Research Interests and Experience
I believe that everyone is deserving of being understood, feeling secure in their place in the world, and having decent work that allows them to contribute to their communities. The goal of my research is to shed light on some of the barriers that prevent individuals from achieving this kind of well-being. While many groups have experienced systemic barriers, discrimination, and oppression, my research focuses on the unique challenges faced by African American and women in pursuing education and careers.
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Thus, I conduct research primarily in the following core areas:
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Career Development & Counseling, especially among STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Agricultural Sciences, & Mathematics) majors
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Identity Development, Personality, & the Intersection of Diverse Identities
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Contextual factors impacting career choice, development, and access to decent work
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Correlates of Mental Health issues
My publication, presentation, and grant funding history are listed in my CV.
Career Commitment and Retention in STEM (CCRS) Research Team
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The Career Commitment and Retention in STEM (CCRS) Research Team takes an emic approach to understanding the career development and persistence of African Americans and women STEM students in order to (1) develop culturally competent theory and practice and (2) increase the ability of these students to fulfill their dreams and goals in these areas. More information can be found on the CCRS webpage.
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Vocational Identity Research Team
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The first question one is asked upon meeting new people is, essentially, “What do you do?” Often, this refers to one’s work, studies, vocation, or job. One’s identity as someone with a role to play in society is of great interest to others and important to one’s sense of purpose and well-being. Most people have a “picture in their heads” about their purpose and role however, translating that into functional work roles, as well as adapting it during periods of change and adjustment (such as we are currently experiencing worldwide) can be difficult and stressful.
The Vocational Identity Research Team engages in research to explore the construct of vocational identity - dealing with issues of “work and love” – in order to provide theory and interventions that support the work of career counselors and vocational psychologists. Currently, we are working on publishing several articles from previous research efforts.
Theses and Dissertations
I lead theses and dissertations related to my areas of research expertise, supporting my students throughout the research process. We meet in teams to offer support to fellow students, and to guide others along the process. I am an active chair for psychology theses and dissertations, and also participate in committees as a member.