Undergraduate Student News

Naaima Zaharah, a psychology major, has learned to “appreciate the intellectual complexity of research and the collaborative nature of scientific discovery” while at VCU. (Dean Hoffmeyer, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

How I found my research: Naaima Zaharah examines genetic vulnerabilities in alcohol use disorder

March 27, 2026

The psychology major said that research is ‘an incredibly rewarding experience that allows you to explore questions you genuinely care about.’

Amaria Ford “has consistently demonstrated outstanding dedication, initiative and excellence. She excels at every task she does,” according to a faculty mentor. (Contributed image)

Class of 2026: Amaria Ford connects biology, psychology and youth development

March 24, 2026

She has been a standout in undergraduate research, supporting the Empower Youth Lab led by Chelsea Williams.

Varsha Penumalee, a VCU biology major, serves on the Active Minds national student advisory committee, helping chapters on other campuses expand mental health advocacy. (Dean Hoffmeyer, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

VCU undergraduate honored for mental health advocacy with a national reach

March 18, 2026

Through Active Minds and NAMI, Varsha Penumalee has made a mark far beyond campus, driven by a belief that mental health should be accessible, culturally responsive and grounded.

Sanjana Gupta, an Honors College student, is participating in a variety of activities at VCU, including being a member of the Medical Journal Club, volunteering at the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU, serving as a tutor and working as marketing co-lead for TEDxVCU. (Development and Alumni Relations)

Scholarship feeds student’s passion for medicine

March 17, 2026

Sanjana Gupta, an aspiring pediatrician, is benefiting from the VCUAA Endowed Honors Scholarship.

Five Questions with international studies major Eva Burcher

March 6, 2026

The sophomore was inspired to choose her major because of its interdisciplinary nature.

Five Questions with Math, Physics, and Biology Student Rehan Adatia

Feb. 24, 2026

The triple major is expected to graduate in May 2026.

Alexander Campbell sits on the floor of the Virginia House of Delegates. Campbell has been involved in the political process since he was 9 and today works for Del. Elizabeth Bennett-Parker. (Contributed image)

Justice, education and advocacy propel Alexander Campbell

Jan. 28, 2026

The senior, who led the push for new state legislation when he was a child, today serves on the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities and works for a member of the Virginia House of Delegates – among many other efforts.

Valerie Shcherbakova graduated this past December with her undergraduate degree in health, physical education and exercise science, with a concentration in exercise science. (Contributed image)

How I found my research: Dance leads the way for Valerie Shcherbakova

Jan. 22, 2026

The recent exercise sciences graduate sees movement and global health care as ideal partners.

Kiersten Fultz was in the first cohort of students in VCU’s accelerated forensics program. (Contributed image)

Class of 2025: Kiersten Fultz found her focus in forensic science

Jan. 16, 2026

The transfer student is among the first graduates from VCU’s accelerated master’s program, and she is heading way out west to work as a DNA analyst.

Kyler Gilliam served as director of the VCU InSight broadcast program, a staff writer and producer for The Commonwealth Times and president of the National Association of Black Journalists at VCU. (Dean Hoffmeyer, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Class of 2025: Kyler Gilliam completes unique degree path

Dec. 17, 2025

Gilliam, who has gained experience as a writer, producer and director, marked a VCU first with his double-major in broadcast journalism and multimedia production.