Integrated Life Sciences (ILS) program sophomore Ben Waterman is transforming data into action through his community-focused research internship with Say It Loud Advocates Research Network. Through this internship, Waterman, a biology and psychology double major, has found an unexpected way to blend his academic interests with real-world impact.
Last semester, while searching for a research internship, Waterman found Say It Loud, a social impact agency that transforms community engagement and community empowerment. Drawn to the organization’s emphasis on outreach, he soon found himself delving into a unique research project on noise pollution reduction here in Prince George’s County.
“I developed graphics demonstrating how lower-income districts in the county are disproportionately affected by noise pollution, constantly hearing sounds from the highway or passing trains,” Waterman said. His work involved not just data analysis, but also community engagement through webinars. His challenge was to translate complex concepts into accessible language and formats.
The experience opened Waterman’s eyes to the intersections between his pre-med studies at UMD and public health. “Community members I spoke with resonated with the psychological effects of constant noise and connected those effects with physical health problems they were having,” he said, highlighting the biological and psychological impacts of noise pollution.
The internship also emphasized the importance of self-advocacy and equitable engagement. Waterman’s research revealed that many residents were unaware of noise pollution as a concept, despite experiencing its effects daily. His work also supports efforts to encourage community members to reach out to elected officials about their concerns and advocate for themselves.
Waterman’s supervisor, Chiquita Jackson, praised his qualities as a student researcher. “Ben’s analytical skills are unparalleled. He has been instrumental in identifying trends in noise pollution in Southern Maryland and D.C.,” Jackson wrote.
Waterman credits the ILS program for pushing him toward this research opportunity and providing crucial support. “If it wasn’t for the initial push from ILS for research, I wouldn’t have been searching for a research internship,” he said.
As he continues his work with Say It Loud, Waterman aims to further integrate research and advocacy, carrying these valuable community-centered experiences into his future medical career. His passion for environmental justice and commitment to equity are apparent in his work, making him a standout student researcher and advocate for change.
—
The Integrated Life Sciences (ILS) Program provides a holistic, accelerated curriculum for talented STEM students, combining rigorous coursework, research requirements, service-learning experiences, and a supportive living-learning community to prepare students for successful careers in research, medicine, and education. Learn more about the ILS program at ils.umd.edu.
