Director of Graduate Studies
Psychological Sciences, Neuroscience
Congratulations to our 2025 graduates!
I'm Adriana Lopez, a current master’s student in William and Mary’s Psychological Sciences program, originally from Houston, Texas. I am primarily interested in researching neurocognitive functions of the self, specifically cognitive correlates of self-perception and self-esteem to get a better understanding of who we are and how we can perceive a better quality of life. When I'm not in class or working on research, I love to swim, travel, and read a good book.
Undergraduate Honors Students:
Elyssa Kancherla: Hi! I am a sophomore pre-med student from Martinsville, VA and I joined the lab Spring 2022. As a research assistant, I have had the opportunity to help collaborate with fellow lab members on projects concerning hate crimes, implicit biases, and the psychological impact of exposure to racism. Being a part of this lab has served as a great learning experience, both from Dr. Dickter and other students in the lab. Outside of the lab, I play rugby and enjoy watching “Criminal Minds” and “Grey’s Anatomy”!
Undergraduate Research Assistants:
Hi! My name is Helagenet, but everyone calls me Hela. I'm currently a Junior CAMS pre-medical student at William & Mary. I joined Dr. Dickter's Social Cognition Lab during the spring of my freshman year and have loved every moment since! Although my major is in computational mathematics, statistics, and biology, I have a deep passion for neuroscience, which makes this lab a perfect fit for me. I primarily collaborate with Adriana Lopez, a graduate student specializing in EEG, and I assist her with EEG data collection and analysis using BrainVision Analyzer to explore the neural mechanisms underlying racial bias.
Outside the lab, I'm actively involved in ACS and the CAMS Club, and I work as an IT student worker for W&M TSC!
Hi, I’m Meg Champagne! I’m a junior pre-med Neuroscience major from Southern Maine. Since joining the lab in my freshman year, I have had the opportunity to work on multiple EEG projects, focusing on data collection and analysis. I have enjoyed working alongside fellow students in the lab and gaining a better understanding of the research process. Outside of the lab, I am the Vice President of the Women’s Gold Club Soccer team and enjoy running, hiking, and coffee!
Hello! My name is Matthew Hwang, and I am a senior majoring in Psychology and minoring in Biochemistry on the Pre-Medicine track from Fairfax Station, VA. Joining the Social Cognition lab, as a research assistant, I have had the opportunity to work on EEG studies that focus on contemplative practices as well as exploring in-group/out-group dynamics. Being part of the lab has helped me understand the possibilities of applying research techniques to explore social issues and applications. Outside of the lab, I am involved with Student Assembly as the Class of 2025 President, and I enjoy dancing and listening to music.
My name is Hannah Khan and I'm a junior from Reston, VA. I am majoring in psychology with a minor in religious studies. I've been working for the lab since Summer 2021, and I've really enjoyed the collaborative experience of working in Dr. Dickter's lab. Outside of the lab I am the president of W&M Knitting Club and I love dancing!
Hi! My name is Jaenya Cooper, and am a senior pre-law student from Portsmouth, VA, and I joined the lab in Fall 2024. Since joining the lab, I have had the opportunity to work on multiple EEG projects, focusing on data collection and analysis, code and analyze survey responses to perceptions and attitudes toward transgender individuals. This lab has allowed me to connect my Anthropology courses with hands-on research as well. Outside of the lab, I'm involved in orgs on campus such as Black Student organization, Anthropology Club, and Service Saturdays.
Howdy! I'm Emily Garloff and am a junior pre-med student from Richmond, VA, and I joined the lab in Fall 2024. As an RA, I've been able to help with the Cultural Competency Study as well as code and analyze survey responses to perceptions and attitudes toward transgender individuals. This lab has allowed me to connect my Neuroscience courses with hands-on research. Outside of the lab, I'm involved in orgs on campus such as WCWM Radio, Alzheimer’s Buddies, and Service Saturdays.
Hi! My name is Gretchen Swartz, and I’m a junior Neuroscience major from Bolton, Mass. I have experience in developing bias-reducing initiatives, as well as cognitive rehabilitation, with a focus on combating dementia. I’m looking forward to progressing this research and gaining irreplaceable experience alongside team members! Outside of the lab, I am the Vice President of Panhellenic, a member of Tribe Ice Hockey, and frequently run, exercise, and craft!