Letter From the Editors

This publication marks our second Spring Issue of the Georgetown Scientific Research Journal,  
Georgetown’s open-source, peer-reviewed scientific journal. Within this whirlwind of the year, and with 
so much uncertainty, we are amazed by our student researchers’ consistency and commitment, a true 

reflection of their never-ending pursuit to share scientific knowledge, and to advance progress in all their fields 
of study. Indeed, without such dedicated students, the wheels of science can no longer turn. In addition to our 
work with our journal, we have created events to help further inspire our peers through listening to the stories of 
admirable research pioneers, and how they too faced challenges but did not allow these challenges to make them 
lose sight of their goals for scientific achievement.
 
Herein are articles of a wind-ranging variety, including a policy proposal, examining the impacts of climate on 
health, and food insecurity. This issue is an embodiment of this passionate spirit—articles underpinned by a 
common thread—the work of our fellow students, constantly pushing the envelope for undergraduate scientific 
research. 
 
Indeed, this publication is a celebration of our fellow students and all that they have done, and continue to do, to 
forge a culture of scientific understanding, curiosity, and achievement, that will hopefully permeate and inspire 
incoming students, current peers, and the faculty who share their knowledge with us. In our fourth issue, we hope 
to continue this tradition of sharing cutting-edge scientific literature and promoting the diverse and unique voices 
of scientific research here at Georgetown University. It is also our humble hope that by showcasing some of this 
university’s finest undergraduate scientific research, we will encourage new voices to count themselves adherents 
to our culture—and community—of curiosity, rigor, and dedication to science. On our behalf, please congratulate 
these passionate students, and revel in the marvels of scientific research. 

Nesreen Shahrour
Editor-in-Chief

Layan Shahrour
Executive Editor

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	Table of Contents
	Letter From the Editors
	Increasing COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake in the United States: Addressing Reasons for Vaccine Hesitancy th
	An Analysis of the Effects of Frequency and Type of Physical Activity on Self-Esteem in Adolescent M
	Addressing American Obesity: A Policy Proposal
	The Select Agent Regulations: Structure and Stricture
	An Evaluation of the Human Impact of Climatic Factors in Cook County, Illinois
	An Evaluation of Food Insecurity in the D.C. Community
	About the Authors
	Meet the Staff
	Acknowledgements