Palanisamy has also studied skin cancer with Dr. James Rheinwold at Harvard Medical School, researching the changes that take place during the early stages of carcinogenesis.

Palanisamy also tutors clients at the Multidisciplinary Institute for Neuropsychological Development.

Other Harvard undergraduates were also honored by USA Today.

Jinesh N. Shah '98 won a spot on the Second Team. A cognitive neuroscience concentrator, he hopes to combine teaching and medicine by forming preventive health and awareness curriculum for high schools.

Currently, the Leverett House resident works in Professor of Psychology Stephen M. Kosslyn's laboratory, studying the brain regions involved when one determines the identity of objects which are viewed in contorted positions.

"On one side, he's really fun, but on the other side, if you seriously want to talk to him, he'll listen and provide different ways to approach problems," said Dave Hurvitz, an assistant in Kosslyn's lab.

Shah showed his desire to interact with others when he taught biology at North Quincy High School as part of his training for the Undergraduate Teacher Education Program. He has also worked as group coordinator for the Keylatch Afterschool Program.

Another Harvard student, Lauren K. Williams '99, earned an honorable mention form USA Today. The Pforzheimer House resident was unable to be reached for comment.