Marina Alberto, a sophomore at Pace University majoring in psychology, discussed her academic journey and research experiences in a recent interview. Alberto, a member of the class of 2028, explained her choice to study psychology by stating, “I chose psychology as a major because I’ve always been interested in learning about the way our brains work and how our experiences and biology can influence how we develop as individuals.”
Alberto said that Pace’s Honors College was an important factor in her decision to attend the university. She added that both the program and its faculty have made her feel supported. “Pace’s Honors College, with its many opportunities, was a large factor in my decision, and both the program and its faculty have made me feel very supported and at home here at Pace. In addition, ever since I was little, I had always dreamed of living in New York City. Originally from Long Island, by attending Pace, I was eager to experience living in a new place that was exciting, and yet not too far from home,” she said.
As part of her studies, Alberto is involved in research with Associate Professor Brenna Hassinger-Das through the Science of Development lab at Pace. She described her work: “As part of Professor Hassinger-Das’s Science of Development lab, I conduct research with my fellow students to better understand the way children learn and develop, including the underlying factors that may affect that. This fall semester, we will be conducting research at the Staten Island Children’s Museum, helping to run the toy play study with children ranging in age from 18-36 months. I think the work we are doing is very meaningful, especially in today’s ever-changing world with all its challenges. Professor Hassinger-Das has been an absolute pleasure to work with, and I look forward to continuing to learn from her.”
She emphasized the significance of this research for understanding child development: “I conduct research with my fellow students to better understand the way children learn and develop, including the underlying factors that may affect that. I think the work we are doing is very meaningful, especially in today’s ever-changing world with all its challenges.”
Alberto also commented on her positive experience within Pace’s Psychology department: “My experiences so far as a sophomore in the Psychology department have been very positive, as there is a lot of support for students. For example, the Counseling Center posts job and internship opportunities for students to consider, as well as information on classes offered that might be of interest–it is all very helpful.”
Beyond academics and research activities at Pace University include leadership roles such as serving as vice president for Psi Chi/Psychology club. Alberto said this position has helped her gain leadership skills while connecting with peers who share similar interests.
Looking ahead after graduation from Pace University she hopes either to attend graduate school or pursue further training leading toward careers like school psychology or working therapeutically with children.
Her advice for current students centers on engagement: “Get involved and put yourself out there. It can lead you to some amazing experiences that you would otherwise never have had.”
