Building confidence and communication skills through the BIO5 Ambassadors program
Hanami Inagaki, a 2025 University of Arizona alumna, reflects on how the BIO5 Ambassadors program helped her grow as a science communicator, leader, and aspiring researcher in green chemistry.
As part of its mission to prepare the next generation of researchers and innovators, the BIO5 Institute at the University of Arizona offers students the opportunity to develop both professionally and personally.
The BIO5 Ambassadors Internship program allows undergraduate students the opportunity to gain real-world experience in science communication, event planning, public engagement, and leadership.
Apply to be a 2025-2026 BIO5 Ambassador
2024–2025 BIO5 Ambassador Hanami Inagaki focused on science communication and event planning throughout her ambassadorship. She graduated in May 2025 with an undergraduate degree in chemistry.
"Becoming a BIO5 Ambassador helps you build transferable skills that go beyond your classes and even beyond your major," said Inagaki.
From organizing events and leading tours to reflecting on leadership, Hanami shares how the program helped her grow both personally and professionally, shaping her future goals in research and beyond.
Q&A with BIO5 Ambassador Hanami Inagaki
Who have you been working with over this past year as a BIO5 Ambassador, and what has your role been?
During the first semester, I worked on event planning at the BIO5 Institute with my mentors Amy Barber, marketing manager, and Tammy White, event and tour coordinator.
Hanami Inagaki with her mentors Amy Barber (left) and Tammy White (left), as well as Josh Fernandez (second from left), BIO5 Ambassador program student coordinator.
In the second semester, I led tours, helped set up events, and work on two final projects. One the projects was creating a professional development workshop about mentorship, and the other was creating a video about milestones as an ambassador. Throughout the year, I also attended various professional development workshops.
What did you enjoy the most about your BIO5 Ambassadorship?
I enjoyed the workshops the most, especially the workshops about leadership and storytelling on social media. Those sessions gave me a chance to reflect on myself and motivated me to grow. The workshops also gave me new perspectives on teamwork and how to communicate effectively to build a strong network.
How did this experience help shape your personal journey?
The variety of presentation and speaking experiences helped me become more confident with my own public speaking ability. The confidence has already helped improve my class presentations and research communication, and it will definitely continue to help me in the future.
Did your experience with BIO5 change your career aspirations?
Yes, I have always been interested in research, with this opportunity I also gained new mindsets about the business side of science. It is critical to communicate the roles and impacts of the science clearly and professionally to a wide range of audiences.
What was the highlight of your experience as a BIO5 Ambassador?
One highlight was leading tours at the Behind BIO5 event, I really enjoyed sharing what BIO5 is all about with community members and visitors.
Hanami Inagaki led a tour as part of the community outreach event Behind BIO5 in April 2025.
What are your next steps?
My next step is to apply to graduate school in green chemistry. Through the application process, the experience in this internship has boosted my confidence in sharing my story, clarifying my motivations, and highlighting the skills I have gained.
Applications for the 2025 - 2026 BIO5 Ambassadorship closes on August 31, 2025. Apply today!