Illumination Night at Smith College, 2024
I hold a B.A. in Neuroscience with a minor in Philosophy from Smith College. I am driven by a deep commitment to children––understanding their development and using science to advocate for the alleviation of their suffering. My scientific interests lie in the nature of perceptual development and cross-modal sensory integration. I am particularly interested in the development of vision, auditory processing, and audiovisual sensory integration. I investigate these interests through the lens of temporal processing––the brain’s ability to process sensory information in a defined time-frame–– in neurotypical and atypical populations, namely neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders.
From 2020 until 2023, I worked as a research assistant at MIT in the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, immersed in developmental psychology and developmental cognitive neuroscience. I developed a strong foundation in the research process, learning from my wonderful mentors, labmates, and the children.
After graduating from Smith, I worked at Boston Children’s Hospital in the Department of Anesthesiology, Critical Care, and Pain Medicine, where I witnessed unwavering dedication to improving children’s health through clinical practice and innovative research. In addition, I am a Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for children with the Boston chapter in which I have the opportunity to connect with, and advocate for, the needs of children in the Greater Boston area who require care and protection.
In parallel with my work in neuroscience and humanitarian service, I am expanding my musical world in the classical and global disciplines. Trained as a classical violist, I am studying piano, cello, and composition. My compositions, which are grounded in the classical tradition, draw inspiration from West African drumming, Celtic and Appalachian music, and Portuguese Fado.
My commitment to the well-being of children, in partnership with my musical practice, reflects my vision for a meaningful and integrated life.