Honors Spotlight

Accounting and AI might seem like an unlikely pair — but according to honors student Luis Esmurria, tools like ChatGPT are already reshaping the field. In this episode of Honors Spotlight, Luis shares findings from his thesis on how large language models are influencing accounting education, from personalized learning benefits to ethical concerns around accuracy, transparency, and rapidly changing tax regulations.We explore:Why ChatGPT’s accessibility has accelerated its impactHow students use AI both responsibly and irresponsiblyWhy accounting remains a people‑centered profession despite automationThe gaps in university AI policiesHow educators can integrate AI in ways that support, not replace, student learningLuis also reflects on how researching AI has changed his own perspective as a future accountant — and what’s next for him after graduation.A thoughtful, timely conversation for students, educators, and professionals navigating the future of learning and the future of accounting.(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit ⁠honors.mtsu.edu⁠.

This episode of Honors Spotlight shines a light on finance major Truvell Haddox, whose commitment to service goes far beyond single volunteer events. For the past three years, Truvell has spent nearly every month preparing and delivering meals to food‑insecure and unhoused communities across Middle Tennessee.He shares how faith reshaped his understanding of success, why consistent service matters more than one‑time gestures, and the powerful relationships formed along the way. From monthly outreach in three cities to holiday food distributions and hopes of expanding into Kentucky, Truvell’s story is one of compassion, resilience, and purpose.If you’ve ever wondered how small, steady acts of kindness can transform lives, including your own, this conversation is for you.If you’d like to help support or donate to The Remnant Church and its outreach efforts, please contact the church directly for more information. (Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonors

In this episode of Honors Spotlight, host Robin Lee sits down with Batoul Sawas, senior psychology major, Honors ambassador, and award‑winning student researcher. Batoul shares how her multicultural background, campus leadership roles, and research experiences shaped her Honors thesis: Beneath the Surface, an in‑depth exploration of how parenting styles, self‑esteem, and the Big Five personality traits intersect in the lives of college students.Batoul also opens up about her work in mental‑health advocacy, from supporting elderly caregivers through Black Mental Health Village to delivering depression‑prevention interventions through Meharry Medical College’s HBCU wellness project. Together, Robin and Batoul explore what mental‑health resources college students need, what coping strategies actually work, and what it means to “enjoy being in the process of becoming.”If you're curious about research, psychology, or student well‑being (or just need a dose of encouragement), this episode is for you.(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonors RESOURCES:Subscribe to the SOAR newsletter: urc.mtsu.edu/soarofficers/ Follow the URC on LinkedIn   linkedin.com/company/undergraduate-research-center/posts/?feedView=all  Counselling Services: counseling.mtsu.edu/services/ URECA: https://urc.mtsu.edu/ureca-overview/ Honors College Scholarships: https://honors.mtsu.edu/scholarships/

In this episode of Honor Spotlight, host Robin Lee sits down with Buchanan Fellow and English major Sarah Huffman to explore her Honors thesis, Halo Reach: Humanity's Desperation in the Face of Adversity."  Sarah dives into the emotional and narrative depth of Halo: Reach, examining how the game uses storytelling, environment, and player psychology to portray the indomitable human spirit in the face of inevitable loss.Together, Robin and Sarah discuss dramatic irony, false hope, Noble Six’s unforgettable final stand, and how video games can function as powerful works of literature. Sarah also shares her personal journey from rediscovering gaming to analyzing one of the most beloved entries in the Halo franchise. And she reflects on how themes of perseverance and resilience resonate far beyond the screen.Whether you're a longtime Halo fan, a storytelling enthusiast, or simply curious about the growing field of game studies, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how interactive media can shape our understanding of hope, sacrifice, and what it means to keep fighting. Music sample from Halo: Reach – Overture, by: Martin O’Donnell and Michael Salvatori(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonors

In this episode of Honors Spotlight, host Robin Lee sits down with 2025 MTSU Computer Science graduate Joshua Wheaton to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, social media, and mental health. Joshua’s Honors thesis, “Using AI to Identify Depression on Social Media,” examines how machine learning models can detect linguistic signals of depression in online posts—particularly on platforms like Reddit, where anonymity often encourages honesty.Together, Robin and Joshua unpack why this research matters, what the data reveals about how people express emotional distress online, and the ethical challenges of using AI to flag potential mental‑health concerns. He walks us through his work with logistic regression, LSTM, and BERT models and the surprising limitations of existing datasets. Then he explores what it would take to build tools that genuinely support early detection.The conversation also looks ahead: How might AI assist clinicians? Could social platforms integrate mental‑health safeguards responsibly? And what does the future hold for technology designed to help people feel seen rather than surveilled?(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit ⁠⁠honors.mtsu.edu⁠⁠, or ⁠counseling.mtsu.edu.⁠

In this episode of Honors Spotlight, host Robin Lee sits down with Victoria Grigsby, a first‑generation college student whose journey from a small Tennessee town led her to become one of MTSU’s distinguished Buchanan Fellows. Victoria shares how she navigated the transition to university life, found her academic passions, and embraced opportunities within the Honors College. A double major in political science and German, she reflects on the mentors, challenges, and transformative moments that shaped her MTSU experience.It’s an inspiring conversation about resilience, community, and the power of embracing new possibilities.(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit ⁠honors.mtsu.edu⁠.

What makes Lyon Hall, the Honors College living and learning community at MTSU, such a special place to call home? In this episode, host Robin Lee sits down with Amy Korstange (Associate Director of Residence Life), Nana Adu (Area Coordinator for Lyon Hall), and Kera Reynolds (Honors alumna and former Lyon Hall resident) to explore the unique opportunities and experiences this community offers.From application deadlines and fees to the day-to-day realities of living on campus, our guests answer common questions and address student concerns with insight and warmth. Whether you’re considering applying or just curious about Honors housing, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to live and learn in Lyon Hall.(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit ⁠honors.mtsu.edu⁠ and mtsu.edu/housing.

Honors student and aspiring airport director Mahi Ramesh takes listeners inside her summer internship at the Boise Airport, where she worked hands-on across departments—from project management and operations to environmental systems and emergency response.In this episode, Mahi shares how being the only intern at a major U.S. airport taught her independence, precision, and leadership under pressure. She opens up about meeting Boise Airport’s director, learning what it truly means to lead with humility, and how the experience shaped her long-term goal of running an airport one day.🎧 Tune in to hear how this MTSU Honors College student turned an internship into a life-changing takeoff for her aviation career.#MTSUHonors #AviationLeadership #BoiseAirport #HonorsSpotlight(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit ⁠honors.mtsu.edu⁠.

In this special episode, the MTSU Honors College ambassadors take the mic to share their stories, advice, and campus tips. From what first drew them to the Honors College to their most memorable class experiences, they open up about the surprises, challenges, and proudest moments of their Honors journey.Listeners will hear about insider recommendations for underrated campus resources, hidden study spots, and favorite places to recharge between classes. The ambassadors also dish out survival tips for parking, scheduling, and navigating student life—plus the apps and routines that make it all easier.Whether you’re curious about Honors coursework, looking for ways to get involved, or just want to know the best places to eat on campus, this episode is packed with practical advice and authentic student perspectives. Tune in to discover what makes the Honors College experience at MTSU so rewarding!(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit ⁠honors.mtsu.edu⁠.

As the holiday season winds down and a new year begins, it’s the perfect time to reset, refocus, and rethink your relationship with food.In this year-end episode of Honors Spotlight, host Robin Lee sits down with Lena Eccles — a senior Nutrition and Food Science major, Buchanan Transfer Fellow, Honors Ambassador, and associate editor for Collage: A Journal of Creative Expression.Lena shares what it’s really like to study nutrition and dietetics at MTSU, the path to becoming a registered dietitian, and how science-based nutrition can transform the way we eat and live. You’ll also hear practical tips for college students, a few surprising nutrition facts, and even a quick, healthy recipe to kickstart your wellness goals for the new year.Whether you’re passionate about health or just looking for some inspiration to eat better and feel better, this episode is the perfect listen to start 2026 on the right note.🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, and YouTube — and learn more about the Honors College at honors.mtsu.edu  Nutrition and Food Science Contacts: [email protected] [email protected] Shout-outs:Dr. Liz SmithGinny BogleDr. Lisa ShepherdDr. Janet Colson RECIPE:Base - 1 cup of cooked bite-sized whole grain pasta¼ cup of quartered cherry tomatoes¼ cup of chopped cucumber1 tbsp of red onions or shallots (this depends on your preference)½ cup of chickpeas (or other choice of legume)1 tbsp of chopped dill  Dressing - ½ cup of plain greek yogurt½ tbsp of olive oil (you can add more if you want a smoother dressing)1 tsp of dijon mustard Instructions: cook pasta, chop vegetables, combine/mix dressing, combine dressing and "salad", add salt and pepper to taste, enjoy! (recipe should take 15 minutes) (Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.) Thanks for joining us. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonors

In this special episode of Honor Spotlight, host Robin Lee sits down with the powerhouse trio behind MTSU’s Honors advising team: Dr. Judy Albakry, Laura Clippard, and Emilee Buckmeyer. From thesis triumphs to Reddit-fueled student questions, we pull back the curtain on the people who guide, cheer, and occasionally rescue students through their academic journeys.Hear how each advisor found their way to the Honors College, what they love most about working with students, and the quirky hobbies and heartfelt stories that make them unforgettable. Whether you're a first-year student or a seasoned senior, this episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and a few unexpected laughs (Connect Four, anyone?).Topics include:·  What advising really offers beyond course planning·  Tips for navigating thesis projects and fellowships·  Honors housing, scholarships, and financial aid myths·  Personal journeys, favorite podcasts, and study abroad dreamsTune in to discover how these advisors turn academic advising into a transformative experience—and why Honors at MTSU is more than just a minor.

It’s Giving Tuesday—and we’re spotlighting the power of generosity in action. In this episode of Honors Spotlight, host Robin Lee sits down with Katie Enzor from MTSU’s Development Office and Johari Hamilton and Honors alumna to demystify endowments and explore how gifts of all sizes are transforming student lives in the Honors College. From personal stories to practical insights, we’re breaking down how endowments work, why they matter, and how you can be part of something lasting. 🎓 Real stories. 💡 Big impact. 💙 One student at a time.(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit ⁠honors.mtsu.edu⁠.

In this episode, host Robin Lee sits down with Renee Tettah, an MTSU Honors student, political science major, and recipient of the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, to share her unforgettable study abroad experience in Senegal.Renee opens up about what it was like to step into a new, but semi-familiar, culture, study a new language, and build connections that reshaped how she sees the world. From moments of challenge to personal growth, her journey highlights the courage it takes to step outside your comfort zone—and the rewards that come with it.(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit ⁠honors.mtsu.edu⁠.

This episode of Honors Spotlight takes you inside the world of undergraduate research with MTSU Honors students Tatyana Martinez and Ian Wilson. Through the National Science Foundation’s Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) program, they spent the summer working in the Microbiome Ecology Lab, where they studied snake fungal disease—a serious threat to wildlife health.Hosted by Robin Lee, this conversation explores:·       What it’s really like to be part of an REU·       The highs, challenges, and surprises of hands-on research·       Why their work matters for both science and the environment·       Advice for other students considering research opportunitiesWhether you’re curious about microbiology, thinking about applying for an REU, or just want to hear how students push beyond the classroom, this episode will leave you inspired. (Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit ⁠honors.mtsu.edu⁠.  RESOURCE LINKS:Undergraduate Research Center: https://urc.mtsu.eduUndergraduate Fellowships Office: https://honors.mtsu.edu/ufo/Career Development Center: https://www.mtsu.edu/career/

In this episode of Honors Spotlight, we catch up with Honors alumnus John Tate, a recent graduate in Video and Film Production who is now living in Japan through the JET Program. From navigating life overseas to teaching English and immersing himself in Japanese culture, John shares what his journey has been like so far.We also rewind to his time at MTSU, where he produced his Honors thesis project: Go! Go! Challenge—a Japanese-inspired game show that brought creativity, humor, and collaboration to life on campus.Host Robin Lee chats with John about:·       Adjusting to daily life and work in Japan 🇯🇵·       How the JET Program is shaping his future·       Behind-the-scenes stories from filming Go! Go! Challenge ·       Why chasing big, bold ideas is worth itWhether you’re curious about study and work abroad opportunities, interested in film and media, or just love hearing about new adventures, this episode will transport you across the globe. (Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit ⁠honors.mtsu.edu⁠. RESOURCE LINKSJET Program: https://jetprogramusa.orgGo! Go! Challenge! Full episode: https://youtu.be/OfDxG1bxP_k?si=IkxsqFnGNQkMK-DRMTSU alumnus, student selected for prestigious JET Program, including a first in a coordinator role: https://mtsunews.com/alumnus-student-jet-program-2025/VFP student produces Japanese-inspired game show for unconventional capstone: https://mtsusidelines.com/2025/03/21/vfp-student-produces-japanese-inspired-game-show-for-unconventional-capstone/

Listen to Aubrey Penney, Gamze Mert, Maia Dennis, and Taylor Tims talk about their transfer student experiences and hear why they chose MTSU!

In this inspiring episode of Honors Spotlight, we talk with Alex Roberecki, a Canadian-born Honors College student majoring in Commercial Songwriting and minoring in Entrepreneurship. Alex opens up about his journey to faith through music, how his creative work helped him escape a destructive lifestyle, and the role that MTSU and the Honors College have played in shaping his path. From writing heartfelt songs to releasing music as a country-Christian artist, Alex shares what drives his passion and purpose—and why he believes music can heal.(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit honors.mtsu.edu.

In this episode of Honors Spotlight, host Robin Lee sits down with two extraordinary Honors students, Taylor Tims and Ariel Nicastro, as they reflect on their transformative study abroad experiences that took them across continents and deep into their fields of study.Taylor, an anthropology major, shares what it was like to hike into the Amazon Rainforest for a real archaeological excavation in Brazil—and how her adventures continued in Tanzania with a field school experience that expanded her view of global heritage and culture. Meanwhile, Ariel, a physics major and Goldwater Scholar, discusses her summer in Canada, where she took a deep dive into religious studies and explored the rich cultural and political life of Montreal and Toronto.Together, they offer a powerful look at what it means to step outside the classroom—and your comfort zone—to learn, grow, and connect with the world in bold new ways.🌎 In this episode:– Digging for history in the heart of the Amazon– Faith, science, and cultural discovery in Canada– Learning to adapt in unfamiliar environments– How the MTSU Honors College supported their journeys– Advice for students considering studying abroad(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit honors.mtsu.edu.

In this powerful Constitution Day episode of Honor Spotlight, host Robin Lee sits down with Dr. Amy Sayward—Professor of History and the new Director of the American Democracy Project at MTSU—for a deep dive into civic life, personal responsibility, and the enduring relevance of the U.S. Constitution.From her early experiences with student-led activism in rural New York to her family’s legacy of military service, Sayward shares how her personal journey shaped her passion for democratic engagement. The conversation explores how students can live out constitutional values, why civic participation matters, and what to expect from this year’s keynote speaker, journalist David Brooks.Whether you're a history buff, a future changemaker, or just curious about how democracy intersects with student life, this episode offers inspiration, insight, and a call to action.🎧 Highlights include:Sayward’s first taste of civic action—and a bold graduation protestReflections on growing up in a military family and its impact on civic valuesHow MTSU students are shaping democracy through the American Democracy ProjectA preview of Constitution Week events and David Brooks’ campus visitConstitution Day is September 17—get involved, stay informed, and be inspired.(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit honors.mtsu.edu.

In this quick teaser episode of Honors Spotlight, we’re giving you the inside scoop on all the exciting events and upcoming podcast episodes this month! From the Student Organization Fair to the ice cream social, Buchanan inaugurations, and Homecoming, September is packed with opportunities to connect and celebrate.Plus, don’t miss what’s coming on the podcast: Dr. Amy Sayward on Constitution Day (Sept. 9) and a special study abroad episode featuring Ariel Nicastro and Taylor Tims (Sept. 23).Tune in and mark your calendars!

In this debut episode of Honors Spotlight, host Robin Lee sits down with Colman Connolly—an MTSU Honors student, world champion accompanist, and passionate steward of Irish musical heritage. Colman takes us on a journey through his creative thesis project, which brings new life to the legendary recordings of Michael Coleman, a master fiddler who transformed traditional Irish music in the early 20th century.Blending his deep cultural roots with cutting-edge AI technology, Colman remasters Coleman’s historic recordings, removing harsh accompaniments and restoring their original brilliance. Hear about his process, his personal connection to the music, and how this work preserves not only sound, but spirit.🎧 In this episode: The legacy of Michael Coleman and the Sligo fiddle style How AI stem separation is revolutionizing music restoration Colman’s upbringing in the Irish-American trad scene  A before-and-after audio comparison of remastered tracks Why preserving cultural authenticity matters more than ever(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit honors.mtsu.edu.

An introduction of what is to come from the MTSU Honors College beginning this fall!(Intro music by MTSU Music major Elloise Layus.)Thanks for joining us. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others. Follow us on social media. @MTSUHonorsFor more information, visit ⁠honors.mtsu.edu⁠.