- Where is your hometown? Indianapolis, IN
Marcella-Alysia Arguello
- Where did you obtain your bachelor’s, and what were your major(s)? Miami University – Double major in Psychology and Critical Race and Ethnic Studies
- What first interested you in psychology? My interest in psychology was sparked during my freshmen year of high school when I was first introduced to the subject in an English class. From there, my curiosity about the inner workings of the human experience expanded, drawing me into the practical applications of psychological principles with the intent to improve individual and collective well-being. However, it was clear that there was an imbalance of representation within the population pools being studied, pushing me to pursue an academic and professional career in social psychology.
- Why did you choose Ball State? I chose BSU because I appreciated the Department of Counselling Psychology, Social Psychology and Counselling’s multicultural approach as well as its emphasis on inclusive research. When looking for an institution to pursue my graduate education, I wanted a department that provided space to research underserved populations as well as address intersectional issues such as prejudice and discrimination.
- What do you think of your experience at Ball State as an MA student so far? So far, all the faculty and students I’ve interacted with have shown me nothing but kindness and support as I transition into higher education. I’m looking forward to working as a graduate assistant with Dr. White and getting into the rhythm of research again after my gap year.
- What are your future and career goals? I hope to pursue a research position at an academic institution or non-profit organization to help fill gaps in population samples and expand knowledge within the field to provide sustainable, generalizable findings that could lead to interventions and increased resources for all communities. I also hope to pursue a Ph.D. in social psychology in the future.
- What are a few of your favorite hobbies? A few of my hobbies include scrapbooking, thrifting and upcycling, and going to concerts.
- What food could you not live without? A food I can not live without is tiramisu.
- What is your favorite TV show currently? Currently, my favorite TV show is Smallville after I recently saw the new Superman movie.
- What is something about you that people would be surprised to know? I was born on St. Patrick’s Day 🙂
- If you could have dinner with any historic figure, who would it be and why? If I could have dinner with any historic figure, it would be Rubén Darío. As a Nicaraguan, I think it would be meaningful to meet the Nicaragüense poet who pioneered the modernismo movement in Latin Americana and Spanish-language poetry that often dealt with themes of escapism and cultural pride.