Secretary

Rena Kirkland

Contact Info: thom6071@bears.unco.edu, 351-1144
Program: Educational Psychology Ph.D.
Year in Program: 3rd year
Prior Degree Info:

  • B.A. in Psychology, University of California at San Diego
  • M.A. in Educational Psychology from UNC

Rena’s research interests:

My research interests include, learning disabilities, phonological development, exercise and motivation, and just about anything related to cognition and learning.

What Rena currently does for work and research:

Currently, I am working with Dr. Steven Pulos, Dr. Eric Peterson and Crystal Baker in two related research projects investigating a theory of mind measure. I am also doing research on exercise and motivation in the senior population. This semester, I’ve had the opportunity to TA for Principles of Psychology at UNC. What “they” say is true, teaching takes an exorbitant amount of time, but I am thoroughly enjoying it.

What Rena does for fun as a graduate student:

As a graduate student, my playtime is limited. However, there are two areas of consistent fun in my life right now: family and workouts. My children (3 and 1 ½, respectively) are loads of fun, and when the rare opportunity arises, I cherish spending time with my husband. I enjoy working out, although since the start of graduate school and kids I only find the time to run and lift weights. I look forward to cycling, swimming, snowboarding, hiking, and taking up some new adventures again someday.

What else does Rena want us to know about her?

I have been a personal trainer for 12 years, working at Flatiron Athletic Club (FAC) in Boulder. At the gym, few people (other than my clients and a handful of other trainers) know I am pursuing a graduate degree in Psychology. In an ideal world, I would not work at the gym and dedicate more time to my studies; however, I have to admit, FAC is my home away from home. Although I will miss aspects of life as a personal trainer, I look forward to the day when I can hang up the weight-lifting gloves (which I don’t actually use) and transition into full-time academia.