Daniela Escobar Email & Phone Number

Alongside Dr. Scudder and a small RA team, I assessed the efficacy of the Undergraduate Learning Assistant program within the Psychological and Brain Sciences department. Our research questions included: is the program increasing students' sense of belonging within both psychology majors and STEM overall? Does it foster academic resilience in certain student populations only? In what ways can we improve the current iteration of this program for the future?

In the Thinking About Life Experiences Lab, I analyzed and coded over 3,500 units for story asides across more than 100 autobiographical narratives. I presented the findings and process of this project at the Western Psychological Association conference in San Fransisco in April 2024.

As a ULA for PSY 106, Introduction to Biopsychology, I led weekly drop-in and structured sessions to enhance students' learning and performance on exams. Preparation for these sessions involved creating lesson plans and arriving to classrooms early to set up all technology. I also led special sessions such as sheep brain dissections and a research panel at the SAGE Center. Other duties included attending weekly debrief meetings with Dr. Scudder and the rest of the team. Outside of the program, I closely mentored students to help them network within Psi Chi and gain their own research experience.

As a Bookstore Associate, I efficiently managed inventory in order to facilitate communication between department managers and customers. In addition, I optimized the organization of merchandise around all areas of the store and trained new associates within the Gifts department.

As the first Diversity and Outreach Coordinator for our chapter, I established networking initiatives with the Psi Beta chapter at Santa Barbara Community College, helping bridge the gap between pursuing a Psychology degree at a community college versus a four-year university.

As a Public Relations Coordinator, I successfully carried out the first virtual iteration of this program in response to COVID-19. I optimized educational outreach by launching the program's first website and designing a Virtual Student Involvement Fair in collaboration with other UCSB organizations. In addition, I expanded and managed all of the program's social media platforms to increase student engagement online.