Alumni Success Stories

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Karen Hudzinski

M.S. in Consumer and Industrial Psychology, Cleveland State University
Current Position:  Manager, Consumer Insights and Engagement, Macy’s

“One highlight of my experience as a psychology major was the time I spent on research projects with my mentor. I spent two summers experimenting in the field with how different verbal requests influence a person’s willingness to comply with those requests. This was a highlight because it allowed me to put into practice everything I learned about experimental design and data analysis.

My experiences in the Psychology Department also helped me realize it’s OK to take the path others might not be taking. Unable to squelch my passion for consumer behavior, I spent lots of time contemplating with my mentor about what my next move should be and began reaching out to professionals in the consumer behavior field whom I did not know. Pushing myself to pursue my passion is one of the reasons I am on the career trajectory that I am today.

It is extraordinarily clear how accomplished and talented the professors are in the Psychology Department. It is not only through degrees and publications, but also through the quality of their teaching and interest in the development of their students. I felt as though they took a personal approach to my success. They did not want to just hand out degrees, but rather they wanted to help shape a young professional – and they enjoyed doing it!”

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Jennifer McLaren

Psy.D. in School Psychology, Alfred University
Current position: Director of Evaluations and Outpatient Services, Center for Autism,
Licensed psychologist, Certified School Psychologist

“The University of Scranton’s professors in the psychology department are dedicated, passionate, and supportive. Scranton is unique because faculty regularly mentor undergraduate students as research and teaching assistants; opportunities that may not be available at larger universities with graduate programs.

The University of Scranton provided me with several opportunities in research as well as clinical practica to prepare me for a doctoral program. As a result of these one-on-one and small group experiences with faculty, I was one of only two students in my graduate program who transitioned directly from an undergraduate program into a doctoral program. Dr. Norcross literally wrote the book on preparing undergraduate psychology majors to transition into graduate programs and helped me to make this leap.”

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Ryan Pohlig

Ph.D. in Research Methodology, University of Pittsburgh
Current Position: Manager, Biostatistics Core, College of Health Sciences, University of Delaware

“I fondly recall the interactions shared with Psych faculty members, who treated the students with a respect and dignity not often found in higher education. Being involved in the Psych Department’s social groups exposed me to a lot of experiences I would have never had.

The University facilitated a tremendous amount of personal growth. The faculty and their classes stressed critical thinking, personal responsibility, and a strong sense of ethics. My time as a psychology major is literally the foundation that my academic life has been built upon.

The faculty and supporting staff in the Psychology Department are incredible. It is not often that primarily teaching universities have a department with faculty who have national reputations for being quality researchers. Added to that is that they genuinely care. The Department consistently put the student first. My faculty mentors convinced me that graduate school was realistic and an opportunity I should take; they gave me the push I needed.”

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Laura Rozelle

Ed.M. in School Psychology, Columbia University
Current Position: School Psychologist, MaST Community Charter School

“My time at Scranton continues to impact my everyday life in critical thinking skills, scientific methods, and the way I interact with my students and colleagues. My psychology classes at Scranton taught me to critically evaluate and analyze data to develop ways to help students academically, socially, and emotionally. 

Throughout my time at Scranton, I expanded my knowledge of behavioral and mental processes, gained hands-on experience, and participated in Jesuit and service-related activities. These opportunities thoroughly prepared me for my academic and professional work in psychology as I was challenged to strive to reach my highest potential.

I encourage parents to consider sending their children to Scranton, particularly if they have an interest in psychology. Psychology challenges students to grow academically while providing a tremendous amount of support. In addition, the Department embraced me for who I am and encouraged me along a career path for my strengths and abilities. I feel strongly that this University and this academic department are unique in their ability to build community while challenging students to strive for excellence.”

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Allison Smith

Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, University of Rhode Island
Current position: Attending Psychologist, Mayo Family Pediatric Pain Rehabilitation Center / Clinical Faculty Member, Harvard Medical School

“As a student at Scranton, I felt like I was part of something bigger than myself. In this department, I knew I mattered and had a community of people who would delight in my successes and support me through challenges. Psychology felt like more than a building or a major; it felt like being part of a family.

Perhaps my favorite memory was attending my first psychology conference with my mentor. She watched my eyes light up as we walked in and said, “You are totally meant to do this.” This statement resonated in my mind and heart for the rest of my undergraduate career, during overwhelming moments in graduate school, and to this day, in the midst of the most challenging cases. She, and the department, gave me a foundation, a vision, and the confidence to pursue the professional life meant for me.

The Psychology Department’s blend of science and practice not only provided me with the strongest foundation for graduate school, but taught me how to think critically, be ever curious, and cultivate empathy. Faculty members are not just teachers – they educate whole-heartedly and they care deeply.”