My name is Becky, and I am currently a Project BRITE scholar at Penn State, pursuing my Master's degree in Special Education. I completed my undergraduate studies at The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), where I majored in Clinical and Counseling Psychology. During my time at TCNJ, I was involved in the REACH (Research on Engagement, Adjustment, and Community Health) lab under the mentorship of Dr. He Len Chung. There, I contributed to the development and evaluation of a trauma-informed program designed for high school students in an urban community. This experience deeply influenced my decision to pursue graduate studies in special education, fueling my commitment to advocate for children—particularly those from underserved communities and those who have experienced trauma.

Master's Degree:

M.Ed. Special Education:
Project BRITE

(In progress)

Bachelor's Degree:

B.A. Counseling and Clinical Psychology

My primary research interest focuses on how current and future educators can develop and implement an evidence-based, effective trauma-informed pedagogy that supports students across all grade levels. I am particularly interested in exploring how the integration of trauma-informed practices in schools can positively impact students from historically marginalized groups, including students of color, multilingual learners, and students with disabilities. In particular, I am intrigued by how trauma-informed approaches can support students with behavioral challenges and learning disabilities, helping to create more supportive and responsive educational environments. 

Monasterial, S., Klein, R., Samuel, E., & Corbett, B. (2024). Implementing a wellness program with Trenton youth: Reflections about undergraduate professional development in the context of community engaged research. Undergraduate Journal of Service Learning & Community-Based Research, 14(2), 56–63. https://doi.org/10.56421/ujslcbr.v14i2.479

Chung, H., Monasterial, S., & Klein, R. (2024). Promoting well-being for Trenton youth leaders through psychoeducation and positive psychology [Poster presentation]. Eastern Psychological Association, Philadelphia, PA

Monasterial, S., & Klein, R. (2023). Implementing a mental wellness program with Trenton youth [Poster presentation]. The College of New Jersey MUSE Poster Session, Ewing, NJ.

Chung, H., Corbett, B., Klein, R. & Monasterial, S. (2023). Developing a container for health with undergraduate students involved in community-academic partnerships [Oral presentation). Society for Community Research and Action 19th Biennial Conference, Atlanta, GA.

Vidala, A., Bhargava, M., Kim, E., & Klein, R. (2022) Integrative review of the cultural well being of older adults [Poster presentation]. Eastern Psychological Association, New York City, NY, 2022.

Step by Step Preschools - State College, PA 

Substitute Teacher; State College Area School District - State College, PA 

Head Counselor; Rolling Hills Country Day Camp - Marlboro, NJ