Home - Department of Psychology

Abby and Olivia Kayani

Twin sisters Abby and Olivia knew they wanted to pursue medicine, but didn’t want to take the most traditional path. So, they chose to study psychology.

Choosing psychology through the College of the Liberal Arts gave us a broader understanding of people, behavior and communication—skills that are just as essential to being a good doctor as the science itself. - Olivia Kayani

Milan Dukes

Milan encourages all Psychology students to do research while completing their undergrad because it can help with figuring out a career path for after graduation.

There are just so many possibilities and career paths for psychology students, but I really think that getting involved with a research lab that you think could be interesting is a great way to really dip your toe into what you think you might want in your future.

Elisabeth Egeli

Elisabeth’s passion for psychology research was sparked during her second year at Penn State when she took PSYCH 270 Introduction to Abnormal Psychology.

That course opened my eyes to the complexities of psychological disorders like depression and anxiety. Given how many people struggle with these issues, I wanted to get involved in research that could make a difference in their lives.

Double majoring in Psychology and Criminology allowed Kara to take a deep dive into the psychology behind crime, giving her a well-rounded perspective and earning her an internship at the Office of Attorney for Clinton County.

Cherish Graham

Cherish works as a research assistant in an obsessive-compulsive disorder study lab. In the lab, Graham is responsible for recruitment and psychological assessments and is learning about mechanisms that maintain obsessive-compulsive symptoms to inform future research and interventions.

As a department, we prioritize research, teaching, and service in our pursuit of advancing our understanding of human behavior, thoughts, and emotions. Our research efforts are geared towards discovering new knowledge and innovative ways to apply this knowledge to improve the lives of individuals and communities. In our teaching, we aim to provide students with a comprehensive and engaging education in psychology that prepares them for successful careers and meaningful contributions to society. Finally, we are committed to providing service to our community and to society as a whole by using our expertise to help individuals and organizations address psychological issues and improve mental health.

News

Psychology student serves as THON director

Erin Gnall, psychology student, recently served as the supply logistics director for THON 2026.

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First-generation student prepares for career in counseling psychology

Alivia Peterson has ably navigated Penn State’s big-campus environment by taking advantage of numerous opportunities that have allowed her to refine her professional skills and forge close-knit personal bonds.

Originally intending to major in kinesiology and pursue athletic training, the Rahway, New Jersey, native and first-generation college student soon discovered her passion extended beyond physical performance to the mental and emotional challenges athletes often face behind the scenes. This led her to change her major to psychology.

Psychology and first-gen student finds community and belonging in Liberal Arts Chaiken Center

Camren Boyogueno, Chaiken Scholar and first-gen student, found “a mentor who felt like family,” and a community in the Liberal Arts Chaiken Center for Student Success that shaped her Penn State journey. Now, in her fourth year, Boyogueno mentors students who visit the Chaiken Center, transforming her early challenges into opportunities to uplift others.

Research in CAT Lab guide Psychology student’s career path

Psychology student Miguel Morazan found a meaningful way to connect his academic interests with real-world research after joining the Department of Psychology’s Cognition, Affect, and Temperament (CAT) Lab, working with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and electroencephalography (EEG) while contributing to a project on parent-to-child anxiety.

Psychology student strives for more inclusive mental health care

Psychology student, Simone Warren is bridging her research, leadership skills and advocacy in pursuit of more inclusive mental health care for historically underrepresented communities.

“Throughout my time here, I have applied to various types of positions, jobs, internships and other out-of-classroom opportunities. There were so many times I got denied or told that I was not fit for the position or role, but persistence and patience are key to growth.”