Shoronda Erica Matthews '16
What you have been doing since graduation? What are you planning to do next?
Since graduation, I have completed a master’s degree in General Psychology at Adelphi University. I am currently attending the University of Virginia (UVA) where I am a Ph.D. Candidate in the Educational Psychology-Applied Developmental Science program and will receive my Ph.D. in August 2022.
My research explores how to teach science through digital learning using different digital materials and formats. Once I graduate from UVA, I will be working on attaining a position either in academia such as a postdoc or tenure-track faculty position or outside of academia in a research firm.
Briefly describe your experience in 草榴社区鈥檚 neuroscience program.
My overall experience in 草榴社区’s Neuroscience Program was great. This program challenged me to think critically and form my own ideas. It also gave me the opportunity to investigate fields related to Neuroscience, which allowed me to explore my many different research interests. One strength of this program, that to this day I greatly appreciate, is the great relationships I was able to form with the faculty in the program. They are always willing to help you when you need advice and are still supportive of you long after you graduate.
What experiences in the neuroscience program helped you the most?
Having the opportunity to take the neuroscience research methods course helped me the most. In that course, I learned how to do scientific writing for journals, how to create experiments, and how to work with others. The lessons I learned in this course have become extremely helpful now in graduate school.
Do you have any advice for present students?
Do not try to figure everything out in undergrad because your interests will change over time. Instead, use your undergrad years to explore and ask questions. Do not be afraid to go to different faculty members and pick their brains about their interests or any advice they may have for you.