Emilie Longtin @EmilieLongtin 

Emilie is a doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology at the University of Victoria. Her research focuses on fostering belonging and safety for marginalized communities, with a particular emphasis on refugee resettlement. Emilie’s work examines the strengths and challenges of Canadian refugee sponsorship programs and offers insights to inform and strengthen resettlement practices both in Canada and in other countries engaged in refugee resettlement. Her current research explores the complex intersection of resettlement and identity among LGBTQ+ refugees, shaped by the contemporary geopolitical climate. When not on campus, Emilie can be found with her menagerie of pets Remi, Sully, Wally and Peach.

Jie Li

Jie is a doctoral candidate in Clinical-Lifespan Psychology. Her research interests include immigrant family systems, acculturation and enculturation, and mental health. Her current study focuses on mapping out immigrant family acculturation profiles and examining their impacts on individual adjustment and family processes. In her spare time, Jie enjoys playing squash, skiing and travelling.

Jessica Li @YJessLi

Jessica is a doctoral student in Clinical-Lifespan psychology. Her master’s thesis examined immigrant and/or POC wellbeing and relationships in Canada. She is excited to be involved with lab projects focused on immigrant and refugee wellbeing. Originally from Calgary, Alberta, Jessica thinks the Stampede isn’t complete without corndogs, Bloomin’ Onion, and that mayo-based Bloomin’ Onion dip. 

Barbie Jain 

Barbie is a Master’s student in Clinical (Lifespan) Psychology. Her research interests include examining access to and utilization of culturally responsive, strengths-based mental health care among newcomers and other equity-deserving communities through an intersectional and community-informed approach. Her current research explores whether integration of Indigenous principles of learning and structured intergroup contact in university educational contexts can foster empathy and inclusivity, reduce prejudice, and strengthen social cohesion. Outside of school, Barbie enjoys gardening, hiking, and spending time with her pets, Willow and Branch.

Kim Le-Ba

Kimberly Le-Ba is a fifth-year undergraduate student completing a BSc in Psychology at the University of Victoria. She is currently working on her honours thesis under the supervision of Dr. Costigan, examining students’ comfort discussing racial and ethnic identities in casual peer settings. Her research and professional interests center on supporting immigrant and refugee families. Kimberly aspires to pursue graduate studies in clinical psychology. Outside of academics, she is challenging herself to learn knitting this year. Her goal is to finish a tuque by year’s end.

Leah Brandemark

Leah Brandemark is a third-year undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of Victoria. She holds a wide variety of research interests related to personality, mental health, familial relationships, and substance use, and she is excited to contribute to the various projects in the lab. Outside of her studies, she enjoys baking, volunteering at an animal shelter, and spending time with friends and family.

Sanjam Cheema

Sanjam Cheema is a recent graduate with a BA in Psychology from the University of Victoria. She has enjoyed contributing to projects that explore immigrant experiences, including a collaboration with the theatre program on Celebratory Theatre. Her research interests focus on generational trauma in immigrant families. In her spare time, Sanjam enjoys thrifting, reading, and crafting!

Sydney Douglas-Grant

Sydney Douglas-Grant is a fourth-year student at the University of Victoria pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in Business. Sydney’s research interests include a range of many subjects including topics in forensics, personality and mental health. In her free time she enjoys to read and spending time in the outdoors with friends and family.

Elvis Eze

Elvis Eze graduated with his BSc in Psychology from the University of Victoria. He has enjoyed working in the lab so far, and his areas of research interest revolve around topics such as acculturation and overall immigrant well-being. In his spare time, Elvis enjoys dancing and reading.

Ellie Marino

Ellie Marino is a second-year undergraduate student completing a BA in Psychology at the University of Victoria. She has been a part of the lab for over a year now, and has gained meaningful experience working in the lab so far. Her areas of research interest mostly surround child development and wellness, as she wishes to be a child counselling psychologist one day. In her spare time, Ellie enjoys playing her guitar and walking her dogs.

Maria Singeris

Maria is an undergraduate student at the University of Victoria completing a BSc in Psychology. She has focused her work on children’s mental health and counseling. She volunteers with a mental health society in a peer support role and works in after school care with the Victoria School of Ideal Education. Maria enjoys spending her non academic time outside in nature and focusing on her wellness.

Sonali Witt

Sonali is an undergraduate student completing a BA in Psychology at the University of Victoria. Her previous research and volunteer experience focus on immigrant integration and experiences in Canada, including the study of International Medical Graduates in rural Canadian medical practice. Outside of her academic work, she volunteers with the Victoria Therapeutic Riding Association and enjoys hiking and crocheting.