One LAS Student’s Journey from Undergraduate Research to Global Health Impact at UIC
Ananya Handa Interview Heading link
Name: Ananya Handa
Major: Biological Sciences, Molecular, Cellular, and Organismal Concentration
Minor: Nutrition & Certificate in Medical Humanities
Year in school: Junior
How did you choose your major/minor?
Biology interested me early on in high school, especially how it connects to health and medicine, which made me choose Molecular Biology as my major. This curiosity grew into a passion for understanding how the human body works and how we can use science and nutrition to promote overall well-being.
As I explored my interests further, I realized the importance of nutrition in disease prevention and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Unfortunately, people often underestimate the value and power of nutrition and real food, focusing instead on quick fixes or overly restrictive diets. Eating well is all about balance – nourishing the body with wholesome foods while still enjoying life’s indulgences in moderation. This perspective inspired me to pursue nutrition as a minor and start a food blog, where I advocate for the importance of food in health (and share some restaurant recommendations and recipes)!
Adding medical humanities felt like a natural complement, as it allows me to explore the human side of healthcare – understanding patients’ experiences, ethics, and the cultural dimensions of medicine. Together, my major and minors provide me with a well-rounded perspective to contribute meaningfully to the medical field and better serve others.
Can you talk about your participation in the Liberal Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Research Initiative (LASURI) program? What are you researching?
Through the LASURI program & Howard L. Kaufman Undergraduate Student Award, I am exploring the effects of upper limb movements on the modulation of spinal reflexes in stroke survivors at the Brain Plasticity Laboratory with Dr. Sangeetha Madhavan and Aditi Doshi. Stroke often leaves individuals with heightened reflex responses, or overactive Hoffmann (H-) reflexes, which contribute to muscle stiffness and impaired mobility. This research focuses on testing whether rhythmic upper limb movements can help reduce these overactive reflexes in a way that is both accessible and clinically practical. By investigating this novel approach, we hope to develop therapeutic strategies that improve lower limb function and overall mobility for stroke survivors.
Has anything surprised you in your research?
One of the most surprising aspects of this research has been learning how interconnected different parts of the body are – specifically how movements in the upper limbs can influence the spinal pathways controlling the lower limbs. The complexity and adaptability of the nervous system and brain are fascinating, particularly when it comes to understanding how these mechanisms can be harnessed for rehabilitation. The collaborative and hands-on nature of the research process, especially the opportunity to work closely with stroke survivors has been very rewarding. Their resilience and determination have been truly inspiring and has increased my interest in neurorehabilitation.
You’re the founder of the Foundation for International Medical Relief of Children (FIMRC) Chapter at UIC. What inspired you to bring FIMRC to our campus?
I was inspired to bring the FIMRC Chapter to UIC because I wanted to establish an organization that could bridge the gap between students’ aspirations to make a difference and actionable opportunities in global health. While researching student organizations, I realized that unlike UIUC and many other large universities, UIC didn’t have a FIMRC chapter. This felt like a missed opportunity for our diverse campus community, where so many students are passionate about addressing healthcare inequities and improving access to medical care.
Starting a FIMRC chapter at UIC was my way of filling that gap and creating a platform for students to engage in meaningful work, such as fundraising, outreach, and international volunteering. I wanted to bring like-minded individuals together to support underserved communities and contribute to FIMRC’s mission of providing sustainable healthcare solutions. Through this chapter, I hope to empower UIC students to act, support vulnerable populations, and understand the impact of collaboration in creating sustainable change.
How has your student group engagement impacted your experience at UIC?
My involvement in student organizations has been one of the most enriching aspects of my experience at UIC. As the founder and president of the FIMRC Chapter, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with passionate peers, connect with diverse perspectives, and work towards making a tangible impact on global health. Through leading the chapter, I’ve developed skills in leadership, communication, and strategic planning, which have helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Being part of Mental Health and Disability Alliance, Society of Future Physicians, Student Nutrition Association, and other campus involvement has expanded my understanding of advocacy and inclusivity. These roles have taught me the importance of teamwork and perseverance, especially when navigating challenges like starting new initiatives or organizing large events. Student group engagement has also fostered a deep sense of community and belonging. It’s empowering to work alongside individuals who share a commitment to making a difference. These experiences have shaped my identity at UIC, making my journey here much more meaningful and purposeful.
If you could give yourself one piece of advice during your freshman year, what would it be?
If I could give myself one piece of advice during my freshman year, it would be to embrace discomfort and not shy away from opportunities that seem intimidating. Growth happens outside of your comfort zone and saying “yes” to challenges – whether it’s taking on leadership roles, applying for a competitive program, or simply networking – can lead to incredible experiences and unexpected paths.
It’s also okay to not have everything figured out right away. Take the time to explore your interests, prioritize building genuine connections, and remember that your journey is uniquely yours. Focus on progress, not perfection. Trust yourself, stay open to learning, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when needed. It’s all part of the process!
What are your aspirations after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to attend medical school and pursue a career in healthcare. While I am still exploring specialties, I am particularly drawn to allergy, PM&R, and sports medicine. These fields resonate with my passion for understanding the human body holistically and helping people achieve their best health.