Research Interests

As I narrow in my focus for graduate programs and future research, I am aiming for a topic that adequately matches my passion for research and future clinical practice. Currently I am interested in severe and persistent mental illnesses, specifically in studying schizophrenia disorder. I am tailoring my McNair research to represent my research interests, with the hopes that this presents me as a stronger candidate for graduate admission.

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I hope to further understand the cognition of those diagnosed with schizophrenia, with the plan to implement my research into clinical practice in my future career. Translating what I study into helping individuals is my ultimate goal in becoming a Clinical Psychologist. I will be applying to graduate schools that offer schizophrenia research, either through a research lab or independent work with a faculty member. Finding a program that offers the research I am passionate about is critical in my search for the right school for myself. Understanding the neuro perspective of schizophrenia is key in conceptualizing the disorder and seeing how biological factors interact with emotions and decision-making. With the Psychopharmacology course I am taking this summer, I hope to have a better understanding for how prescription medications affect individuals.

I am not just intrigued in the brain functioning of these individuals, but feel a direct calling to help these individuals in their treatment.

Reading non-fiction recounts of family and personal experiences with schizophrenia allows me to gain better insight and empathy for my future clients. Not only do I find interest in working with this population, but I feel a direct calling to help my clients through treatment and to enable them with useful tools.