Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Hello! I am an undergraduate Psychology Specialist at the University of Toronto with a strong focus on transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) research. My primary research interests center on exploring the intersection of identity development, mental health, and well-being within TGD communities. I am currently conducting an independent research project that explores the motivations behind the use of gender-affirming gear (GAG) and its effects on the well-being of TGD. This work builds on my passion for advancing mental health practices that are affirming, accessible, and responsive to diverse populations. Throughout my academic journey, I have gained extensive experience in research design, data analysis (R), and writing APA-style literature reviews and research proposals. I am dedicated to applying my research skills to contribute to inclusive mental healthcare solutions that support marginalized communities. I have also taken on leadership and mentorship roles through volunteer experiences within the 2SLGBTQ+ community at Victoria College, as well as psychology-related associations in the Department of Psychology at the University of Toronto.
Honours Thesis: Motivations and wellbeing in gender-affirming gear use among transgender and gender-diverse individuals Supervisor - Dr. William Ryan (PhD) • Investigating how approach vs. avoidance motivations for wearing or not wearing gender-affirming gear (GAG) affect the well-being of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals, and their associations with authenticity and gender congruence. • Presented a poster of the research proposal to the Psychology Undergraduate Research Community(PURC) symposium 2024.
Supervisor - Dr. Odilia Yim (PhD) • Conducted a systematic review of Social Psychology research on Interpersonal Relationships, integrating cross-cultural perspectives and replication studies into Dr. Yim’s course curriculum. • Evaluated and wrote sample summaries for academic articles used in second-year social psychology course assignments.
Laboratory - SPRQL Lab Supervisor - Dr. Joel Le Forestier • Coded the age, gender, and race demographics of more than 7500 Twitter profiles on an intergroup contact study about changes in the ingroup interaction or cross-group interaction between Twitter users.
• Collaborated with clinicians and community partners to lead outreach initiatives, including designing tailored programs, seminars, and workshops. • Managed client communication, screening, and referral processes. • Assisted the clinic director in developing a not-for-profit charity to provide free clinical services and secure funding for underserved communities.
• Mentored a cohort of 30 incoming and transfer students, offering guidance on academic success, campus events, and community resources. • Completed training in equity, diversity, inclusion, and sexual violence prevention. • Developed skills in supporting student mental wellness through specialized mental health referral training.
• Collaborated with the University of Toronto Student Union to deliver a survey report that supported a campus-wide gender-affirming gear giveaway for 2SLGBTQ+ students. • Partnered with Victoria College Administration to initiate plans for a trauma-informed mental health support system and financial grant program for 2SLGBTQ+ students. • Planned events such as Drag Brunch, Queer Prom, and educational workshops on gender-affirming care and sexual education.
• Coordinated and managed logistics for over 55 pick-up and delivery orders in the gender-affirming gear giveaway initiative, supporting transgender and gender-diverse students. • Authored resource guides on gender-affirming care, 2SLGBTQ+ movement history, and Indigenous perspectives on sexuality and gender.