Vianny Lugo Aracena

I am a statistics enthusiast and passionate researcher. I have explored different research fields since the beginning of my college career, ranging from research in Latino studies, to working with rats in a psychology-neuroscience laboratory. I am currently conducting an independent study investigating how hormonal stages in female rats affect the recovery rate after a mild traumatic brain injury. I am interested in quantifying neurocognitive deficits, and in looking at possible neuroprotective properties of estrogen and progesterone. Ultimately, I want to pursue a career in clinical psychology. My motivation to do research in clinical psychology stems from the lack of representation of people of color in longitudinal and cross-sectional studies. I am interested in seeing how the concept of intersectionality can be applied in the mental health field and I want to be able to understand the effects of acculturation, enculturation, and environment on mental health outcomes of people of color.