Biography

I joined the Developmental Sciences program in Fall of 2020 after having previously obtained a B.A. in Cognitive Science and Philosophy from The Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD. I developed a passion for the field of educational psychology after taking relevant coursework, conducting human development research, interning for the Educational Testing Service, and working at an after school academic program. Ultimately, the reputation, rigor, and supportive culture of Illinois’s Educational Psychology department drew me to this doctoral program.

My research interests concern how students of diverse socio-cultural backgrounds develop connections and support one another in higher education settings. I am especially interested in using a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods to examine how interactive learning behaviors such as help-seeking and help-giving emerge from one's socio-cultural context. I currently work with Prof. Michelle Perry to understand and improve students’ experiences with help-seeking and help-giving in introductory STEM courses.

In my free time, I enjoy trying new recipes, going for walks, and playing the piano. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the program or my research. 

Courses

EPSY 201: Educational Psychology (EPSY 201) Explores fundamental issues of development, learning, instruction, and assessment. This course articulates how people learn, how they are influenced by cultural and social contexts, how to assess learning and its outcomes, and how best to teach and motivate people to achieve. Educational psychologists improve learning in a broad range of settings: homes, classrooms, work environments, and communities.