Arian, from Haugesund, Norway, was drawn to Ohio State because of its world-renowned scientists and cutting-edge facilities both on campus and at the Wexner Medical Center. He states, “Being surrounded by high research activity at one of the largest universities in the world feels so exciting and gives me a stronger sense of academic purpose. Despite the large size, the Ohio State community feels like family, and everyone plays an important role in carrying out the values and principles that make us Buckeyes. Getting to shout I-O after every O-H is a big plus too.”  He wanted a major that allowed him to study the brain and human behavior, but also get involved in research and be creative; this is what led him to the interdisciplinary field of psychology.

Although Arian started at Ohio State just last spring (SP20), he is already involved in a research lab and was selected for a research award. Arian currently works in Dr. Beauchaine’s Lifespan Adjustment Project Lab studying the effects of connectivity in certain parts of the brain on substance use and other externalizing disorders in adolescents. The award, given by The Advancing Diversity in Neuroimaging Research Initiative (ADNiR), aims to address the need for a more diverse group of researchers in neuroimaging. Arian was among the first cohort of students to receive this award and states,

“Being awarded a research fellowship as an undergraduate will allow me to produce the highest-quality research that would progress the field forward while achieving invaluable research and professional skills in-preparation for graduate school and a research career in clinical psychology. I am thoroughly looking forward to the many facets of neuroimaging research I will learn and the strong network of colleagues in the cognitive and behavioral brain imaging academic community I will form as a result of this award.”

After graduating from Ohio State, Arian plans to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology with a neuropsychology or developmental psychopathology emphasis. He hopes to work in academia and run his own neuroimaging-based lab focusing on developing early interventions and treatments for childhood mental health disorders. His advice to students who may be hesitant to get involved in research: “Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to aspire to become a researcher to benefit from conducting research; far from it. The skills you develop are highly transferable and would compliment any career path. Being able to collaborate effectively, communicate complex ideas, evaluate credible sources, and manage time proficiently are among the most vital skills that would help you success in any professional setting.”