Meet the Scholars

Bryanna Boroze: Hey! My name is Bryanna Boroze and I am a first-year track athlete working towards Bachelor of Science in Physics – Engineering at Chicago State University. I was inspired to pursue a degree in Physics because of the work being done in quantum computing. I want to become a part of the group of scientists/engineers to improve this field of technology. So, I have been doing some of my own research to improve my knowledge. I have been a part of the Yale Quantum Hackathon twice, led the Quantum Computing promotion committee at the Connecticut Science Center, and taken some courses on linear algebra to get my journey started. I know that I have a longer way to go before getting to work on quantum computing but that’s why I am so excited to work with a mentor to receive guidance and learn what it means to do research, experiments, and develop myself as a person. Ultimately, I am not sure which part of quantum computing I want to be a part of, whether it be software or hardware, however, I am willing to do all the hard work when it comes to researching, networking, and learning. I can’t wait to be a part of a community of other like-minded students working towards a career rooted in physics.

Brycen Leftenant: coming soon ...

Harriet Omodayo:  Hello! My name is Harriet Omodayo, and I am a dedicated and driven student with a strong foundation in the sciences. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry and am currently pursuing a second undergraduate degree in Physics with a concentration in Biomedical Physics at Chicago State University. My interdisciplinary academic background has equipped me with a diverse skill set and a unique perspective, particularly in the intersection of physical science and biomedical applications. Currently, I am engaged in quantum research through QuBBe, an organization committed to expanding access to quantum science education and research opportunities. Through this work, I have developed a growing passion for quantum mechanics and its potential to revolutionize fields such as medicine, materials science, and information technology. My involvement with QuBBe has not only deepened my understanding of advanced quantum concepts but also strengthened my research skills, critical thinking, and collaboration within a scientific team. Looking ahead, my goal is to pursue a Ph.D. in Physics or a related field, with a focus on quantum research. I am particularly interested in exploring how quantum principles can be applied to different biomedical problems. I am committed to lifelong learning, academic excellence, and contributing meaningful advancements to the scientific community.

Laszlo Toth: My name is Laszlo Richard Toth, and I grew up on the Southside of Chicago. I am currently attending Chicago State University to receive my bachelor's in physics with a concentration in engineering. I hope to attend graduate school in applied physics. I have completed research at CERN in Geneva, Switzerland, with the ALICE collaboration; our project studies heavy ion collisions in order to extrapolate information about quark-gluon plasma. My research continues virtually from Chicago. I am an avid cyclist and I enjoy reading, cooking, and skateboarding.

Star Bolden: My name is Star Bolden. I’m a Physics / Mechanical Engineering major from the south side of Chicago and I'm attending my 3rd year at CSU. My interest in physics stemmed from my love of video games, specifically the sandbox style ones that let you develop your own game from scratch. Seeing the physics coded within game mechanics inspired me to pursue a degree in physics and engineering. Aside from physics, I’ve always had a strong relationship with science ever since I was young. Learning that science was responsible for everything I loved started my fascination with knowing all that it could do. As I grew older, I found it hard to narrow down what exactly it was I wanted to study as my major. Eventually, I landed on becoming an engineer so that I could create technology that could benefit people across the world. My studies at CSU have reminded me of how much more I want to learn and wish to accomplish as a scientist.

Thomas Sieka: My name is Thomas Sieka, and I am a senior undergraduate student here at CSU majoring in physics with a concentration in engineering. I grew up in the suburbs and am currently living in the city while pursuing my degree. This is my first semester receiving the TEAM UP SCP scholarship. After I finish my bachelors degree, I intend on majoring in nuclear physics and pursuing a masters and PhD. In my free time I love playing board games, my current favorite is Valeria Card Kingdoms. I am also slowly learning how to cook for myself and my family. 

Xavier McGowan: I was born and raised on the East Side of Milwaukee, one of the most racially segregated cities in the United States. Growing up in a community marked by hardship and limited opportunities, I developed a deep resilience and a determination to pursue a different path. My passion for science began early—shows like Magic School Bus and Osmosis Jones sparked my curiosity, and hands-on experiments in school fueled my desire to understand how the world works. Inspired by the profound contributions of Isaac Newton, Albert Einstein, and Robert J. Oppenheimer, I gravitated toward astrophysics and chemistry, fields that challenge the limits of human knowledge. After taking four years off following high school, I began college at 21, fully committed to building a career at the intersection of these sciences. My goal is to become an astrophysical chemist and inventor, striving to contribute to the frontiers of discovery and innovation.I am motivated by a relentless pursuit of understanding—the desire to explore the fundamental forces that shape our universe and to leave a lasting impact through my work. Like the scientists who reshaped our grasp of reality, I aim to push the boundaries of what is known and inspire others to do the same.This journey is not just about personal achievement; it is about contributing to a collective quest to expand humanity’s understanding of the cosmos. Trying to get us one step closer to war stars and saber lights :p