A dedicated student and researcher with a strong interest in sociology, public policy, and urban planning, Lori is currently pursuing an Integrative Studies degree (emphasis: Social Behavior and Human Understanding) at the University of Arizona. A divergent thinker, Lori combines natural enthusiasm with her passion for understanding and addressing complex social issues.Prior to her academic pursuits, Lori spent a decade as a private home educator to two children, developing a comprehensive and personalized educational curriculum that fostered critical thinking and a love of learning. Volunteering as a Montessori science educator, preparing students for an annual Science Fair. These experiences bolstered her skills in curriculum development, individualized instruction, and educational management.In addition to her educational background, Lori worked as a legal assistant in an immigration law firm and as a grants and funding assistant director in a legal non-profit. As a legal assistant, she gained experience in legal research, document preparation, and client communication. In the role of grants and funding, Lori managed grant applications, case reviews, organized grant reviews for committees, and ensured grantee compliance with accounting and funding requirements.Throughout her academic journey, Lori has engaged in various research projects that explore the intersections of social behavior, policy impacts, and urban design and planning. With a particular focus on how public policy can shape urban environments and influence social outcomes, Lori aims to contribute to the creation of more equitable, safe, and sustainable communities.Her research interests include:Sociology: Investigating the dynamics of social interactions, community structures, and the role of societal norms in shaping human behavior.Public Policy: Analyzing the development, implementation, and effects of policies at local, state, and federal levels, with a focus on enhancing social welfare.Urban Planning: Exploring strategies for designing and managing urban spaces that promote inclusive growth, safe and resilient transportation, environmental sustainability, and improved quality of life for all residents. Looking ahead, Lori aspires to continue her research and influence policy-making and urban planning practices that foster social justice and resilience in urban settings. With a vision for a future where all individuals have access to thriving, inclusive communities, Lori is poised to make a meaningful impact in the fields of sociology, public policy, and urban planning.