Category Archives: Undergraduate News

Psi Chi Feature

In the winter edition of Eye on Psi Chi two of our events were featured! Dogs and Donuts and Zentangle got recognition – you can find the details by going to this link and scrolling to page 36. Great job, RoCo!

http://c.ymcdn.com/sites/www.psichi.org/resource/resmgr/Eye_PDF/Winter16Eye-web.pdf#page=31

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/rcpsychology
Bloghttps://psych.pages.roanoke.edu/
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/groups/RC-Psychology-8140491/about
Website:  http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology

Opportunity for Graduating Seniors

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Lab Manager – Social Learning Lab @ Stanford University

The Social Learning Lab (SLL) welcomes enthusiastic, motivated individuals to apply for a lab manager position to start in summer 2016. This person will work closely with other lab members to assist in all aspects of running the lab and conducting research.

The goal of our research is to understand the cognitive underpinnings of our ability to communicate with others to both learn about and teach others about both the physical and the social world. To this end, we employ a variety of methods: many of our projects involve behavioral methods with young children, fMRI experiments with adults and children, as well as online experiments with adults.  A successful candidate would be someone who would feel comfortable being involved in all aspects of research as well as taking good care of general lab business (e.g., training & coordinating undergraduate research assistants, recruiting & running subjects, communicating with staff at our research sites, constructing stimuli, managing & analyzing data, etc.). This person will also have opportunities to develop independent research projects.

A BA or BS degree in Psychology, Cognitive Science, Computer Science, or in related fields would be helpful but not required. Research experience (particularly in cognitive neuroscience or cognitive development), strong statistical background, and programming skills (e.g., MATLAB) is highly desirable.

This position will be posted as a one-year position. Ideally however the position would be held for two years, and renewal will be contingent upon performance. Please refer to this webpage (sll.stanford.edu) for more information on applying for this position. We ask all applicants to submit their answers to a list of questions as part of the application. For best consideration, please apply by February 1, 2016. Send any inquiries to sll.stanford@gmail.com.

 

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/rcpsychology
Bloghttps://psych.pages.roanoke.edu/
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/groups/RC-Psychology-8140491/about
Website:  http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology

Scholarship Opportunities

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The American Association of University Women currently has 3 scholarships, one that is $2000 and two that are $1500, that you can apply for!

The scholarships are as follows:

Non-traditional: women who are 21 years or older, and have not previously obtained a bachelor’s degree
Norman & Myrtle Shifflett: women who are pursuing a career in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM)
Dorothy Kayser Provine: women who are pursuing a career in the humanities

 

Requirements:

Two further requirements are that the student must reside Roanoke City, Salem City, Town of Vinton, Roanoke County, Botetourt County, or Craig County and must demonstrate financial need.  And to be competitive, it is recommend that the student have at least a 3.4 overall GPA (higher would be better!).

 

For more information, refer to their websitehttp://roanokevalley-va.aauw.net/community/scholarships/  Applications are due to AAUW by March 11, 2016.

 

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/rcpsychology
Bloghttps://psych.pages.roanoke.edu/
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/groups/RC-Psychology-8140491/about
Website:  http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology

Clinician Therapist Position Available

A position for a Clinician Therapist serving community homes in Roanoke has become available by Intercept Youth Services!

If you are seeking a full-time position, please see below for the job description. They would to have the chance to see your resume and  interview you!

Provided is the Link to Intercept: www.interceptyouth.com

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Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/rcpsychology
Bloghttps://psych.pages.roanoke.edu/
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/groups/RC-Psychology-8140491/about
Website:  http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology

Noke500: Are you in?

20151203_125223The faculty of the Psychology Department challenge our alumni to make a donation between now and December 10th. Only two days left!

Alumni are being challenged during the Noke500 to go ALL IN for Roanoke and make a gift of any size between now and December 10th at noon. If 500 alumni give during this time period, a generous alumni donor will give the College $25,000.

https://afrapp.roanoke.edu/race/coming

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/rcpsychology
Blog:  https://psych.pages.roanoke.edu/
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/groups/RC-Psychology-8140491/about
Website:  http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology

Noke500: Are you in?

20151203_125223The faculty of the Psychology Department challenge our alumni to make a donation between now and December 10th.

Alumni are being challenged during the Noke500 to go ALL IN for Roanoke and make a gift of any size between now and December 10th at noon. If 500 alumni give during this time period, a generous alumni donor will give the College $25,000.

https://afrapp.roanoke.edu/race/coming

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/rcpsychology
Blog:  https://psych.pages.roanoke.edu/
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/groups/RC-Psychology-8140491/about
Website:  http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology

New Majors’ Orientation = Success!

CollageFor those of you who missed out on this awesome opportunity to get more involved in the department and learn about all of its valuable resources, don’t worry! We’ll be holding more sessions in the spring, which you should definitely attend. We take pride in our department and we want to share it with you!

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/rcpsychology
Blog:  https://psych.pages.roanoke.edu/
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/groups/RC-Psychology-8140491/about
Website:  http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology

Congratulations to Stephanie Gaines – Psi Chi Research Grant Awardee!

Stephanie Gaines with her  advisor, Dr. Powell
Stephanie Gaines with her advisor, Dr. Powell

Ms. Stephanie Gaines, a junior at Roanoke College,
has been named as one of the recipients of the
Psi Chi Undergraduate Research Grant!

Her independent study project was conducted to gather information on emerging adults’ anticipated self-efficacy regarding future roles. The aims were two-fold. First, to replicate the previous research on transitional roles such as getting married or becoming a parent. Second, to expand the research on gradual roles such as becoming financially independent and managing one’s own healthcare.  She was particularly interested in how emerging adults’ current self-efficacy, mastery and vicarious experiences, as well as subjective norms were associated with their anticipated self-efficacy for adult roles. Participants were recruited from Roanoke College Psychology classes, the larger student body, and from Amazon’s Mechanical Turk. Analyses are currently underway.

Congratulations, Stephanie!
We look forward to seeing your results. Keep up the great work! 

Seeking Research Assistants!

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Professors in the Psych department are looking for lab research new members next semester!

Dr. Buchholz

His research and teaching interests include social psychology, evolutionary psychology, self, music, and complex systems theory. If you are interested in joining his lab, click the link below to apply and find out more info!

http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology/research_and_internships/undergraduate_research/dr_buchholzs_research_lab.

Dr. Gornick

Dr. Gornick’s research focuses on rhetoric in political, health and social-cultural context with an emphasis on Integrative Complexity.

If you are interested in joining her lab, go to link below to apply and get more info!

http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology/research_and_internships/undergraduate_research/dr_gornicks_research_lab. You can also stop by LS 525 to pick up an application.

Dr. Freedman

Her research focuses on the processes and consequences of social rejection with a special focus on the point of view of rejectors. If you are interested in Dr. Freedman’s lab, email her at freedman@roanoke.edu. Click the link below to get more info!

http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology/research_and_internships/undergraduate_research/dr_freedmans_research_lab.

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/rcpsychology
Blog:  https://psych.pages.roanoke.edu/
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/groups/RC-Psychology-8140491/about
Website:  http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology

New Majors’ Orientation

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This Wednesday and Thursday night from 6:30 – 8pm the psych department is hosting an event to welcome all newly declared psych majors! Both are in room 502. Come to one and see what the department has to offer!

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/rcpsychology
Blog:  https://psych.pages.roanoke.edu/
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/groups/RC-Psychology-8140491/about
Website:  http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology

New York Times asks, “Can You Get Smarter?”

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The New York Times ran an op-ed piece last week about the idea of getting smarter in a way similar to lifting weights. Take a read at the link below!

http://nyti.ms/1R1tfLM

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/ (Join RC Psychology group)

Zentangle!

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On the Thursday before midterm exams began RC Psychology Association and Psi Chi, with support from Zentangle Inc., hosted a Zentangle: De-stress & Refocus event for students at the college. Psychology students could earn research credit and Honors program students could earn class I credit for attendance. More than 35 students came out to Zentangle! During the event, students heard about the technique known as Zentangle (https://www.zentangle.com/) and created their own Zentangle square. Additionally, the students left the session with a Zentangling pen and a couple squares so they could continue Zentangling on their own as they geared up for midterms. Everyone seemed to enjoy the session, so we hope to have Sacil back on campus in the future for another de-stressing and refocusing event! 

 

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/ (Join RC Psychology group)

SEPA Deadline!

nola-logoSEPA is a regional psychological association affiliated with the American Psychological Association (APA). Dates & Location: March 30-April 2, 2016, at the Sheraton New Orleans.

The deadline is Tuesday, October 13, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. Eastern time!

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/ (Join RC Psychology group)

Career Service Events

 

CAREER SERVICE EVENTS: THIS WEEK AND NEXT!

Thursday, October 8, 5:30-7:30pm
FALL CAREER FOCUS RECEPTION, Intercept Youth Services on Airport Rd. in Roanoke – We still have a few spaces available, first come first served!   A number of businesses have been invited to attend, including:  Advance Auto Parts, Carilion Clinic, Hometown Bank, Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, Interactive Achievement, City of Roanoke, Wells Fargo, and Woods Rogers Law Firm.  While all of them may not be able to come, we anticipate at least 4-5 of them in attendance.  Dinner will be provided.  FREE to students, but you must commit to attend!  Rides can be provided if needed.  Business casual attire required.  Resumes suggested but not required.  This is a great opportunity to hear from businesses about internships and careers for which they consider college students and recent graduates – a fantastic networking opportunity!  Register through Career Services.
Monday, October 12, 7:30-8:00pm
Vector Marketing Information Session – West 117.  Co-sponsored by Alpha Kappa Psi.  Come and learn from one of our alumni how a career in sales can be rewarding, what it’s all about, and also about the opportunities through Vector Marketing for work/internships while still a student.  Open to ALL majors!  Please register through Career Services in advance.

There are still spots available for Richmond/DC Career Nights over Fall Break! Please contact Career Services in advance to register.

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/ (Join RC Psychology group)

Katie Jensen, Attorney General Intern

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“During my semester in Washington, DC, I interned at the DC Office of the Attorney General’s Mental Health Section. As a Psychology major with a Legal Studies concentration, this internship has given me valuable experience in a fascinating field of law. The Assistant Attorney Generals that I shadowed work to ensure that people who are likely to injure themselves or others as a result of mental illness legally get the help they need, while protecting the public and the rights of the patient. On a daily basis, I analyzed medical records, filed petitions for emergency hospitalizations, and occasionally attended witness interviews at psychiatric hospitals. I also had the opportunity to go to court and observe probable cause hearings, commission hearings, and jury trials. My internship at DCOAG taught me so much about the legal process and mental healthcare system in Washington, DC, because I got to experience it every day. Living, learning, and interning through the Washington Semester was an amazing experience!”

Get connected!
Instagram & Twitter:  #PsychRC
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/rcpsychology
Blog:  https://psych.pages.roanoke.edu/
Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/ (Join RC Psychology group)
Website:  http://www.roanoke.edu/inside/a-z_index/psychology

DR. NICHOLS’S INQ 277: EXPERIENCING VISION

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These photos, taken by Sumi Yi, were a part of Dr. Nichol’s INQ 277 May term titled “Exploring Vision Through the Eye of the Lens”.

This class utilized the digital camera as both a metaphor for the human eye and as a tool to create photographic representations of principles of human vision.  Cameras and the human eye were compared and contrasted in order to better understand both. Mechanisms of human visual perception, such as color vision, depth perception, and motion perception, were discussed in lecture format and then assignments carried out wherein students take purposeful photographs to illuminate the discussion topics.  The idea is that application through photography of principles discussed in relation to human vision, i.e. how we sense and perceive the world, may give us a better understanding of how and why the human vision system works the way it does.  Photographic expeditions were done both around campus and as part of full day trips.

#PSYCHRC

RC recognized in the News: What that means in PSYC!

Roanoke was recognized as an A+ school for B students, but we work with and for ALL our students to help them be successful (however you operationalize it).

You may hear us use the term “whole person.” That means we care about you (!), what you have going on currently, your background, your goals in life and work, your health – the whole package.

This article: http://diycollegerankings.com/50-50-highlights-a-schools-for-b-students/8394/, which references the US News and World Report ranking and replicates it, suggest we are a good place for do-it-yourself(ers). I agree!

The truth is we teach you what you need to know to be successful in psychology but also in other ways that are meaningful to you. Check out more on our blog to see how our students (maybe that is or was you and you want to share your story – email us) have succceeded in love, life, and work.

We couldn’t be prouder and love our departmental community!

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#PSYCHRC

Alumni Update: Sebastian Pena

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“Since graduation, I have been working at different research positions at Georgetown University and the Johns Hopkins University. At Georgetown I am currently working in two positions. I am the lab manager for the Laboratory of Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition in the Department of Neuroscience. In this lab I am involved in facilitating and conducting studies involving tinnitus, neuroplasticity, music, and neuroimaging (fMRI). I am also a research assistant in a lab that studies opioid addiction in the School of Nursing and Health Studies. My work in this lab includes recruitment, administering questionnaires to patients, and supporting the effort of our clinical trial.

At Johns Hopkins I am a research program coordinator in the School of Medicine working for two doctors that study HIV and substance use disorders. I conduct interviews with patients in the hospital for a research study that is investigating how to incorporate a computerized survey as part of the regular care of our medical staff’s substance use consultation visits. I am also assisting with writing a paper about HIV medication adherence that we hope to submit for publication soon. In the next couple of months I will begin to interview patients and staff at our HIV clinic as part of a research study investigating retention.

I plan to use all these experiences to pursue a Ph.D in neuroscience and/or to apply to medical school. Hopefully I’ll soon figure out exactly what I want my next step to be!”

  • Sebastian Pena

Congratulations Sebastian and keep up the good work!

Meet the New Professors!

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Dr. Gili Freedman                                  Dr. Janelle Gornick

Come meet the New Professors in the Psych Department!

Who: Dr. Gili Freedman & Dr. Janelle Gornick

What?: The two new professors of the Psychology faculty will be talking about their research!

When?: Monday, September 21, 7-8pm

Where?: Life Science 502

Why?: Get to know our new professors! Snacks! Learn cool things!

(Plus teaser of upcoming events!)

Sponsored by: Roanoke College Psychology Association & Psi Chi

RC Recognized as a Top Liberal Arts School Based on Professor Rankings

Does the title say it all when it come to Roanoke College?   “Accessible & Approachable Professors” Check out the news article here: http://www.liberalartscolleges.com/rankings/professors/.

There are 6 psychology professors ( 3 male, 3 female, and one staff member – our miracle working secretary) in the photo below; can you find them? The rest of those lovely faces are our students who could make it to this particular photo shoot! You have to love those GET PSYCHED shirts. They really capture our persona as a community.

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DR. NICHOLS’S INQ 277: EXPERIENCING VISION

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These photos, taken by Stephanie Buturla, were a part of Dr. Nichols’s INQ 277 May term titled “Exploring Vision Through the Eye of the Lens”.

This class utilized the digital camera as both a metaphor for the human eye and as a tool to create photographic representations of principles of human vision.  Cameras and the human eye were compared and contrasted in order to better understand both. Mechanisms of human visual perception, such as color vision, depth perception, and motion perception, were discussed in lecture format and then assignments carried out wherein students take purposeful photographs to illuminate the discussion topics.  The idea is that application through photography of principles discussed in relation to human vision, i.e. how we sense and perceive the world, may give us a better understanding of how and why the human vision system works the way it does.  Photographic expeditions were done both around campus and as part of full day trips.

DR. NICHOLS’S INQ 277: EXPERIENCING VISION

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These photos, taken by Gaby Ghosn, were a part of Dr. Nichols’s INQ 277 May term titled “Exploring Vision Through the Eye of the Lens”.

This class utilized the digital camera as both a metaphor for the human eye and as a tool to create photographic representations of principles of human vision.  Cameras and the human eye were compared and contrasted in order to better understand both. Mechanisms of human visual perception, such as color vision, depth perception, and motion perception, were discussed in lecture format and then assignments carried out wherein students take purposeful photographs to illuminate the discussion topics.  The idea is that application through photography of principles discussed in relation to human vision, i.e. how we sense and perceive the world, may give us a better understanding of how and why the human vision system works the way it does.  Photographic expeditions were done both around campus and as part of full day trips.

Dr. Nichol’s INQ 277: Experiencing Vision

Nichols Nichols1

 

These photos, taken by Kristen Macquire, were a part of Dr. Nichol’s INQ 277 May term titled “Exploring Vision Through the Eye of the Lens”.

This class utilized the digital camera as both a metaphor for the human eye and as a tool to create photographic representations of principles of human vision.  Cameras and the human eye were compared and contrasted in order to better understand both. Mechanisms of human visual perception, such as color vision, depth perception, and motion perception, were discussed in lecture format and then assignments carried out wherein students take purposeful photographs to illuminate the discussion topics.  The idea is that application through photography of principles discussed in relation to human vision, i.e. how we sense and perceive the world, may give us a better understanding of how and why the human vision system works the way it does.  Photographic expeditions were done both around campus and as part of full day trips.

The Princeton Review’s Best 380 Colleges

roanokecollegeSalem, Va. – The Princeton Review has named Roanoke College one of the best colleges in the United States for the fifth year in a row. In addition, Roanoke was named a great school for students who major in business/finance, computer science and psychology.

According to the Princeton Review survey, students say Roanoke has great career services, a great library and happy students.

“Princeton Review is a student voice among the rating systems,” Roanoke College President Michael Maxey said.   “We are excited that the voices of students at Roanoke praise our balance of ‘comfort and challenge.’  We help students find what they love to do through equal measures of support and challenge.”

“Every college in our book has outstanding academics,” said Robert Franek, Princeton Review’s senior vice president-publisher. “Our goal is to help applicants choose and get into their dream college—the college best for them.”

 Follow Roanoke College on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For additional information, call the Roanoke College Public Relations Office at (540) 375-2282.

Members of the media, please note the new location of Roanoke College news on the new Roanoke.edu site: Roanoke.edu/about/news.

Coleen Weber Briggs in a School Counseling program

ColeenColeen (Weber) Briggs B.S. in Psychology with a concentration in Neuroscience, class of 2013, has started graduate work in a Masters of School Counseling program at Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory, NC. Coleen aspires to complete her program in May 2017 with a 4.0 GPA average with the goal of eventually completing a Ph.D in either Developmental Psychology or Neuroscience.
“I enjoy psychology both from a scientific and social standpoint, primarily because it has allowed me to understand my own personal needs and the needs of those around me with greater clarity. Further, my studies in both psychology and neuroscience have given me the tools necessary to handle crises and to better work with the public. It is my hope that I can utilize my skills first in a school setting as a counselor, then in the future as a school psychologist or a neurological specialist. I encourage any students who view the psychology field from a scientific perspective to take advantage of the neuroscience program.”
Coleen took advantage of a couple of years off to explore her interests and talents, and it paid off. Not everyone has to go to graduate school right out of undergraduate.

Good work Coleen!  We are proud of you.

Spencer Munro set to finish summer-long Journey of Hope ride.

11063844_10154081984813989_3052889282999895110_nWe’ll let Spencer,BA in Psychology class of 2014, describe it himself: “Journey of Hope is a cross country cycling trip across three different routes that raise money and awareness for people with disabilities. This event is one of many hosted by Pi Kappa Phi’s philanthropy, The Ability Experience. I worked as the Logistics Coordinator for the South Route of Journey of Hope where I was in charge of organizing the entirety of the trip and overseeing the safety of the team of thirty-six. Daily, we would meet with organizations that worked with people with different ability backgrounds. These “friendship visits” would serve as not only our inspiration to continue on the trip after hard days but as opportunities for us to create amazing memories with equally amazing individuals.
My educational pursuit was fueled by my passion to find a career where I can serve others. My time at Roanoke College benefited me greatly with my post graduate internship with The Ability Experience. Firstly, my research skills that I got from seminar allowed me to research and recruit several new organizational sponsors allowing for dozens of new first time visits. Secondly, my understanding of physical and developmental disorders allowed me to educate the cyclists so we could gain a stronger empathy to the many individuals we met.
I wish I could explain just how exactly incredible this summer has been. Every day on this trip was filled with memories I’ll cherish forever. Seeing the smiles on the client’s faces during baseball games, karaoke sessions, pool parties and all of the other events made every hardship seem so insignificant. I’m forever grateful for this opportunity that was available to me because of my time at Roanoke College.”

We are proud of you, Spencer!

Recognizing Graduating Seniors: Mackenzie Slater

 

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‘Mackenzie states that she “may have not known what I was doing sometimes in my life while at Roanoke College,” but whatever it was “tried my best to do very well.”  She likes the quote from Abraham Lincoln:  “Whatever you are, be a good one.”

Post-Graduation Plans:  Mackenzie plans to attend VCU’s MSW program for the Fall of 2015.   She wants to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and work within a hospital or VA setting.

Relevant Information:  Mackenzie finished Roanoke as a Psychology major and a Spanish minor.   She is a member of the following Chi Omega Fraternity, Psi Chi, Xi Theta Chi, and Sigma Delta Pi.’

 

Congratulations Mackenzie!

SYNAPSE Conference 2015

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Dr. Nichols, Dr. Allen, and Dr. Shenal assisted students in neuroscience-based research and a few of those students got to present their findings at the SYNAPSE conference! They went to the University of North Carolina at Asheville and represented Roanoke College.

Jacob Johnson, Christy Blevins, and Dr. Nichols presented on exploring the individual factors of temporal processing and the variability of the internal clock.

[Johnson, J., Blevins, B., & Nichols, D.F. (2015, March). Exploring the individual factors of temporal processing and the variability of the internal clock. Poster presented at the SYNAPSE conference, Asheville, NC.]

Charis Flamburis, The Goodtimes Project

Charis Flamburis 2015

 

Charis Flamburis ’15 was accepted as a counselor at The Goodtimes Project! How exciting!

“Each year over 13,000 children in the US are diagnosed with cancer. Camp Goodtimes was established in 1984 to provide a no cost camp environment for children affected by cancer where they can recapture the joys of childhood.”

Learn more about the project here: http://www.thegoodtimesproject.org/

SYNAPSE Conference 2015

image4Dr. Nichols, Dr. Allen, and Dr. Shenal assisted students in neuroscience-based research and a few of those students got to present their findings at the SYNAPSE conference! They went to the University of North Carolina at Asheville and represented Roanoke College.

Alex Grant, Nataniel De Young, and Dr. Shenal worked on a comparison between QOL in TBI and Memory Disorder Clinics.

[Grant, A., De Young, N., & Shenal, B. (2015, March). A comparison between QOL in TBI and Memory Disorder Clinics. Poster presented at the SYNAPSE conference, Asheville, NC.]

SYNAPSE Conference 2015

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Dr. Nichols, Dr. Allen, and Dr. Shenal assisted students in neuroscience-based research and a few of those students got to present their findings at the SYNAPSE conference! They went to the University of North Carolina at Asheville and represented Roanoke College.

Stephanie Shields, Caitlin Morse, and Dr. Nichols also presented on the effect of attractiveness and facial expression on EEG responses.

[Shields, S.M., Arrington, P., Morse, C.E., & Nichols, D.F. (2015, March). There’s something about a smile: Effect of attractiveness and facial expression on EEG responses. Poster presented at the SYNAPSE conference, Asheville, NC.]

Outstanding Junior Psychology Majors

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Congratulations to Alexandra Grant, Diane Nguyen, Joana Peders, Christy Blevins, & Brandy Plouff. They received the award for Outstanding Junior Psychology Majors. This award is given to the junior student or students deemed by the faculty as having demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and potential for continued success in Psychology.

Congratulations Ladies & Keep up the good work!

Nicole Hurless

 

Nicole Hurless
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“I’m about to finish up my first year as a graduate student in the clinical psychology department of Saint Louis University. I’ll be proposing my master’s thesis in the summer and taking a trip to Peru in July for an international psychology conference, which I am very excited about!”
– Nicole

 

SYNAPSE Conference 2015

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Dr. Nichols, Dr. Allen, and Dr. Shenal assisted students in neuroscience-based research and a few of those students got to present their findings at the SYNAPSE conference! They went to the University of North Carolina at Asheville and represented Roanoke College.

Caitlin Morse, Stephanie Shields, and Dr. Nichols presented on “An exploration on the reduction of artifacts in EEG studies.” 

[Shields, S.M., Morse, C.E., & Nichols, DF. (2015, March). An exploration on the reduction of artifacts in EEG studies. Poster presented at the SYNAPSE conference, Asheville, NC.]

Psychology Department Just Dance Party

By popular demand. Almost everyone got into the dance party. Almost everyone.

The annual Psychology Department Just Dance Party has been scheduled! Join us to dance or watch on Wednesday April 29 from 2 to 3:30 in Life Sciences room 515. We really hope to see the psychology seniors there, but everyone is welcome, no matter your major. Local alums are welcome also. And we particularly welcome anyone who can beat reigning champion Dr. David Nichols.
See what we mean?

Alumni Weekend is Almost Here!

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The Psychology Department will be having an alumni reception over Alumni Weekend (Saturday, April 11th) on the outdoor balcony of Lucas Hall (2nd floor) from 4:00 to 5:30pm. (Rain Location: Lucas 215)

Please stop by for some drinks, snacks, and fun activities with the Psychology Department! This year we will also be honoring the years of dedicated service from Dr. Jan Lynch and Dr. Chuck Early, who will both retire at the end of this year. Contact Chris Buchholz (buchholz@roanoke.edu, 540-375-4904) for more information.

Follow us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/rcpsychology)

Faculty Fundraising!

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On May 2nd, Dr.Camac is taking a fundraising challenge, rappelling 11 stories down the Patrick Henry Hotel to help raise money for Big Brothers/Big Sisters.  Each rappeller has to raise a minimum of $1,000 by May 1st  (or thereabouts) in order to qualify.   Donations are tax deductible and can be made online or via check or cash.

Every little bit helps!   Check it out athttp://bigslittles.org/.  Below is a link to Dr. Camac’s fundraising page.

https://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.firstgiving.com%2Ffundraiser%2FMaryCamac%2Fover-the-edge-roanoke&h=SAQELk-TL

Summer Psych Classes!

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It’s not too late to sign up for classes over the summer!

Summer Term 1 (June 1st to June 26th):
Psych 270 A – Drugs & Behavior with Dr. Allen
“An examination of the mechanisms of actions, uses, effects and abuse liability of a range of drugs. Both therapeutic drugs (such as antidepressants and antipsychotics) and recreational drugs (such as alcohol, stimulants and marijuana) will be addressed.”

Summer Term 2 (June 29th to July 24th):
Psych 325 A – Social Psychology with Dr. Osterman
“Study of the influence of people on each other’s behavior, including social influence and social interaction.

Psych 450 A – History of Psychology with Dr. Buchholz
“Examination of the major systems in psychology with an emphasis on its 19th-century origins to the present.”

Psi Chi Candy Count

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During lunch and dinner hours outside of Commons this week, Psi Chi will be having a fundraising event! For just $1, students will have the opportunity to guess how much candy is in a jar (with the help of some psychology related clues). The student who guesses correctly wins the entire jar!

Students are allowed to donate more than once, thus allowing for multiple guesses! All proceeds will go towards the Psi Chi chapter here at Roanoke.

 

Internships – Kelsey Reedy

10606285_10152741012666147_7036854128929415659_nInternships in the Department Kelsey Reedy ’15 at West End Center

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“I did an internship this summer at the West End Center, and it was a fantastic experience. At the time, I was a rising senior. For the first month, Roanoke City Schools were still in session and their summer program hadn’t started yet, so from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. I supervised children grades K-5th, helped with homework, tutored, and mentored them in the West End Center’s after school program. I also assisted other staff members with various extra-curricular activities and problem solving.  When the schools let out for summer, the West End Center’s summer program began. Then, my responsibilities included again supervising, tutoring, and mentoring the kids, but I also had the opportunity to teach the PeaceBuilders program, where I taught to 3 separate classes with approximately 20 students in each class. I created three separate lesson plans about building peace education and non-violent conflict resolution, based on the children’s age range.

All in all, it was one of the most rewarding and future determining experiences I’ve ever had. Through this internship I gained not only immense experience, but also a love for the West End Center. I still volunteer with them today, and I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to give it a try!”

– Kelsey Reedy

Free the Girls!

 

FTG

Free the Girls is a nonprofit that collects new or gently used bras to help women build up an inventory for a micro-business. It is really simple way to help support women in developing countries by enabling them to establish a sustainable economy.

If you have any questions, you can contact Prof. Brogan at dbrogan@roanoke.edu and you can drop off bras in Prof. Brogan’s office in Trout 205!

 

Summer Scholars Applications

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Would you rather flip hamburgers (or paint houses or mow lawns) or spend a summer on the Roanoke campus using your mind? Would you like to get paid $2,500 (and free housing and independent study credit) for feeding your curiosity?

The Summer Scholar Program at Roanoke College is a grant program that enables thirteen students of any major with a GPA of 3.0 or higher to conduct rigorous, independent research for eight to twelve weeks during the summer. This is a full-time, tuition-free, paid position with free housing provided. In addition to the research project, summer scholars will be trained to give professional presentations. Learn more: http://roanoke.edu/Academics/Real-world_Learning/Research/Summer_Scholars.htm

Application materials and guidelines can be found here: http://roanoke.edu/Academics/Real-world_Learning/Research/Summer_Scholars/Application_Guidelines.htm

Applications are due March 15th. The above link details where to send the completed application materials. Check it out!

Dr. Friedman and Former Research Seminar Students Publish in Top Cyberpsychology Journal

Dr. Friedman and her first research seminar group published an article, released this month, on the effects of gender and emoticons on Facebook jealousy in Cyberpsychology, Behavior, & Social Networking: http://online.liebertpub.com/toc/cyber/18/2.

Ben Hudson took the lead on the article following graduation, collecting extra data and making the publication happen! He is currently applying to graduate schools. Second author, Sylis Nicolas, was brought onto the project from Hollins and just finished her Masters at Oakland University. The other seminar student co-authors include Molly Howser who received her Masters in Speech & Language Pathology from Radford University, Ian Robinson who is currently completing graduate work at VCU in the school of dentistry, Kristen Lipsett, who is currently working for United Health Group, and Laura Pope who received her Masters in I/O from Radford University. Current sophomore, Abby Hobby, who is studying abroad this semester, and helped with editing and a final round of data collection, rounds outs the student co-authors.

Publishing in a peer-reviewed journal takes dedication. These students completed some impressive work during their time at RC and continue to thrive. The department could not be more proud!

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Get Psyched!

GetPsyched.shirts“The PSYC department will be ordering shirts to be delivered shortly after Spring break. To ensure you get a shirt in the size you want, order now. The shirts are adult sizes and are pre-shrunk. We went with a higher quality shirt with the hopes you will wear it for years to come! The shirts will be purple and cost $10 each. Feel free to order one for friends and families. Please place your order with Ellen Dyer (LS 516) or the student assistants. When placing your order, specify your full name, the number and sizes of shirts, and make the payment in full. We will take pre-orders until 4:30PM on 2/11.”

– Dr. Friedman

TAP: Total Action for Progress

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Next week, the Education Job Fair will take place in the Wortmann Ballroom on Wednesday, February 4th from 9am-3pm. One of the many employers that will be on campus that day is TAP: Total Action for Progress.

TAP’s mission is to help “individuals and families achieve economic and personal independence through education, employment, affordable housing, and safe and healthy environments.” TAP’s goal is provide everyone with an equal opportunity for economic development and obtaining the American way of life. TAP offers over 30 different programs for Education & Career Development, Business & Economic Development, and Housing & Community Scholars.

TAP offers many regular entry-level jobs that Psychology, Teacher Licensure Program, Sociology, and Spanish majors would qualify for. There will be a representative at this event for graduating seniors. The representative will be looking to fill positions that teacher licensure candidates many wish to fill. The representative will not be conducting formal interviews, but an informal interview where you can ask more questions about the opportunity and TAP.

It is recommended that you bring your resume along with you to meet the representative. Business attire is not required, however very nice business casual attire is recommended.

Explore the opportunities TAP and many other employers have to offer by visiting their tables on February 4th from 9am-3pm at the Education Job Fair!

For more information,  you can visit their website at http://www.tapintohope.org/

Learn How to Review A Manuscript

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On Friday, January 30th, Dr. Nichols will be conducting a workshop in which you can learn how to review manuscripts for publication. The workshop will take place in Life Science 502 @ 3pm. 

This workshop will help you to distinguish how strong a manuscript is, if it is appropriate for publication, and if the manuscript makes a significant scientific contribution amongst many other areas.

This workshop will specifically help those who have intentions on pursuing graduate school. Come on by and learn how to review a manuscript and potentially improve  your own writing!

TAP: Total Action for Progress

TAP.HSTAP

Next week, the Education Job Fair will take place in the Wortmann Ballroom on Wednesday, February 4th from 9am-3pm. One of the many employers that will be on campus that day is TAP: Total Action for Progress.

TAP’s mission is to help “individuals and families achieve economic and personal independence through education, employment, affordable housing, and safe and healthy environments.” TAP’s goal is provide everyone with an equal opportunity for economic development and obtaining the American way of life. TAP offers over 30 different programs for Education & Career Development, Business & Economic Development, and Housing & Community Scholars.

TAP offers many regular entry-level jobs that Psychology, Teacher Licensure Program, Sociology, and Spanish majors would qualify for. There will be a representative at this event for graduating seniors. The representative will be looking to fill positions that teacher licensure candidates many wish to fill. The representative will not be conducting formal interviews, but an informal interview where you can ask more questions about the opportunity and TAP.

It is recommended that you bring your resume along with you to meet the representative. Business attire is not required, however very nice business casual attire is recommended.

Explore the opportunities TAP and many other employers have to offer by visiting their tables on February 4th from 9am-3pm at the Education Job Fair!

For more information,  you can visit their website at http://www.tapintohope.org/

Carilion Clinic Career Focus Dinner

November 6, 4:30-7pm

Location: off-campus site TBD

Large health care organizations offer a variety of opportunities for employment, internships, and research to students in many majors – Business, social sciences, and healthcare related fields. Come and hear from one of our local health care systems – Carilion Clinic – about such opportunities, as this could be useful in looking for similar settings in other locations. Registration is required by Thursday, October 30, through Career Services. This program takes place off-campus and includes dinner at no cost. Rides are available if desired or needed. For more information, contact Career Services.

For more information contact: Toni McLawhorn (540) 375-2303

We opened the suggestion box and here’s what you had to say:

“Put a trash can in the student lounge.” Done. Yay! I am glad we got one easy one.

“Add a forensic psychology class.” This is not the first time we have heard this request. We currently have two grads working the FBI and another interning with Homeland Security. Given the growing popularity of this subfield, we are looking into whether we add forensic psychology as a special topics course. We will talk to other interested disciplines and examine professor expertise and the current courses offered to see if it can fit. We also have to get approval from administration.

“Add a class on romantic relationships as people like to learn about themselves.” We have discussed adding classes on emerging adulthood (18-25) and romantic relationships. It is likely this will happen in the next few years as we are looking to expand the psychology faculty which will allow those of us with that expertise to teach these special topic courses. Of course, we have balance these classes with requirements so you can graduate!

“Demand more respect from other science departments.” We get it. Psychology is a science but is not always recognized or respected as such. We are proud of student and faculty accomplishments and are proud to note that we are to be included in the new science center complex. It is said that respect is earned, but we know stereotypes and preexisting biases make it hard to change opinions. We will continue to work hard and celebrate successes. If you have other ideas, feel free to share them!

“Add a minor in special education.” While we can cover special education topics in some of our classes, we are not an education department. The school has to meet certain accreditation standards and faculty have to have a certain expertise to teach specific classes. We can certainly talk about special education issues as they are relevant to learning, development, etc., but we are not the right department for starting a minor or concentration. Talking to education would a good start.

Thanks for all the great suggestions! Please note we are working hard to serve your needs and always want to hear your voice. We have certain limitations that we have to work inside of but if we don’t know what you want, we can’t even try to make it happen.