Freshman Research Initiative (FRI)
Program Description
The Freshman Research Initiative (FRI) is a 6-week research or creative experience working with a Kean faculty mentor. Participation in the FRI provides first-year students access to both faculty mentors and experienced student mentors and starts them on a pathway to future research opportunities. Students do not need prior research experience to enter the program.
The goal of FRI is to engage first-year students in a faculty-mentored project designed to introduce them to skills and techniques they will need to conduct independent research or creative work. Although these projects are introductory and limited in scope, they must include some essential features of effective undergraduate research such as reading the literature, encouraging student design of an aspect of the project, and presenting results. Students do not need prior research experience to enter this program.
Eligibility
- A first-year freshman (completed less than 30 credits)
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Able to spend 2-4 hours per week on the project committed to participate in the program for 6 weeks (Spring and Summer)
- All majors are welcome
Application Links
2024 Freshmen Research Initiative (FRI) Students
Students Projects
Romeo Cifentes-Beach
Project Title: “Deep Learning for Data Interpretation"
I am Romeo Cifuentes-Beach, a freshman here at Kean university. I am a computer science major and plan on pursuing a career in software and web development. I have some experience with research, having taken AP Capstone in high school, and I am excited for this opportunity. As a computer science major, I am interested to see the research applications of the technologies in my field. Particularly, this project will give the opportunity to work with python data analysis tools like Pandas and Matplotlib. I believe this will give me a better perspective on my field of study.
David Jure-Debrosse
Project Title: “Deep Learning for Data Interpretation"
Aspiring cybersecurity professional and current freshman at Kean University, I am passionate about protecting digital environments and safeguarding sensitive information. My interest in cybersecurity stems from the increasing importance of technology in our daily lives, the critical need for secure systems in a world where cyber threats are ever-evolving, and my family's background in the business. With family members working in cybersecurity, I have been inspired by their experiences and insights, motivating me to pursue this field. Through my studies in computer science, I hope to build a strong foundation in programming, understand how software operates, and learn about data structures and algorithms. I am eager to explore how these concepts apply to securing systems and networks. My goal is to help organizations strengthen their defenses against cyber attacks and ensure a safer digital future.
Ruiying Wang
Project Title: “ Mycorrhizal fungi mediated stress tolerance in plants & Plant species identification along Trotter’s Creek"
As an exchange student from Wenzhou-Kean University, my research focuses on plant biology, particularly how respond to environmental stress in the face of climate change. I am also passionate about raising public awareness and contributing to the fields of plant ecology and agriculture. In addition to my academic studies, I gained practical experience at the Hangzhou Botanical Garden, where I assisted in organizing two popular science exhibitions, "Plant Also Sports Series" and "Dragon Family Name" plants. These experiences allowed me to present complex botanical concepts to the public in an engaging way, sparking my interest in plant conservation and science education. Moreover, I have been involved in a project focused on plant species identification along Trotter’s Creek. This project aims to create a comprehensive database of plant species in the area, which will serve as a valuable resource for future research and ecological monitoring. This work not only contributes to a deeper understanding of local biodiversity but also provides a foundation for future ecological studies in the region. With a strong interest in molecular biology and plant ecology, I am committed to advancing our understanding of plant-microbial interactions and contributing to sustainable agriculture and conservation efforts through research. My future goals include exploring how environmental factors affect plant resilience and supporting global conservation through scientific inquiry.