic studies, which have historically included mostly European ancestry samples so that the insights gained from genetic research and their implications on human health can be shared more equitably across populations. Prior to beginning his graduate studies at Vanderbilt, Michael graduated with a Bachelor of Science in biology from the University of Alabama, where he was also part of two College Football Playoff National Championships as a member of the Alabama football team’s sports medicine staff. After graduation, he worked for two years as a Research Assistant on the ENCODE Project, a large, 18-year, international effort funded by the National Human Genome Research Institute to characterize all the functional elements in the human genome.

How to Become a Disease Detective: An Introduction to Epidemiology
Instructor: Allison Chan, Charlie Rhea
Public Health, Epidemiology

Have you ever wondered how disease patterns are determined or how an outbreak investigation works? Have you thought about the difference between an epidemic and a pandemic? In this exciting course, you will be introduced to the dynamic field of epidemiology through surveying noteworthy historical events, learning about quantitative analyses (i.e., odds ratio, risk ratio, prevalence, incidence), and engaging study bias assessment. You will have an opportunity to serve as the lead epidemiologist in a mock outbreak investigation which will include data collection, data visualization, and a final report. By the end of this course, you will understand key epidemiological terms, gain the knowledge to design data collection questionnaires, learn the basics of data management and analysis, and explore related career paths. If you are interested in healthcare-related fields, careers in public health or healthcare research, this course is for you!

Allison is a 3rd year PhD student in Vanderbilt’s Epidemiology program. Allison is a Michigan native who completed her Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences from Michigan State University and then a Master of Public Health from the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health with a concentration in Hospital & Molecular Epidemiology. Following completion of her master’s degree, Allison worked for six years as an epidemiologist at the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) in the Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance (HAI/AR) Program. During her time at TDH, she primarily focused on statewide surveillance of antibiotic-resistant organisms, outbreak response, and served as the program director for two years. Allison’s current research focuses on investigating the relationship between the upper respiratory tract microbiome and SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility and disease presentation.

Charlie is a 3rd year PhD student in in the Epidemiology Program at Vanderbilt University from Louisville, Kentucky. He completed his Bachelors of Science in Public Health from Western Kentucky University in 2015, before going on to complete his Masters of Public Health in Epidemiology from the University of Kentucky in 2018. He then went on to work as an Epidemiologist with the Tuberculosis (TB) Program at the Kentucky Department for Public Health where he oversaw routine surveillance, program evaluation efforts, and training of local health department TB programs. Here at Vanderbilt, Charlie works with the Vanderbilt TB Center and his research is focused on drug-resistant TB in South Africa.

Intro to Songwriting and Creativity
Instructor: Deanna Walker
Songwriting

Learn the fundamentals of songwriting in the songwriting capital of the world! In this 5-day songwriting intensive, you will learn skills that will advance your writing by years. This is a “come as you are” course—you don’t have to know how to play an instrument and you don’t have to have written songs to be able to fully participate in the joy of songwriting. We welcome all genres and interests. You’ll experience lyric-writing exercises that can impact your writing for a lifetime and melody generating exercises that will change how you think about music. Did you ever wonder why song credits often have so many writers and producers listed these days? It’s because co-writing and collaboration are often part of the current industry standard. You’ll learn the principles of co-writing and apply them in collaborations with your classmates. You’ll see how professionals analyze and think about songs, you’ll get a taste of how the music business operates, and you’ll explore Music City, in all its glory!

Deanna Walker is a songwriter, producer, composer, and Adjunct Instructor of Songwriting at the Blair School of Music at Vanderbilt University. She’s co-written songs that have been streamed over 60 million times on Spotify alone. She’s had multiple publishing deals and works extensively with European artists and producers. She hosts the popular Blair Hit Songwriter Series class and podcast. Several of her Vanderbilt students have gone on to be massive hit writers, including Michael Pollack, Malibu Babie, Ben Berger, and Jon Nite (to name only a few)! Her music has been featured on American Idol, along with other major network television shows and commercials. Over the past 20 years, she’s interviewed some of the biggest names in songwriting, publishing, and production, including Michael Pollack, Randy Newman, Craig Wiseman, Swagg R’Celious, Natalie Hemby, June James, Ben Folds, Laura Veltz, Carla Wallace, along with hundreds of others, and shares that knowledge base with everyone in her classes. She holds a B.M. in Piano Performance and Pedagogy and an M.M. in Composition from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University. Her Composition Books for the Alfred Basic Piano Library have been sold around the world.

Introduction to Virology: Understanding the Microscopic Titans
Instructor: Brynn Roman
Biology, Virology, Public Health

Viruses are microbes, miniscule in size; however, they wield immense influence on our world. The echoes of the COVID-19 pandemic serve as a stark reminder of viruses’ profound impact on global health. In this course, you will delve into the intricate world of these microbes, unraveling their mysteries, diversity, and the pivotal role they play in various ecosystems. You’ll gain a better understanding of the fundamental nature of viruses, exploring their structure and function, genetic makeup, replication mechanisms, modes of transmission, and the interplay between viruses and their host organisms. You will also be introduced to research methodologies, tools, and techniques employed at the molecular level to better understand how to combat viral infections and develop effective therapeutics. If you’re interested in unlocking the secrets of these microscopic titans and their impact on health, this course is for you!

Brynn Roman is a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Biological Sciences at Vanderbilt University. Her thesis work focuses on comparing the ways in which different coronaviruses manipulate host cell processes. Specifically, she’s interested in understanding how strain-specific protein interactions contribute to variability in disease severity. Her work utilizes biochemical techniques, chemical biology, and mass spectrometry. Brynn graduated with a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry and minor in mathematics from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh before coming to Vanderbilt. In addition to research, she’s also passionate about science outreach and enjoys volunteering at the Adventure Science Center and in local schools. When not performing research or talking about science, Brynn loves to try new restaurants, go for hikes, and train her cats to play fetch (but more often than not, they train her).

Our Digital Lives: Rhetoric, Meaning, and Production in the Media World
Instructor: Morgan Beers
Rhetoric

This course sets out to examine how digital and media spaces, such as podcasts, commercials, social media sites, video games, digital life simulator space, etc., have impacted how we shape our identities and ways of communicating in our current world. Using the lens of digital rhetoric, we will interact with and examine various forms of multimodal and digital texts to better understand how the authors create meaning and how we, as the audience, interpret said meaning outside of the constraints of written, academic texts. You will utilize rhetorical analysis to engage with various forms of multimedia and multimodal readings to build a rhetorical toolkit for engaging, analyzing, and producing multimodal projects, which will then be used to produce your own multimodal projects relating to a singular theme of your own choosing.

Morgan Beers is a 5th year PhD student in Writing, Rhetoric, and Literacy at The Ohio State University. She specialized in Digital Media Studies and Technical Communication. Her research program centers on the intersections between digital media studies, social media studies, technical communication, and social justice. Specifically, she is interested in investigating how technology can provide safe spaces and methods of expression (or resistance) for marginalized communities while also causing harm through the often-invisible reification of offline biases and prejudice. Through her scholarship, she consider new forms of media and technology and ask how we can critically examine the relationships between technology, communication, and inequality to create socially just digital systems.

Mental Health in Context: An Introduction to Clinical Psychology
Instructor: Ali Sloan & Ankita Mohan
Clinical Psychology

How do clinical psychologists understand what shapes mental health and illness? In this course, we will dive into the intricate interplay between the mind and its surroundings. From a clinical psychology perspective, we will explore how psychosocial factors shape the development, experience, and treatment of mental disorders. We will take a dimensional approach toward understanding mental health and illness through the lens of psychology and neuroscience, with an emphasis on the psychosocial factors that influence development and the implications for clinicians, researchers, and policymakers. You will have the opportunity to explore case studies, and evaluate the latest research in clinical psychology. By examining the powerful effects of culture, environment, and social systems on mental health, you will gain a deeper understanding of this as a field of scholarly pursuit.

Ali Sloan is a first-year Ph.D. student in the Clinical Psychology Program at Vanderbilt University. She earned her B.S. in Neuroscience from Duke University before joining Teach for America, where she served as a high school special education teacher for two years. During this time, she completed her teaching licensure and earned her M.Ed. in Curriculum and Teaching from Boston University. Following her teaching experience, Ali worked as a Research Assistant in the Early Psychosis Program at Vanderbilt University Medical Center for two years. Ali’s research explores the cognitive and neurobiological mechanisms that link childhood adversity to the development of psychopathology. She is passionate about teaching, mentoring, and inspiring others to appreciate the complexity of the brain and human experience. In her free time, Ali enjoys spending time with friends, watching football, and playing with her puppy.

Ankita Mohan is a first-year Ph.D. student in the Clinical Psychology Program at Vanderbilt University. She earned her B.A. in Public Policy with a focus on health policy from William & Mary and her M.H.S. in Social Factors of Health with a focus on Public Mental Health from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Prior to joining Vanderbilt, Ankita worked with agencies like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA) and the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services. Ankita’s research examines the social and environmental factors that influence neurodevelopment and behavioral health, with previous projects exploring topics such as air pollution and cognitive decline, housing and mental health, and food security and autism severity. She is passionate about making research accessible and engaging, and she is excited to guide students in exploring the different aspects of psychology. In her free time, Ankita enjoys hiking, reading, and exploring new restaurants!

Decoding Alzheimer’s Disease: From Molecules to Matter
Instructor: Camryn Smith
Neuroscience

Did you know that about 6.9 million people in the United States age 65 and older live with Alzheimer’s disease? Alzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, and eventually, the ability to carry out the simplest tasks. In this course, we will delve into the molecular and biological mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s and examine the latest advancements and unanswered questions in the field. Through hands-on activities and discussions, you will learn to read and analyze scientific papers as well as translate complex research into accessible language. Guest speakers, including caregivers and individuals with personal experiences of the disease, will provide a deeply human perspective on the challenges of Alzheimer’s. You will have the opportunity to collaborate in small groups to prepare and deliver presentations on assigned scientific studies, culminating in a final showcase. In these presentations, you will explore the impact of Alzheimer’s through storytelling, bioethics, and creative expressions such as art and writing.

Camryn Smith is a third-year Ph.D. candidate in Neuroscience at Vanderbilt University, working in Dr. Fiona Harrison’s laboratory. Her current research focuses on investigating the mechanisms by which sepsis-induced inflammation accelerates tau pathology in Alzheimer’s disease. With a strong background in neuroscience, Camryn has extensive experience in both neurodevelopment and neurodegeneration research, with a particular passion for understanding how the brain’s resident immune cells contribute to neurodegenerative processes. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Neuroscience and Creative Writing from Agnes Scott College, where she developed a unique perspective on the crucial intersection of science and humanities in advancing research and scientific communication. Camryn’s professional goals include pursuing a career in research while mentoring aspiring scientists and those exploring various career paths. Drawing inspiration from her own mentors, she is committed to giving back to her community and helping others realize their potential in the scientific field.

Doctor To Be: From Structure to Function, Dysfunction, Disease, and Treatment
Instructor: Ericka Randazzo
Medicine

Have you ever thought about going to medical school or considered a career in healthcare? Do you want to learn how the body works, how disease develops when function goes awry, and how doctors go about fixing such diseases? In this course taught by a Vanderbilt M.D./Ph.D. student, you will learn about the structure and function of the human body, from a cellular to systems level. After developing that foundation, you will, utilizing human anatomy and physiology, begin to investigate how and why different diseases develop when dysfunction occurs. Using knowledge of “normal” physiology, you will also learn the mechanisms by which different treatment modalities work to target disease. Through a survey of foundational topics such as cardiology, hematology, pulmonology, nephrology, oncology, endocrinology, and neurology, you will gain a deeper understanding of the “how” and “why” behind human physiology, disease, and medicine.

Ericka Randazzo is a 2nd year Ph.D. candidate in the M.D.-Ph.D. (Medical Scientist Training Program, MSTP) at Vanderbilt. She earned two B.S. degrees from the University of Connecticut in 2019 where she completed a dual degree in Physiology and Neurobiology and Pathobiology. She stayed an additional year to complete a research M.S. in Physiology and Neurobiology. During her time at UConn, she performed independent research in the lab or Dr. Joseph LoTurco, where she spent 4 years studying the cellular and molecular pathophysiological mechanisms driving development of a pediatric brain tumor subtype known as Supratentorial Ependymoma (ST-EPN). She then began her M.D.-Ph.D. training at Vanderbilt in 2021, and is pursuing her Ph.D. in Neuroscience in the Broadie Lab. Her research focus is on deciphering the defects in neurotransmission in a Drosophila model of a type of muscular dystrophy known as Dysferlinopathy. She specializes in electrophysiology, where she uses voltage-clamp techniques to study neurotransmission at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction. Her laboratory specializes in the study of synaptic function in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Since her junior year in high school, Ericka has been involved in tutoring numerous students in biology, chemistry, math, biochemistry, MCAT prep, and medical school. She loves being a mentor and has a passion for teaching others. She is very enthusiastic about teaching and seeks to help students become independent learners by helping them understand the learning modalities that work best for them. When she isn’t doing research or tutoring, she can be found running, working out, spending time in nature, cooking, or walking her cat, Ozzie.

From 1 to 80 Billion: The Development of the Human Brain
Instructor: Andrew Kjar
Biomedical Engineering

The human brain is a marvel of biological complexity, composed of an estimated 80 billion cells that all originate from a single fertilized cell. But how does this extraordinary diversity of brain cells come to be? In this course, you will investigate the cellular and molecular foundations of brain development and then employ that theoretical framework to trace the earliest stages of embryonic development through to adolescence. By examining the intricate processes at both the cellular and tissue levels, we will explore how the human brain takes shape, focusing on the development of major anatomical structures and the distinct cell types that populate the brain. Throughout the course, you will delve into key developmental processes such as neurogenesis, cell differentiation, migration, and synaptogenesis in order to understand how genetic and environmental factors finely tune these processes. By the end of the course, you will be able to (1) identify and describe the major anatomical structures and cell types of the mature human brain, (2) explain the developmental processes that give rise to these cell types, and (3) critically analyze how various environmental factors can affect brain development from the prenatal stage through adolescence.

Andrew Kjar is a fourth-year biomedical engineering PhD student, working under the direction of Dr. Ethan Lippmann. His dissertation focuses on engineering new methods to study the human brain using cultured human stem cells, with applications to both development and disease. Before coming to Vanderbilt, Andrew graduated salutatorian from Utah State University, where his research was recognized with a national Goldwater Scholarship. He is currently supported by a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship.

How to Change the World: Social Movements through the Lens of Political Anthropology
Instructor: Kathryn Peters
Anthropology, Political Theory

How can individuals make a difference in addressing the problems that they view society as facing? This course delves into the intricate dynamics of social movements and collective action by employing the lens of political anthropology. It aims to unravel the mechanisms through which individuals affect change in addressing societal challenges. By drawing upon the rich toolkit of cultural anthropology, you will explore the contextual elements that either nurture or impede collective political action. Through an analysis of various forms of organization, tactics, and barriers encountered by social movements in recent history, and their resultant impacts on societal transformation, you will gain comprehensive insights into the mechanics of effecting change.

Kathryn E Peters is a Ph.D. candidate in cultural anthropology at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. Her research focuses on how small-scale farmers in rural communities in the eastern region of Paraguay defend and adapt their way of life in response to economic and political systems which often privilege the interests of transnational agribusiness corporations and narcotraffickers. She is a returned Peace Corps Volunteer and holds a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from Oklahoma State University and a dual master’s degree in Latin American Studies and Community and Regional Planning from the University of New Mexico.

Introduction to Legal Studies: A Crash Course in Law
Instructor: Kaleigh Ruiz, J.D.
Legal Studies, Political Science

While the law impacts every citizen on a day-to-day basis and shapes the governing rhythm of American life, few truly understand what “the law” is and how it is actually practiced. In this course, you will embark on an intensive overview of legal studies through engaging foundational topics that are often at the core of the 1L (first year) law school experience. These critical topics include criminal law, torts, contracts, property, and constitutional law. By the end of the course, you will develop an emerging understanding of the major areas of law, learn how to read a legal case, and begin to think like a lawyer. If you are considering a career in law, politics, government, or want to get a sense of a law school approach to education, this is the course for you!

Kaleigh Ruiz is a Ph.D. student studying how judges make decisions in Vanderbilt’s Political Science department. She graduated from law school at the University of Chicago, where she held leadership positions on the Law Women’s Caucus, Latinx Law Student Association, and International Law Society. When not busy researching or teaching, Kaleigh enjoys performing with local theatre groups.

Nature of Time: How Do We Interpret the Most Misunderstood Component of Reality?
Instructor: Lucas Spears
Physics, Mathematics | Prerequisites listed on current transcript: Precalculus

Time has long been one of the most perplexing aspects of reality. In this course, we will unravel its complexities by examining the evolution of how we understand time, from early experimental measurements to modern physics. You will begin by exploring the nature of light, delving into its wave-particle duality through the double slit experiment and the photoelectric effect. Next, you will investigate the “speed of light” and the concept of “space-time,” setting the stage for an introduction to special relativity, with its mind-bending paradoxes and implications for time’s nature. Finally, you will explore Einstein’s theory of general relativity, which reveals how gravity distorts space-time itself. Through these lenses, we will gain a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between time, light, and gravity in shaping our universe.

Lucas Spears is a first-year PhD student in the Physics program at Vanderbilt University. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science degree in Physics and Chemistry from the University of Huntsville, which is his hometown. His research focuses on Condensed Matter, which involves the study of large collections of atoms often using quantum mechanics and optics to study their behavior. Academically, he has a broad set of interests ranging from the natural sciences to philosophy. Besides science, he enjoys reading, loves watching movies, plays some video games, and keeps up with his favorite sports teams.

Pharmacology Unveiled: How Medications Work & Why They Matter
Instructor: Montana Young
Pharmacology

Everyone knows you take medication to treat diseases, but do you wonder why they work? In this course we will cover the basics of pharmacology investigating pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and the way drug discovery scientists identify and target the underlying causes of disease. You will gain insight into why medications have side effects, the deadly outcomes of co-dosing pharmaceuticals, and why you can’t eat grapefruit with so many medications. We will also discuss career paths associated with drug discovery and development as this is a large quickly growing industry. By the end of this course, you will be able to apply your new understanding of pharmacology to identify a drug based on a given disease and therapeutic outcome.

Montana Young grew up in central Florida and frequently found himself exploring nature and looking for the various reptiles native (and invasive) to the state throughout his childhood. After graduation, he moved to Tampa and attended the University of South Florida where he received a B.S. in Biomedical Sciences and B.A. in History. Afterwards, he conducted research studying the role of antioxidants in UV induced melanoma at Moffitt Cancer Center. He is now pursuing a multi-faceted project in Heidi Hamm’s laboratory focusing on the exocytotic machinery found in neuronal terminals, specifically within the innervation of adipose tissue. He aspires to contribute to the ever-growing body of research surrounding type II diabetes during his time here at Vanderbilt – and of course enjoy exploring the vast natural preserves of Tennessee.

Young Composers Institute
Instructor: Stan Link, Michael Slayton
Music Theory, Music Performance | Prerequisites: Completion of at least one year in a music ensemble, e.g. concert band, wind ensemble, orchestra, or choir; Ability to read and notate music in treble and bass clef in uncomplicated meters

Are you ready to take the next step in your musical creativity? The one from performer to composer? You have heard and played dozens of exciting, emotional, and impactful pieces for your instrument, or in your choir, band, or orchestra. Now it’s time to start thinking about how it’s done, and how you can get started! The Young Composers Institute at the Blair School of Music will help you unleash your own ideas about how else music might go. We understand that your interest in composing may have only presented itself recently—and we want you to know that that’s okay! What is far more important is your strong sense of curiosity and exploratory mindset. Each day you’ll learn new approaches and then put them to work in your own music. Fresh scales, spicy harmonies, and irresistible rhythms are all just waiting for you to meet them! There will also be opportunities to use your performing skills in bringing to life the creations of your friends and peers. Everyone will get to hear and interact with their music in a real time, supportive environment. Your mentors will be experienced composers who can help guide your creative explorations and growth toward a music of your own. Join us for a week of meeting yourself–the composer!

A composer of orchestral, chamber, and computer generated electro-acoustic music ranging from a ballet for African drums and orchestra to sonic landscapes and ghost stories, STAN LINK has had works performed on stages, in halls and headphones across the U.S., in Europe, and Australia. His most recent large-scale work was Event Horizon, an acousmatic ballet choreographed by Thaddeus Davis for the Nashville ballet. His solo compact disk of electro-acoustic meditations on time, In Amber Shadows, appears on Albany Records. Stan Link is currently the Associate Professor of the Composition, Philosophy and Analysis at Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music in Nashville, Tennessee. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Composition and Music History from the Oberlin Conservatory, where he studied with Richard Hoffmann, Schoenberg’s last student and amanuensis. He received his M.F.A. and Ph.D. in Composition from Princeton University where he studied computer music with Paul Lansky and acoustic composition with Steve Mackey and Claudio Spies. His teachers also included Roman Haubenstock-Ramati at the Institute for Experimental and Electro-Acoustic Music at the Vienna Hochschule fuer Musik, Mario Davidovsky at the Wellesley Composers Conference, and Louis Andriessen at the Atlantic Center for the Arts. Prior to Vanderbilt, he taught at La Trobe University in Melbourne, Australia, and at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Also an active scholar, he has presented research papers at national and international conferences on computer music, popular music, film soundtracks, and noise. His written publications include articles in Perspectives of New Music, Mikropolyphonie, Screen, American Music, the Computer Music Journal, and Music Theory Spectrum. Most recently he was a contributing author to the book, Music in the Horror Film: Listening to Fear. As a teacher, Stan Link has been nominated for numerous awards, and honored as one of Vanderbilt University’s top five professors by its Student Government Association Arts and Science Council.

American composer MICHAEL SLAYTON has written works in a cross-section of musical genres, with specific emphasis on chamber music. His continuing dedication to the value of artistic exchange has afforded him opportunity to partner with distinguished performers all over the world. His music, published by American Composers Edition (BMI), is regularly programmed in the U.S. and abroad, including Chemnitz, Seitz, Leipzig, Droyssig, and Weimar, Germany; Graz, Austria; Paris, Tours, and Marquette-lez-Lille, France; Kristiansund, Norway; Aviero, Portugal; Brussles, Belgium; Johannesburg and Potchefstroom, South Africa; London, UK; and New York, NY. 2016 saw the PARMA Recordings release of his first portrait CD, entitled Sursum. His second CD, Sage Brushes, in currently in release, offering musical representations of visual art works. Slayton is also author/editor-in-chief of Women of Influence in Contemporary Music (Rowman and Littlefield), a book detailing the lives and music of several of America’s notable women in composition, including Elizabeth R. Austin, Susan Botti, Gabriela Lena Frank, Jennifer Higdon, Libby Larsen, Tania León, Cindy McTee, Marga Richter, and Judith Shatin. A member of the American Composer’s Alliance, Society of Composers, Inc., the College Music Society, Connecticut Composers, Inc., and Broadcast Music, Inc., Slayton continues to be an active participant in the national and international music community. He currently serves as Professor and Chair of Composition & Theory at Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music, where he specializes in the teaching of compositional craft and the design and structure of both tonal and non-tonal music.

Anthropology in Action: How Ethnographic Research Is Applied to Advocacy
Instructor: Mandy Muise
Anthropology

Do places shape people, or do people reshape places? This course, led by a cultural anthropologist, delves into the dynamic relationship between individuals, communities, and their environments. Through a hands-on exploration of ethnographic research methods—including participant observation, interviews, and community engagement—you will uncover how people navigate and redefine urban spaces in the face of challenges like systemic disinvestment, linguistic barriers, and shifting cultural narratives. Using the evolving city of Nashville as a living case study, you will analyze the forces that have shaped “Music City, USA.” From its booming entertainment and biomedical industries to its growing tourism sector and changing demographics, Nashville provides a rich backdrop for examining how cities are constantly reshaped by economic trends, cultural shifts, and collective imagination. In this course, you will develop skills to gather, organize, and analyze data in ethnographic research and explore how cultural anthropologists craft compelling narratives that inspire awareness and advocacy. Through a culminating project, you will use your new skills to create an ethnographic representation—through writing, graphics, and/or video—proposing solutions to urban challenges and fostering community engagement. You’ll gain not only practical research tools but also a deeper understanding of how anthropological insights can address real-world problems and contribute to meaningful change.

Mandy Muise is a current 2nd year PhD student in anthropology at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. Their research interrogates the intersection of Latinx education and food apartheid in the American Southeast, drawing upon critical ethnography and Black feminist thought to articulate community resistances to and refusals of disinvestment and food insecurity. By engaging with the transformative work already occurring within communities and schools, Mandy collaborates with community and youth leaders and activists to explore the futurities housed within shared knowledges of cultivation that transcend ethnoracial and spatiotemporal boundaries of possibility.

Astrophysics: Exploration of Dark Matter
Instructor: KeShawn Ivory
Astrophysics, Astronomy

Perhaps you’ve heard the term “dark matter” but aren’t entirely sure to what it refers. Maybe you’ve even investigated it, and yet, it remains unclear to you why astrophysicists seem to believe so strongly in a form of matter we can’t see. In this week-long deep dive, you’ll examine the history and physics of dark matter, along with discussions of current searches and astrophysical simulations. Using an interdisciplinary approach, you’ll investigate parallels with forms of “dark matter” beyond the realm of astrophysics, from biology to social science. By the end of this course, you will gain a better understanding of dark matter, its scientific foundations, ongoing research endeavors, and its intriguing parallels in other domains, developing a profound appreciation for the mysteries that continue to shape our understanding of the universe.

KeShawn Ivory began studying astrophysics as an undergraduate at Rice University where he also majored in French Studies. During his time at Rice, he pursued summer research projects at Texas Christian University and Harvard University. After graduating in Fall 2018, he was accepted to the Fisk-Vanderbilt Master’s-to-Ph.D. program and moved to Nashville in 2019. Over the next two years, he took classes at Fisk and Vanderbilt, wrote a master’s thesis on dark matter structure, and finished in 2021 with a master’s degree in physics from Fisk University. Staying on at Vanderbilt, he joined the astrophysics Ph.D. program and is currently a Ph.D. candidate in his third year. His research now explores the relationship between galactic orbits and black hole merger timescales. Beyond academics, KeShawn enjoys singing, cooking, writing, and helping create comfortable spaces for fellow Black astronomers.

Clinical Psychology: Cognitive-Behavioral Theory in Research and Application
Instructor: Allie Adamis
Clinical Psychology

Have you ever wondered what cognitive and behavioral factors underlie mental health challenges – like why it is sometimes difficult to control your worries, or why avoiding something scary can often make things worse? Are you curious about how researchers investigate the processes driving our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, or how these insights shape the treatments we use to help people? If so, this course is for you! Together, we’ll dive into the fascinating world of clinical psychology, with an emphasis on the cognitive-behavioral theory for specific anxiety disorders and application of theory to practice in clinical settings. We will explore research that helps us understand what underlies the development and maintenance of anxiety symptoms, and critically evaluate the core research methods used by clinical psychologists. Then, we’ll connect these foundational ideas to real-world clinical practice by studying cognitive-behavioral therapy—the gold standard treatment for psychological disorders. Beyond the science, this course will also give you a glimpse into career paths in clinical psychology, from teaching and research to assessment and therapy. As a final project, you’ll design and present your own research proposal to investigate an unanswered question about the causes or optimal treatment of a psychological disorder, putting everything you’ve learned into practice.

Allie Adamis is a third-year Ph.D. candidate in the Clinical Psychology Graduate Program at Vanderbilt University. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Psychological Services from Northwestern University, where her passion for clinical psychology began. After graduation, Allie joined Dr. Katherine Burdick’s Mood Disorders Research Program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School to contribute to research on the neurocognitive underpinnings of mood disorders. She became fascinated by cognitive mechanisms underlying psychopathology, particularly those involved in anxiety disorders. She began her graduate studies at Vanderbilt to train in the cognitive-behavioral theory and treatment of anxiety under the mentorship of Dr. Bunmi Olatunji. In her free time, Allie enjoys hiking, doing yoga, and trying out new restaurants and coffee shops. She is excited to share her knowledge of clinical psychology with aspiring psychologists.

Computational Sociolinguistics: The Science of Speech and Society
Instructor: Delin Deng, PhD
Sociolinguistics

Speech is more than just communication—it reflects who we are, where we come from, and how we navigate our social world. In this week-long course, you’ll delve into the fascinating field of sociophonetics, the study of how speech sounds vary across social groups, regions, and contexts. We will explore topics such as the pronunciation of vowels and consonants, voice quality, and how factors such as identity, gender, region, and social context shape our speech. Using Praat, a state-of-the-art software for speech analysis, you’ll learn to measure and visualize speech sounds, uncovering patterns that reveal social meaning. The course combines interactive lectures with hands-on activities, including analyzing real-world speech data and conducting mini experiments to see how people modify their speech in different settings. By the end of the course, you will better understand how linguists study speech and its social dimensions, gain practical skills in using Praat for speech analysis, explore how the way we speak impacts our social interactions and perceptions of identity, and discover how computational tools are revolutionizing the study of speech and society. Whether you are interested in linguistics, communication, or understanding how language shapes identity and social dynamics, this course offers a unique opportunity to learn from a dynamic intersection of science and society.

Dr. Delin Deng is a linguist specializing in computational sociolinguistics, the study of how speech varies across social groups and contexts. With a PhD in Linguistics and extensive experience in computational methods for analyzing speech, Dr. Deng’s research explores the intersection of language, identity, and social dynamics. Her work includes examining how pitch, loudness, and other features of speech convey meaning and identity in various languages. In addition to her research, Dr. Deng is a passionate educator with years of experience teaching students about the science of speech and language. She brings a hands-on, engaging approach to her teaching, combining clear explanations of complex concepts with practical activities that encourage exploration and discovery. When she’s not teaching or researching, Dr. Deng enjoys mentoring students and inspiring the next generation of linguists to uncover the hidden stories in everyday speech.

Doctor To Be: From Structure to Function, Dysfunction, Disease, and Treatment
Instructor: Ericka Randazzo
Medicine

Have you ever thought about going to medical school or considered a career in healthcare? Do you want to learn how the body works, how disease develops when function goes awry, and how doctors go about fixing such diseases? In this course taught by a Vanderbilt M.D./Ph.D. student, you will learn about the structure and function of the human body, from a cellular to systems level. After developing that foundation, you will, utilizing human anatomy and physiology, begin to investigate how and why different diseases develop when dysfunction occurs. Using knowledge of “normal” physiology, you will also learn the mechanisms by which different treatment modalities work to target disease. Through a survey of foundational topics such as cardiology, hematology, pulmonology, nephrology, oncology, endocrinology, and neurology, you will gain a deeper understanding of the “how” and “why” behind human physiology, disease, and medicine.

Ericka Randazzo is a 2nd year Ph.D. candidate in the M.D.-Ph.D. (Medical Scientist Training Program, MSTP) at Vanderbilt. She earned two B.S. degrees from the University of Connecticut in 2019 where she completed a dual degree in Physiology and Neurobiology and Pathobiology. She stayed an additional year to complete a research M.S. in Physiology and Neurobiology. During her time at UConn, she performed independent research in the lab or Dr. Joseph LoTurco, where she spent 4 years studying the cellular and molecular pathophysiological mechanisms driving development of a pediatric brain tumor subtype known as Supratentorial Ependymoma (ST-EPN). She then began her M.D.-Ph.D. training at Vanderbilt in 2021, and is pursuing her Ph.D. in Neuroscience in the Broadie Lab. Her research focus is on deciphering the defects in neurotransmission in a Drosophila model of a type of muscular dystrophy known as Dysferlinopathy. She specializes in electrophysiology, where she uses voltage-clamp techniques to study neurotransmission at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction. Her laboratory specializes in the study of synaptic function in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Since her junior year in high school, Ericka has been involved in tutoring numerous students in biology, chemistry, math, biochemistry, MCAT prep, and medical school. She loves being a mentor and has a passion for teaching others. She is very enthusiastic about teaching and seeks to help students become independent learners by helping them understand the learning modalities that work best for them. When she isn’t doing research or tutoring, she can be found running, working out, spending time in nature, cooking, or walking her cat, Ozzie.

Exploratory and Graphical Data Analysis
Instructor: Gabriella Noreen
Statistics, Quantitative Methods

What factors contribute to academic or athletic success? How can we understand health outcomes or voting patterns in the U.S.? In our data-driven culture, exploratory and graphical data analysis can help us understand patterns and ask fruitful questions to generate hypotheses and theories. These analytical skills also enable us to be thoughtful consumers of the data we encounter in everyday life through social media, news outlets, sports reports, and more. If you are interested in future studies in statistics and data analytics, this is the course for you! In this course, you will be introduced to a sub-field of Statistics known as Exploratory Data Analysis (EDA) and accompanying Graphical Data Analysis. You will learn how to utilize these robust tools to answer questions such as those listed above and more. To facilitate this exploration, you will have the opportunity to work on your own data analysis projects via provided datasets and instructions on analysis and graph-making in Excel and RStudio.

Gabriella Noreen is a third-year doctoral student in the Quantitative Methods Program at Peabody College of Vanderbilt University. She holds an M.S. in Quantitative Methods and a B.S. in Child Development (minor: Quantitative Methods) from Vanderbilt University. She has TA’d for numerous courses in the Quantitative Methods department including Statistical Analysis, Multilevel Modeling, and Psychological Measurement. Gabriella’s research interests focus on best practices in education, supporting underserved populations, and ensuring access to developmentally appropriate educational opportunities based on empirically documented practices for meeting the learning needs of all students. Gabriella is a Research Assistant at the Study of Mathematically Precocious Youth (SMPY), where she enjoys developing longitudinal studies focused on facilitating positive development within education and beyond. Her work often takes an exploratory approach and blends both quantitative and qualitative analysis. Outside of her coursework and research, Gabriella enjoys baking, taking walks, and visiting local coffee shops.

Exploring Biomedical Research Techniques: A Guide for Future Scientists
Instructor: Jacquelyn Spathies
Biology, Chemistry, Medicine, Biomedical Research

Are you considering a future in biomedical research? Are you interested in learning more about what biomedical researchers do and the techniques used to answer their research questions? In this course, you’ll embark on a journey into the realm of biomedical research techniques through exploring commonly used wet lab techniques in cellular/molecular biology and biochemistry. You will gain insight into fundamental techniques, such as western blotting, immunohistochemistry (IHC), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), microscopy, CRISPR, and more, learning how these techniques function, as well as when to apply them based on specific research questions. By the end of the course, you’ll cultivate a scientific mindset with practical skills and knowledge, along with key insights into the life of a biomedical researcher.

Jacquelyn Spathies is a 3rd year Ph.D. student in the laboratories of Jeffery Spraggins and Eric Skaar, studying how nutrients such as zinc are regulated within the intestine. Zinc is required for proper protein folding and enzyme function and is acquired through diet and absorbed in the small intestine. Though zinc is an essential nutrient needed for proper cellular function, zinc at high concentrations can be extremely toxic and requires strict regulation throughout the body to prevent cellular damage. Her research is focused on trying to understand how dietary zinc is solubilized within the intestine and regulated prior to cellular absorption. To do this, she develops analytical tools to survey, isolate, and characterize molecules present in the intestine and their effect on zinc absorption. Prior to starting graduate school at Vanderbilt, Jacquelyn graduated from Eastern Illinois University with her bachelor’s in biology. She then worked for the federal government at the NIH for two years doing research related to the COVID-19 pandemic, where she worked to characterize the rate of undiagnosed or asymptomatic cases of COVID-19 throughout the United States. The results from this project indicated that there were an estimated 17 million undiagnosed SARS-CoV-2 infections as of summer 2020 in the United States. This work was recognized by the NIH when she and others on this project were awarded the NIH Directors Award for establishing one of the first serological assays of SARS-CoV-2. Outside of the lab, Jacquelyn is a huge fan of outdoor rock climbing and dance, specifically acrobatic arts. She has worked with children of all ages as a coach, nanny, and teacher throughout the past ten years.

Nature of Time: How Do We Interpret the Most Misunderstood Component of Reality?
Instructor: Lucas Spears
Physics, Mathematics | Prerequisites listed on current transcript: Precalculus

Time has long been one of the most perplexing aspects of reality. In this course, we will unravel its complexities by examining the evolution of how we understand time, from early experimental measurements to modern physics. You will begin by exploring the nature of light, delving into its wave-particle duality through the double slit experiment and the photoelectric effect. Next, you will investigate the “speed of light” and the concept of “space-time,” setting the stage for an introduction to special relativity, with its mind-bending paradoxes and implications for time’s nature. Finally, you will explore Einstein’s theory of general relativity, which reveals how gravity distorts space-time itself. Through these lenses, we will gain a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between time, light, and gravity in shaping our universe.

Lucas Spears is a first-year PhD student in the Physics program at Vanderbilt University. He graduated with his Bachelor of Science degree in Physics and Chemistry from the University of Huntsville, which is his hometown. His research focuses on Condensed Matter, which involves the study of large collections of atoms often using quantum mechanics and optics to study their behavior. Academically, he has a broad set of interests ranging from the natural sciences to philosophy. Besides science, he enjoys reading, loves watching movies, plays some video games, and keeps up with his favorite sports teams.

Witchcraft and the Supernatural
Instructor: Jesse McCarthy, Ph.D.
History

What do witches, werewolves, vampires, and the 1980s “Satanic Panic” have in common? They all embody societal fears of “the Other” – the ultimate threatening, devilish outsiders. In this interdisciplinary course (offered to Vanderbilt sophomores as part of the Exploratory Core curriculum), you will investigate how different eras and cultures have defined and reacted to supernatural “Others.” You will hone research skills, engage with primary sources, and analyze pop culture through a critical lens. Our wide-ranging exploration will take us from early modern European witchcraft and werewolf prosecutions to the realm of the undead, including draugr and vampires. We will examine elite magic like necromancy and the sometimes-blurry line between magic and religion through practices such as exorcism. We will also tackle modern day manifestations of the supernatural through the more recent “Satanic Panic” of the 1980s (when fear of occult forces infiltrating music, games, and daycare centers gripped the nation) and how pop culture representations of the supernatural reveal perennial cultural anxieties.

Dr. Jesse McCarthy is an enthusiastic historian and educator who earned his PhD in History from Vanderbilt University in 2023. His tenure as a Lecturer in the Vanderbilt History department was marked by a passion for innovative pedagogy and interdisciplinary teaching. Currently, Dr. McCarthy is channeling his pedagogical expertise as a Postdoctoral Researcher role at the Aarts & Science College Core Curriculum, where he plays a pivotal part in designing and teaching Vanderbilt’s general education courses – including the new freshmen seminar sequence. His innovative approach to teaching is showcased in his new Exploratory Core course on Witchcraft, Magic, and the Supernatural, a popular class that delves into the mysterious and often misunderstood aspects of human culture across disciplinary lines.

Young Composers Institute
Instructor: Stan Link, Michael Slayton
Music Theory, Music Performance | Prerequisites: Completion of at least one year in a music ensemble, e.g. concert band, wind ensemble, orchestra, or choir; Ability to read and notate music in treble and bass clef in uncomplicated meters

Are you ready to take the next step in your musical creativity? The one from performer to composer? You have heard and played dozens of exciting, emotional, and impactful pieces for your instrument, or in your choir, band, or orchestra. Now it’s time to start thinking about how it’s done, and how you can get started! The Young Composers Institute at the Blair School of Music will help you unleash your own ideas about how else music might go. We understand that your interest in composing may have only presented itself recently—and we want you to know that that’s okay! What is far more important is your strong sense of curiosity and exploratory mindset. Each day you’ll learn new approaches and then put them to work in your own music. Fresh scales, spicy harmonies, and irresistible rhythms are all just waiting for you to meet them! There will also be opportunities to use your performing skills in bringing to life the creations of your friends and peers. Everyone will get to hear and interact with their music in a real time, supportive environment. Your mentors will be experienced composers who can help guide your creative explorations and growth toward a music of your own. Join us for a week of meeting yourself–the composer!

A composer of orchestral, chamber, and computer generated electro-acoustic music ranging from a ballet for African drums and orchestra to sonic landscapes and ghost stories, STAN LINK has had works performed on stages, in halls and headphones across the U.S., in Europe, and Australia. His most recent large-scale work was Event Horizon, an acousmatic ballet choreographed by Thaddeus Davis for the Nashville ballet. His solo compact disk of electro-acoustic meditations on time, In Amber Shadows, appears on Albany Records. Stan Link is currently the Associate Professor of the Composition, Philosophy and Analysis at Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music in Nashville, Tennessee. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Composition and Music History from the Oberlin Conservatory, where he studied with Richard Hoffmann, Schoenberg’s last student and amanuensis. He received his M.F.A. and Ph.D. in Composition from Princeton University where he studied computer music with Paul Lansky and acoustic composition with Steve Mackey and Claudio Spies. His teachers also included Roman Haubenstock-Ramati at the Institute for Experimental and Electro-Acoustic Music at the Vienna Hochschule fuer Musik, Mario Davidovsky at the Wellesley Composers Conference, and Louis Andriessen at the Atlantic Center for the Arts. Prior to Vanderbilt, he taught at La Trobe University in Melbourne, Australia, and at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. Also an active scholar, he has presented research papers at national and international conferences on computer music, popular music, film soundtracks, and noise. His written publications include articles in Perspectives of New Music, Mikropolyphonie, Screen, American Music, the Computer Music Journal, and Music Theory Spectrum. Most recently he was a contributing author to the book, Music in the Horror Film: Listening to Fear. As a teacher, Stan Link has been nominated for numerous awards, and honored as one of Vanderbilt University’s top five professors by its Student Government Association Arts and Science Council.

American composer MICHAEL SLAYTON has written works in a cross-section of musical genres, with specific emphasis on chamber music. His continuing dedication to the value of artistic exchange has afforded him opportunity to partner with distinguished performers all over the world. His music, published by American Composers Edition (BMI), is regularly programmed in the U.S. and abroad, including Chemnitz, Seitz, Leipzig, Droyssig, and Weimar, Germany; Graz, Austria; Paris, Tours, and Marquette-lez-Lille, France; Kristiansund, Norway; Aviero, Portugal; Brussles, Belgium; Johannesburg and Potchefstroom, South Africa; London, UK; and New York, NY. 2016 saw the PARMA Recordings release of his first portrait CD, entitled Sursum. His second CD, Sage Brushes, in currently in release, offering musical representations of visual art works. Slayton is also author/editor-in-chief of Women of Influence in Contemporary Music (Rowman and Littlefield), a book detailing the lives and music of several of America’s notable women in composition, including Elizabeth R. Austin, Susan Botti, Gabriela Lena Frank, Jennifer Higdon, Libby Larsen, Tania León, Cindy McTee, Marga Richter, and Judith Shatin. A member of the American Composer’s Alliance, Society of Composers, Inc., the College Music Society, Connecticut Composers, Inc., and Broadcast Music, Inc., Slayton continues to be an active participant in the national and international music community. He currently serves as Professor and Chair of Composition & Theory at Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music, where he specializes in the teaching of compositional craft and the design and structure of both tonal and non-tonal music.

Electrical Engineering, Sensors, and Control
Instructor: Will Barbour, Ph.D.
Engineering, Data Science | Prerequisites listed on current transcript: Previous Coding Experience (see below)

Sensors are embedded in so many systems that we interact with that we can take for granted how much we rely on them. A normal garage door system can have up to 10 different sensors, and a car can have nearly 100! Sensors are also used to collect large amounts of data about the world for research purposes, as well as performing complex control over many systems that we rely on. Analyzing this sensor data can help us make important decisions about our lives, cities, and environment. In this class led by a Vanderbilt Research Scientist, you will 1) learn about sensor and data technology, 2) learn and practice electrical engineering through circuits labs, 3) assemble real sensor prototypes, and 4) program microcontrollers to control physical systems. You will get hands-on experience with electrical engineering, programming, and controlling physical systems with your own software.

Prerequisite: Previous coding experience in any language through a formal or informal course. If you have completed a formal course at your school, a transcript is required. If you have completed an informal course (such as an online bootcamp), a certificate of completion is required.

Will Barbour is a research scientist at the Institute for Software Integrated Systems at Vanderbilt University. His teaching and research interests focus on advanced computing techniques applied to transportation systems; examples include big data analytics, machine learning, optimization, and artificial intelligence. He currently works on the I-24 MOTION testbed, seeking to establish a nationally recognized study area for automated vehicle technologies on an open roadway in Tennessee. Will’s other domain interests include pedestrian and cyclist accessibility, public transit planning, and transportation policy and equity. Barbour received his Ph.D. in civil engineering from Vanderbilt University, an M.S. degree in sustainable and resilient infrastructure systems from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and a B.S. in Biosystems Engineering from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He has previously worked at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and CSX Transportation.

Exploring Music City: Fandom and the Making of Nashville
Instructor: Robert Fry, Ph.D.
Music History, Ethnography

Nashville is identified worldwide with musical sound. Considering this association, locations of creativity, performance, preservation, and production have become sites of interest for a growing number of fans interested in both the history and the performativity of Nashville’s music scene. In this course led by a Vanderbilt Professor, you will have a unique opportunity to explore the history of Nashville’s music and the importance of music fandom. You will learn the basics of ethnographic research methodology through an immersive educational experience within the Vanderbilt and Nashville music communities. In addition to classroom discussions, the class will include guest lectures and class trips to music landmarks and sites throughout the city. Through this immersive experience, students will gain a deeper understanding of Nashville as a musical place and the role we, as music fans, tourists, and listeners, play in the production and presentation of Music City. In a culminating project, you will use your newfound knowledge based on class instruction and observation at local music sites to design and create your own virtual music museums, exhibiting the music of your generation.

This class is in partnership with the Blair School of Music.

Robert W. Fry is senior lecturer in music history and literature at Vanderbilt University’s Blair School of Music in Nashville, Tennessee, where he teaches courses in global music, jazz, blues, music in the American South, and music tourism. His research focuses on music tourism and the role of fan culture in the production of a musical place, which he writes about in his book, Performing Nashville: Music Tourism and Country Music’s Main Street, part of Palgrave Macmillan’s Leisure Studies in a Global Era series.

Exploring the Neural, Biological, and Experiential Bases of Selfhood
Instructor: Tatiana Baxter
Clinical Psychology, Neuroscience

Are you interested in the intersection between neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, and biology? Have you ever wondered how our brains and minds construct selfhood? What components make up the ‘self’? What happens if our sense of self becomes disrupted? How and why might a disruption in sense of self occur? If so, this course taught by a Vanderbilt Ph.D. candidate is for you! From considering self-expression in art and literature, to reading scientific papers, to participating in discussions about the hows and whys of selfhood, you will explore complex and exciting multidisciplinary research about what makes us human. With this foundation, you will investigate the neural biology and functionality of selfhood and what this means for experience of the self, including what happens when sense of self becomes disrupted, as in various psychiatric and neurological disorders. Your exploration will also include compelling talks from expert guest speakers, firsthand accounts from individuals with lived experience of self-disturbance, and culminate in a final ‘exploration of the self’ project to be presented in class.

Tatiana Baxter (she/her) is a rising fifth-year Ph.D. candidate in the Clinical Psychology Program at Vanderbilt University. She is a lifelong Dore, having completed her undergraduate degree at Vanderbilt in 2018 with majors in Psychology, Spanish, and European History. Tatiana’s research primarily focuses on bodily self-disturbance across the schizophrenia spectrum with the goal of better understanding experience of the bodily self and anomalous self-experiences in psychosis via application of quantifiable, qualitative methods. Since beginning graduate school, she has given guest lectures to, served as a teaching assistant for, and mentored many post-bac, undergraduate, and high school students. In addition to her research, Tatiana works as a trainee therapist, serving clients with self-disturbance in a variety of settings. Outside of school, Tatiana enjoys cooking, hiking, and spending time with her three rescue dogs.

Immunology: From Microbes to Cancer
Instructor: Elizabeth Wescott, Ph.D.
Immunology, Biology | Prerequisites listed on current transcript: Biology

The immune system is the most complex and intricate system we have in our bodies, involving many different players for proper function, including organs, tissues, cells, vessels, proteins, and other signaling chemicals. While most people may not often think about the immune system, it protects us from the world of microbes we interact with every day. Beyond our external environment, however, the immune system also plays key roles in preventing cancers and other chronic diseases. In this course, you will critically explore the multitude of roles of the human immune system and various microbes and pathogens. You will also engage primary scientific research and the latest academic trends in the fields of microbiology and immunology. Through participation in lab activities that involve surveying microbes in the environment, you will also learn how science research is done from the ground up: writing a hypothesis, designing an experiment, measuring results, and writing and communicating data. By the end of this course, you will walk away as immunology and public health advocates and change agents for your families and communities.

Elizabeth Wescott, Ph.D. is a scientist and educator with interests in immunology and science communication. During her Ph.D. training at Vanderbilt University, she studied how to improve immune-based treatments for breast cancer patients in the lab of Justin Balko. Her lab is focused on the intersection of immunology and cancer biology and how to best identify the right patients for the right treatments. Now she is an adjunct professor for Lipscomb University and a freelance science writer. She is particularly passionate about empowering her students, family, and community to ask questions and help them break down complex science topics.

Law School 101
Instructor: Thomas Kyle Turner, J.D.
Legal Studies

Have you wondered what it’s like to attend law school and pursue a career in the legal profession? Through engaging lectures, interactive workshops, and practical activities, you will, in this course led by a Vanderbilt Lecturer & Emerging Technology and Digital Initiatives Librarian, gain a foundational understanding of the legal field while exploring the diverse opportunities available to those with a law degree. After learning about the structure and expectations of law school, we will explore different areas of law—such as criminal law, corporate law, intellectual property, family law, and public interest law. While building this foundational knowledge, you will also learn about a variety of career paths that extend beyond traditional legal practice, such as roles in government, academia, and legal technology. With rapid advances in technology, these career paths are quickly evolving and expanding. In order to understand these rapid changes, we will also examine how legal professionals use technology tools, including artificial intelligence, to enhance efficiency, research, and client service. Through hands-on demonstrations and discussions, you will critically assess the ways technology is reshaping the legal landscape and the ethical considerations that come with these advancements.

Kyle Turner is an attorney and the Emerging Technology and Digital Initiatives Law Librarian at Vanderbilt. He graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a B.A. in Political Science and a Masters in Information Sciences. Kyle also obtained his law degree from the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphrys School of Law. In his current role with Vanderbilt, Kyle lectures and works with the law school community on technological advancements and usage of technology in the practice of law. Prior to joining Vanderbilt, Kyle spent time as a government attorney as well as a legal consultant with technology companies. When not working, Kyle enjoys spending time with his two beagles and mini pig.

Med School 101
Instructor: Vanderbilt School of Medicine Medical Students
Medicine, Biology, Chemistry | Prerequisites listed on current transcript: Biology, Chemistry

Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) is one of the top hospitals in the country, so it is no surprise that the medical school is at the forefront when it comes to technology and teaching. In this course, you will work with many of the same computer and virtual medical simulations as Vanderbilt medical students and use problem-based learning to analyze and diagnose real medical case studies. Taught by a team of medical students overseen by Vanderbilt School of Medicine Faculty, this course will utilize small group discussions, faculty lectures, lab exercises, and the latest resources and technologies from the Vanderbilt School of Medicine to learn about the practice, ethics, and social impact of modern medicine.

*NOTE: VUMC insurance and safety regulations state that students must be 16 years old by July 6, 2025 to participate. This policy is non-negotiable.

Additional Requirements: Enrolled students may have select observational experiences in a hospital setting through the Vanderbilt Observational Services program. As Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) is a distinct organization that is separate from Vanderbilt University, VUMC develops separate polices on health and safety requirements for Observers. Vanderbilt Observational Services requires a TB test for all Med School 101 students.

Vanderbilt University Medical Center also has materials and short trainings for enrolled students to complete in addition to the PTY Required Forms needed to participate in VSA. Some sections may duplicate PTY’s required paperwork. However, full completion of both sets of paperwork is required for participation in Med School 101.

This class is in partnership with the Vanderbilt School of Medicine.

Physics in Life, Medicine, Engineering and Our Civilization
Instructor: Amal al-Wahish, Ph.D.
Physics

Have you ever wondered how physics is connected to your everyday life, your health, or the world around you? In this hands-on and exciting course led by a Vanderbilt Professor, we’ll explore how the principles of physics shape everything from the way your body works to the medical technologies that save lives and the innovations that power our modern world. You’ll discover how physics plays a role in the human body, how doctors use tools like Traction, X-rays, MRIs, and Ballistocardiograph and how we use physics to create energy and build technologies that make life easier and more sustainable. We’ll also dive into the amazing world of engineering, where you’ll discover how physics is used to create everything from life-saving medical devices to renewable energy systems and cutting-edge technologies. You’ll see firsthand how engineers use physics to design solutions for the world’s most pressing problems. But this course isn’t just about reading and lectures—we’ll bring physics to life with fun, interactive experiments and demonstrations that you’ll get to try yourself! From building simple models that explain how our organs work to hands-on activities showing how energy is transferred, you’ll have the chance to see physics in action. Whether or not you’ve studied physics before, this course is designed to be approachable, fun, and full of hands-on opportunities to experience the science behind our world. It’s a great chance to see how physics affects your life and the world around you, all while having fun and learning new things.

Amal al-Wahish is a condensed matter experimental and neutron scattering physicist. She holds a Ph.D. in Condensed Matter Physics and Neutron Scattering from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where her research focused on Neutron Scattering Studies of Phosphate Proton Conductors under the guidance of D. Mandrus. Prior to her doctoral studies, she earned an M.Sc. in Applied Physics from The Hashemite University, Jordan, and a B.S. in Physics, also from The Hashemite University. Dr. al-Wahish has contributed extensively to the field through her roles as a reviewer for peer-reviewed scientific journals such as Physical Review B and Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics. In addition to her teaching and research, Dr. al-Wahish is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion within the academic community and has served on various committees. Her leadership extends to organizing events that foster community and support for women and minorities in physics.

Stories Worth Telling: Crafting Language for Social Change
Instructor: Paul Kramer, Ph.D.
Writing, History

In this course led by a Vanderbilt Professor, you will explore the ways that writers, journalists and artists craft language to represent social problems to other people, as both a creative enterprise and a fundamental tool for the building of a participatory, democratic culture. In this highly engaging course, you will listen to podcasts, read and discuss classic works of “muckraking” journalism, and investigate how they work at the level of language: how the author brings real-life characters and situations to life, in ways that might move audiences, enable them to see social realities in new ways, and encourage them to take positive, effective action. We will also discuss the pitfalls writers face when they try to represent troubling social realities. With that foundation, you will learn how to build stronger sentences and how to carry out research (including interview techniques) with special emphasis on the growing and rapidly evolving genre of podcasting. Throughout the course, you will develop your own final project, researching an issue you care about in Nashville or your hometown. At the end of the course, you will produce a short podcast or article that uses the skills we’ve worked on to convey that reality to others. In 2022 Vanderbilt Magazine showcased Professor Kramer’s work. Read the full article here.

Paul A. Kramer’s primary research interests are in modern U. S. history, with an emphasis on transnational, imperial and global histories, American social thought, and the politics of inequality. His first book, The Blood of Government: Race, Empire, the United States and the Philippines (University of North Carolina Press; Ateneo de Manila University Press, 2006) was awarded the Organization of American Historians’ James A. Rawley Prize and the Society for Historians of American Foreign Relations’ Stuart L. Bernath Book Prize, and was a finalist for the Philippines’ National Book Award in the Social Science category. Alongside his academic research, Prof. Kramer writes for the New Yorker, Slate, and other publications on themes relating to the history of the United States in the world. His public scholarship has included narrative essays on the origins of the U. S. naval base at Guantánamo Bay, the practice of water torture during the Philippine-American War, performances of foreignness by African Americans in the mid-20th century, the shifting and ambiguous character of the U. S.-Mexico border, and the entanglements of Hurricane Katrina with the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, among other themes. Prof. Kramer has received fellowships from the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting, Harvard University’s Charles Warren Center, the American Council of Learned Societies, the Fulbright program and the Smithsonian Institution. Since 2018, he has taught the popular course “Writing for Social Change” at Vanderbilt University.