Major(s): Psychology
College: Spelman College
College Graduation year: 2026
URH Research Programs:
I am researching the development of a cognitive mechanism. Specifically, I am researching whether children exhibit the same bias as adults when reasoning about cause and effect.
Why and how did you decide to get involved in undergraduate research?
I got involved in undergraduate research through my school’s psychology undergraduate research daily emails and weekly newsletters, which included new research opportunities in different areas of psychology. My deep desire to advocate for the Black community, especially concerning mental health and the workforce, motivated me to get involved in undergraduate research.
What has been the most exciting/interesting thing you've discovered through this research?
The most exciting thing I have found through my research is that kids think differently than adults when choosing what causes an outcome. The study I worked on studied adults first and then went to test kids, and the results were the opposite. It was interesting to investigate why this is happening. I was thinking differently regarding the experiment; they chose what they thought would function better in making a music box play music.
What did you gain from this program/experience?
I gained advanced research experience and meaningful connections that will help me in my future career. I learned how a research lab works and the proper protocols to follow the ethics guidelines while also gaining great friendships and mentors who can continue to help me. At the same time, I finished my matriculation at Spelman College.
What advice would you give to students starting research?
I advise students starting research never to give up, even when it gets hard, whether in or outside the lab. Always remind yourself why you are doing this research and where you want to go in the future; it will help you stay positive while conducting the research..
What are your future goals?
My future plans are to attend graduate school and pursue my Ph.D. in either Industrial and Organizational Psychology or Developmental Psychology at Rice University. My professional goal is to become a full-time psychology researcher, focusing on either developmental aspects of mental health in children or adults in the workplace.
Anything else you want to share?
I want to encourage all undergraduates, no matter the year, to apply for internships mainly outside of the state related to research in your field. These research internships will improve your career while in college and help build meaningful connections that will last you a lifetime.
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