I’m a Developmental Psychology PhD student at Penn State, working with Dr. Koraly Pérez-Edgar and Dr. Rina Eiden, focusing on how early experiences like prenatal substance exposure impact child development, particularly in regard to autonomic dysregulation and parenting behaviors. I hold a BA in Psychology and a certificate in Child Advocacy Studies from SUNY Buffalo State.As a graduate research assistant working on the HEALthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) study, I collaborate with a team of researchers at Penn State and across various sites. Together, we gather physiological and behavioral data by working directly with infants and their mothers. The HBCD study is a nationwide research project aimed at understanding how prenatal and early life experiences, including substance exposure, shape brain development and long-term health outcomes in children.Personally, I am passionate about mentorship, community service, and advancing research that supports children and families.