Rio Calzada is a junior from Chicago, Illinois, double-majoring in health promotion and health equity and gender and women’s studies. As a URS and Mercile J. Lee scholar, they have had the opportunity to explore research opportunities in addition to service work as she explores her interests in reproductive health. Rio conducted research with the Pattnaik Research group in studying Congenital Stationary Night Blindness using biotechnological techniques and mouse models. In addition to their research experience, Rio regularly volunteers at Babies and Beyond and the Social Justice Center, where both centers serve to provide resources to the local Madison community. Outside of academics, Rio serves as the treasurer in Grupo Folklorico, and is also a member of Kappa Delta Chi, Sorority, Inc, a Latin-interest sorority dedicated to service on campus. Rio also freelance writes poetry and writing, with their poetry being exhibited across campus. You can find them reading on the terrace, going on late–night food runs, and cramming at the College Library.