Psych Scoop 2/4/25

The Psych Scoop is sent to all Psychology Undergraduate students and alumni each week throughout the academic school year.

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Psychology Advising Announcements

Current majors are expected to know the announcements in the advising announcement section.

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Alumni Spotlight: Harrison Browning (he/him)

Psych Advising loves to show what our amazing psychology alumni are up to through our monthly Alumni Spotlight! Our February spotlight, Harrison Browning (Spring '20 - PSY BA) works as a Javascript Engineer at BI Worldwide. Read more about his tips on finding a career path, getting the most out of your major, and moreNominate someone who you think would be great to spotlight, including yourself!

Psychology Engagement Award - Spring 2025 Application Open

Are you volunteering in your community this Spring? Or, participating in an unpaid internship here or abroad this semester? The Department of Psychology's Donor Awards for Psychology Undergraduate Engagement are available to support you! The purpose of these awards is to encourage and support psychology majors who engage in unpaid learning experiences beyond the University campus and classroom environments (i.e. unpaid internships, volunteer experiences, study abroad containing a psych-related internship, etc.). Up to three awards of $500 will be offered for Spring 2025. The application deadline is Wednesday, February 5th (12:00 pm CST). For details about the awards and application materials, visit our webpage.

Looking for Psychology Internships? Get Started with Our YouTube Tutorials!

Are you interested in finding an internship in psychology, but don’t know where to look? Psychology Undergraduate Advising is here to help! We’ve created two instructional videos to guide you through using Handshake and the MN Council of Nonprofits website to find your next internship. You can watch the Handshake video and the MN Council of Nonprofits video on our YouTube channel.

Psych Game Night 1

  • Date:  Thursday, February 13, 2025
  • Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm CT
  • Cost: Free
  • Location: Elliott Hall, Room S225

Come join Psych Advising at our Psych Game Night Valentine's edition! We will supply a few games for students to enjoy such as UMN-themed Monopoly, Codenames, Uno, etc. A Nintendo Switch is also available with Mario and Jackbox games. We highly encourage students to build community with others in our large major. Feel free to bring any additional & appropriate games. For planning purposes, please fill out the RSVP form. We hope to see you there! Contact [email protected] for any questions.

Psychology Student Group Announcements

Chinese Psychology Student Association Hiring Team Members 

The Chinese Psychology Student Association (CPSA) is currently recruiting new members and potential leaders for the organization. Candidates from all years are welcome. Members will be in charge of content creation (article composition/video editing), event planning, and public relations management on social media. CPSA is an academic student association composed of Chinese students with a major in psychology at UMN. CPSA intends to set a foundation to unite and provide a platform to communicate, share, and establish comprehensive information in the psychological field between alumni and students, including topics on academic discussions, research/graduate programs, career perspectives, etc. We are looking forward to having people who would love to learn and share psychology knowledge join us. For more information, please email Yuwei Xia at [email protected].

Events

Building the Future: Areas of Excellence Within UMN Psychology Colloquium Series - Vanessa Lee, PhD - “Habit-Guided Attention”

  • Date:  Wednesday, February 5, 2025
  • Time: 3:00 pm - 4:15 pm CT
  • Cost: Free
  • Location: Elliott Hall, Room N219 and Zoom

How do people stay focused amid constant distractions? This seminar explores the brain's limited capacity in handling multiple tasks and stimuli, as well as mechanisms that help overcome these attentional limits. We emphasize the role of habit learning in optimizing spatial attention during complex visual tasks. Our findings suggest that attention is less controlled than traditionally believed, relying significantly on habits formed through unconscious learning. If attending virtually, please fill out the RSVP form

Pre-Health Opportunities Fair

  • Date:  Friday, February 7, 2025
  • Time: 11:00 am - 2:00 pm CT
  • Cost: Free
  • Location: Coffman Memorial Union Great Hall

Register for the upcoming Pre-Health Opportunities Fair for the chance to learn about opportunities to prepare you for health professional programs. This includes 30+ on-campus and community organizations offering part-time jobs, internships, volunteering, gap year programs, research positions, and other healthcare roles! Students must register on Handshake for the event.

Counseling Psychology Club Movie Night

  • Date:  Wednesday, February 12, 2025
  • Time: 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm CT
  • Cost: Free
  • Location: Elliott Hall, Room N219

Join the Counseling Psychology Club for a Movie Night! Counseling Psychology Club will be watching Good Will Hunting and analyzing therapeutic interventions used in the film. Snacks will be provided! To attend, students must fill out the RSVP form. If you have any questions, contact our President, Will Greenberg, at [email protected]. We hope to see you there!

International Student Career Fair Preparation Workshops

Join the International Student Career Fair Preparation Workshop to get ready for the upcoming Spring 2025 career fairs! This event will feature helpful tips and information from presenters from ISSS and Career Services. All UMN international students who are attending spring career fairs are welcome to attend. We will discuss: what to expect at a career fair, how to talk with employers, your work authorization options, and tips for successful interactions and follow-up at a career fair. Please email Jane Sitter at [email protected] with any questions about this event.

Science Salon: Physics in the Round

  • Date:  Sunday, March 2, 2025
  • Time: 11:00 am - 2:00 pm CT
  • Cost: $20 - $29 (Use code below to receive discount ticket price)
  • Location: Theater in the Round  245 Cedar Ave, Minneapolis, MN

Science Salon is a forum for professional scientists to stay current on groundbreaking research and emerging technologies and engage in cross-disciplinary networking. At the Science Salon, participants meet their peers from other disciplines, enjoy refreshments, take part in stimulating activities, and learn about cutting-edge research. Use the code 'SciSalon' to receive discounted $20 tickets, a portion of which will benefit our STEM education programs.

Research

To register for PSY 4993 or 5993 credit, view the registration requirements on the Psychology Undergraduate Advising Website.

*Credit or Volunteer* CPSY 4994 Gunnar Lab seeking RA fluent in Cantonese

The Gunnar Lab at the Institute of Child Development is looking for research assistants to start as soon as possible. Our research focus is on stress and the effects of early life experiences in children, teens, and young adults. We have a research project seeking RAs to assist with transcribing parent-child interactions from videos. RAs must be bilingual in English and Cantonese. Students can earn 1-3 credits for CPSY 4994. The position can be remote. To learn more about this position, please send your CV/resume and a short introduction to Bao Moua at [email protected] to be considered.

*Credit or Volunteer* Psychomotor Ability Lab

Are you interested in Psychology research? Have you ever wondered how certain physical abilities might make some individuals fit better into particular jobs? The Ones Lab in the IO Psychology Department is seeking conscientious and motivated students to volunteer for our project on psycho-physical abilities. We are researching abilities regarding physical body motor movements (e.g., movement of fingers), fine motor skills (e.g. finger dexterity), coordination, and/or strength. These abilities are important to assess performance with jobs in these domains: sports, healthcare, safety/security, and crafts/trades. Students will participate in identifying, retrieving, and organizing studies, as well as coding relevant research for a quantitative synthesis. Interested students should complete and submit the Google form. Students who have taken courses in I/O psych, quantitative methods, and individual differences are preferred. Credit for 5993 will be provided for those interested. Questions about this opportunity may be directed to Sarah Nakamoto at [email protected].

*Volunteer or Credit* Research Intern For a Brain Neuromodulation Project in Addiction - Psychiatry Department

The volunteer research position will assist in research conducted at the Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Department. The Department is currently actively recruiting participants for addiction research studies. Research participants are enrolled in a treatment program for alcohol and substance use disorders. Responsibilities will include working: literature reviews, regular meetings via zoom, MRI assistance and administering transcranial direct current stimulation. This research is under the direction of Dr. Jazmin Camchong. Candidates must be able to work independently, detail-oriented, and willing to develop new skills. Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills; comfortable using basic computer programs and web applications. Candidates must be pursuing a degree in Psychology or a related field, and willing to commit 9-10 hours per week for a minimum of 12 months post training. To apply, send a cover letter and resume to Clarista Berg, [email protected].

The Bio-LEAP Research Opportunity for UMTC College of Liberal Arts (CLA) Transfer Students

The Bio-LEAP (Biomedical Life Science Enrichment for Academic Progress) program is part of a larger University of Minnesota initiative called Life Sciences Summer Undergraduate Research Program (LSSURP). This program offers high-quality, mentored independent research experiences for undergraduate students who are contemplating future careers in biomedical research, and who are considering pursuing advanced degrees. Students admitted to LSSURP-affiliated programs are matched with UMN faculty mentors who supervise them as they pursue a full-time 10-week duration research project in their lab. Eligibility includes being a transfer student to CLA - fall 2024, spring 2025 or admitted fall 2025, having completed Chem 1061 & Chem 1065 or transfer course equivalent, being a US Citizen or Permanent Resident, and a student from an underrepresented population in bio-medical research as defined by the National Institutes of Health. Priority application deadline is Saturday, March 1st. Interested students may submit an application at any time. The number of program spaces is limited, and program admissions will be conducted on a rolling basis.

Summer & Fall 2025 UROP Deadline 

The Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) provides University of Minnesota undergraduates from every college, major, and discipline, the opportunity to partner with a faculty member on research or creative projects. The next deadline to apply for an Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) award is March 17, 2025, for Summer & Fall 2025 projects. Research experience is important no matter what your discipline! The OUR staff is happy to help you get started. Not sure where to start? Go to peer drop-in hours to demystify the research process. They can help you figure out how to get started with research, go over the next steps, and answer general questions.

Learning Abroad

For additional information about learning abroad opportunities, refer to the Learning Abroad Center’s website.

National Student Exchange Informational Sessions Available

Hey U of M students! Apply Now to do NSE during 2025-2026! National Student Exchange (NSE) offers study away to colleges and universities throughout the United States, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands for a summer, semester, or year. NSE offers 170+ campuses to choose from. Meet new people, see new places, take new classes, and expand your horizons! NSE is affordable and we will make sure your credits transfer back to the U of M. Learn more at an NSE Info Session. Start your NSE application today!

Graduate School

Find Diversity Weekend programs - includes Fall, Spring, and Summer programs. Updated frequently.

Columbia Occupational Therapy Info Sessions & Class Visits

  • Date:  Tuesday, February 25, 2025
  • Time: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm CT
  • Cost: Free
  • Location: Zoom

The Columbia University Programs in Occupational Therapy offer an entry-level Masters Program as well as an accelerated MS/OTD program for our students and a part-time online Post-Professional OTD program for working occupational therapists. Students who are interested in learning more about our entry-level program can attend one of our virtual information sessions or sign up to sit in on an in-person class on campus in New York City. Sign up for a 1:1 meeting with an admissions officer to answer any questions you have about the program. Please RSVP at least 24 hours before the session. You will be provided with login information for virtual sessions closer to the session date. If you have any questions, please reach out to [email protected].

Post-Baccalaureate Program at UCI

  • Date:  Monday, February 10, 2025
  • Time: 4:00 pm CT
  • Cost: Free
  • Location: Zoom

The Department of Psychological Science at the University of California, Irvine is currently accepting applications for their post-baccalaureate program. UCI’s Post-Bacc Program in Psychological Science is a certificate program that combines psychology coursework with research and/or internship experience. It is designed for people who have a bachelor’s degree; who are interested in a psychology-related graduate program, career development, or career change; and who could benefit from additional coursework, research, and real-life work experience in psychology. The program consists of eight courses, which may include lower- and upper-division lectures, small seminars, hands-on research lab courses, and hands-on internship courses. An information session will be held on Monday, February 10th at 2 pm (Pacific Time) via Zoom. Applications are due on April 15, 2025 for domestic students and February 15, 2025 for international students for Fall 2025 admission. For more information, please visit the UCI Post-Bacc Program website. Questions? Contact Dr. Joanne Zinger at [email protected].

Pathways to Graduate School

The Office of Undergraduate Research’s (OUR) Pathways to Graduate School summer program is open for registration with an application deadline of March 3, 2025. Pathways is a 10-week summer research program for undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing graduate school and careers in academia. Pathways accepts U of MN students from all disciplines. To learn more about this opportunity, visit OUR’s website.

Free Grad School Resource: The Portable Mentor, expert advice for psychology careers 

A doctorate in psychology is a remarkably versatile degree, but challenges lurk at every step of the career path, from landing a rewarding position to presenting and publishing your research, getting grants, working with the media, and managing work-life balance. In a new edition of The Portable Mentor—now a free, open-access resource thanks to a donor’s generosity—dozens of psychological scientists and other experts offer diverse insights on the most critical personal and professional issues facing young scholars today.  

Resources 

Nutritious U Food Pantry

  • Date:  February 4th & 5th, 2025
  • Time: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm CT
  • Cost: Free
  • Location: Coffman Memorial Union, 1st Floor, Room 103A (Right behind the Goldy Gopher statue and across from the Theater) 

Boynton Health’s Nutritious U Food Pantry provides free groceries to any University of Minnesota student. Students can visit the pantry one time per event during open hours (1-2 total visits per month). Please bring your U Card.

APA Summer Undergraduate Psychology Experience in Research (SUPER) Fellowships

The American Psychological Association will offer up to 25 fellowships to support college students with a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion to conduct summer research in a psychological science laboratory. The purpose of this fellowship program is to promote access and equity among psychology undergraduates considering research as a career by expanding opportunities for laboratory training and mentorship to those who have not had the opportunity to access research experiences. Applications for the 2025 Fellowship are due by 11:59 pm, Eastern Time, on March 1st, 2025. To learn more about this opportunity and apply, please visit their websiteFrequently asked questions can be found here.

Jobs/Internship Opportunities

IMPORTANT: Organizations listed below are not necessarily affiliated with or endorsed by the Department of Psychology or Psychology Undergraduate Advising. Please exercise the same discretion you would in viewing any other source.

Direct Care Professional

ACR Homes is hiring psychology students to become Direct Care Professionals! Apply today for positions starting anytime in the next 9 months! You would work in a home setting alongside a co-worker to care for 4 people who have disabilities. You will get the chance to gain DIRECT PATIENT CARE HOURS by caring for the medical, emotional, and physical needs of the residents as well as enjoying fun activities with them on your shifts. ACR is flexible for students, we only ask for 2 shifts/week, but you could work more if you want. Starting pay is $16.00-$22.50/hr depending on the shift you work, paid training, and we have locations near campus, and you don't need to have a car! On top of all of that, we offer optional custom research-based internships that end with a letter of recommendation from our CEO who is a licensed psychologist. We are doing 30 min Zoom interviews now to secure your spot. You pick your start date. Contact Kayla Wildes at [email protected] if you are interested in applying!

Summer Camp Counselor for Neurodivergent Children

Working at a summer camp is very fun and is also very professionally fulfilling, regardless of your future career endeavors. Camp counselors develop key skills all employers are seeking from their staff candidates: resilience, collaboration, critical thinking, effective communication, and more. At Akeela, this experience is enhanced for those seeking roles in working with neurodivergent youth after graduation. Akeela has two different camps, Camp Akeela and Beyond Akeela, that are intentionally designed for children and teens on the autism spectrum. The staff application is available on our website. Questions about the position can be directed to [email protected].

Part-Time Research Intern 

Gillette offers research interns the opportunity to explore their interest in clinical research and medicine through a structured 10-week research internship program. Gillette specializes in providing clinical care for children and adults who have brain, bone, and movement conditions. As a research intern at Gillette, you will learn about research processes in the context of this unique clinical setting. Each Summer research intern is paired with a Gillette mentor whose ongoing research project is well-suited for the intern's previous experiences and educational goals. Summer research interns will receive a $3,500 stipend as well.  In addition to research activities, research interns will have the opportunity to attend weekly teaching seminars and to immerse themselves in clinic life through surgical observations and outpatient clinic shadowing. At the end of the 10-week program, research interns will present their work to their mentors and peers during a poster presentation session.  For more information, visit their websiteApplications are accepted until Sunday, February 16th. Questions about this opportunity can be directed to Michaela Hingtgen at [email protected].

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