What year did you participate in the BP-ENDURE Program at Brown?
I was there the summer of 2015.
What research project and laboratory did you work in?
I worked with Dr. Joo-Hyun Song. My project involved a computer-based behavioral task, where I explored the idea of unconscious processing of visual stimuli. To do this I used the Ponzo illusion which is created by size-depth visual cues. I observed whether this is illusion persists when the context which creates the illusion is suppressed to conscious awareness. To do this, I used a masking technique called Continuous Flash Suppression. The results of this study showed that for this specific type of illusion, conscious awareness is necessary. These were contrasting results with previous studies that involved unconscious awareness and luminance and color contrast cues.
Where are you from?
I am from NYC/NJ
Why did you decide to pursue research in brain science?
I have always been very interested in cognitive neuroscience and how we can use this research to shape more effective pedagogical methods.
What is your most memorable experience from your training in brain science at Brown?
I really enjoyed the professional development aspect of the program, getting advice about graduate school and the application process, as well working in the Song lab and working on a project that was very different than any research I had done in the past.
What are you doing currently?
I am currently a second-year graduate student in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
What are your future career plans?
My hope is to explore in depth how cognitive mechanisms are encoded at different stages of development and how my understanding of this can in turn influence methods of practical applications that will benefit those who for varied reasons have less success in school and professional environments particularly as it relates to underrepresented minorities and those from low socioeconomic status backgrounds.
What is your favorite activity outside of the lab?
I enjoy getting to spend with family and friends.