Undergraduate College Ambassadors
In a university as large as UB, our students have the opportunity to make connections and build professional relationships from the moment they step on campus. With this in mind, every year the College of Arts and Sciences assembles a group of exceptional students to serve as College Ambassadors.
Nominated by faculty and staff after demonstrating academic excellence and community engagement, our undergraduate student ambassadors are available to provide insight, advice and information to current and prospective students, as well as their families.
Carsyn Bonesteel
(she/her)
Major: Bioinformatics
Minor: Statistcs
Campus/community involvement: Undergraduate research in Gokcumen Lab, Women in Science and Engineering (WiSE) ambassador and outreach committee member, Outdoor Adventure Club
Fun fact: I love to knit!
What makes UB unique?
UB is unique because of its access to a vast array of resources. As an R1 institute, we have incredible opportunities in research that I urge all to take advantage of!
Matthew Esposito
(he/him)
Major: Biological Sciences
Campus/community involvement: Undergraduate research, Buffalo Promise Neighborhood Volunteer, Tutor at TASS
Fun fact: I had a commercial acting career at the age of 9
What advice do you have for future UB students?
Get comfortable in uncomfort. Try new things, especially early on. You aren't here to over-optimize your schedule, you want to figure out and learn where you want to be in life through trial and error.
Haile Hamilton-Coore
(she/her)
Major: Biological Sciences
Campus/community involvement: Emergency Services, Association of Pre-Medical Students, Yoga, Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students (MAPS) shadowing coordinator
Fun fact: I have been a dancer for over 10 years!
What advice do you have for future UB students?
Don't be too hard on yourself. It’s okay feel overwhelmed; it’s all part of the process. There’s always room to improve, and you have time to do so. Be patient with yourself and celebrate the small victories along the way!
Daksh Maini
(he/him)
Major: Biological Sciences
Minor: Spanish
Campus/community involvement: Pre-Dental Association, Association of Pre-Medical Students, Honors College mentor, Unibuddy, Honors College
Fun fact: I have been to over 15 countries!
What do you like best about your department?
The best thing you can do to succeed in any class is to take advantage of office hours. It's the best way to get direct help from the teacher on homework or content, and you end up learning more from questions other students have. Office hours are always super relaxed, and there's no pressure when you attend and can only help you in your understanding.
Audrey Nardolillo
Major: Biological Sciences
Campus/community involvement: UB Honors College, Biology Honors research, PAL leader
Fun fact: I'm a boxer! Let's just say I'm a lot more dangerous in 16-ounce gloves than I look in a classroom.
What advice do you have for future UB students?
If I could give future students one piece of advice, it's that it is okay to be uncertain. You might feel pressured to plan your entire future right now, but you don't have to. Slow down and reflect on what really matters to you. Even if you change your direction ten times, remember: exploring your options is much better than sticking with something that doesn't make you happy.
Christopher Page
(he/him)
Major: Biological Sciences
Campus/community involvement: Community Assistant, Association of Pre-Medical Students, Honors College, BIO Honors, Research Assistant
Fun fact: I love reading 19th century French literature!
What advice do you have for future UB students?
Get involved and explore as much as you possibly can. The key to getting access to all the things that UB has to offer is to build relationships with faculty and staff, so don't feel scared to talk to or email professors!
Samantha Sorensen
(she/her)
Major: Biological Sciences
Campus/community involvement: Bio Honors program, Honors College, UB Center for Leadership and Global Impact Ambassador, Women in Science and Engineering club, Pre-Dental Club and a teaching assistant for Cellular Biology Labs, Biochemistry Lecture and Genetics lecture
Fun fact: I have 3 dogs and 3 cats!
What do you like best about your department?
The Department of Biological Sciences feels like a community to me. The professors genuinely want to see us students succeed and are always willing to provide resources, guidance, and encouragement to help us grow. One of the things I appreciate most is how approachable the faculty are. Whether I'm stopping by to ask about course material, discuss how to manage a busy exam schedule, or even just chat about weekend plans, the professors are always welcoming and supportive. That sense of comfort and community is what makes the Biology Department such a special place to learn and grow.