Marilu Isiordia is a quantitative psychology Doctorate of Psychology student and experimental psychologist at the University of California at Davis. Marilu received both her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in experimental psychology from California State University, Stanislaus. According to her official lab profile for the Dynamics in Psychological Science Lab, which she’s working under, many of her most recent research projects and collaborative publications have focused on understanding and improving the health and well being of the surrounding Central Valley communities.

Marilu has experienced many opportunities to make good career connections and broaden her sphere of influence. A fellowship with the National Institute of Health-Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (NIH-IMSD) landed her the opportunity to work with a distinguished physiology and behavior professor, Barbara Horwitz. Ultimately, Marilu would like to use her education to improve the lives of the people around her in the community. According to her lab profile, Marilu “is interested in understanding high-risk behaviors in relation to academic and health disparities among Latino adolescents.”

What does your current job entail?

“First, I am a doctoral student in quantitative psychology at UC Davis. I conduct research applying different longitudinal models.”

What parts of your job do you enjoy the most?

“I enjoy all parts of my job.”

Can you give a little bit of background into your educational history?

“I have a Bachelor of Arts in experimental psychology from California State University, Stanislaus. I also received my master’s degree from CSU Stanislaus as well.”

Do you think your education has prepared you to take on this position?

“Yes, I believe my education has prepared me to take on this position.”

Do you have any advice for someone seeking a similar career in psychology research?

“Yes, I do have advice for someone seeking a similar career. As an undergraduate student, make sure you are earning good grades as well as getting research experience.”

Paulo Acoba is a California native raised in the Bay Area and living in the Central Valley. He enjoys distance running, cycling and grassroots motorsports. He holds a degree in management from the University of California Merced. Paulo has been writing for Examiner.com since 2012 and covering the Fresno area.