Stress, Emotion & Physical Health Lab
RESEARCH ASSISTANTS
Nahal Dastmalchi
Major in Psychology and Sociology
My name is Nahal and I am a post-baccalaureate student. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology from UC Santa Cruz, and currently, I am exploring my interests in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. I look forward to learning more about the impact of stress and emotions in the STEP Lab. In my free time, I enjoy baking and spending time with friends and family.
Jocelyn Nguyen
Major in Psychological Science
My name is Jocelyn and I am a fourth year B.S. Psychology major. I am interested in exploring the overlap between biology and psychology. One topic that I want to further examine is the effects of stress on both the gastrointestinal and nervous system. I am very excited to join the STEP lab and gain additional research experience. During my free time, I like to go on walks at the beach, spend time with my family, and hangout with friends.
Nikki Nasseri
Major in Psychological Science
My name is Nikki Nasseri and I am an incoming junior for Fall 2023 as a transfer student from Irvine Valley College. I majored in Psychological Sciences at IVC and fell in love with research! I am a swim coach and pool lifeguard in the Summer, as well as babysitting. I grew up by the ocean and love spending time outdoors. Some of my hobbies include: swimming, hiking, lifting, skiing, and acting. I am so excited to begin my research journey at the STEP Lab!
VanAnh Phung
Major in Psychological Science
I am a motivated, curious junior transfer majoring in Psychological Science at the University of California, Irvine. I am passionate about medicine and mental health, particularly people’s minds, bodies, and wellness. I hope to raise awareness for mental health and build a reliable support system for people in need. The STEP Lab (STress, Emotion & Physical Health Lab), studying how positive psychological factors and social relationships benefit health and improve stress response, aligns with my interests. By joining the STEP Lab, I hope to gain research experience and knowledge regarding health psychology. In addition, I hope to continue my journey in medicine and mental health. In the future, I plan to become a psychiatrist or apply to a graduate school in Health Psychology or Clinical Psychology.