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Top Florida Grads
Making the Grade
The best and brightest among Florida's undergraduates range from inventors to medical researchers to artists.
? Jeffrey Wong, 21
University of Florida (Gainesville)
Hometown: Weston
Major: Microbiology, chemistry and economics
Notable: Co-inventor with professor Randy S. Duran and two other researchers of a provisional patent on using nanocapsules for drug detoxification. Worked on a National Institutes of Health project to explore how T-cell gene therapy can be used to treat cancer and cardiovascular disease. Recipient of a 2006 Barry M. Goldwater scholarship, a nationwide program that Congress established to encourage excellence in science and math. Beckman scholarship in 2004 for students in chemistry, biochemistry and biological and medical sciences. One of eight Florida incoming freshman selected as a Lombardi Scholar in 2003. President of the UF chapter of Habitat for Humanity. Set up a UF chapter of H.E.L.P. (Helping Every Little Person), which mentors underprivileged children in preschool. While in high school, established an elementary mathematics tutoring program and an ecology program at the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Science and Discovery.
Plans: Dual doctorate and M.D. in immunology to prepare for a career in medical research.
? Sorine Anderson, 22
Ringling School of Art and Design (Sarasota)
Hometown: Sarasota
Major: Fine arts
Notable: Director of Ringling's Crossley Gallery, which exhibits works by students, alumni and outside artists. Has exhibited her mixed-media installations at shows locally and in New York City. Interned at the Daniel Reich Gallery in New York's Chelsea district. Worked with the estate of well-known minimalist sculptor Ronald Bladen in a project to refabricate his sculptures for exhibition. Certified as an HIV/AIDS educator and has worked with clients at Planned Parenthood.
Plans: A master's in sculpture and then a career as a working artist or at a gallery.
? Ariel Blue, 22
Stetson University (DeLand)
Hometown: Sarasota
Majors: Communications with a minor in theater arts
Notable: Worked with the Volusia Literacy Council to coordinate adult and childhood literacy programs. Named one of Stetson's eight original Bonner Scholars, awarded for campus leadership and community involvement. Committee chair for Greenfeather, Stetson's campus organization competition to raise money for local charitable groups. Served as secretary of the Black Student Association.
Plans: After a year off to work, master's in communication. Career goal is to work as a television broadcaster.
