“Why do people think, feel, and behave the way they do? This question has always intrigued me, shaping my curiosity about human behavior and decision-making. My interest in psychology developed gradually—through books, media, and a mini psychology class in high school. It was during those moments that I realized understanding human behavior isn’t just fascinating; it’s essential for navigating life.

When I became vice president of PSYGO, the only psychology club at the U Asia Campus, I didn’t just want to manage events—I wanted to make psychology come alive for students. We expanded activities, hosted guest speakers who shared real-world applications of psychology, and encouraged members to explore research. One team I mentored had an ambitious idea but lacked experience. We dove into research together, and through trial, error, and many late nights, we became the first recipients of the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Grant (UROG) at the U Asia Campus. Through that experience, I learned that research isn’t just about data—it’s about persistence, curiosity, and collaboration.

Now, as a senior, I spend my time in the Vision, Audition, Action in Space & Time (VAAST) lab, where research on Gap Affordability Judgment in Simulated Low Vision has pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Managing experiments, troubleshooting VR errors, and adapting to unexpected challenges has shown me that research is unpredictable, yet always rewarding.

For students feeling lost in their academic path, my advice is this: Don’t be afraid to try new things. Take a class outside your major, join a club, or attend a lecture that sparks your curiosity. Small experiences can lead to big discoveries. For me, exploring human factors led me to a double minor in design and information systems—something I never expected when I first started.

If you’re hesitant about research, start with a conversation. Talk to professors, attend lab meetings, or even participate in experiments as a subject. Research isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about asking the right questions. The most exciting discoveries often come from the simplest curiosities.

Looking ahead, I hope to pursue a master’s program that integrates psychology and design. Human factors is a vast field, and I want to apply my knowledge in ways that enhance user experiences in industries beyond traditional safety applications. Wherever my path takes me, psychology will always remain at the heart of my journey.”

—Jihyeon (Jen) Moon is a senior at the University of Utah Asia Campus majoring in psychology with an emphasis on human factors and minoring in design and information systems