Hometown: Youngstown, OH

Current City: Washington, DC

Why did you choose McCourt? My grad school search was primarily focused on PhDs in applied developmental psychology but what was most important to me was to gain the tools to conduct research to impact policy and improve lives. The dual degree program with McCourt is one of the few in the country where I could actually complete a degree program in public policy in addition to my psychology degree, making policy a central focus of my graduate studies rather than an afterthought.

What has been the best part of your experience so far? The best part of my experience so far has been the ways that being a part of McCourt has enhanced my PhD experience. PhD cohorts are generally small and specific, but being part of my McCourt cohort allowed me to learn from and form connections with a group of students with diverse backgrounds, interests, and skills. I was also involved in McCourt Policy in Practice (MPiP), where I had the chance to gain experience leading projects where I could use my research skills to directly assist community organizations with program evaluation.

Student organization involvement while at McCourt: McCourt Policy in Practice (MPiP)

Undergraduate University, degree, and major: College of Wooster, BA in Psychology

Hobbies/ Interests: Exploring DC, biking, live music