Hoa Vo

Hoa Vo is a graduate student in applied human development and family sciences (AHDFS) from DeKalb, IL

Hometown: DeKalb, IL

High School: DeKalb High School

Year: Expected graduation: 2025

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
As a child, I wanted to be a dolphin trainer, actress and marketer. People are drawn to different directions, but those are not the route I am taking now. I decided to take a different path because my experiences altered my perspective and interests.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am graduate student pursuing an M.S. in applied human development and family sciences (AHDFS) with a specialization in marriage and family therapy (SMFT). I decided on this course after completing my Bachelor of Science in psychology and Bachelor of Science in human development because I believe it is important to gain clinical experience. I am grateful the program has culturally sensitive faculty. For students considering a career in therapy, it's important to explore how your own relationships and responses to your environment shape your approach to helping others.

Have you conducted your own research through Research Rookies, Honors capstones or theses or any other faculty-guided research opportunity?
Yes

Tell us about the research you are doing and why it interests you.
I am a research assistant at the Trauma, Mental Health and Recovery (TMHR) Laboratory at NIU in the Department of Psychology. Exploring post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is important as it helps therapists understand the long-lasting impacts trauma can have on an individual's mental, emotional and physical well-being. I am interested in researching PTSD because it helps mental health professionals better identify symptoms and triggers, develop effective treatments and provide support for those affected.

How has conducting research strengthened your education and experience at NIU?
Conducting research has strengthened my education and experience at NIU. It has broadened my professional network and introduced me to new theories and practical applications.

How will your research experience help you in the future?
My research experience benefits me because it fuels my curiosity. Working with dedicated researchers has shown me the commitment and creativity involved in designing and conducting research.

Who at NIU has been important to your success doing research and why?
My current research focuses on multiracial identity. Dr. Xiaohui Sophie Li has supported my research as my thesis chair and has been an invaluable resource for accessing data sets and providing feedback. I'd also like to thank Peter Tappenden and Brandon Davis for giving me the opportunity to join their research team.

What advice would you give to an incoming student as it relates to research at NIU?
Finding a niche and diving into the subject is what makes research interesting. If you find yourself dreading research, it is okay to explore different routes, change your proposal or take time away from the project. If you're an undergrad and would like to gain experience, you can join Research Rookies and present at the Conference on Undergraduate Research and Engagement (CURE).

Have you conducted an internship?
Yes

How did you get your internship, and where was it?
During my undergrad, I interned at Be Strong Families. I heard about the internship through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. Now, I intern at New Hope Counseling Center providing therapy for individuals, couples and families. I heard about this internship as part of the SMFT program through the Couple and Family Therapy Clinic at NIU.

How did your internship help prepare you for your career?
Interning prepared me to become a systemic therapist by immersing me in the child welfare systems; the challenges faced by high-stress, low-income communities; and the intertwined nature of mental and physical health issues.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I find it relaxing to sit and read underneath a tree and walk around the East Lagoon.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
To connect with others, I focus on creating a welcoming and supportive environment. As the saying goes, people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. I try to create a feeling of belonging.

Are you involved in any student organizations, mentoring programs or extra-curricular activities? If so, which ones? How have they added to your experience as a Huskie?
I am part of Youth in Care - College Advocate Program (Y-CAP) for Foster Progress. I provide ongoing support to NIU students with foster care experience by conducting workshops, planning events and meeting one on one with my mentee(s). This experience has enriched my time as a Huskie by connecting me with a larger community and improving my leadership skills.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Regular attendance helps me keep a consistent schedule and strengthens my relationships with my professors and peers.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is the East Lagoon. It’s lively and serene.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
When researching colleges, look into the campus culture, support services and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because minorities have historically been underrepresented and oppressed, and education provides a pathway to opportunities.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I focus on adaptability to manage unexpected changes and shifting priorities. I section off a portion of the day for certain tasks, but schedules change, life happens, and accepting that there are certain areas I cannot control has allowed me to be more flexible to stressors.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I regularly check and read my emails and look at the NIU website.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I enjoy long walks, reading, playing tennis, video gaming and scrapbooking.