Marielys Figeroa-Sierra and Shelbi Brown were both recently recognized by College of Medicine at Florida State University for their outstanding accomplishments. Both are graduates of Moore Haven High School.
Marielys Figeroa-Sierra
Class of 2016
Undergraduate Degree: Florida Gulf Coast University
Marielys graduated summa cum laude from Florida Gulf Coast University with a bachelor’s in biology and a minor in chemistry. During her undergraduate career she was a member of the American Society for Virology, Sigma Alpha Pi, FGCU’s Honors Society, and Pre-Medical Club. She also spent her time as a tutor, supplemental instruction leader and teaching assistant for general and organic chemistry and biology. As a junior, Marielys had the privilege of carrying out independent research studies on infectious diseases under the supervision of Drs. Sharon Isern and Scott Michael. For the three years she was involved in virology research, she conceptually designed and completed an honors thesis on an inhibitory peptide against flaviviruses, specifically dengue. An article published in the Journal of Virology highlights some of her work in this research. Currently, she is continuing research under the supervision of Dr. Niharika Suchak focusing on interprofessional education. She also had the opportunity to travel to Panama with the College of Medicine on a medical mission trip. Marielys is proud to be a student at the College of Medicine, with its emphasis on patient-centered care and its mission to provide service to underserved populations.
Shelbi H. Brown
Class of 2019
Undergraduate Degree: The University of Alabama
Graduate Degree: MS Florida State University
Shelbi Brown graduated magna cum laude from The University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature and a minor in Italian. She was involved in many organizations, including Young Life, Kappa Alpha Theta and Alpha Epsilon Delta, and consistently donated her time to various volunteer organizations throughout her undergraduate career. Shelbi also worked as a research assistant with the psychology department at Alabama on a clinical trial involving treating elderly patients with co-occurring insomnia and depression in rural communities in Alabama. She is humbled and grateful to be attending the College of Medicine at Florida State University.