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Rovialyn Arciaga
Rovialyn (Rovi) Arciaga (She/Her/Hers) has been a STEM Content Contributor at Research Girl, Inc. since November of 2024. Her current scholarly research, and content contributions to Research Girl, Inc., focus on chemistry, pre-medical, mental health, and inclusion and access.
About
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Languages: English, Ilocano/Ilokano
Biographical Sketch:
Rovialyn (Rovi) Arciaga is an undergraduate student at Chapman University with a passion for education, science, and mental health advocacy. Her fascination with the universe and aerospace at a young age evolved into a deep interest in the sciences, particularly chemistry, and its intersection with human behavior and mental health.
Rovi's academic journey has been shaped by perseverance, overcoming personal mental health challenges while excelling in her studies. Her passion for chemistry began in high school when she completed Advanced Placement (AP) Chemistry and began mentoring other students. Now majoring in Chemistry at Chapman, Rovi explores the complexities of life at the molecular level, with a focus on understanding how chemicals influence human thoughts, emotions, and behavior. These experiences have guided her towards a career in medicine, with aspirations to specialize in Psychiatry.
At Chapman, Rovi is actively involved in leadership and research endeavors that align with her academic and personal goals. Rovi conducts research on bacterial stress response mechanisms, including bacterial cells and variations in transfer RNA (tRNA) in mutant bacterial strains. She extends her passion for chemistry through her involvement in Chapman's American Chemical Society (ACS) Chapter, organizing events to foster interest in STEM.
As co-leader of the Schmid College of Science and Technology's Student Leadership Council Mental Health Committee, she actively promotes mental health awareness and wellbeing by sharing practical coping strategies and providing access to mental health resources through the College's Schmid Weekly publication. Further, she is committed to teaching underrepresented elementary and middle school students in Anaheim, California, introducing them to STEM concepts.
Beyond her commitments on campus, Rovi actively gives back to her community in Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, where she works as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at Kāhala Nui, an assisted living facility. In this position, she provides compassionate care to older adult residents, many of whom experience mental health struggles. These experiences have further reinforced her desire to pursue a career in psychiatry, focusing on understanding and addressing the underlying causes of psychological conditions rather than just symptomatic treatment.
Rovi's unique integration of chemistry and mental health advocacy fuels her mission to bridge the gap. Her vision is to contribute to advancements in medical care through innovative approaches encompassing her academic expertise and commitment to improving mental health outcomes.