Image: By: Aji Njie Eiligh Herring (BS Psychology `25, Minor in General Business `25, CERT New Media `25) Q: What first attracted you to the UGA Psi Chi chapter?A: I was drawn to the UGA Psi Chi chapter because I wanted to explore career possibilities in psychology, connect with other psychology majors and expand my network. Q: In addition to Psi Chi, what other clubs or activities are you involved in?A: Besides Psi Chi, I’m involved in the Leadership and Performance Dynamics Lab led by Dr. Hoffman, as well as Rescue Paws, Period Project and Bag the Bag. Q: How have those impacted your time here at UGA?A: Being part of a research lab has given me valuable insight into the research process and the life of a graduate student. It was my first hands-on experience in the field I’m passionate about, and I continue to learn so much. My involvement in service clubs allows me to give back to the community, which is something I deeply value. I love working alongside fellow UGA students to support the Athens area in meaningful ways. It’s been an incredible way to build friendships while also making a difference. Q: What inspired you to take on a leadership role in UGA’s Psi Chi chapter, and how has it shaped your experience in psychology?A: When I first attended Psi Chi meetings, my favorite event each semester was the professional development meeting. Getting the opportunity to talk to professionals who built their careers with a psychology background was incredibly valuable—it allowed me to ask questions I wouldn’t have otherwise had the chance to ask. Those meetings inspired me to take on a leadership role, specifically as the professional development chair, so I could help other undergraduate psychology students gain the same valuable experiences. This role has broadened my understanding of career paths in psychology—not just my own—but also those of other members and the experts I’ve invited to speak. Q: What advice would you give to students looking to maximize their Psi Chi membership and leadership opportunities?A: I highly recommend connecting with other members and panelists through contact information or connecting on LinkedIn. Psi Chi offers great networking opportunities, and having those connections, even with members from other chapters, can give you an advantage when applying to grad schools or jobs. Also, ask questions! Speaking up and making your voice heard can be intimidating, but it makes you stand out and leaves a lasting impression. Q: How do you see the Psi Chi program evolving in the coming years?A: I see Psi Chi continuing to grow in the coming years. In just the past three years, participation has increased significantly, and the more events we host, the better it will get. I’d love to see Psi Chi collaborate more with students from fields like pre-med, sociology, criminology, and pre-law to create more engagement and opportunities. Franklin Fast 5: Q: Where is your favorite place to study on campus?A: My favorite study spot on campus is the MLC. If I need a distraction-free environment, I go to my favorite corner desk in the West wing on the third floor. But if I want to work while catching up with friends, I love the booths by Jittery Joe’s. Q: What is your favorite restaurant here in Athens?A: It’s a tie between Cali-N-Tito’s and Mama’s Boy, depending on what kind of food I’m craving. Q: Which Franklin Spark characteristic most represents you (ambitious, curious, creative, innovative, tomorrow’s leader)?A: Ambitious! I’m always setting goals outside my comfort zone and pushing myself to achieve them. Q: What’s something most people don’t know about you?A: Growing up, I had four birds that were free to fly around our house. Q: What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Favorite music? Favorite college memory so far?A: In my free time, I love drawing, making jewelry, spending time outside with friends, going on walks and watching TV shows or movies with friends. My favorite music genre is pop, and Lady Gaga has been my top artist for the past three years! My favorite college memory so far has been beating Tennessee in 2022 when they were ranked #1. It started pouring during the game, but no one in the crowd left—we were all too invested.
