Hyesun You, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Teaching and Learning. Prior to joining UI, Hyesun served as an Assistant Professor at Arkansas Tech University. She also contributed as a Postdoctoral Fellow at New York University and Michigan State University, where she actively participated in NSF-funded grant projects. Hyesun holds a BS in Chemistry and an MS in Science Education from Yonsei University, along with an MEd in Quantitative Methods and a PhD in Science Education from the University of Texas at Austin. Her research focuses on interdisciplinary learning and teaching, technology-integrated instructional practices, and the development and validation of assessments in STEM education. As an educator, supporting first-generation students carries profound significance for me. Often beginning their academic journeys without the guidance of familial experience, these students face unique challenges. I believe it's our collective responsibility to cultivate an inclusive environment that nurtures their growth and equips them with the tools required to thrive.