NEURODIVERSIFYING STEM THROUGH AI-EMPOWERED SELF-REGULATED LEARNING ABSTRACT To fully realize the innovative potential of neurodiverse graduate students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), novel approaches are needed to bring student assets, academic environments, and mentoring relationships into alignment. This three-phase qualitative study investigated the experiences of neurodiverse graduate students and explored the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support their academic success and well-being. Early research phases highlighted self-awareness, self-regulation, self-efficacy, and self-advocacy as core processes for navigating graduate education, informing the development of a strengths-based Neurodiversity-Informed Self-Regulated Learning (ND-SRL) framework. The final phase explored the use of an AI Virtual Mentor to offer timely, affirming support that scaffolds self-regulated learning and empowers students to craft learning environments in which they may thrive. This study also investigated how students experienced the tool as a relational supplement to advising, including how prior expectations shaped engagement and perceptions of its role and limits. Findings show that students used the tool to leverage strengths and support challenges, building disciplinary knowledge and skills while enhancing productivity and well-being. Many experienced it as responsive and emotionally supportive for general guidance but set clear boundaries about its role and ethical use. This research contributes to the understanding of neurodiverse graduate experiences, offering insights into mechanisms of AI support and how neurodiverse students understand the role of AI tools alongside traditional advising.

Students who may benefit from attending a Let's Talk: Mental Health Office Hours session include:Students who want help connecting to resources but are unsure where to begin Students who are looking for advice on a non-clinical issue Students who are unsure about therapy and are curious about what it is like to talk to a therapist Students who may have concerns about the mental health of a friend and seek advice on how to support their friend If a student is not an imminent risk, and is refusing your support in contacting our office, you may also consider contacting the UConn Student CARE Team (https://studentcareteam.uconn.edu/). This session is held by Chelsea Morales, Psy.D (https://studenthealth.uconn.edu/person/chelsea-morales/)

Title: "Binding of Fusobacterium nucleatum autotransporter adhesin CbpF to human CEACAM1 and CEACAM5: A Velcro model for bacterium adhesion" Information Link: https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2516574122 (https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2516574122)

Stop by South Campus to connect with Student Health and Wellness's Sexperts & chat about sex and relationships! Sexpert Peer Health Educator Peer Support Drop-In Hours are a free service offered on the UConn Storrs campus. Peer Support Drop-In Hours are a great option for students who have questions about sex and sexual health, are looking for a non-judgmental, laid-back environment to discuss a sex related concern or issue, or are interested in improving their sexual health and personal well-being. The Sexperts are trained to provide education, support, and connection to resources on and off-campus on a wide variety of topics pertaining to sex, sexual health, and relationships.  Fall 2025 Drop In Hours: September 15th – December 5thMonday: 12pm-4pm Tuesday: 9am-6:30pm Wednesday: 11:15am-6pm Thursday: 11am-5:30pm Friday: 10:30am-5:30pm   Sexperts (and supervising staff) are designated confidential employees under UConn's Title IX Reporting Obligations. Peer support sessions are for educational and support purposes only. Peer support visits are not on-call or emergency services, and are not for individualized medical advice, nor are they counseling or therapy. If you can't make the times listed, or would prefer to schedule an appointment with a staff sex educator, please reach out to Program Manager for Sexual Health and Peer Education Initiatives, Cassy Setzler, at cassy@uconn.edu (mailto:cassy@uconn.edu) For more information, visit: studenthealth.uconn.edu/sexperts (https://studenthealth.uconn.edu/sexperts) or email cassy@uconn.edu (mailto:cassy@uconn.edu)

In recognition of Veterans Day, join us for a virtual presentation featuring Emily Lugo, Outreach Coordinator, and Rebekah Mizener, Veteran Services Coordinator, from Veterans and Military Programs at UConn. This session will highlight the university's ongoing commitment to supporting veterans, service members, and military-affiliated students.The Office of Veterans Affairs and Military Programs fosters a seamless, inclusive experience for military-affiliated students, their families, and alumni across all UConn campuses, uniting comprehensive services and support under one flagship university to ensure every student can thrive. Through community engagement, interdepartmental collaboration, and external partnerships, the office provides an individualized approach that strengthens connection and belonging within the UConn community.This event is part of a virtual workshop series highlighting programs and initiatives that foster collaboration and engagement across the university.

For the full class schedule, descriptions, and to register, please visit the UConn Recreation website (https://recreation.uconn.edu/group-fitness-schedule/).