Behavior Analysis Student Spotlight: Saba Mahmoudi
Saba Mahmoudi is a student in the Behavior Analysis Ph.D. program and works with Dr. Gregory Madden. Saba received her BA in psychology from California State University, Northridge. Her research interests include delay discounting and reducing impulsive choices to prevent severe problem behavior and promote good decision-making. Saba is passionate about teaching and hopes to work in academia conducting translational research.
Why did you choose to come to USU?
There were a few reasons I chose USU’s behavior analysis program, to my knowledge it is one of the best behavior analysis programs. In addition, as an undergraduate student, I was following and was intrigued by the research that the behavior analysis faculties were conducting, and wanted to pursue the same line of research. Specifically, it was important to me to have the opportunity to conduct translational research applying what we have learned in the laboratory and disseminating and applying it to clinical settings.
Why did you decide to pursue a degree in the Behavior Analysis specialization?
Although there are many different specializations in psychology, I appreciated and was intrigued by the behavior analysis approach to understanding and influencing behavior. I found the research fascinating and diverse. My undergraduate mentor was also very influential in my decision, her research on the prevention of problem behavior showed me how effective behavioral interventions can be in influencing behavior and leading to positive change in people’s lives.
One thing I appreciate about behavior analysis is that there are different career paths that one can choose from in this field. I have really enjoyed my teaching and research experience at USU; after graduation, I would like to pursue a job that would provide me with opportunities to conduct research and teach.
What advice do you have for other students in the Behavior Analysis specialization, or for those considering applying?
My advice for current students and those interested in applying would be to seek and take advantage of the available opportunities, such as collaborating with other labs and faculty members and exploring research topics outside of your main interests. I would also recommend taking advantage of your time in grad school to learn from the experiences of your mentor and other faculty members.
Anything else you would like to add about the BA program or about your experience in grad school?
What I have learned in grad school is that, although sometimes it is easy to become discouraged with the results of your work or experiments it is important to remain persistent and view those moments as learning opportunities on how to grow into a better and more successful researcher. In the past four years, I have also learned the importance of having a community of other graduate students that you can rely on and share these experiences with.