When Omar Bello, a mathematics major at Cal State Fullerton, applied to the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Center Fellows Program, he saw it as a chance to challenge himself academically. What he didn’t expect was how deeply the experience would shape his future — from building confidence in his field to presenting research across the country and even considering a Ph.D. program.
As a newly accepted UROC Fellow, Bello is contributing to the “G𝜋T: Generative Practice Interview Trainer” project, an AI-powered mock interview tool that is being developed by an interdisciplinary student research team. This tool will help students practice job interviews and receive feedback, with a focus on accessibility, open-source design and reducing bias.
Bello’s role focuses on literature review and collaborative research design. He works alongside students from computer science, mathematics and criminal justice, helping to frame the foundational questions that will guide the tool’s development.
“We have students from all these different majors working together,” Bello said. “Everyone brings different knowledge and ideas. I’m learning how to form research questions by combining perspectives and figuring out where they connect.”
The project is led by Alison Marzocchi, professor of mathematics, and is funded by the California Education Learning Lab. She emphasizes the value of students taking part in the earliest phases of research.
“We want this to be an open-source tool for students across California,” said Marzocchi. “But it has to be ethical and effective. The exciting thing is that Omar and his cohort are at the beginning of the research. They get to lay the foundation and ask the original questions that are guiding our work.”
She also underscores the essential role that students play in the project’s design.
“One of our goals is to actively mitigate bias in the tool,” said Marzocchi. “Having a diverse team of faculty and students from different disciplines, linguistic backgrounds and demographics helps us recognize and push back against potential blind spots.”
A Community That Builds Confidence
For Bello, the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Center has offered more than research support. It has helped him feel like he belongs to a community of scholars.
“UROC makes you feel welcomed,” he said. “They bring students together from different majors and backgrounds. There’s a real sense of support, and I think that’s really important for students.”
Omar’s academic journey began at Cypress College, where he was part of the PUENTE and STEM² programs. These experiences helped him build confidence in math, receive mentorship and feel seen in a supportive cultural context. After transferring to CSUF, he continued his growth through Project RAISE and GEAR UP, both of which provided research experience and professional development.
“All of those programs helped me believe I belonged in higher education and in STEM,” Bello said. “They helped me build skills, find mentorship and connect with a community.”
Last year, Bello presented at the Research in Undergraduate Mathematics Education Northeast Conference in Boston — a big moment for the self-described quiet student.
“I never thought I would present research to professors and educators,” he said. “But I took the opportunity, and now I’m thinking seriously about graduate school. Maybe even a Ph.D.”
His advice to other students is simple: “When an opportunity comes, take it, even if you feel nervous or unsure. These experiences help you grow. You might be surprised by what you can do.”
Empowering Students Through Research
The Undergraduate Research Opportunity Center at Cal State Fullerton supports students through research fellowships, faculty mentorship, conference travel funding and research training across all majors. Supported by the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs, UROC is committed to expanding access to meaningful, high-impact academic experiences.
“Our mission is to support students in gaining meaningful research experience, building strong mentoring relationships and preparing for graduate school or careers,” said Nicole Bonuso, UROC director of UROC and professor of geological sciences. “Seeing students like Omar grow and thrive is what UROC is all about.”
“I love working with UROC,” added Marzocchi. “So many of my students have benefited from their programs, not just research support, but travel grants, summer experiences and professional growth. UROC gives students real opportunities to explore and expand their potential.”
To learn more about UROC and how to get involved, visit the website.