I am a Ph.D. candidate in Educational Psychology and Educational Technology at Michigan State University (MSU), advised by Dr. Rand Spiro. My research examines the intersection of individual differences, motivation, and emerging technologies such as virtual reality, games, and generative AI. By integrating psychological theory with user-centered design, I aim to create evidence-based, technology-enhanced learning experiences that are both engaging and effective.

My research program is organized into three interconnected streams. The first explores the use of virtual reality in formal classrooms, where I collaborate with Dr. Rabindra Ratan and Stanford's Virtual Human Interaction Lab to study its impact on social presence and fatigue. My second line of research focuses on game-based learning. I worked with Dr. Fangzheng Zhao and Dr. Richard Mayer to understand how game mechanics can promote the transfer of problem-solving skills. Currently, in collaboration with Dr. Elizabeth Cloude, we study how emotions and self-regualtion shape learning using multimodel data.

The culmination of my work is my dissertation on generative AI, where I am developing an AI-powered tool that acts as a metacognitive partner. It can help students reflect on their thinking and adapt their strategies while tackling complex problems. Across all my projects, I employ a mix of quantitative and qualitative methods to gather robust data in classroom, lab, and informal learning contexts.

Prior to MSU, I completed both my M.A. in Cognitive Science in Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, working with Dr. Janet Metcalfe on metacognition and Dr. Lesile Fraizer on playfulness. I completed my undergraduate studies in Psychology at the University of California, San Diego, working with Dr. Emma Geller on instructional design.

Beyond academia, I enjoy playing games and am currently earning a certificate in Serious Game Design & Development, further bridging my passion for games with my academic and professional goals.