Students

Favian was born in Miami, FL and moved to Cary, NC. He earned his BS in exercise science at Appalachian State University, where he originally started on the pre-med track. However, Favian quickly fell in love with how clever and adaptable the human body is—especially how it responds to stress. Outside of his studies, he's a pilot, rock climber, and a coffee enthusiast—both in drinking it and understanding the chemistry behind it.

Olivia is originally from Lakeville, MN, but earned her BS in exercise science at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire. She found her passion for physiology through her love of coaching and movement—specifically running and dancing. Through her studies, Olivia seeks to expand the literature on women and other populations traditionally overlooked in kinesiology research. In her free time, she enjoys reading, the outdoors (even through the Minnesota winter), and playing with her cat, Cricket. 

Sean is from Rochester, New York, and attended SUNY Brockport, where he dual-majored in exercise science and kinesiology with minors in coaching and biology. While taking classes, he competed in cross country and track and field. He also obtained an MS in Athletic Administration while finishing up his NCAA eligibility. His academic interests are broad, but is passionate about the body’s adaptability to specific training loads. During his master’s program, he was fortunate to serve as a Teaching Assistant, which deepened his appreciation for human biology. Sean hopes to share his passion through a future teaching or academic role. Outside of school, Sean enjoys a variety of endurance sports and values the sense of community that comes with outdoor recreation.

Joey Runion

Joey is originally from Cottage Grove, MN, and is a junior Kinesiology major in the Honors Program. As a pre-med student with aspirations for orthopedic surgery, he also works as an Emergency Department Technician at United Hospital and as an Anatomy Lab Technician at the UMN Medical School. Joey is particularly interested in how music functions as an ergogenic aid to drive physical performance and motivation. Outside of his studies, he serves as the President of the Swifties at UMN club and on the board of the Pre-Med AMSA club. He is a firm believer in the power of a good concert, trying new foods, and finding the perfect playlist for any mood.

Sheida Rezaei

Sheida is from Rochester, MN, and is a junior in Kinesiology pursuing a career as a physician. She is particularly interested in research involving exercise, the cardiovascular system, and overall health related to disease prevention and management. She is passionate about women's health and research in the field of Kinesiology. She currently volunteers at Fairview, supporting the patients and providers of the hospital. Outside of her studies, Sheida enjoys staying active through running, golf, and lifting, as well as baking, listening to music, and spending time outside.