Psychology Faculty, Students, Alumna Present Research at Regional Conference

Dr. Mia Khera, current Curry Psychology students, and a recent Curry alumna presented a poster outlining their research at the New England Psychological Association (NEPA) Annual Meeting on November 10 at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. The presentation focused on stressors and supports among first-generation college students.

“First-generation students often face significant challenges, such as balancing long work hours with school work and lacking familiarity with campus life,” said Dr. Khera. “This ongoing study provides our Psychology students with an opportunity to learn how these stressors can impact the college experience for first-generation college students and influence how they access on-campus supports.”

As part of the study, Curry Psychology students taking the Advanced Research seminar conducted semi-structured interviews focusing on strengths, success, and barriers among first-generation college students. They also compiled data from an online demographic questionnaire completed by first-generation college students.

The NEPA Annual Meeting attracts students and faculty from colleges and universities throughout New England. Curry College presenters at this year’s meeting included Dr. Mia Khera; Kim Livingstone, Class of 2019; Victoria Parks, Class of 2019; Brittney Shane, Class of 2019; and Emily Whalen ’18. Curry student and alumni contributors to the research study who were not able to attend the conference included Paulina Adams, Class of 2019; Erin Scanlon, Class of 2019; Khaila Fitzgerald ’18; and Julianna Petrucelli ’18.

Dr. Khera will continue this study with Advanced Research seminar students next semester. Students who meet the Psychology Department criteria and participate in the Advanced Research seminar graduate with Distinction in Psychology.

“I am excited that we continue to focus on compelling and real-world issues in Psychology and offer our students valuable ways to hone and apply their skills and knowledge,” said Dr. Khera.