Kirstenn Claire Dolera Calaguas

• The GJB2 gene, which produces connexin 26, is a major cause of non-syndromic sensorineural hearing loss (NSHL) worldwide, and my research focuses on identifying specific mutations and their effects on hearing
• I explore population-specific variations in GJB2 mutations across regions like East Asia, Europe, and Africa, as well as related genes such as GJB6 and SLC26A4
• My work reviews genetic testing methods, including next-generation sequencing (NGS) and Sanger sequencing, to detect mutations in affected individuals
• I study advanced treatments, such as cochlear implants and gene therapy, for inherited hearing loss
• I analyze how environmental factors, like viral infections, interact with genetic mutations to worsen hearing loss, aiming to improve early diagnosis, targeted treatments, and family counseling

At the main lobby, I assist the concierge staff with welcoming patients/visitors, ensuring COVID-19 safety measures, and escorting patients/visitors to their destination. In the lab, I organize blocks of different kinds of tissue and microscopic slides filled with specimens in the histology lab. I also organize and distribute COVID-19 tests and help run tubes that contain biohazard specimens in the main lab.

After hurricane Milton, volunteers and I brought people's luggage, items, and pets up to the second floor of Hard Rock Casino where the shelter is. We helped evacuees register, settle down, find a bed, and get situated. The next 2 days, other volunteers and I partnered with The Salvation Army to give out food and water to people that were disastrously impacted by the hurricane. I also packaged the food up and gave them to the volunteers who were distributing them across the neighborhood.

• Worked in team environment to maintain high levels of productivity
• Positively impacted the lives of countless individuals within the community by dedicating time, energy, and passion towards people struck by the hurricane

• I shadowed Dr. Robby Wu, a cardiologist at Tampa General Hospital, observing his calm and decisive approach to patient care, including complex cases like intracranial hemorrhage with cardiac complications
• I witnessed Dr. Wu’s collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, including fellows, APRNs, dietitians, and ECMO specialists, to manage conditions such as Afib, cardiogenic shock, and influenza-related pneumonia
• I learned about mechanical heart support devices like the H-VAD, treatment strategies for heart failure, and the importance of assessing clinical signs such as edema
• Dr. Wu explained coronary artery x-rays, the role of stents, and bypass surgeries in treating blocked vessels, while I also observed procedures like echocardiograms, bronchoscopy, dialysis, and stroke management

• Watch how Dr. Wayne Cruse, Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, carefully assesses skin cancer and analyzes what the best treatment option is for the patient
• See how he follows trusted guidelines to decide the best way to do the surgery
• Learn how he talks with and cares for patients before and after their surgery

• 11 hours of physician shadowing with Dr. Rajay Seudath, Family Medicine Physician
• Connected with patients, a healthcare team, and the physician
• Auscultated lung sounds, checked for pulse, interpreted vital signs, observed and listened to patient-physician interaction