Psychology students share research on campus

More than 40 students had an opportunity to present their psychology research in an event at the University of North Georgia's (UNG) Gainesville Campus on Nov. 21. UNG's chapter of Psi Chi, an international psychology honor society, hosted the poster session that showcased work from students in the research methods courses.

"The spring and fall psychology research events highlight the best of what psychology has to offer. Students showcase months of hard work, practice communicating complex ideas and engage in thoughtful dialogue about their research," said Dr. Ralph Hale, associate professor of psychological science. "These experiences build scientific literacy and transferable skills that prepare students for life after graduation, regardless of their career path. Watching students support one another through this process is incredibly rewarding and something I'm proud to help create each semester at UNG."

Zoe Harrison, Angie Ramirez, Amelia Seid, and Kailyn Stuffings won the Best Poster award for their project "The Halo Effect: How Weight Influences Perceived Career Success." Their research used a Likert scale that asked participants to rate women shown in artificial-intelligence-generated images for their perceived career success and ability to get along with co-workers. Dr. Zachary Elison, assistant professor of psychological science, served as their faculty mentor.

Stuffings, a junior from Springfield, Illinois, pursuing a degree in psychology, was grateful to gain her first research experience and also to receive feedback from faculty members and fellow students.

"I enjoyed hearing from so many people about their opinions on our project," Stuffings said.

Seid, a senior from Manchester, Tennessee, pursuing a degree in psychology with a minor in Spanish, said the research process helped her see more what life might look like after graduation. She was also thankful to learn from Elison, who shared his research experience with the students.

"We had a great team," Seid said. "We all worked together really well and learned so much about our subject."

Harrison, a senior from Jefferson, Georgia, pursuing a degree in psychology, started her time at UNG planning to be an educator. But after doing administrative work in the therapy office of her parents, Harrison shifted gears. She plans to pursue a master's degree in counseling, most likely from Liberty University. As she moves toward her career, Harrison is appreciative of her current supportive ecosystem.

"UNG provides a lot of resources for students conducting research," Harrison said.

Steffani Pass, a senior from Hoschton, Georgia, pursuing a degree in psychology, served as Psi Chi treasurer in the fall and is president of the group this spring. She said the psychology-focused research event is a helpful forerunner of the spring Annual Research Conference, a March 20 event that is open to all UNG students.

"The event is an opportunity for students to get their feet wet in giving presentations without high stakes," Pass said. "It's super helpful. Students get a lot out of it. They learn how to present. The students get the opportunity to have a back-and-forth with professors."