Statement of Intent
I am delighted to be considered for the position of Chair Elect for the CPA Student section for the 2023-2025 term. My goal in this position is to work towards advancing the field of psychology through scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy. I aim to guide and encourage students in psychology to find their passion and make a positive impact within the field. Furthermore, I am passionate about amplifying the voices of marginalized and underrepresented populations and creating opportunities for their active participation within CPA and the larger profession of psychology. With my background in organization, leadership, and community building, I believe I possess the necessary skills to be a successful leader in this role. I have a strong track record of leading teams and working collaboratively with others. As the former copresident of Psi Chi, a psychology honors society at the University of Victoria, I gained valuable experience in providing effective programming for students and faculty. I worked collaboratively with my executive board to put on events including career panels, workshops, community service projects, and a research conference at the University of Victoria. I have also worked and volunteered in several organizations with mentorship models such as Big Brothers Big Sisters. My belief in mentorship is centred around raising capacity and empowering others to reach their potential, which I intend to apply when coordinating the CPA Student Mentorship Program. As someone who deeply values authenticity and integrity, power equity, and service to others, I will bring these core values to guide my actions throughout my work. I believe my strong organizational abilities combined with my passion for scholarship and social justice make me an ideal candidate for Chair Elect. I am eager to join this team and contribute to the important work that is done through the student section of CPA.
Biography
After receiving my BA (honours) in psychology from the University of Victoria, I am currently pursuing my master’s in School and Applied Child Psychology at the University of British Columbia. My cumulative life experiences, work, volunteering, and research have contributed to my growing interest in school psychology, and I aspire to work as a practitioner-researcher in the field. My broad research interests focus on supporting the growth and development of children and youth to reach their fullest potential, with my current research focusing on newcomer parent experiences during their child’s psychoeducational assessment process. Aside from my own research, I am currently assisting on several projects within my department, including a project on immigrant student experiences in Canadian schools. Prior to this, I conducted an independent study and an honours thesis on generosity, motivation, and well-being. Through these experiences, I developed skills in literature reviews, scale development, data analysis, and academic writing. I have presented my research at several conferences, including CPA and the Making Waves Undergraduate Research Conference.
In addition, I have gained valuable experience in teaching, mentorship, and clinical work. For example, I have worked as an English teacher in Shanghai, China, as an instructor providing direct one-on-one instruction to children with learning differences in Vancouver BC, and as a behavioural interventionist in Victoria BC. Additionally, I have diverse volunteer experience, including mentoring children, volunteering with immigrants and newcomers, hosting community gatherings, facilitating youth groups, sitting on committees, and facilitating peer support sessions.
Apart from my academic and community service pursuits, I enjoy trying new restaurants with my partner, thrifting, travelling, and spending time with family and friends. Overall, I am enthusiastic about contributing to the field of psychology and helping others to do the same!