What UROP Program(s) were you a part of?

UROP Social Sciences Researcher as a Sophomore (2012-2013)

Peer Advisor (2013-2015)

What made you choose UROP?

I was an international transfer student. With the initial goal to pursue my PhD, I realized that I needed to gain as much research experience as I can, and I stumbled upon UROP serendipitously. After perusing the UROP website, I know this is something I would like to try (I even managed to convince 2 of friends to join me as well!)

What do you think you have learned from your UROP experience?

As a UROP student, I learned a lot about social science research (both from the seminars and my project). My participation at UROP expedited my learning about research, and what can come out of it (hint: A LOT and NO, I am talking about publications only).

Further, my two years as a UROP peer advisor, taught me humility - as a peer advisor, even though I was there to lead seminars / grade assignments / make sure my mentees are on track, I was also there to listen, provide a psychologically safe space for my mentees to confide in me, and most importantly, learn from my mentees.

What is the extent to which you have kept in contact with your Research Mentor?

Unfortunately, because Dr. Karin Martin works in the Department of Sociology, while my interest was in psychology, we haven't been keeping in touch since I graduated in 2015.

How did your UROP experience shape or inform the next steps you took in your academic and professional journey?

UROP started my journey in research, until today, I am still doing research but in applied settings. My first job out of college was in market research, and I am currently working in people analytics.

Where are you in your professional journey?

Currently, I am a People Analyst at Google. Basically, my team applies social science research methods to inform people decisions - so think about organizational behavior and industrial-organization psychology research but in applied settings.

What advice would you give to a current UROP student?

Be open-minded. Your journey won't be linear - so take the risk, try that one thing you have always wanted to, or take that opportunity even if it may not be your first choice - either you will be surprised where it takes you to, or you realize it is not something you want to pursue! In the end, you are still finding new information about yourself. Lastly, it is okay to not know what you want at the moment, and it is okay to go back to the drawing board to chart a new path for yourself. But make sure you find yourself mentors and advisors along the way to support you in your journey - and pay it forward to those who come for you for advice.

What are some recent publications or accomplishments that you are proud of?

Getting a job at Google