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Simons STEM Scholars Program
HomeSimons Scholar ProfileSimons Scholars Profile - Taina Stuart

TainaStuart

Image of Taina Stuart

Cohort 1

Hometown: Manhattan, NY

Major: Psychology

Year: Sophomore

High School: The Beacon School

Biography:

Taina plans on studying disciplines within neuropsychology, psychopathology, and psychopharmacology to understand how brain processes influence behavior and mental health across different individuals, and to develop the best methods for assessment and support in their time at Stony Brook. In their free time, Taina likes to sing, cook, and read. Before becoming a Simons STEM Scholar, Taina participated as an intern at Brainwave Teen Psychology. Taina is most excited about making lasting memories, conducting research, and forming new connections that will advance them towards a career in psychiatry.

Leading the Future:

"I envision myself championing greater diversity in mental health care, making services more accessible and comfortable for everyone, and ultimately helping to address the ongoing crisis in mental health."

Why did you become a Simons STEM Scholar?:

"I chose to become a Simons STEM Scholar because I value being in a community where I can uplift and support my peers, while also receiving support in return when needed. My goal is to encourage diversity and inclusion in all spaces, and I feel confident that the environment, preparation, and opportunities within the Simons STEM Scholars program is the best place to reach that goal." 

What would you say to someone who is applying?:

“My biggest piece of advice is to be yourself. While your achievements are important, just remember you're a human, not a robot. Being true to who you are during the application process is the best thing you can do!”

Research Experiences:

Summer 2024 - Stony Brook University under Dr. Ryan Parsons and Dr. Kehinde Cole on "Neural Circuits Underlying Facilitated Fear Memory: A Focus on the Basolateral Amygdala, Prelimbic Cortex, and Temporal Association Cortex"