De’ Vaun Hawkins
De’ Vaun Hawkins is an undergraduate student at San Diego State University majoring in Psychology with an emphasis in Behavioral Neuroscience. His academic focus centers on understanding the biological basis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and gaining expertise in neuropsychological assessment and intervention. With a professional goal of pursuing a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, De’ Vaun aspires to specialize as a Pediatric Neuropsychologist. He is passionate about bridging neuroscience and clinical practice to support children and their families in achieving better mental health outcomes.
Outside of his academic pursuits, De’Vaun is an active Muay Thai practitioner, Rap artist & producer and he also enjoys designing streetwear.
Liana Parrish
Liana Parrish is a fourth-year majoring in Psychology and minoring in interdisciplinary studies here at San Diego State University. She is a MARC (Maximizing Access to Research Careers) Scholar and a part of the Weber Honors College. She is interested in clinical psychology research, specifically researching how adversity in childhood and trauma can lead to the development of serious mental illness in minority populations. Liana aims to destigmatize mental health disorders and help to develop and implement interventions that can be disseminated to communities. She will be applying for Clinical Psychology PhD Programs this upcoming 2024 application cycle.
Jacqueline Nguyen
Jacqueline (Jac) is a fourth year majoring in Psychology with an emphasis in Neuroscience, and minoring in Sociology. She is passionate about how systemic discrimination can factor into socially perceived deviance and criminality amongst minority populations, especially for individuals with psychiatric disorders. She hopes to pursue a career in clinical psychology research in order to destigmatize mental disorders within the criminal justice system and develop more accessible mental health services for incarcerated individuals.
Outside of the lab, she enjoys reading, coffee/matcha, art, and Formula 1 racing!
Acacia Sellars
I am a third-year undergraduate psychology major with an emphasis in neuroscience, driven by a deep curiosity about the connection between the brain and behavior. My academic journey has provided me with a strong foundation in psychological theory and research, as well as a passion for exploring topics like neuroplasticity and the neural mechanisms underlying mental health. Outside of academics, I enjoy creative outlets like painting and connecting with nature through hiking, which helps me stay balanced and grounded. My ultimate goal is to become a licensed psychologist with a private practice, combining my understanding of neuroscience with clinical expertise and my passion for holistic wellness to support individuals in achieving mental well-being and personal growth.
Alexis Neicu
Alexis Neicu is a 3rd year undergraduate student at San Diego State University majoring in psychology and minoring in child development. She is interested in researching how childhood experiences influence adulthood, treatment interventions for developmental delays, and coping strategies for children. After completing her undergraduate degree, she intends to pursue a career in child psychology. Outside of the lab, Alexis spends her time baking, reading, listening to music, and trying out new creative hobbies.
Kyra Dominguez
Kyra Dominguez is a first-year majoring in Psychology, double minoring in Honors interdisciplinary studies and counseling at SDSU. She is mostly interested in counseling psychology and working to focus on helping more underrepresented communities and reducing the stigmatization surrounding mental health. As the first in her family to go to college, she also would like to pursue a Psy D. in Psychology. Career-wise, she hopes and is working to become a counseling psychologist.
In her free time, she loves to create art, partake in boxing, learn about anatomy, and take nature walks!
Daisy Neri
Daisy Neri is a senior undergraduate student majoring in Psychology with a minor in Counseling and Social Change at SDSU. She has a passion for serving underserved communities, and has prior experience working with children and vulnerable populations through non-profit organizations. Daisy is interested in School Psychology and is eager to contribute to research that can make a positive impact on the lives of children and families.
Outside of her academics she enjoys nature, reading, traveling and spending time with her family.