Born overseas and having lived in over 10 different countries as the son of a diplomat, Elliott has always wondered what makes people of different cultures so unique. An aspiring researcher, he believes a greater understanding of the mind, specifically through the lens of everyone being God's creation, is the beginning of a more open-minded and compassionate humanity. There is so much unknown in psychology, and Elliott hopes to further his education and knowledge in the field for the glory of God and for people who feel lost and misunderstood.

• Curriculum Vitae

Kaitlyn Stetzer is a fourth-year psychology major in the Torrey Honors College at Biola University. Her research interests include substance use cessation and addiction. She is particularly interested in how cultural identity, religious tradition, and moral values relate to substance use development, as well as how technology and technological interventions can support prevention and cessation outcomes. Kaitlyn aims to contribute to research that advances our understanding of emotional processes and evidence-based mental health care, while honoring the richness and diversity of human experiences.

• Curriculum Vitae

Having recently moved to the United States from Indonesia for her studies, Gaby has developed a keen interest in how diverse cultures and contexts shape behavior and community dynamics, as well as how individuals can celebrate their unique, God-given cultures. She is a second-year undergraduate whose enthusiasm for cultural exploration motivates her research involvement, and she is excited about the chance to learn and grow alongside this research team. Gaby sees this lab experience as a valuable opportunity to prepare for a doctorate in Developmental Psychology and as a way for God to use her well during her time at Biola University.

• Curriculum Vitae

Riley is a second-year undergraduate psychology student at Biola University with a strong passion for understanding child development and mental health. She is particularly interested in the mental health needs of children exposed to early adversity and how experiences, trauma, and relationships shape development across cultures. Riley hopes to pursue a doctoral degree in developmental psychology and is especially interested in integrating psychological work with missions, using her training to serve children and families in diverse cultural contexts. She is excited to be involved in this lab as an opportunity to grow in her research skills and deepen her understanding of developmental and cultural psychology, all while honoring God by using her education to serve others with compassion and care.

• Curriculum Vitae

Danny, a 10th-grade high school student, has lived between the United States and Costa Rica, enriching his appreciation for cultural diversity and his ethnic heritage. His role as a research assistant in the lab's 2024 study on Bribri indigenous adolescents' screen usage and its impact on mental health and ethnic identity sparked a strong interest in applying the scientific method to tackle social issues, especially those concerning ethnic minority adolescents. He also serves as a Student Leader in his church's youth group and is a member of the Student Council for Hope Christian Private School Satellite Program, a large homeschool organization.

• Curriculum Vitae