The slow decline of my grandfather due to dementia profoundly impacted my life. Witnessing firsthand the devastating effects of this disease—not only on him, but on my entire family—ignited a passion within me to contribute to finding a cure. While tens of millions worldwide are currently diagnosed with dementia, I am determined to be a part of the effort to make that number zero.
My psychology coursework at the University of Arkansas, combined with my hands-on experience in Arkansas’ Stress, Cognition, and Affective Neuroscience lab (which focuses on how stress, and other related factors impact cognition and health), has given me a strong foundation. Specifically, I have experience administering stress studies and creating personal experiments that encompassed all stages of research, from initial design to final data analysis. I will use this background as a basis for my future career. I’ve gained practical experience in cognitive and social psychology research that have prepared me well for the challenges of this field.
My mission is to translate my personal experience into impactful neurodegenerative research, preventing future generations from experiencing the devastating effects of dementia. I’m ready to contribute my skills and passion to researching the factors involved in dementia and to continue the fight against this disease and other related degenerative diseases.
Six Word Story
This six word story, created as a senior in my E-portfolio class at the University of Arkansas, highlights my mission statement as I go through my daily life. My hope is to make a lasting impact, whether it is in a one on one conversation or a discovery that changes the world.