Biography

My research interests are fueled by a desire to better understand what makes for a conversation or interaction that feels “good” – one where people may feel seen, heard, connected, and embraced. Broadly speaking, I am interested in studying human connection and relationships. For example, what are the communicative factors and behaviors that lead to “good” or “bad” (and everything in between) conversational, interactional, and relational outcomes? I am also interested in how emotions influence interactions, and vice versa.

I find great joy and satisfaction in conducting mixed-methods, interdisciplinary research. Before coming to UCLA, I worked with corporate and education clients as a qualitative market researcher, and as a project manager and researcher within a medical school. From recruiting participants to facilitating focus groups to managing a $1 million+ grant, I’ve worked on just about every phase of corporate and academic research projects.

When I’m not wearing my academic hat, I enjoy spending time with my loved ones, baking and cooking, crafting, supporting local small businesses, paddling and kayaking on the water, and finding other ways to enjoy the great outdoors.