Kevin Ly is a undergraduate student in the Institute of Child Development (ICD), who is currently studying to receive a B.S. in child psychology. As a member of the Child Psychology Student Organization (CPSO), Kevin has met many members of the faculty and discovered research opportunities in both the Early Language and Experience Lab and the Bioecology, Self-Regulation, and Learning Lab.

What made you want to study child psychology?

Freshman year, I was going through a lot to decide what I wanted to do. I was originally a biology major, then math and computer science, then finally developmental psychology. My interest started when I was taking introduction to political philosophy, and one of the options as part of the course was to volunteer at an elementary school. We were meant to take what we learned in the course and observe if those interactions would apply with children. After that, I became interested in how and why children do what they do.

What kind of research are you involved in?

I am currently a research assistant in the Early Language and Experience Lab with Professor Melissa Koenig and in the Bioecology, Self-Regulation, and Learning Lab with Professor Dan Berry. I am hoping to have my application for the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program approved; then, I would be running a study on understanding in-group biases.

What do you find most interesting about child development?

One of the most interesting things about child development is how children learn by interacting with their environment and how they shape their actions based on their perception of reality and the information provided.

What prompted you to join CPSO?

I wanted to know more people in the child psychology major, find other opportunities in the developmental field, and find out more about what I could do with this major.

How has CPSO impacted your collegiate career?

It was a path into research. I would attend meetings and find out about a research fair they were having at the ICD. Without that, I would not have known about the labs here! After that, I was able to get into a research lab and another one shortly after. Another way it has impacted me is how I formed a closer bond to those in the field. I have made new friends with different and similar perspectives in and outside of the interest of developmental psychology.

How would you describe your experience at ICD?

The faculty I have had the pleasure to meet and the knowledge I have gained is nothing less than spectacular.

What is the most valuable thing you have learned in ICD?

The most valuable aspect I have gained and learned from being in the ICD is the connections and bonds with the faculty members here.

What are your plans for after graduation?

After my undergraduate time, I want to attain a PhD in the field of developmental psychology. I want to hopefully continue to research and work with children. If not, I would take time off and join the Peace Corps.