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 (2026-2027)
- Caroline Ballard, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UG), Majors: B.S. in Management and B.S. in Human Resource Management
*Photo to be added
https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-emmie-ballard/
Why I-O?
I chose I-O Psychology because I want to pursue a professional career in Human Resources. As an undergraduate, I studied Human Resource Management and developed a passion for understanding career and personal development in the workforce. People spend a large portion of their lives working, and it is important to ensure they feel satisfied, engaged, and encouraged to be passionate about their work. I-O allows me to develop my skills and knowledge to support organizations while making a positive impact on their employees.
Why UTC?
I decided to continue my education at UTC, specifically in I-O psychology, because the program allows me to develop my skills within a strong peer and faculty support system. I was drawn to the program because of its emphasis on both academic and practical experience, which will help me apply my knowledge to real-life situations.
- Allison Baumann, Clemson University (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychology, Minor: Business Administration
https://www.linkedin.com/in/allison-baumann-0b169937b
Why I-O?
I chose to pursue a career in I-O psychology because I enjoy applying psychological principles and research-based practices to the workplace. I am specifically interested in the areas of employee selection and occupational health psychology. I would like to help organizations function as efficiently as possible, and I believe that selecting the correct person for a particular position is a significant part of maximizing efficiency. I also believe that creating a workspace focused on employee health and well-being can further increase productivity. Employees are capable of generating more value for their organization when there are policies and practices in place that focus on improving their well-being and reducing stress.
Why UTC?
I believe that UTC's program has the best combination of traits to further my professional and personal growth. The faculty and students have been very kind, helpful, and authentic toward me. Everyone I have spoken to, whether part of the program or not, has spoken highly of it. The great reputation that UTC's MSIO possesses was one of the main things that drew me to it. Additionally, I appreciate the opportunities that UTC provides for students to gain applied experience. The close-knit cohorts also interested me because of the connections that they foster. Due to the aforementioned reasons, and that I have shared research interests with certain faculty members, I determined UTC's MSIO degree to be the best fit for me and my circumstances.
- Kaitlyn Campbell, Lehigh University (UG), Majors: B.A. in Psychology and B.A. in Health, Medicine, and Society, Minor: Theatre
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitlyn-campbell11/
Why I-O?
You always here "the people make the place", but I want to find out how the place can make a person and their success inside it!
Why UTC?
The community and UTC's track record! I've heard such amazing things from past cohorts about how much the program cares about their students wellbeing, education, and future outside of the program - I knew I wanted to be a part of that.
- Olivia Cooper, Ohio University (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychology, Minor: Business
https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-cooper-973799387
Why I-O?
I discovered I-O psychology fairly late in my undergraduate psychology degree. The more I learned about the field, the more I realized it combined the parts of psychology that interested me most. I’ve always been interested in human behavior, but I also care deeply about helping others and creating positive environments. I-O psychology stood out to me because it gives me the opportunity to take those interests and apply them in real-world settings. I’m excited by the possibility of helping organizations better understand and support their employees while contributing to healthier, more positive workplaces.
Why UTC?
Finding a supportive cohort and faculty was one of the most important aspects of choosing where I wanted to continue my education, and UTC stood out to me in that regard. From my first interactions with the faculty, I felt that the program was welcoming and genuinely invested in its students. I was also drawn to the curriculum and structure of the program, particularly the balance between building a strong foundation in I-O psychology and gaining opportunities to apply what I’m learning to real-world situations. I felt that this combination would not only prepare me academically, but also contribute greatly to my professional growth. Ultimately, UTC felt like a place where I could grow both personally and professionally while being surrounded by people who would support me throughout the process.
- Reese Fitzgerald, University of Alabama (UG), Major: B.A. in Psychology, Minor: Business
https://www.linkedin.com/in/reesefitzgerald
Why I-O?
I chose I-O Psychology as my career path because I wanted to be able to have my input in workplace culture and make sure that everyone is able to be able to happy at work and prevent burnout.
Why UTC?
I chose UTC because the glowing praise for the faculty and how they run the program. It is genuinely a program that challenges you to do the absolute best and supports you in this journey.
- McKenzie Gilbert, Kennesaw State University (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychology, Minor: Data Science and Analytics
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mckgil
Why I-O?
I chose to pursue I-O psychology after speaking with the amazing professors and practitioners who helped me to see the opportunities and impact I-O has in supporting employees and leadership. I've been specifically interested in organization development as well as improving talent acquisition processes for both hiring teams and aspiring candidates. My passion has always been helping others grow in their capabilities and find common ground when faced with different approaches, so learning more about I-O felt like a perfect career fit.
Why UTC?
After researching programs, UTC stood out to me because it showcased community alongside strong curriculum. The program was also rated highly by my undergraduate professors for its cohort structure and strong career success opportunities. After interviewing and speaking with students and faculty about the program, I felt that this program was well designed to support and grow students in their skillset and understanding of I-O practices. Learning all of this, it felt like UTC was the perfect place for me to grow into my professional identity and work towards my career goals.
- Estefania Juarez, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychology, Minor: Criminal Justice
https://www.linkedin.com/in/estefania-juarez1
Why I-O?
I chose to pursue I-O psychology as my career path because I enjoy learning about what motivates people in the workplace. Additionally, my goal is to aid organizations in cultivating an environment that promotes long-term growth and sustainability.
Why UTC?
I did my undergraduate degree at UTC, and I enjoyed the relationships I built with professors. I knew that this was the right place to take my education a step further because of the supportive staff.
- Ellie Kopanezos, University of Georgia (UG), Majors: B.S. in Psychology and B.A. in Film Studies
*photo to be added
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellie-kopanezos-180b89335
Why I-O?
Growing up in a sports-obsessed family, I have always been surrounded and fascinated by what makes a team successful; collaboration, leadership, or individual wellbeing. It was not until taking a Research Analysis in Psychology course during undergrad that I realized this fascination could inspire a career. My professor's career in I-O, specifically her work on team performance in Air Force crews, ignited a research passion. I was immediately drawn to the idea of using research to increase organizational effectiveness and improve people's day-to-day experiences at work.
Why UTC?
I chose to pursue my degree at UTC because of the faculty's strong involvement in student growth. The program is strongly committed to providing students with both rigorous academic training and applied experience through internship opportunities. I am confident that UTC will provide me with the mentorship, research opportunities, and skills I need to advance my education and career in I-O psychology.
- Kaci Landham, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychology, Minor: Criminal Justice
*photo to be added
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacilandham
Why I-O?
After graduating in 2023, I found that I have a passion for leadership development and the idea that leading a team is a skill that we can always grow. I believe that I can bring something to the table with growing management training and organizational development.
Why UTC?
I was very involved while in undergrad at UTC, and I feel like I was always welcome and at home in the psychology department. When I made the decision to start my graduate studies, I knew there was no where else that would make me feel the same way as I did in undergrad!
- Abby Martin, Louisiana State University (UG), Major: B.A. in Psychology, Concentration in Forensic Psychology
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abby-martin-abb045334/
Why I-O?
My interest in I-O psychology began when my statistics professor introduced me to a branch of psychology that uses statistics to understand trends and patterns of behavior in the workplace. I was drawn to the idea that data could explain why organizations function the way they do. This, combined with a handful of negative work experiences, made me curious about why some workplaces are dysfunctional, and others are not. Learning that I-O psychology provided solutions to real-world problems made me realize it was a perfect fit.
Why UTC?
I chose UTC because interviewing with and meeting the faculty made it clear to me that they sincerely care about students' success, growth, and well-being. The program’s intentional design demonstrated to me how committed the faculty are to preparing each student for their future career. Additionally, the support offered through the cohort model, mentoring program, and extensive alumni network reassured me that I would be well-supported both during the program and after graduation.
- Ellie Minneci, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychology, Minor: Business Administration
https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-minneci-052907300/
Why I-O?
I-O psychology is a perfect intersection of my work-related interests. I always knew I wanted to research human behavior, and a work-related context reveals a variety of fascinating subjects, including motivators, stressors, leadership styles, and workplace belonging. Using I-O psychology to inform a perspective in human resources also guides decision-making, particularly in hiring practices and assessments. I chose I-O psychology because I am excited to learn more about the field and become a positive influence in the workplace.
Why UTC?
I chose to pursue an MS degree in I-O psychology at UTC because I knew how well-respected the program is long before I chose UTC for my undergraduate degree. Working with faculty at UTC and alumni of the program validated those understandings, leading me to make what felt like the right next step. I am thrilled to be a part of the program and contribute to a long-standing history of excellence.
- Savannah Moore, Tennessee Technological University (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychology, Minor: English
https://www.linkedin.com/in/savannah-moore-015434430/
Why I-O?
Growing up, I watched both my parents run their own business, which gave me early insight into how much one's workplace affects their daily lives. With this, I became interested in how workplace environments can shape people's experiences and behaviors. As I learned more about I-O psychology, I found it was an intersection of things I am truly passionate about. Combining my interest in human behavior with my passion for research, I-O psychology allows me to apply my knowledge to real-world workplace challenges and make a true difference.
Why UTC?
The UTC I-O psychology program was a place I found myself really wanting to be apart of. The program's structure really drew me in, with its emphasis on both the practical, applied experience and scientific approach to research. Additionally, every interaction I had with the faculty through the committing process was met with nothing but kindness, which made me want to be apart of this program even more. Also, Chattanooga is just an amazing city, with UTC's campus being equally pretty, overall making it the perfect choice for my graduate studies!
- Lilly Moss, Georgia Institute of Technology (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychology, Concentration in Business
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lilly-moss
Why I-O?
I-O psychology, to me, is an opportunity to combine my passions for research and understanding people. In this field, I aim to apply research-driven data to organizations, making positive contributions in those communities. Moreover, I-O psychology is an ever-evolving field, constantly undergoing changes and trends in the workplace. I look forward to navigating these challenges in the field.
Why UTC?
I was drawn to UTC because of its outstanding reputation in every aspect. This program's exceptional ranking by SIOP speaks to the quality of the program and its curriculum. Further, the faculty are experienced, supportive, and committed to the success of their students. Given the reputation of this program, UTC was a shoo-in for my top choice in I-O psychology.
- Eriad Mucici, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UG), Major: B.S. in Business Administration
https://www.linkedin.com/in/eriad-mucici-6053b21b2
Why I-O?
I chose I-O psychology because I’m interested in understanding people in the workplace and using psychology to help organizations and employees thrive.
Why UTC?
I chose UTC because of its strong I-O psychology program, supportive faculty, and the opportunity to develop practical skills that I can apply directly to my career in HR and organizational development.
- Emma Parrish, Weber State University (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychological Science, Minor: Women and Gender Studies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-parrish14
Why I-O?
Throughout the majority of my undergraduate degree, I planned to pursue clinical psychology. Late into my degree, however, I discovered I-O psychology and felt it aligned much more with my interests and passions. I related easily with the content covered, and was able to connect the subjects back to my real-world experiences in the workforce.
Why UTC?
As I researched multiple programs, UTC stood out for its strong reputation, mentorship programs, and alumni connections. I had hoped to visit the school in person before making a decision, and while I ultimately didn’t get the chance to visit before accepting the offer, Dr. C.’s willingness to work with me on the decision deadline made me feel that the faculty here would give me their all in helping me succeed. As I met with other faculty and students, I could tell this was the right program for me!
- Catherine Piskurich, Texas Christian University (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychology, Minor: General Business
https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-piskurich
Why I-O?
In my undergraduate studies, focusing on psychology, business, and interdisciplinary honors classes allowed me to connect my academic aspirations by studying human behavior in the workplace. My passion to pursue I-O psychology as my career path is driven by a deep calling to alleviate problems and foster leadership, collaboration, and continual learning. Considering the age of artificial intelligence and an increasingly competitive workplace, ensuring that organizations take care of their human capital is more important than ever. In gaining this degree, I plan to leverage my training to develop practice strategies and tools that strengthen organizations and teams at the local and global levels. With aspirations to work in management development, consulting, or human capital management, I’m committed to deepening my passion for inclusion and effective leadership to pave the way for a meaningful career.
Why UTC?
I was initially drawn to UTC’s I-O psychology program for its historical and data-backed attributes that distinguished it as best in class. Through great discussions and connections within the department, I learned more deeply about the cohort-based model, built-in mentorship pathways, the ability to pursue research and applied experience, alumni connections, and placement options post-graduation. Being one of the most respected terminal master’s degrees in I-O psychology, and its deep association with the career’s professional society, SIOP, gave me confidence that the program would best develop me into an effective professional with the skills to positively impact organizations nationwide. Without question, it was the faculty and assigned mentors who solidified my choice of UTC. Their deep care and concern for me as an individual, regardless of my attendance in the program, spoke to their overall commitment to my personal future and the future of I-O psychology professionally.
- Grady Sharpe, University of Tennessee (UG), Major: B.A. in Psychology
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gradysharpeutk/
Why I-O?
My interest in Industrial-Organizational Psychology began in high school with my uncle, who worked at TVA. Hearing about his experiences and seeing firsthand how I-O psychology was being used to improve his workplace fascinated me. It showed me that psychology could have an impact far beyond the individual and could help improve how employees and organizations operate. I then became especially interested in leadership, motivation, communication, and organizational culture. I-O psychology stood out to me because it combines the science of psychology with solutions that can improve both employee experiences and organizational effectiveness. I am particularly interested in organizational development and hope to use I-O psychology to help create workplaces where people can grow and feel supported.
Why UTC?
I chose the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga because this program aligns closely with my academic and career goals. One of the biggest factors in my decision was attending the RCIO conference, where I had the opportunity to meet current students in the program and get a firsthand look at the culture and community within the cohort. I was moved by how supportive, welcoming, and genuinely connected everyone seemed. I was also drawn to the program’s emphasis on technical skills and practical application. I felt that UTC would give me the academic foundation and hands-on experience needed to grow as an I-O psychologist while being surrounded by a supportive group of peers and faculty. se the research focus aligns with the topics that I'm passionate about.
- Aishwarya Suresh, College of William and Mary (UG), Major: B.A. in Psychology
https://www.linkedin.com/in/aishwarya-suresh-2a80232b1
Why I-O?
I’m interested in improving the lives of those in the workforce.
Why UTC?
As I want to look into the HR field, I-O seemed to encompass topics I’m interested, along with much more.
- Olivia Vaillancourt, University of Alabama (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychology
https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-vaillancourt-b19022351/
Why I-O?
I chose to pursue I-O psychology because I want to help create healthier and more positive workplaces for employees. I want to help reduce work-related stress and improve work-life balance so people can live healthier lives and have more time and energy to be present with their families. I believe that creating a better workplace can have a positive impact not only on employees, but also on their lives outside of work.
Why UTC?
I chose to pursue my MS in I-O Psychology at UTC because I wanted to further my education in a field that allows me to make a positive impact on the workplace. I believe UTC’s program will help me develop the knowledge and skills I need to better understand employees, improve workplace experiences, and help create healthier work environments.
- Dasia Villanueva, University of Tennessee (UG), Major: B.A. in Psychology
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dasia-villanueva
Why I-O?
I chose to pursue I-O psychology because I'm passionate about employee well-being and the continuous improvement of the workplace.
Why UTC?
I chose UTC because the research focus aligns with the topics that I'm passionate about.
- Kylie Ward, University of Tennessee (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychology, Minor: Human Development and Family Studies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylie-ward-270bbb366/
Why I-O?
I thoroughly enjoyed the course content of my I-O class I took in undergrad, and upon further discussion with that professor, I decided getting my master's in I-O Psychology was the next step for what I want to do.
Why UTC?
I admire the work the psychology staff at UTC has done and published, my professor that I took undergrad I-O psychology with specifically acknowledged the quality of the program at UTC, and the in-state tuition is definitely a bonus!
- Delayne Whittaker, Austin Peay State University (UG), Major: B.S. in Psychology
https://www.linkedin.com/in/delayne-whittaker-aa0683384
Why I-O?
I want to pursue I-O psychology because I am interested in learning how I can make a positive impact on people’s lives through the workplace. I-O psychology allows me to apply the knowledge and skills to develop and identify effective solutions that would improve the wellbeing of not just individuals but also the organization as a whole.
Why UTC?
After attending a few RCIO conferences, I really enjoyed the environment that Chattanooga provided. Also through communicating with UTC graduates, the program offered the community, curriculum, and opportunities that I wanted from a master’s program.
Second-Year Students (2026-2027)
- Evelyn Bonner, Texas A&M University (UG), Major: Psychology
https://www.linkedin.com/in/evelynbonner
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/desiré-depaula-b41b9a33b/
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/justise-griggs-2141a823a
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-kent-a72bb357
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimenalopezflores
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-landry-60b034271
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-martin-651273276
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-minor-8804042a5
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenny-nichols-887382235
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-owusu-1b886b31b
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelena-proffitt-88a410261
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-sapp-79785b22b?
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sawyer-snodgrass-850744339
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-suhadolnik-21a322354
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hailey-vorobel-8a7a052b0/
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
https://www.linkedin.com/in/abby-witt-aabb70375
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.