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Psychology, B.A. | Class of
Desiree Ryan
Graduate Student/Graduate Student Researcher
Employer: University of California, Santa Cruz
Job description: I am currently completing my Ph.D. in Social Psychology at University of California, Santa Cruz. I also work as a graduate student researcher for the Blum Center where I research poverty-related issues.
About Desiree
Why did you choose this program?
I chose the Academic Research program in Social Psychology because of the statical and methodological training offered. This program offered more in-depth stats training than any other program I could find and I left the program with the knowledge and experience needed to work immediately or continue on in graduate school.
How did this program prepare you for your job?
The AR program gave me excellent quantitative and statistical skills. While at HSU, I engaged deeply in the statistics courses offered, joined various labs to gain as much experience as possible, and was an intern in the Institutional Research department. These experiences provided me with the concrete statistical and methodological skills needed to carve out my own research agenda and engage in the meaningful work I had set out to do.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
I enjoyed the collaborative nature in the Psychology Department and the amount of time and attention the faculty will give to students.
What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?
I would say that the statistical and research training will be intense and demanding but you will never regret having learned the skills you will leave this program with. I would also suggest putting everything you have into your program while you are here because the more you give the more opportunities you will receive!