SOAR Member Profiles

P. Gamze Mert

• SOAR Position: Member
• Major: Psychology
• Faculty Mentor(s): Dr. Karen Kehoe

Current Focus: Exploring Parents' Journeys in Dyslexia Identification and Support

Additional Interests: EEG and Cognitive Aging

Project Description

My main project "Exploring Parents' Journeys in Dyslexia Identification and Support" is also my honors thesis. I designed a survey for caregivers of children with reading difficulties to learn about their experiences on dyslexia assessment and intervention procedures.The survey inquired about academic, behavioral and social-emotional services and their comments and satisfaction levels from parents’ viewpoints. I have been working in Dr. James Houston's EEG lab since I arrived at MTSU. Our project, titled "Cognition, Age, Microstates, and Pain," explores the relationship between age, pain, cognition, and memory. In this role, I conduct research sessions with participants, collect data, and train new student researchers who join the lab.

Why does this topic interest you?

I have been interested in neurodiversity since I was in high school. My little sister struggled with the education system, particularly with learning and reading, during her early years in school. On the other hand, she had a brilliant mind and imagination. Sensational and mindfulness therapies worked and now my sister loves reading and learning! After that, my interest only grew more and more. I was over the moon when I learned that MTSU had a dyslexia center. I knew I wanted to investigate this area more than anything. I also want to combine developmental science with neuropsychology. I love working with children and want to solve the mysteries of cognitive development. You can't possibly uncover the secrets of development without looking into neurological factors. This is one of the reasons I am a part of the EEG lab as well. I am also minoring in neuropsychology.

What are your professional aspirations?

Many people who study psychology aim to become therapists, helping people through listening. I was always a good listener, but I also knew I wanted to add more to this mysterious branch. Rather than following conventional methods for each individual, I want to take a part in the kitchen. I want to cook, get my hands dirty, experiment with the instruments and find novel recipes for people in need. I was determined to pursue a career to explore deeper in my field. In a world undergoing decay, understanding and studying humanity become paramount. I aspire to hold some hands, be their voice, and be helpful to those who are struggling. I want to find out what causes illnesses, and disruptive emotions such as aggression, anger, sorrow, and stress, and delve deeper to uncover their roots.

Do you have any advice for future researchers?

Keep asking questions, never underestimate your potential and stay curious!

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