Outstanding Seniors Honored for Service and Academic Achievement

The Department of Neuroscience, Cognition and Behavior at the University of San Diego has named Christine Barseghian, Kaydie Isaacs and Kayla Phan as recipients of the 2024 Outstanding Service and Academic Achievement Award. This honor recognizes graduating seniors who have made significant contributions to the department and university through leadership, mentorship and service. Whether leading student organizations, serving as teaching assistants (TA) or working in departmental roles, these students have demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting their peers and advancing the department’s mission. 

Kaydie Isaacs, a third-year Honors student majoring in behavioral neuroscience with a minor in chemistry, is graduating a year early. Originally from Hawai‘i, she has been actively involved in a wide range of campus organizations, including the Neuroscience Club, People of the Islands Club, Psi Chi and the Honors Student Board. “These experiences have really shaped my growth as a leader, student and friend during my time here,” she said. Isaacs plans to return home to Hawai‘i, gain clinical experience and apply to medical school next summer. 

Kayla Phan, a behavioral neuroscience major with a minor in chemistry, has conducted research in both the Tran Lab and LAMP Lab. She has also been involved in the Asian Students Association, Alpha Epsilon Delta and Associated Student Government. “I made so many memories and friendships through these experiences,” she shared. Phan is currently working at a neuro-ophthalmology clinic and plans to apply to medical school in the upcoming cycle. 

Christine Barseghian, also a behavioral neuroscience major with minors in chemistry and biomedical ethics, is on the pre-med track. Originally from Los Angeles, she enjoys reading and dancing in her free time. Barseghian will be taking a gap year to work in a clinical setting before applying to medical school. 

Reflecting on their time at USD, the awardees shared some of their favorite memories. Isaacs spoke fondly of the friendships she built within the department. “They’ve truly become my closest community — the people I look forward to seeing every day and planning classes with,” she said. Phan highlighted her study abroad experience in Japan, saying, “I cherish the memories that I made here, with my friends, in my heart.” For Barseghian, surviving organic chemistry stood out. “I made some of my best friends in that class as we were on the struggle bus together,” she said. 

Each student also reflected on their most impactful learning experiences. Isaacs pointed to her Honors thesis research in the lab of Associate Professor and Chair of Chemistry and Biochemistry Jessica Bell, PhD. “This experience taught me so many valuable skills and showed me the excitement of becoming an expert in my own little corner of science,” she said. Phan described presenting her research at conferences as especially meaningful. “I’ll cherish the memories, experiences and connections I’ve made during the process,” she said. Barseghian found her role as a TA for Professor Rachel Blaser’s learning and behavior class to be particularly rewarding. “It was a full circle moment to be able to help others feeling the same way I did,” she shared. 

The awardees also expressed gratitude to the mentors and peers who supported them. Isaacs thanked Adjunct Assistant Professor Elizabeth Walcott, PhD; Assistant Professor Jacqueline Bonds, PhD; Dr. Bell and Director of Pre-Health Advising Services Cassandra Gomez, MPH, along with her friends. Phan acknowledged Assistant Professor of Biology Cawa Tran, PhD, Assistant Professor Laura Getz, PhD and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Chemistry and Biochemistry Debbie Finocchio, PhD, as well as her family. Barseghian expressed appreciation for Dr. Blaser’s guidance throughout her time at USD. 

For future students, Isaacs encouraged building relationships and embracing opportunities. “It creates a strong support network for years to come,” she said. Phan advised staying open to new experiences. Barseghian offered a simple but powerful reminder: “Comparison is the thief of joy.”