About Me

Beyond the Lab: My Journey, Passions, and Perspectives

Welcome to my 'About Me' page, a digital space whose update frequency has, for a while, mirrored the elusive nature of a well-rested executive function.

My cognitive control was simply allocated elsewhere! But fear not, my neural pathways are finally rerouting back here, and I'm enthusiastically shaking off the virtual dust.

Please note that this space is still in a state of 'synaptic pruning'—a work in progress as I reconfigure the layout.

While my website is dedicated to the fascinating world of word meanings, there's a human behind the research.

This page is a window into my world beyond the data, exploring the experiences, thoughts, and passions that fuel my curiosity and shape my approach to science and life.

Beyond the Lab: My Journey, Passions, and Perspectives

Fueling the Mind: My Passions & Pursuits

Musings and Reflections: Thoughts on Science, Society and the Human Condition

The Learner's Lab: My Journey in Skill & Growth

The People and Places That Shape Me

Fueling the Mind: My Passions & Pursuits

Science, for me, is more than a profession; it's a way of looking at the world. And just as my research demands mental agility, so do my personal passions, which serve as my cognitive recharge and creative outlets:

Reading (Non-Academic)

Beyond scientific papers, I devour self-help, horror, historical fiction, psychological thrillers, true crime, and autobiographies. These stories often highlight the complexities of human behavior, decision-making, and the intricate ways we construct our realities – themes that constantly echo in my research on how the brain builds meaning.

February 25, 2026

What a start to 'Project Hail Mary' for the online 'Bring Your Own Book' club!

Andy Weir has truly crafted an opening that defies expectation – it completely 'wowed' me from the first pages.

The sheer audacity of the premise and the immediate plunge into the unknown are exactly the kind of cognitive puzzles I find irresistible. It’s a brilliant reminder that discovery often begins with disorientation.

February 14, 2026

February is Black History Month in the U.S., a time to honor the achievements and legacies of Black and African Americans. To celebrate, I am reading Marsha: The Joy and Defiance of Marsha P. Johnson.

As a Black trans woman and a central figure in the 1969 Stonewall Uprising, Marsha’s life is a powerful testament to the intersection of racial justice and LGBTQ+ liberation.

Her story perfectly captures the themes of resilience and meaning-making I find so fascinating.
You can read more about her story here.

Travel, Culture, and Global Perspectives

I love immersing myself in new environments. It constantly reminds me of the diversity of human experience and the fascinating ways language and culture shape our cognitive landscapes, feeding directly into my cross-linguistic research.

Black History Month

February marks Black History Month in the U.S., an annual recognition dedicated to celebrating the profound achievements and indelible legacies of African Americans. This year's theme, 'A Century of Black History Commemorations,' invites us to reflect on the enduring journey of acknowledging and elevating Black voices and contributions. It’s a vital period for collective learning and appreciation. I encourage everyone to explore local events and activities that celebrate these crucial legacies this month. More information here.

Groundhog Day

Living in Pennsylvania, I recently experienced Groundhog Day for the first time on February 2nd – a truly unique North American tradition! This annual event, originating from a Pennsylvania Dutch superstition in 1887, features 'Punxsutawney Phil,' a groundhog whose emergence from his burrow supposedly predicts the arrival of spring. If he sees his shadow, winter lingers for six more weeks; if not, spring arrives early! It's a charming blend of folklore and a very human desire to predict the unpredictable (sound familiar, scientists?). A quaint and memorable cultural experience here in the U.S. You can learn more about Phil and the tradition here.

Super Bowl

American football (different from what they call soccer!) is one of the most popular sports in the country. The professional league, known as the National Football League (NFL), draws viewership through streaming and through in-person attendance at games alike. The NFL championship game, known as the Super Bowl, is coming up on February 8th. This year, the Seattle Seahawks will play the New England Patriots. It's a massive cultural event. Imagine: world-class musical halftime shows, wildly creative (and often unforgettable) commercials that spark as much debate as the game itself, and widespread watch parties overflowing with nachos and wings. It's a fascinating blend of sport, entertainment, and social ritual that truly brings communities together across the U.S. A memorable glimpse into American communal life!

President's Day

February 16th is Presidents Day in the U.S. This federal holiday was created to commemorate the nation’s first president, George Washington, and is celebrated annually on the third Monday of February. Originally called “Washington’s Birthday," the holiday also falls near President Abraham Lincoln’s birthday and was renamed to honor the two presidents. While Presidents Day is now meant to honor all U.S. presidents, it serves as an important opportunity for historical reflection. It reminds us to engage with history as it truly happened – acknowledging both achievements and challenging pasts, including difficult legacies of slavery and other abuses. This critical reflection is vital for continuous societal improvement.

January 19, 2026 - Reflecting on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day

As an international researcher in the U.S., observing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day this January 19th offered a profound opportunity for reflection. This federal holiday honors the indelible legacy of Dr. King, a pivotal Civil Rights Leader whose tireless activism challenged racial discrimination and championed equality. Many choose to commemorate his work through community service, a powerful testament to collective action for positive change. Beyond its historical significance, MLK Day serves as a vital reminder of ongoing societal reckonings with justice and equity. It's a moment to ponder how philosophies of fairness and inclusion are not just abstract ideals but active forces for shaping a more just future for all.

Musings and Reflections: Thoughts on Science, Society and the Human Condition

Here are some of the ideas and questions I often ponder, sometimes sparked by a research finding, sometimes by a quiet moment over coffee. These reflections are part of my continuous effort to connect the dots between the intricate mechanisms of the mind and the broader human experience.

March 03, 2026 - Immersed in History: The Engaging Drama of "The Men Who Built America":

What a start to 'The Men Who Built America'! I just began watching this documentary, and it's absolutely captivated me – it feels less like a historical account and more like an epic movie. It dives right into the stories of titans like Cornelius Vanderbilt, John D. Rockefeller, Andrew Carnegie, JP Morgan and Henry Ford bringing their ambition, strategies, and sheer force of will to life in an incredibly engaging way. It's a fascinating look at the interplay of individual drive and monumental societal change, themes that resonate far beyond history books. For anyone looking for a captivating historical drama, you can find it streaming free on Prime Freevee!"

February 28, 2026 - Finding Control Amidst Chaos: A Journey into Mindful Eating:

This year has already brought a whirlwind of global turbulences, from geopolitical strife to AI uncertainties. Amidst so much beyond our control, philosophy offers a crucial anchor: the power to focus on ourselves and what we can influence. Therefore, I've decided to embark on a mindful eating facilitator certification course. While the certification is a professional goal, my primary motivation is deeply personal. I'm focusing on understanding and reshaping my own relationship with food, particularly how it often serves as an emotional compensation. It's a journey into self-awareness and self-regulation, and a powerful reminder that our most impactful work often begins within.

The Learner's Lab: My Journey in Skill & Growth

Curiosity is the engine of both scientific discovery and personal enrichment. This section is a log of my ongoing commitment to learning new skills, tackling fresh challenges, and pushing the boundaries of my own capabilities – whether in the laboratory, at my desk, or out in the world. It’s a testament to the belief that the most effective minds are those continuously adapting and expanding their repertoire. Here, you'll find snapshots of my latest intellectual and practical pursuits:

Cognitive & Mental Agility

Just as the brain needs a workout, so does the mind. I enjoy engaging in challenges that sharpen my problem-solving, logical reasoning, and strategic thinking – reminding me that cognitive flexibility isn't just for research subjects!

March 13, 2026 - Completing "Stop the Bleed" Training

I completed a crucial 'Stop the Bleed' training at the university, presented by Penn State Health Holy Spirit Trauma Services. This free community program, based on guidelines from the American College of Surgeons, teaches essential life-saving skills like applying direct pressure, gauze packing, and tourniquets to manage severe bleeding before first responders arrive. Knowing how to act in a critical emergency is a skill everyone should have, and I feel much more prepared to assist in a life-threatening situation. It's a powerful reminder that some of the most vital learning extends far beyond academic boundaries.

February 24, 2026 - Conquering the Grid: Sudoku Master Level in Two Weeks!
One week ago, I picked up my first Sudoku puzzle, intrigued by its pure logic and the promise of a mental workout.
What started as a casual diversion quickly became an intense, fascinating dive into pattern recognition, deductive reasoning, and, yes, cognitive flexibility. Each grid is a mini-problem that demands not just a single solution path, but the ability to hold multiple possibilities in mind, discard irrelevant information, and rapidly switch strategies. I'm thrilled to share that, after just two weeks of dedicated practice, I've reached master level! This isn't just about numbers; it's a testament to the brain's incredible capacity for rapid learning and adaptation.
February 13, 2026 - My First Sudoku
A reflection on the surprisingly complex and rewarding experience of tackling my first Sudoku puzzle, and the cognitive strategies involved.

Physical & Well-being Endeavors

A healthy mind thrives in a healthy body. These activities are about pushing my physical limits, embracing the outdoors, and finding balance amidst the demands of academic life, often offering fresh perspectives for complex research problems.

February 27, 2026 - Spring's First Whisper: A 10,000-Step Discovery Along the
Susquehanna

After what felt like an endless winter, yesterday was a milestone: the first 10,000-step walk along the Susquehanna River since the cold truly set in. And with every stride, there was an undeniable shift in the air. Is spring finally whispering its arrival here in Harrisburg? My boots (and my spirit!) certainly hope so!

For anyone who follows my social media (and occasionally rolls their eyes), you'll know my affection for the Susquehanna. Yes, I take a lot of pictures of it. Some might even say too many. But here's my defense, an observation that often echoes in my scientific work: the river is never truly the same. Each visit, the light catches the ripples differently, the sky paints a new reflection, and the subtle changes in the banks tell a fresh story. It's a constant reminder that perception is dynamic, influenced by the ephemeral moment and our own evolving internal state. My lens might be fixed on the same landscape, but my mind's 'filters' always find something new, a fresh detail, a different feeling.

February 16, 2026 - Starting My Running Journey
Pushing my boundaries, one step at a time.

The People and Places That Shape Me

No intellectual journey is undertaken alone. I'm incredibly grateful for the vibrant communities, mentors, friends, and family who have supported me along the way. Their perspectives, encouragement, and occasional reality checks are invaluable.