During the summer of 2023, I had the privilege of being a part of an exciting internship focused on color vision research, working closely with Professor Karen Gunther. As someone aspiring to pursue a career in psychology and considering graduate school, this internship was a great experience, giving me valuable insights into the world of academia and what to expect in graduate studies. One of the highlights of this internship was the collaborative dynamic I shared with my co-worker, Corbin Strimel. Together, we navigated the research process, making ethical and practical decisions for our research paper. The experience taught us the importance of effective collaboration, communication, and decision-making in conducting meaningful research.
Working under the guidance of Professor Gunther, I had the opportunity to observe and learn how to conduct myself professionally in an academic setting. Despite the rigorous nature of research, we managed to have fun along the way, creating an enjoyable and motivating work environment. Our regular morning meetings became a platform for exchanging ideas, brainstorming on ways to improve our study, and strategizing on how to further our research objectives. The core focus of my internship was on cross-modal correspondence, a phenomenon where two different senses are connected with only one stimulus. We delved into the work of Simpson, Quinn, and Ausubel (1956), who observed a connection between higher-pitched sounds and lighter hues, like yellow, suggesting an inherent sense of belongingness between sound and color. Our exploration in this area aimed to shed further light on this intriguing relationship and its implications for perception and cognition.
What made this internship particularly memorable was the camaraderie we developed beyond our research endeavors. Professor Gunther fostered an environment of openness which encouraged us to share stories, forging connections beyond the academic realm. These moments of shared experiences helped us bond as a team and created a supportive atmosphere that extended beyond our research discussions.
In conclusion, my summer internship with Professor Karen Gunther in color vision research was an invaluable experience. It not only deepened my passion for psychology and research but also provided me with essential skills and insights for my future academic journey. I am immensely grateful for the knowledge gained, the friendships formed, and the inspiration I received from working with a mentor like Professor Gunther. As I consider my path toward graduate school, I am confident that this internship has prepared me well for the challenges and rewards that lie ahead.
