Internship Student Award Current Award Recipient

Arielis Rodriguez-Gutierrez,
University of Central Arkansas

Arielis Rodriguez-Gutierrez is a senior Chemistry major at the University of Central Arkansas who has distinguished herself through remarkable academic achievement and research innovation. Originally unsure of her potential in STEM, Ariel’s transformative summer internship at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) dramatically reshaped her academic and professional trajectory. 

During her internship at UCI’s Center for Closing the Carbon Cycle, Ariel made extraordinary contributions to environmental research. Through her research and testing, she developed a catalytic system to convert carbon dioxide into a valuable chemical feedstock, achieving a breakthrough that is being prepared for publication—an exceptional accomplishment for an undergraduate researcher. According to her site supervisor, Ariel’s work demonstrated remarkable scientific acumen, stating “It is a rare accomplishment for an undergraduate student to perform enough quality research to gain authorship on a peer-reviewed publication, let alone as a lead author!” 

The internship was a pivotal moment in Ariel’s academic journey. What began as a hesitant opportunity evolved into a profound personal and professional transformation. She discovered her passion for research and teaching, realizing her dream of becoming a university professor who can inspire and support students of color in STEM fields. 

Ariel’s achievements extend beyond her research. As a recipient of the Arkansas Talented Optimistic Motivated (ATOM) Scholars program and an undergraduate research student at UCA, she has consistently demonstrated leadership and commitment to her discipline. She has presented four research projects and has applied to graduate school and the prestigious National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program. 

Her colleagues and professor highlight not only her scientific capabilities, but her innovation, professionalism, and commitment to using her skills to create positive change in her field and community. With her remarkable blend of scientific skill and visionary potential, Arielis Rodriguez-Gutierrez is truly an outstanding emerging scientist and educator.