Amazing Students
The UTC I-O program attracts and selects some of the strongest graduate students in psychology from all over the United States and the world. Curious about who our current students are? Check out the following bio summaries on our current students:
First-Year Students (2025-2026)
- Evelyn Bonner, Texas A&M University (UG), Major: Psychology
Why I-O?
In undergrad, while looking at areas in psychology the idea of pursuing I-O Psychology wasn't something I seriously considered until I recognized it can be seen in every corner in our life. Going into psychology I knew that I wanted to help people live a better life by enabling emotional stability and embracing their confidence. I recognized an amazing blend using scientific research to help an organization operate more industrially efficient and heeding the needs of various individuals engaging with their peers and employers in this field. The areas like DEI, teamwork and leadership within the workplace called to me the most and solidified that this is the type of work I want to base my career on.
Why UTC?
Among the many admirable things about the MSIO program, the stellar faculty members sealed the deal for me when I was weighing masters I-O Psychology programs. During my time with this program I know I wanted to be introduced to various areas of psychology, and be exposed to distinct outlooks on how we view the field. I saw a diverse and insightful team of educators eager to inspire students in their program to discover what it is they want to accomplish within and after the program. I felt the growing impact the MSIO program was having with their students and I decided I needed to be somewhere where our curiosities and passion for I-O Psychology were welcomed inside and outside of the classroom.
- Desiré DePaula, Middle Tennessee State University (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Mental Health Services & Spanish
Why I-O?
I am always looking for a way to improve any organization I have worked in. I have a passion for training, employee development, and workplace efficiency. I want to pursue a career in industrial-organizational psychology after identifying a trend of the work I have gravitated towards, in every job I've held.
Why UTC?
I chose to pursue an MS degree in I-O psychology here at UTC because I was intrigued by the program's cohort structure. Being in a cohort fosters collaboration and deep connection with peers pursuing similar goals. I also appreciate the accessibility of faculty and the mentorship opportunity from experienced second-year students.
- Justise Griggs, University of Pittsburgh (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Criminal Justice and American Sign Language
Why I-O?
I chose I-O Psychology because during my time as an undergraduate, I became interested in behavior in a working environment, since working is such a big part of our lives. I believe our work lives can be crucial to mental health and/or overall well-being, and I want people to feel secure at work. I want to be a part of a group striving to improve the workplace as well as employee mental well-being.
Why UTC?
I chose UTC because they offer a lot of opportunities to succeed, in and outside the program. The curriculum also gives you the chance to explore different aspects of I-O Psychology. The faculty here offer support and guidance while still giving us the chance to explore the I-O world on our own. They give us many chances to get real hands-on experience and connect with the community outside our program.
- Katie Kent, University of Georgia (UG), Major: Textile design
Why I-O?
After spending many years in the workforce completing tasks closely related to I-O Psychology—without initially realizing it—I became excited to discover this field of study and was eager to apply. My personality, passion for helping others, and love of problem-solving align well with the formal training this program provides. I want to deepen my knowledge so that I am better equipped to offer thoughtful, intentional, and evidence-based solutions that improve organizations and their environments. What excites me most about I-O Psychology is the unique blend of working with people while addressing complex workplace challenges.
Why UTC?
As a Chattanooga resident with many years of professional experience, I was excited to learn about UTC’s highly regarded and competitive I-O Psychology program through alumni who spoke very positively about their experiences. From my first interaction, it was clear that the faculty are genuinely invested in the growth and success of their graduate students. I am especially drawn to the program’s commitment to helping students build on their experience and discover the best applications of their skills, degree, and personality to make a meaningful impact.
- Jimena Lopez Flores, Kennesaw State University (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Double minor in Data Analytics and Human Resource Management
Why I-O?
I pursued I-O Psychology after experiencing firsthand how organizations struggle when their workforce feels unsupported. I grew motivated to bridge that gap to help businesses thrive by creating healthier and more effective work environments. I am excited to learn more about this field and help organizations while prioritizing the well-being of the workforce.
Why UTC?
I chose to pursue my Master’s degree in IO Psychology here at UTC because of its incredible faculty and strong emphasis on professional growth. I was specifically interested in the program’s graduate assistantships, its strong professional network, and its vast research opportunities.
- Leah Landry, University of Alabama (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Biology
Why I-O?
In choosing I-O psychology, I can leverage my interest in human behavior to develop practical strategies that strengthen organizations with meaningful missions. I want to engage with my community knowing that my work improves lives. I-O offers a practical approach to improving my community by improving the organizations that function within it.
Why UTC?
I was originally drawn to UTC because of the collaborative nature of the program. Students are encouraged to grow with their cohort to achieve the best outcomes. I was also impressed by the course offerings at UTC. The foundational courses are rooted in core competencies of I-O, and the emphasis on internships transforms students into professionals.
- Claire Martin, University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UG), Major: Psychology
Why I-O?
My passion for Occupational Health Psychology led me to study I/O. Working as a Medical Assistant postgrad gave me a unique perspective on workplace issues. I saw firsthand how work-related stress negatively impacts both the mental and physical health of people ranging from hourly workers to CEOs of large organizations. I hope to mitigate some of these issues by implementing programs and systems that highlight the importance of work-life balance and the overall well-being of the employee, while maintaining the success of the organization.
Why UTC?
Learning from a strong curriculum with up-to-date information, in addition to gaining consulting experience, was important in my search for a potential grad school. UTC’s program aligned perfectly with my preferences, and also had an impressive faculty list whose interests cover a very broad spectrum. I have no doubt that I will leave UTC with a strong career foundation and valuable connections through members of a close-knit cohort. My career goals overlap heavily with my personal goals, so Chattanooga’s outdoor recreation scene and beauty made UTC an easy decision!
- Anna Minor, Murray State University (UG), Psychology, Minor: Cognitive Science
Why I-O?
Late into my undergraduate psychology degree, I came across the field of I-O psychology. I almost immediately knew that I wanted to pursue I-O because it felt like the perfect way to apply my passion for psychology in a real-world setting while providing a wide variety of opportunities. Understanding how human behavior functions in the workplace is extremely interesting to me, and I appreciate the fact that I-O is a field which prioritizes the human experience. I-O certainly has the capacity to create positive change in the workplace, and I look forward to being a part of that change.
Why UTC?
Several aspects about UTC and Chattanooga itself drew me to this program, but ultimately it came down to the interactions I had with the program director, professors, and current students that solidified my decision to attend. I gained a sense of the program culture almost instantly during my interview, and it became clear that the community within the program, as well as the quality of the program was top-tier. I am confident that UTC provides the support, faculty quality, program structure, and overall atmosphere that will allow me to be a successful I-O student, classmate, and future practitioner.
- Kenny Nichols, Kennesaw State University (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Sociology
Why I-O?
I chose I-O as a career path because I am interested in how we can make the workplace more efficient for workers at all levels. I am interested in studying how workplace relationships can impact worker motivation and performance. I eventually would like to become a professor and teach others about psychology using my knowledge and experience gained from working in this field.
Why UTC?
I chose to continue my education here at UTC because of the convenience, great reputation, and beautiful location of the campus. Being from north Georgia I am close by campus and am still able to access home very easily. In addition to this, many of my professors in undergrad have spoke highly of this university as well as the city that it is located in, so I know I will be receiving a high quality experience and education.
- Lucy Owusu, University of North Georgia (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Spanish
Why I-O?
I have always been curious about what makes people enjoy their work and how teams can work better together. I chose Industrial-Organizational Psychology because it combines my interest in psychology with my desire to help people and organizations be more effective. I want to learn how to create healthier, more productive workplaces where employees feel valued and supported.
Why UTC?
I chose UTC because of its strong reputation in Industrial-Organizational Psychology and the program’s balance of research, practical application, and professional development. The faculty’s expertise and opportunities for graduate assistantships make it the perfect place for me to grow as both a student and a future practitioner. Additionally, UTC’s emphasis on applied learning will allow me to gain hands-on experience that will prepare me for a meaningful career in the field.
- Angelena Proffitt, Pennsylvania Western University (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Sociology
Why I-O?
My passion has always been understanding people and supporting their collective well-being. With my background in psychology and sociology, I found that I-O psychology is the best way for me to do that. Work is such a big part of our lives, and I believe that people deserve to feel valued and supported in the places they spend their time. I think it’s amazing that a field exists where I get to apply research and psychological principles to help employees and organizations thrive. I’m excited to go on this journey of discovering how I can turn what I learn into making a meaningful difference.
Why UTC?
I chose UTC because I feel like it’s the program where I will grow the most, both personally and professionally. UTC first stood out to me because of its strong reputation in the I-O field, but what truly kept my interest was the people. The faculty includes some incredible minds in the field, and every conversation I had with current students made me feel even more confident in my choice. The more I learned and the more I spoke with people in the program, the clearer it became that UTC is the place where I will develop into a well-rounded I-O specialist.
- Sarah Elizabeth Sapp, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Family and Child Studies
Why I-O?
I chose I-O psychology because I have always enjoyed learning about psychology and I have always enjoyed studying business, and I-O psychology seemed like the perfect blend of the two. I have also worked with poor management and great management, so I know how much of a difference management makes on a business. Being able to help businesses create a healthy work environment has always been a goal of mine, so I-O psychology seems like the perfect career path for me.
Why UTC?
I chose to pursue my MS degree at UTC because I completed my Bachelor’s in Psychology at UTC and I fell in love with the students, faculty, and downtown Chattanooga. The students here are very friendly, the faculty are amazing and have always been kind and helpful. Downtown Chattanooga is beautiful with many things to go do in your spare time.
- Sawyer Snodgrass, Midway University (UG), Major: Psychology
Why I-O?
I began studying psychology in undergrad because I was fascinated by human behavior. However, as I progressed in my studies, I realized that the clinical path didn’t align with my interests or long-term goals. It was during this time that one of my professors introduced me to I-O Psychology. I was immediately drawn to the way it merges the study of human behavior with the dynamics of the workplace. Given how much of our lives are spent at work, I’m passionate about helping create environments that are not only productive but also supportive and fulfilling. Pursuing a master’s in I-O Psychology felt like the ideal way to make a meaningful impact on both individuals and organizations.
Why UTC?
I was immediately drawn to the I-O Psychology program at UTC because of its collaborative and supportive environment. Being part of a community of like-minded individuals who are passionate about the same field was something I deeply valued, and UTC fosters that sense of connection. Another major factor in my decision was the faculty. Their commitment to supporting students through this important stage of professional and personal growth, and their dedication to helping us reach our goals really stood out to me. It made UTC feel like the right place to learn and grow.
- Julia Suhadolnik, West Virginia University (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Forensic and Investigative Science
Why I-O?
I chose I-O psychology because I was drawn to the opportunity to make meaningful change by helping both organizations and individuals thrive. Since adults spend a significant portion of their lives at work, I believe it is important to create environments that are not only productive but also supportive and fulfilling. As a future professional in the field, I am passionate about the potential to use data-driven strategies to solve workplace challenges, improve employee well-being, and support organizational effectiveness.
Why UTC?
I chose to pursue my degree at UTC because of the program’s strong reputation within the SIOP community, its experienced and supportive faculty, and its engaged alumni network. From the beginning, the faculty and students here made me feel extremely welcome, which played a large part in my decision to come to UTC. I was also drawn to the program’s emphasis on practicum experience, which offers valuable opportunities to apply what we learn to real-world organizational settings.
- Hailey A. Vorobel, Georgia Southern University (UG), Major: Psychology
Why I-O?
During my undergraduate, I focused my passion for psychology on how it shapes individuals and social environments. After experiencing a few less than ideal work environments, and the impact they have on performance and mental health. And rather than focusing on the problems, I chose to work to be part of the solution. This mindset and passion, guided me to pursue I-O psychology further.
Why UTC?
I chose UTC’s MS program because of the passion and organization consistently displayed by faculty. Throughout my research and application process, I never came across a negative comment about the program. It has a clear structure that reduces confusion and sets clear expectations. At the same time, offers flexibility through electives and internships, giving students opportunities to explore interest.
- Abby Witt, Covenant College (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Sociology
Why I-O?
During my senior year of college, I began to shift away from my original plan of pursuing clinical counseling and discovered a strong interest in the intersection of psychology and the workplace. I love the flexibility in career paths and job opportunities within this field. I was drawn to the relational side of I-O psychology, specifically consulting, and the meaningful ways it supports individuals and organizations. I appreciate how I-O psychology uses people's strengths and challenges to create a healthy and effective workplace.
Why UTC?
I love the Chattanooga area and consider it home after living nearby for my undergraduate studies. I was drawn to the I-O program here at UTC due to the location, as well as how highly recommended it was to me by previous and current I-O graduate students. Those conversations, as well as conversations with the faculty and staff at UTC, made me feel confident that this program is something special. The Graduate Assistantship opportunities here are incredible and I knew that I would grow throughout these responsibilities, especially in terms of my research skills. Lastly, the mentor program here was inviting and authentic, and made me feel supported in walking through this new chapter.
Second-Year Students (2025-2026)
- Matt Cavanaugh, Loyola University Chicago (UG), Major: Communication Studies, Minor: Sociology
Why I-O?
I chose to pursue I-O because it intersects my interests in the social sciences, critical thinking, and data-driven results that benefit the workplace and its employees. It wasn’t until the end of my junior year of undergrad that I learned about I-O through my university’s career advising office, which suggested I explore further into what seemed to be a career of interest. With my degree in I-O psychology, I hope to utilize my passion for understanding how we as people function and how this can correlate to the workplace. We spend SO much time of our lives working and, in the future, I intend to focus my career on continuously finding new ways to positively impact the work experience and improve the well-being of people’s lives.
Why UTC?
Right off the bat, UTC just felt like the right fit; I didn’t feel that same way about any other program. When I found the program's website and started digging, it didn’t take long to gauge my interest as a possible grad program. The program is highly accredited and well respected across the field, but the biggest push for me was easily the people and culture that has been created here. Being able to easily reach out to numerous students and faculty, and have them provide kind, honest, and helpful feedback, solidified UTC as a place where I knew I could succeed. Additionally, the incredibly passionate faculty, the comprehensiveness of the program, and Chattanooga itself are also a handful of other factors that made it a no-brainer to come on down here :)
- Chloe Chaix, University of South Alabama (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Health and Wellness
Why I-O?
On average we spend one third of our lives at work. My goal is to make that time as efficient and enjoyable for all workers. IO is the perfect combination of business and psychology to allow me to reach these goals.
Why UTC?
UTC's IO program utilizes a science-practitioner model, giving students the opportunity to gain experience in research and application. Chattanooga is also the perfect place to make connections with local businesses, other motivated students/faculty, and the beautiful scenery is a plus!
- Aastha Chakraborty, Mount Carmel College, India (UG), Major: Psychology, Economics, Literature
Why I-O?
I chose to pursue I-O Psychology because of my deep interest in building workplaces that are both equitable and effective. Over time, I’ve seen how work-life balance, leadership development, and organizational culture play a vital role in productivity and long-term success. Having been a student of psychology for 6 years, I’m drawn to the opportunity I-O provides to connect human potential with organizational success in meaningful and sustainable ways.
Why UTC?
UTC stood out as my top choice for an MS degree in I-O Psychology for multiple reasons. First, the program is ranked highly by SIOP and has very well-connected and supportive faculty members that are dedicated to bring out the best in students. Second, as a prospective student, I was able to connect with faculty members and current students who were incredibly helpful in ensuring the program aligned with my interests. And finally, as an international student, the university’s support in making my transition smooth further confirmed that UTC was the right place for me.
- George Douglas, University of Arkansas (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Entrepreneurship
Why I-O?
I chose Industrial-Organizational psychology as my career path because it perfectly aligns with my dual interests: a deep curiosity about human behavior and a strong desire to apply that understanding in a practical way. I-O psychology offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between theory and practice, allowing me to use psychological principles to enhance workplace environments, improve employee well-being, and boost organizational efficiency. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that the insights and interventions I develop can lead to more positive, productive work experiences for employees while driving success for organizations.
Why UTC?
I chose to pursue my MS degree in I-O psychology at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga because it stood out as an exceptional program in every way. The program's high ranking by the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology was a significant factor, indicating its quality and relevance in the field. Additionally, the faculty at UTC are not only experts in their areas but also deeply committed to student success, which makes the learning environment incredibly supportive and enriching. Lastly, Chattanooga itself offers a vibrant community and beautiful surroundings, making it an ideal place to live and study. The combination of academic excellence and an inspiring environment made UTC the perfect choice for my graduate studies.
- Skylar Evans, Kennesaw State University (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Criminology
Why I-O?
I chose to study Industrial-Organizational psychology because it enables me to combine data-driven insights with practical solutions, creating positive and inclusive work environments. I/O aligns with my passion for understanding human behavior and enhancing workplace dynamics. Since people spend a significant portion of their lives at work, I believe it is crucial to make the work environment as stress-free and rewarding as possible, contributing to both individual and organizational success.
Why UTC?
This program is deeply committed to the success of its students, offering the perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. UTC’s emphasis on data-driven decision-making and practical application aligns with my belief in the importance of real-world experience in Industrial-Organizational psychology. The program’s focus on hands-on learning through integrated internships particularly appeals to me, as it provides essential practical experience.
- Madalyn Filetti, Gettysburg College (UG), Major: Organizational Management, Spanish
Why I-O?
I-O became increasingly interesting to me as I worked on I-O related research projects with my advisor in undergrad. Studying work/life balance, gig work, and the use of AI in HR fueled my desire to further study how the characteristics of a changing workplace may impact workers in various industries. Connecting with various graduates of I-O programs was also encouraging as I began to realize that jobs in this field were broad and growing.
Why UTC?
I had heard positive reviews about UTC's IO program from several current students and graduates of the program. Speaking with Dr. C and reading about the program's faculty then solidified my interest in the program because it was evident that UTC's IO faculty were both well-qualified and invested in the growth of their students. It was also encouraging to read about the variety of real-world opportunities provided by this program for students to apply skills developed in class (e.g., through internships with reputable organizations).
- Wesley Foster Gerndt, Belmont University (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Social Work
Why I-O?
Work is an integral part of our society and arguably the foundation of it. With this in mind, it has become a big priority of mine to ensure all workers have the chance to be the most fulfilled they can be in their jobs, and that they’re safe while doing so. It’s my goal to create a safe and healthy work environment for all workers, especially those who belong to marginalized groups. Furthermore, the idea of using a scientist-practitioner approach to solving workplace issues is intriguing. It sounds like the best of both worlds, not requiring me to completely give up research in an applied setting.
Why UTC?
I chose UTC because of it’s welcoming environment and the various opportunities that this program offers.I feel confident and comfortable on campus, and I know that the next two years will expand my knowledge and develop my professional skills exponentially. Furthermore, Chattanooga is a lovely city with so much to offer both professionally and personally, and it seemed like an excellent place to further my education in.
- Wesley Cole Gibbs, Mississippi College (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Kinesiology
Why I-O?
I chose to pursue Industrial-Organizational (I-O) psychology because I am passionate about understanding the dynamics of human behavior in the workplace. This field allows me to combine my interests in psychology and business to create more efficient, productive, and satisfying work environments. By leveraging psychological principles, I can help organizations enhance employee well-being, improve performance, and foster a positive corporate culture. The opportunity to make a tangible impact on individual lives and organizational success drives me on this career path.
Why UTC?
I chose to pursue my MS degree in I-O psychology at UT-Chattanooga because of the program's strong reputation for academic excellence and its commitment to practical, hands-on experience. The faculty's expertise and a curriculum that integrates cutting-edge research with real-world applications provide an ideal environment for my professional growth. Additionally, the university's emphasis on collaboration and community engagement aligns perfectly with my career goals of making a meaningful impact in organizational settings. UT-Chattanooga's generous funding opportunities and supportive learning community made it the perfect choice for advancing my education and career in I-O psychology.
- Honey Green, Birmingham-Southern College (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Religion
Why I-O?
I chose I-O because it was a path that allowed me to combine my passions of making an impact on human life and team environments by helping to improve the workplace. Working is something we all have to do and I want to help make it something we can be excited for, happy doing, and satisfied with.
Why UTC?
I chose to pursue my MS degree in I-O psychology at UTC because I knew being a part of this program would include incredible peers to collaborate with, amazing faculty that would help and support me, connections with alumni, unique opportunities and a beautiful city to live in. The answer was clear to me, why not UTC?
- Jacob Lamprecht, Eureka College (UG), Major: Psychology, Hispanic Studies
Why I-O?
After graduating college, I ended up working as a caretaker in a foster care community. The emotional and mental labor that came with this position demonstrated firsthand the importance of organizational design, good leadership, social support systems, and coping mechanisms. Pursuing I-O psychology is an opportunity for me to understand these principles and apply them to organizations making a positive impact on their communities.
Why UTC?
Initially drawn to the program by its connection to occupational health psychology, I ultimately chose UTC because it caters to so many interests and career opportunities. The flexibility of electives and a strong base of research allows me to discover what is the right path for me beyond graduation.
- Aaron Lemkin, The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Business & Administration
Why I-O?
I chose I-O psychology as a potential career path because I believe that it has the most potential to help shape a better future for the workplace and beyond. It combines my deep interest and appreciation for human behavior with my passion for helping workplaces and organizations maximize their performance by creating efficient systems. I strongly believe that through the application of I-O in the workplace, that employees of all kinds in various industries could play a role in building a better world.
Why UTC?
I chose UTC for a number of reasons, but chiefly among those was the fact that I had formed meaningful relationships with the staff and students within UTC during my undergraduate studies. These relationships helped propel me to envision a future in which I could be well positioned to secure opportunities in various industries and workplaces.
- Kylea Michael, Sewanee: The University of the South (UG), Major: Neuroscience, Psychology
Why I-O?
During my time as an undergraduate student, I wanted to find a career that was impactful, meaningful, and connected to research and people. In this field, I have the ability to apply research-driven data to human behavior, and I can contribute such research to improve employee satisfaction. I-O helps create positive change, a fulfilling lifestyle, and has limitless possibilities.
Why UTC?
After researching various programs in various fields, I felt connected to UTC's I-O psychology program, as it aligned with my work in undergrad. Before applying, I asked a professor for guidance who used to work at UTC, and he encouraged me to apply for the program. After the interview, I instantly felt a sense of community, encouragement, and appreciation for the well-rounded curriculum to prepare students. I look forward to all that UTC has to offer and am confident that UTC can help me reach my full potential.
- Jasil Pearson, Michigan State University (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Human Behavior
Why I-O?
After taking AP Psych in high school, I knew I wanted to pursue psychology as my major. However, the clinical aspect and other areas within psychology didn’t resonate with me. When I discovered I/O psychology, I was instantly drawn to it. The psychology of people at work is universal—everyone spends a significant part of their lives working. Additionally, the statistical component of I-O psychology particularly intrigued me, as it combines data analysis with making informed decisions in a business context. The skillset that I-O psychology provides is widely applicable across many roles and offers a unique framework for solving problems, making it a compelling and versatile field—especially in today’s dynamic work environment, where the pandemic and advancements in Artificial Intelligence are transforming everything.
Why UTC?
Deciding where to attend graduate school is an important choice, and I spent considerable time meeting with students and professors from schools across the country to determine the best fit for me. As I narrowed down my options, UTC stood out for several reasons. First, the faculty quality is top-tier, with a clear dedication to ensuring student success. Additionally, there are abundant opportunities to get involved in research, consulting, and various professional organizations. Finally, Chattanooga’s natural beauty, with its stunning mountain views, adds to the appeal of the school and the area.
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- Jenna P, Temple University (UG), Major: Psychology
Why I-O?
I chose to pursue a career in I-O psychology because I am passionate about enhancing employee well-being and creating environments where people can develop, feel included, and remain engaged in their work. My interests lie at the intersection of human capital strategy and organizational strategy, with a focus on leadership development, team effectiveness, culture, and engagement. I aspire to align human capital initiatives with organizational goals in ways that enable both employees and organizations to flourish.
Why UTC?
This program’s various learning opportunities will allow me to grow both professionally and personally. I sought a program that would not only develop my knowledge and skills necessary to become an effective practitioner, but also foster a collaborative and supportive learning environment. I believe the combination of a rigorous program, diverse learning opportunities, collaborative atmosphere, and faculty support, will foster my holistic development, allowing me to facilitate meaningful change within the community.
- Bahar Pezeshki, Georgia State University (UG), Major: Psychology
Why I-O?
My choice to pursue I/O psychology first began when I learned about the underexplored intersection between psychology and organizations. Witnessing firsthand the effects of a positive and negative workplace, I strive to create a work environment where employee satisfaction is placed first and the benefits of this positive culture will soon follow. I am eager to learn more and apply my skills and knowledge to enhance organizational effectiveness, starting with one employee at a time.
Why UTC?
UTC has the formula to train future I/O professionals: dedicated faculty, rich opportunity, and a program designed to combine scientific models with applied real-world experience. With the combination of these tools, UTC is the perfect fit for me to become a professional within the field and make a tangible impact in my career.
- Dexter Rowland, Rhodes College (UG), Major: Psychology, Minor: Business
Why I-O
Over the course of my life, I have always had a passion for people. During my time as an undergraduate student, I discovered the field of I/O Psychology and it offered me an opportunity to pursue my passion and bring about positive changes within the workplace. I am excited to deepen my knowledge of the intersectionality of success within an organization, the people that make up that organization, and the communities that the organization serves. Most importantly, I am eager to continue to learn how to successfully operate a business, implement best practices to benefit corporate growth and create healthy, sustainable, and inclusive work environments.
Why UTC?
I chose UTC for several reasons. Firstly, I wanted to attend a program that would continue to develop me into a well-rounded student of Psychology. From my first interview, it was apparent that the people in this program truly care about you and your success. Secondly, I greatly appreciated the program's dedication to creating a curriculum tailored to your interests while offering you the opportunity to explore new areas within the field. Furthermore, the program is also ranked nationally by both students and practitioners in the field alike. Ultimately, I felt that UTC offered me the best opportunity and support to cultivate my learning and growth within the field of I/O Psychology.
- Kyla Smith, Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania (UG), Major: Psychology
Why I-O?
Through my experience managing a small locally-owned business I realized how much change could be implemented in the workforce. Many people get burnt out or experience workplace loneliness. When a substantial amount of someone's time is spent at work it directly impacts their life outside of work if they do not enjoy their time working. I want the knowledge to help people create a better work-life balance and a better work environment over all.
Why UTC?
The more I looked into the I/O program at UTC the more I fell in love with it. My passion lies in occupational health and wellbeing which this program is well versed in. Once I came to visit the campus I knew immediately this was the place for me to pursue my education. It is very prevalent how much all the professors care about all the students' success and that is something very unique that made this program stand out and a main reason why I chose it.
- Natasha Martinov, Austin Peay State University (UG) Major: Psychology, Minor: Leadership Studies
Why I-O?
During my undergraduate studies, I discovered industrial-organizational psychology and developed a deep appreciation for its scientific foundation. Learning that IO psychology applies science-based practices to solve real-world problems across various settings resonated with me. I knew it was the perfect fit, as evidence-based problem-solving has always been a core competency in my life.
Why UTC?
I chose the UTC graduate program because it's recognized as one of the top programs in the country for industrial-organizational psychology, thanks to its outstanding faculty and comprehensive curriculum. The fact that it's an in-person program and local to me made it the perfect choice.
- Paul-Augustin Wasner, Université de Montpellier (France) (G - Doctorate), Major: Materials Science, Minor: Chemistry
Why I-O?
Currently working at Volkswagen, I want to develop professionally while keeping in touch with the psychological reality of my co-workers and organization. The skills developed during the M.S. of I-O Psychology will complement my technical background developed during my M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering and my Ph.D. in Chemistry of Materials. Applying the I-O Psychology principles will help me improve my leadership skills and future management effectiveness. Participating in the M.S. in I-O Psychology will help me develop a behavioral science perspective that I will be able to practice in my day-to-day working experience.
Why UTC?
My position as a lab specialist at Volkswagen brought me to Chattanooga, TN. I work full time and I chose UTC as it is local and I wanted to attend classes in person. Moreover, the discussions with the faculty members and alumni prior to enrolling convinced me it would be a good place to develop in the I-O Psychology field.
- Luke Wiley, The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UG), Major: Psychology
Why I-O?
I have always been fascinated by work -- how it structures our lives and societies, its powerful meaning, effects, and issues. When I first discovered I-O psychology as an undergraduate, I realized that this was a perfect avenue for me to help make work better, safer, and more meaningful for workers. This has led me primarily to the stream of occupational health psychology, but I am excited to learn about everything that I-O has to offer.
Why UTC?
As an undergraduate at UTC, I was able to get involved in various research projects with different I-O faculty. The mentorship of these faculty members showed me the vast opportunities of the field. Additionally, I have always appreciated the emphasis on the scientist-practitioner model that seeks to apply theoretical frameworks to actual workplaces. While I don't quite know where my career will take me, I know that UTC's program will prepare me for many different paths.