What do you consider your hometown?
My hometown is Irvine, California. Having lived there for nearly 20 years, the city's diverse cultures and the strong sense of community continue to hold a special place in my heart.
Where did you earn your undergraduate degree?
I earned my undergraduate degree in neurobiology from the University of California, Irvine, where I also completed a minor in business management. My time at UCI provided a strong foundation in both the scientific and business aspects of my career, combining my passion for neuroscience with practical skills in management.
What is your program at Dartmouth?
I am pursuing my Ph.D. in the psychological and brain sciences program here at Dartmouth, where I specialize in cognitive neuroscience under the guidance of Dr. Kyle Smith.
Why did you choose Dartmouth to pursue your degree?
I chose Dartmouth to pursue my PhD because of its renowned reputation for academic excellence and cutting-edge research in the cognitive neuroscience field. The close-knit community at Dartmouth fosters a collaborative and supportive environment essential for interdisciplinary work—something I greatly value in my studies.
The strong bonds formed with faculty members here have provided me with exceptional mentorship and guidance, allowing me to explore innovative approaches within my research. Dartmouth's commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and its vibrant academic community made it the perfect place for me to advance my professional and personal goals.
What is your area of research and what inspired your research?
My area of research focuses on social decision-making, particularly how neural mechanisms influence our choices in social contexts. Understanding these processes is crucial because our social decisions profoundly impact our relationships, communities, and society.
What inspired my research is the growing recognition of the complex interplay between the brain, behavior, and social interactions. By studying these dynamics, I hope to contribute to a deeper understanding of improving social outcomes in health, education, or broader societal contexts. This research has the potential to inform interventions that promote better decision-making and enhance social well-being.
What are you looking forward to the most in the upcoming term or year?
As a Guarini first-year graduate student fellow, I look forward to welcoming the new graduate students to Dartmouth, hosting events that help them feel at home, and advancing the Guarini Mentorship Program. We must create a supportive environment that helps ease the transition for first-year students, and I am excited to play a role in helping them find their footing within our community.
What advice would you give to incoming students?
I advise incoming students to make the most of their time here. Whether you are in a one-year master's program or working towards a Ph.D. over several years, you will be surprised at how quickly time flies by. Dartmouth's small, remote location can sometimes feel isolating, but finding a supportive community where you feel comfortable and safe is crucial.
While it is easy to get caught up in studying or lab work, remember to set small, achievable goals and celebrate your progress, no matter how small they may be. Also, make time for hobbies outside of your research - they will make your experience here much more enjoyable and fulfilling!
What is your favorite place or activity that you like best in the Hanover area?
In the Hanover area, I have a few favorite spots and activities that I really enjoy. When it comes to dining, I love having Chinese fusion dishes at Han Fusion or Thai dishes at Pim's Thai Orchid! Another favorite is Base Camp, where the Nepalese cuisine uses spices that always remind me of food that my mom cooks.
As for activities, one of my absolute favorite things to do is cozy up with lots of blankets, a romance novel, and a hot chocolate and watch the snow fall. There is something incredibly peaceful about just watching those quiet winter moments in Hanover. I also enjoy taking walks through the snowy paths around campus, where it makes everything feel more magical. During the summertime, I enjoy going to Fore-U Golf and eating ice cream with my friends while playing minigolf (pro tip: get the baby scoop, trust me).
