Research Assistant Spotlight: Rebecca Gibbons
As graduation approaches, Rebecca Gibbons reflects on the time she’s spent as a member of the FaniLab. “I'm really grateful to have the opportunity to work alongside such an amazing, supportive, and inclusive team,” says Gibbons. As a senior, she’s especially enjoyed welcoming and mentoring new undergraduate research assistants.
Gibbons became interested in trauma-related research through her coursework at Emory University, where she is double-majoring in Neuroscience & Behavioral Biology and Spanish. She recently presented her independent project – which explored links between the Covid-19 pandemic and trauma-related distress – at the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) conference.
“Having begun my time in the lab at the height of the pandemic mid-2020, it struck me very quickly the variety of ways in which the pandemic may have compounded, complicated or contributed to many of the struggles that our trauma-exposed population might already be facing,” says Gibbons.
She was also recognized for her achievements outside of the lab. Gibbons was awarded the Emory College Language Center Award for Excellence in Spanish. The award is given to one student in each language each year. She has also completed 2 years of study in both Italian and Portuguese.
Gibbons is also passionate about education equity. Outside of her academic commitments, she worked with a national non-profit as a mentor to high-achieving, under-resourced high school students. She was also an RA and TA at Emory.
In the future, Gibbons hopes to complete a graduate degree and pursue a career in teaching. Next year, she plans to work with ESL students. There’s no doubt that her commitment to inclusivity and compassionate nature will continue to distinguish her as a leader in her community.