Recent Honors alum publishes research in medical journal
Ashna Deshpande, a recent Honors College alum who graduated with degrees in Biology and Psychology in the College of Humanities and Sciences, has been busy since graduating. Most notably, Deshpande had her research project published by a medical journal. She credits her time at VCU and in Honors in showing her how to pursue her interests and collaborate with researchers. Read more about Deshpande's research, her time at VCU and more below.
What have you recently accomplished?
I co-authored the paper “Estrogenic Regulation of Perineuronal Nets in the Mouse Insular Cortex and Hippocampus” under the mentorship of Dr. Amy Lasek in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology at Virginia Commonwealth University. This project allowed me to contribute to experimental design, data analysis and manuscript preparation. The paper was published in Neuropharmacology in August 2025.
What did you gain from this project?
Through this project, I gained research skills in formal analysis and data curation. I also developed expertise in immunostaining and fluorescence labeling. Most importantly, I learned how to write and collaborate effectively with others on a peer-reviewed publication.
How do you feel Honors helped you?
The Honors program provided me with mentorship and resources that encouraged me to pursue an independent research project. VCU Honors courses helped me develop critical thinking and time management skills. The Honors community has motivating faculty and peers that inspired and guided me into discovering a research project that I was passionate about.
The Honors program provided me with mentorship and resources that encouraged me to pursue an independent research project. VCU Honors courses helped me develop critical thinking and time management skills. The Honors community has motivating faculty and peers that inspired and guided me into discovering a research project that I was passionate about.
What advice do you have for current Honors students?
I would take advantage of the opportunities that VCU Honors has available like mentorship and research opportunities. Honors has a variety of different clubs and programs that appeal to different interests. Getting involved in the Honor’s community opens doors for leadership, service and collaboration.