What is your role in the Michaelson Lab?

As a research assistant; I supply the lab with many different roles! One of my main roles is supporting our many projects and recruiting participants. This is one of my favorite roles since I get to interact with many different families. I also help the lab maintain our IRBs and help out in other aspects of our research. 

Why did you want to join the Michaelson Lab?

Research has always been an interest of mine. In my undergrad program, I had the honor of conducting research in a mice lab and was amazed at the research I was doing. When I got the oppurtunity to join the Michaelson Lab, I was so excited that I was going to continue to learn more in an amazing research facility among excellent researchers. In college, I worked in an ABA clinic helping children, specifically those on the Autism spectrum, so I was enthralled to learn that this job specialized in Autism. I also was excited to continue learning about the research process in a more "hands-on" facility and having a larger roll than I did in college. After my interview with some of the members of the lab, I knew that the Michaelson Lab would be the perfect place to call home-- and I was so right!

What has proven to be the biggest adjustment for you in joining a Computational Psychiatry lab? What have you enjoyed most?

First and foremost, I came from college only taking 3 statistic courses.. so I would have to say just learning about the different programs, specifically R, and how to use them accordingly. I had to teach myself R, which was a daunting task, but I am so grateful that this role has supplied me with the best mentors to learn from (especially Taylor Thomas). In my undergrad, I did primarily wet lab work so moving to a computational side has taught me so much in general and totally opened my eyes to a different world of research. Out of all my experiences thus far, I would have to say that meeting and growing closer to all of the lab members has been so fun! I couldn't imagine a better group of researchers to work alongside. 

What would you sing at Karaoke night?

"I've been called the songbird of my generation" - Step Brothers

In all reality, Karaoke is one of my many favorite pastimes. While it depends on my mood, and if I have a duet partner, my go to song choice is 'Gimme, Gimme, Gimme' by ABBA! 

What is your favorite game or sport to watch and play?

As a true Minnesotan, my favorite sport to watch is Hockey! Growing up my family had season tickets to watch the Minnesota Wild play and I have loved the sport ever since. 

Now, growing up as a dancer, that would be my favorite sport to play. I danced competitively for 18 years up until my Sophomore year in college. I was captain of my high school dance team my senior year and named All conference two years in a row. In college, my team and I participated in the NDA nationals in Daytona Florida where we placed top 5. That year, I was also named Rookie of the Year and Most Spirited (on brand for how peppy I am). I hope, at some point in my career, to be a dance team coach for a high school team.