Graduate Scholars

The CHC is happy to introduce our 2025-2026 Graduate Scholars – Cassidy Prestwood and Olivia Sirchio! They will hold office hours in the CHC Office and will advise students who are embarking on undergraduate research about the research process, finding a faculty advisor, and how doing research can help you reach your goals. Contact the CHC Graduate Scholars at chcresearch@uci.edu with questions about the CHC research/thesis requirement.

Cassidy Prestwood (she/her) Hello! My name is Cassidy Prestwood (she/her) and I am excited to be a Graduate Scholar for Campuswide Honors this year. I recently graduated from UCI’s Campuswide Honors this past spring with a bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences and I am now a master’s student in the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry researching how human neural stem cells can be used to treat multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. When I am not on campus working in my lab or studying, I enjoy trying new cafe spots and restaurants, shopping, and spending time with my friends and family.

Olivia Sirchio (she/her) Nice to meet you, I’m Olivia Sirchio. I recently graduated from CHC (I took Sustainable Societies!) at UCI with a B.A. in International Studies and minors in Global Sustainability and Humanities & Law. I’m now a first year PhD student in Global and International Studies and, more importantly, a CHC Graduate Scholar Advisor! My research interests are in urban studies, the political economy of development, housing, and Latin America. I’m excited to hear about your academic passions and help guide you through your thesis process and beyond. When I’m not reading dusty books, you’ll find me spending time with my kitten, working on puzzles, or poorly executing various arts and crafts projects. Zot Zot!