Ann is now work as a pediatric neuropsychologist at Children’s National Medical Center and is a assistant professor at George Washington University.
Email: clawson.ann@gmail.com
1. A brief explanation of your experience in Brigham Young University's Psychology Graduate Student Program:
Ann: "When I started at BYU, I was unsure what I wanted to study, but was drawn to the intellectual and scientific rigor I found in psychology. I enjoyed the range of classes offered, from the philosophical classes that challenged my conception of the basic assumptions of psychology, to the neurobiology classes that piqued my interest in brain-behavior relationships. I loved grappling with questions about free agency, consciousness, and whether human beings can truly change through therapeutic intervention. I also had the opportunity to work as a research assistant and quickly developed a passion for scientific research. I am still amazed at the depth of opportunities available through the psychology program at BYU, all of which prepared me for my graduate education and career."
2. What your post-graduation plans are/were/what are you currently doing:
Ann: "After graduating, I attended graduate school at BYU to pursue a PhD in clinical psychology. I specialized in pediatric neuropsychology and continued research focused on understanding cognitive control processes in autism spectrum disorder. I finished my doctoral training with an internship at the University of Washington followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Kennedy Krieger Institute/Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.
I now work as a pediatric neuropsychologist at Children’s National Medical Center and am an assistant professor at George Washington University. I am involved in a combination of research, clinical work, and supervision of trainees."
3. What would be your advice for potential students:
Ann: "My advice for potential students is to be unafraid to pursue what you are passionate about, even if it takes you down a path you never expected (that was certainly the case for me). Try to avoid creating barriers for yourself that are based on “what if” scenarios or fears you may have; move forward and take advantages of the opportunities that come your way. I especially recommend involvement in research and classes that challenge your thinking and ideas about the world."