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Brookdale Community College is excited to present its newest cohort of NASA interns and peer tutors, supported by the New Jersey Space Grant Consortium (NJSGC). Through their dedication to STEM education, research, and mentorship, these students are driving innovation and achieving academic excellence in collaboration with NASA, each working toward ambitious career goals.

Coordinated under the leadership of Ana Teodorescu, Associate Professor in the Math Department and Honors Program Assistant Chair, and Nancy Cizin, Assistant Professor in the Biology Department, the program offers opportunities for students to engage in cutting-edge STEM research.

“The value that our NASA program provides to the College and our students is not simply financial,” said James Crowder, Ed.D., Dean of the STEM Institute. “It fosters a sense of community and belonging that is crucial to student success.”

Brookdale Community College’s NASA interns are working on innovative projects funded by the New Jersey Space Grant Consortium, each guided by a dedicated faculty mentor.

Rhiannon Ryan, Belmar, NJ, a biology major and President of the Women in Engineering, Science, and Technology (WEST) Club, is pursuing a career as a research scientist specializing in mycology, microbiology, and botanical sciences. Her NASA project on mycoremediation, mentored by Biology Professor Gitanjali Kundu, explores the use of fungi to break down petroleum hydrocarbons. In addition to her internship, she also participates in the Chemistry Society, Biology Club, and STEM Student Lecture Club.

Ava Marszalek, Middletown, NJ, a chemistry major, aspires to become a research scientist working in a laboratory setting. Her NASA project, guided by Chemistry Professor Thomas Riley, evaluates the efficacy and longevity of water filters in contaminant removal. Ava is an active member of the Women in Engineering, Science, and Technology (W.E.S.T.) Club and the Chemistry Club.

Arthur Fumarola, a computer science major from Matawan, NJ, is studying the effects of solar eclipses on radio waves. While solar eclipses can improve radio wave conditions for shortwave bands, they have little effect on higher frequencies. His research focuses on understanding how the ionosphere, which reflects and refracts radio waves, behaves differently during these events.

“I chose Professor Squires because I had him for Database Concepts last semester, and he was a great teacher,” said Fumarola about his mentor, Kevin Squires, Computer Science Instructor. “He made all the material clear, walked through some problems for the class to get a better understanding of the steps. I also went to his office hours, and he is very easy to talk to.”

In addition to his research, Arthur is an active campus leader, serving as Vice President of the STEM Student Lectures and Research Club, liaison for the Computer Science Club, and a member of the Engineering Student Association

Steven Del Cuore, an electrical engineering major and Vice President of the Engineering Student Association, envisions a future in sustainable energy solutions. Under the mentorship of Physics Instructional Assistant Michelle Paci, Del Cuore is studying photovoltaic cells. A Physics Club leader and an active Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) member, said, “I hope that my NASA internship allows me to improve upon the solar panels at Brookdale Community College!”

Leana Vitale, a biology major, Honors student, and Vice President of the Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Club from Marlboro, NJ, is pursuing a career as a veterinarian specializing in farm animals and household pets. Under the mentorship of Professor Robert Gant, her NASA project focuses on developing an efficient veterinary UTI test for canines. Leana’s favorite class is Invertebrate Zoology, and she is also an active member of the Car Club.

Fumarola’s comment reflects the sentiments of most NASA interns: “The thing I love the most about this program is the opportunity to prove myself. It is very difficult to get the chance to obtain an internship, so just getting chosen is a great experience to show who I am. I am truly grateful.”

The NASA STEM Peer Tutors are integral to Brookdale Community College’s NASA program, providing academic support to students in various STEM subjects. Peer tutoring sessions occur in the STEM Lounge (MAS 107), where these dedicated tutors help their peers excel in challenging coursework.

These peer tutors assist students academically and serve as role models within the NASA program, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for STEM success.

“This is the 11th year Brookdale has received support and internships from the New Jersey Space Grant Consortium,” said Ana Teododrescu. “We are one of two community colleges who are active affiliate partners in the consortium in a partnership of 27 affiliates, most being four-year institutions. This partnership has helped us fund the creation of the STEM Lounge (MAS 107) and the STEM Peer Tutoring program. The consortium also helps us fund the STEM Speaker Series and other one-time projects.”